“The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.” Proverbs 29:25
To fear man is to fall into a trap. I struggle with this during meetings with Pastors or presenting our work to congregations. It is easy to become self-conscious. We question ourselves “Does the display look okay,” “Did I remember to mention,” and my personal favorite “What do you think that they thought of…” Wanting to know what people think of me is pride and makes me fall into a trap. In this trap nerves are rattled, burdens are felt, imperfections are overwhelming and mistakes become terrifying. A trap keeps something from moving and immobilizes and may eventually kill it. It’s possible to be so fearful of man that we do and say nothing. (Ever not shared your faith?)
Avoiding the trap – TRUST IN GOD
The opposite of falling into the trap of fearing man is found in this verse – "but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD…” We must turn our self-consciousness to Christ- consciousness! We can be aware of His presence and have confidence in His Word. We can put trust in CHRIST, His Word and His Power. What REST there is in His strength and grace. Those who do so are, as this verse says, “safe.” They are free from traps, free from ulcers and stress! They are free to walk close after Christ unhindered. A walk that seeks to bring Glory to Him and not compliments to ourselves.
Here are some practical steps that I use in avoiding the fear of man trap:
1.) Pray for all things and for all activities.
2.) Leave the consequences and outcome to God.
3.) Be committed to doing what is right and saying what is true.
4.) Rest in Christ - don't replay conversations and events in your mind. We can always overthink something, but we can never over pray!!
Itinerary Update
Please be in prayer for Becky and me during this fall season. God has been so faithful in giving us meetings, please pray for our support to come in. Here is our updated itinerary:
Oct 15 - Castleton, VT
Oct 21 - Wedding in NH
Oct 22 - Surry, NH
Oct 23 - New England Bible College
Oct 25 - Burlington, MA
Oct 26 - Durham, NH
Oct 28-29 - Missions Conf. Raymond, NH
Stay clear of traps!
- Steve
