MISPLACED FEAR

Matthew 10:28 (NKJV) says: “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” 

This is a direct call from Jesus to correct our fears. Many people fear human threats, sickness, poverty, storms, or death. Yet Jesus reminds us that these things can only touch the body. The true danger is sin, because it separates us from God and leads to eternal destruction. The only fear that matters is the fear of God, for He alone holds the destiny of both the body and soul.

One day I was in a garage fixing my car. It was an open space and suddenly it began raining heavily. All the mechanics rushed to take shelter inside. As we stood, they began sharing jokes, laughing about drinking and the women they slept with. I always preach to them, telling them to repent and receive Jesus. But they laughed it off. As we were standing there inside, suddenly the storm grew stronger, with thunder and lightning flashing heavily. They stopped their jokes, fear gripped them, and they came close to me. They said standing near a man of God would protect them from death and asked me to pray.

I took that opportunity to preach Matthew 10:28 to them. I told them, “This lightning you fear can only destroy your body, but the sin you enjoy destroys both body and soul.” They were silent. And this is the same message I preach to you now.

We often fear what does not matter and ignore what God warns us against. Some young women fear cockroaches, mice, or snakes. If the snake enters their room, they run out and won't enter it until it is killed or taken out, but they boldly walk into nightclubs where they know they are going to sin against their own bodies and against God. Some scream at insects yet commit abortion, killing their own babies and spilling innocent blood. We are afraid of shadows but ignore sin, the true killer.

Sin kills your joy, your marriage, your career, your children, and even makes generations to come suffer. The Bible says: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10 NKJV). Fear sin, not storms. Fear God, and you will live.

Prayer: Lord, teach me to fear You alone, reject sin, and walk in holiness every day of my life.