Faith Over Fear: Trusting God in an Unsettled World

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It’s Mental Health Awareness Month, and I can’t think of a more fitting time to talk about the quiet (and sometimes not-so-quiet) battle between fear and faith. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably felt the pull lately—between trusting God and spiraling into “what ifs.” I have a situation coming up soon, one that’s heavy on my heart. It’s not just a date on the calendar—it’s something I need to spiritually prepare for, to lean into the Lord deeply before it arrives.

That’s where this post comes from. I’m writing this for myself as much as for anyone else reading. Life feels uncertain in so many ways right now—for our families, our finances, our futures. But the truth is, God hasn’t changed. And even in a world full of noise, panic, and unpredictability, we can live in faith instead of fear.

When Fear Feels Loud

It’s no secret that our world is in a constant state of chaos. The headlines are intense, inflation is real, our kids are growing up in uncertain times, and even things like basic health or financial stability can feel fragile.

Fear is real. And let’s be honest—there are days when it feels louder than faith.

Scripture doesn’t deny that fear exists. In fact, Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Not if, but when. Fear is part of the human condition—but God gives us a way to walk through it with Him.

We aren’t called to pretend everything is okay. We’re called to bring it all to the feet of Jesus and say, “Here’s what I’m afraid of, Lord. But I’m trusting You more than what I see.”

What “Faith Over Fear” Really Means

You’ve seen the t-shirts and the hashtags—#FaithOverFear. But what does that really mean?

Choosing faith over fear doesn’t mean pretending we’re not afraid. It means deciding to believe in God’s promises even when we feel afraid. Faith is not a denial of our human emotions—it’s a declaration of God’s sovereignty in spite of them.

Hebrews 11:1 reminds us: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

In other words, we choose to believe even when we can’t see how it will all work out.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “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.” That’s the kind of assurance we can stand on.

Preparing Our Hearts Before the Storm

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the importance of preparing spiritually—not just reacting when hard things happen, but cultivating a lifestyle of closeness with God so that when trials come, we’re already rooted.

If we wait until a crisis hits, we’re often scrambling to find peace. But when we build our relationship with God daily—through prayer, scripture, and even small moments of silence—we’re laying a foundation that holds steady even in the storm.

This upcoming situation in my life is pushing me to do just that. I want to show up to it faith-full, not fear-full. That means I’m preparing now. Not by overthinking or trying to control it, but by resting in God’s control.

Turning Fear Into Prayer

One of the simplest yet most powerful things we can do with fear is turn it into prayer.

Philippians 4:6–7 says: “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.”

There it is—peace. It’s available, but it begins with prayer.

Lately, I’ve been praying through scriptures, writing down my fears and surrendering them to the Lord. Sometimes it’s as simple as whispering, “God, I trust You with this.” Breath prayers help too—short prayers repeated when anxiety flares.

Try praying scripture over your specific concerns. God’s Word is a weapon and a comfort. When we invite Him into the moment, fear loses its power.

When You’re Struggling Mentally—Yes, Even Then

Let’s be real: you can love Jesus and still struggle mentally. Anxiety. Depression. PTSD. Exhaustion. These things don’t make you less spiritual—they make you human.

Mental health struggles aren’t a failure of faith. They’re an invitation to lean on God’s strength, not our own.

Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

He is near. Not disappointed. Not distant. Near.

If you’re in that space right now, hold tight to that truth. You’re not alone, and you’re not broken beyond repair. God sees you and loves you fully.

He Has You—And Everyone You Love

One of the biggest ways fear creeps in is through our concern for others—our kids, our spouse, our aging parents, our finances, our future.

But God doesn’t just have you—He has them too.

Matthew 10:29–31 reminds us that not even a sparrow falls without the Father knowing. “So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

He’s not just watching—He’s working.

Romans 8:28 promises that He’s working all things together for good. Not just some things—all things. Even the hard stuff. Even the unanswered prayers. Even the things we don’t understand yet.

Anchors That Help Me Stay Steady

In seasons when fear wants to take over, I’ve learned to reach for some spiritual “anchors”—simple things that remind me of truth and keep me grounded:

• Worship music in the morning
• Writing scriptures on sticky notes
• Going for walks and praying out loud
• Spending time in the Word, even if it’s just a few verses
• Talking with a trusted believer who reminds me of truth
• Digital detox days for clarity and peace

Maybe yours look different—but I encourage you to find what lifts your eyes back to Jesus.

Choosing Faith Again and Again

The honest truth is that we don’t choose faith just once. It’s a daily decision. Sometimes hourly. It’s waking up and saying, “Lord, today I choose to trust You again.”

You’re not failing if fear tries to sneak back in. Just don’t let it win. Keep surrendering. Keep praying. Keep choosing.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to lean on the One who does.

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If You’re Feeling Anxious Today…

Let this be your reminder: You are held. You are not alone. You don’t have to carry it all.

Even when fear whispers its loudest, God is speaking peace.

So today, choose faith—even if your voice shakes while doing it.

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Let’s talk—Are you struggling with fear in this season? What helps you hold on to faith? I’d love to hear from you. And if you need prayer, please know I’ll lift you up.