Panic

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This sudden overwhelming fear produces hysterical or irrational behaviour. It is characterised by being frightened and unable to think logically when things are out of control. In such times try to not let your emotions override reason but endeavour to look at things with a true perspective – being confident in Jesus that all things are working for good, the situation is not out of hand, for God is still on the throne (Rom 8:28). At such times guard your reactions, being careful not to make any rash decisions that you will be later regret. So stop, calm down and attend to things in a logical and rational manner; besides seeking help from God also enlist the help of others – both in prayer and in practical areas.

Many times the Bible reports that people were “filled with fear.” David described it as, "My heart is in anguish within me; the terrors of death have fallen on me. Fear and trembling have beset me; horror has overwhelmed me" (Ps 55:4,5). His response was to reflect on God's character, faithfulness and continuing trust in Him, “As for me, I call to God, and the

When I am afraid, I will trust Him – Psalm 56:3

LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and He hears my voice” (Ps 55:16,17). The psalm ends with the comforting words, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken...But as for me, I trust in you” (Ps 55:22,23).

How do you think Job kept his sanity when several disasters happened in his life in a short space of time (Job 1:13-2:10)? He had a correct understanding of God, confident in His love that nothing could happen to him outside divine permission. This enabled him to worship and praise God in spite of the circumstances that were pressing so hard against him. Peter started to sink when he looked at the adverse conditions allowing fear to take control as he considered what was against him rather than being focused on Jesus who was for him (Mt 14:29-31). “Commit your way into the Lord’s hands” is sound advice we all need to follow, for the one who trusts in Christ need never panic (Ps 37:5; Isa 28:16).