How to Overcome the Fear of the Unknown

We all have fears. Fear of the unknown. Anxiety about ourselves or our families. Uncertain how to pay this month’s bills. Worry about the future—what will happen next? We don’t know, but God knows. So, what can we do? Learn how to overcome the fear of the unknown with faith.

Slow down

We are on the go constantly. Our busy lives demand it. I am so guilty of this. I thought when I retired, I would have plenty of time to relax and enjoy life. Instead, I volunteered for many projects and got involved in so many activities I was busy almost every day. Also, on average, Americans check our phones 96 times a day–that’s once every 10 minutes. Is all this phone checking really necessary?

Why are we so busy? In the past, a person of leisure received admiration and higher social status because they were presumed to be rich enough not to have to work. (Do you remember “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous?”) ⁣⁣In our society today, a busy person with little leisure time is viewed as having more income and status in the eyes of others than a person of leisure. ⁣Therefore, pride keeps us busy. Impressing others and showing how important we are. (Ouch! This strikes close to home for me.)

God says slow down and spend time with Me. I know, it’s hard. But if you can, slow down for just five minutes, take ten deep breaths, close your eyes and relax.

Be quiet

Living alone, I always want some background noise. The television or radio is usually on. It is a habit. I cannot tolerate quiet.

But in Psalm 46:10, God says, “Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.”

The original Hebrew verb translated still is raphah which means sink, or relax. And the New American Standard Bible translates as “cease striving.” God commands us to cease striving, be still, relax and honor Him.

So, you must be quiet to hear from God. Of course, He does not actually speak out loud but uses several other methods to communicate, such as His Word, other people, and your intuition. You know that thought entering your mind when you are praying and being quiet—from God. The pastor says exactly what you need right now—from God. The Bible verse that speaks right to your heart—from God.

Desire God

Finally, desire to hear from God. He wants a relationship with you. Instead, sometimes our prayers become desperate “foxhole prayers”. How would you like it if a friend only contacted you if they wanted something from you?

Or perhaps we treat God like Santa Claus with our lists of wants, hoping we are on the “nice list.” Instead, meditate on the lyrics of the song “More than Anything“, recorded by Natalie Grant.

I love that song! Pray for a relationship with God. Not just for what we want, but for what God wants for us. The safest place is in the center of God’s will for your life. And how do you know His will? Be quiet, pray to Him, listen and let Him tell you.

Overcome the fear of the unknown with faith

Faith is the opposite of fear. We cannot see the future, but God knows.

As the writer of Hebrews states, “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see” Hebrews 11:1 (NLT).

God is not surprised by the anything. Trust He is in control. Even though we cannot see the end, God sees it.

And finally, this scripture says it all. “The LORD is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him” Nahum 1:7 (NLT).