The Lodestar

Fear as a Cultural Expectation

Modern society normalises anxiety, presenting it as an inevitable response to life’s uncertainties. Media amplifies fear, whether through news cycles that highlight crises or social narratives that stress personal achievement and security. Economic instability, political unrest, and health crises reinforce the idea that constant worry is a sign of responsibility. Yet, while the world legitimises fear, it does not provide a lasting solution. Anxiety often leads to stress, poor decision-making, and even physical illness. If fear were the natural human state, it would not be so detrimental. This contradiction suggests that humanity was not created to live under its weight.

Scripture’s Perspective on Anxiety

The biblical worldview offers an alternative to anxiety. Scripture does not dismiss the reality of fear but calls for a different response. Philippians 4:6—7 instructs, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This passage does not merely prohibit anxiety; it replaces it with trust and gratitude. Anxiety diminishes when faith is placed in divine sovereignty. Unlike the world, which encourages self-reliance, scripture redirects focus to dependence on a higher authority.

Fear Weakens, but Faith Strengthens

Anxiety has a paralysing effect. When overwhelmed by fear, individuals hesitate, overthink, and withdraw. This is evident in the biblical account of Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:29—31). As long as Peter focused on his calling, he stood firm. The moment he shifted his attention to the storm, fear overtook him, and he sank. His experience illustrates that fear is not merely an emotion but a force that disrupts purpose.

In contrast, faith sustains. Those who trust in divine guidance find the strength to navigate uncertainty. This principle applies to everyday life—whether facing career uncertainty, financial instability, or health concerns, faith fosters resilience.

Replacing Anxiety with Purpose

The world presents fear as a sign of awareness, but scripture frames it as a distraction from a greater purpose. Worry does not alter circumstances; it only drains energy that could be invested in meaningful action. Consider the example of Daniel, who refused to succumb to fear despite the threat of the lion’s den (Daniel 6:10—22). His faith led to courage, which, in turn, influenced those around him. Similarly, when fear is set aside, clarity emerges. Purpose is not found in anxious striving but in living with conviction.

Anxiety is deeply embedded in cultural narratives, but it does not have to dictate human existence. The world normalises fear, yet scripture offers an alternative—faith, trust, and purpose. The call is not to deny fear’s existence but to refuse its rule. Peace is not found in control but in surrender to divine wisdom.

(Haunu resides in Dorcas Veng, New Lamka. Alongside her role as a financial steward in the Baptist Youth Fellowship, she is an avid writer, finding joy in crafting narratives in her spare time.)