How to Abide in Faith When Fear Fights Back

Have you ever had to journey through a season of waiting through the unknown? There is a particular limbo between an initial health diagnosis and prognosis, between the blood test or scan and treatment. It’s not unlike waiting for subjects to be lifted on a property or to hear if you got the job. Maybe you know what it’s like to stand by for an immigration document to be approved or check the mailbox hourly for an acceptance letter to college. We have had to walk through some of these seasons to know that there is a way that fear fights back when you’re trying to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). We live in a world that often fuels our fears. From breaking news headlines to personal struggles, fear can creep into our minds and hearts, whispering worst-case scenarios and drowning out peace. But as believers, we’re invited into a different way of living in the tension that is marked by faith. God doesn’t ask us to pretend we’re not afraid, He invites us to respond to fear with faith. This is not about ignoring our problems; it’s about trusting God despite them. If you’re feeling anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed, take heart. You are not alone, and more importantly, God is with you. Let’s explore three practical, biblical ways we can abide in faith during these times. 

Acknowledge That God is With You

The first and most important truth we must hold onto is this: God is with you. Not just in the good moments when everything is going smoothly, but right in the middle of your anxiety, doubt, and hardship. 

Isaiah 41:10 says, 
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” 

This is not just a comforting sentiment; it’s a promise! God never abandons His people. His presence is not conditional on how strong our faith is. Whether you’re feeling bold and confident or fragile and unsure, God is still right beside you. Fear isolates us, which feeds into thinking we must handle everything on our own. The truth is that God’s Spirit dwells within us. His love surrounds us and His hand guides us.  

When you take a moment to acknowledge His presence, you will begin to feel a shift in perspective. Try this: the next time you’re feeling fearful, pause and say aloud, “God is with me.” Let those words sink in and repeat them until they begin to feel true because they are. I recently came across this quote from a 16th Century monk called Brother Lawrence that inspires me in these moments: 

“All we have to do is to recognize God as being intimately present within us. Then we may speak directly to Him every time we need to ask for help, to know His will in moments of uncertainty, and to do whatever He wants us to do in a way that pleases Him.” 

Tell God All the Details About Everything

One of the greatest privileges of being in a relationship with God is that we can talk to Him about anything, no matter how small, seemingly insignificant or overwhelming it is. 

Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us: 
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

Be honest and specific, there’s no room for anonymous prayer requests when you’re talking to God. This might be an opportunity for you to grow in spiritual maturity by laying it all out before Him. Tell Him what’s keeping you up at night, whether it’s the conversation you’re dreading, the diagnosis you’re waiting on, the finances that aren’t adding up or the relationship that feels strained. God already knows what you’re going through, and He wants to hear it from you. Why? Because when we are open to Him, we begin to deepen our trust. We stop trying to carry our burdens alone and allow Him to carry us. 

And here’s the truly beautiful thing: when we do this, God’s peace comes. You will have a calm assurance that God is in control and that He hears us. That kind of peace can quiet fear like nothing else. Take time today to pray honestly, no filter. You don’t have to try to sound “spiritual,” just bring your heart, and let God meet you there. 

Thank God for the Good & Stay Teachable

A faith-filled life is not just about weathering storms—it’s also about recognizing God’s goodness in every season. Gratitude and reflection are powerful weapons against fear. In good times, don’t forget to say thank you. Praise God for the blessings, big and small. When you wake up with strength in your body, when a prayer is answered, when a door opens, when you feel joy—acknowledge it as a gift from God. 

1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, 
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

Notice it says in all circumstances, not for all circumstances. Even in tough times, we can still find reasons to give thanks. Gratitude reminds us of God’s past faithfulness, which builds our trust for the future. 

When something unexpected or difficult happens, ask “What are You trying to teach me?” instead of only asking God to take the problem away. Sometimes the lessons we learn in valleys are the ones that shape us most deeply. You are gaining a new level of patience, a deeper compassion for others and a stronger dependence on God. God doesn’t waste a thing but uses all things to draw us closer to Him and to prepare us for what’s ahead. Fear wants us to focus only on the negative impacts of circumstances. Faith asks, “What is God building?” 

Abiding faith when fear fights back isn’t easy, especially when life feels uncertain. But it is possible—one moment, one prayer, one decision at a time.