Fear is universal. It's a natural response to danger, a built-in survival mechanism meant to protect us. What happens when it overpowers us? What if it holds us back from stepping into God's plan? In this blog, we look into Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel—the profound lessons that come from it as a way of facing our fears with faith.

Introduction

Last week we looked at Joseph's journey of faith, choosing to trust God in the unknown. Today we come to Mary, a young woman whose life would never be the same after a visit from the angel Gabriel. Though fear struck her heart, the response of Mary models how to yield to God in the midst of uncertainty. Let's look at how her story can encourage us to live fearlessly through faith, rather than caving into fear, in Luke 1:26-30.

Fear: A Natural yet Complex Response

Mary's response was purely human when Gabriel appeared before her and told her of his agenda. The Bible writes about her being "confused and disturbed," for it got her into a conscious think-over mode. Of course, fear in such instances gets quite rational as man typically responds to events he will find hard to grapple with. Fear then becomes an issue the day it oversteps into diminishing our faith, at such times compelled to keep everything under our control.

Gabriel's words to her were as plain as this: "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God" (Luke 1:30). He would have conceded she was frightened, yet pressed on not to succumb to fear. That whole phrase is very parallel, making us notice how there could be lots of reasons for fear around us in the world but subjection is up to our free choice. Now, to live a life based on these great commandments—to give over ourselves in total belief and faith in Him—to yield ourselves over unto His plans for each one of our lives.

God's Presence Changes Everything

But perhaps more importantly, it was a really needed reminder that the angel would say to her, "The Lord is with you." Whatever lay in this young mother-to-be's future—and there were many things—she wasn't alone. Of course, this reminder of God's being with us runs throughout Scripture—from Joshua 1:9 and the Psalms onward. Here is one of those eternal truths to hang on to: because God is with us, we can be strong and courageous.

Mary's was not an easy case—young, engaged, and about to face judgment by society. Yet, she chose to trust God's plan. What Gabriel had to say to her was not, "Do not be afraid," because she should not have been afraid. Rather, it was a call to lean into God's strength and provision.

Fear as an Opportunity for Faith

While uncomfortable, fear pushes us toward a deeper reliance on God. Humans naturally don't like anything that presses us out of our comfort zones. But it's in those moments of uncertainty that faith grows. If nothing feels bigger than what we can handle, where is the need for God?

Mary's story invites us into faith when fear may seem to be looming large. With obedience and trust, not understanding fully what God was going to do, she received Gabriel's message. She reminds us well that often the hardest things give way to the richest times of spiritual growth.

Overcoming Fears: Practical Steps

How can we, like Mary, choose faith over fear? Here are three practical steps:

Practice Gratitude

Gratitude changes our minds from problems to God's provision. Keep a gratitude journal, pray prayers of Thanksgiving, reminding yourself of His faithfulness.

Praise the Lord

Worship is that great, strong, relentless tool and attack in the arsenal of battle to face one's fear head-on. May your very natural reaction be that of Mary's, who bursts out with praise towards her God immediately upon experiencing these times in Luke 1:46-47.

Anchor Yourself in Scripture

Being rooted in the Word of God brings strength and clarity. There are verses, such as Joshua 1:9, that can be repeated and meditated upon until they move from head knowledge to heart assurance.

Conclusion

Fear may visit, but it need not stay. Mary's story reminds us of the power of trusting God when the path ahead is not clear. Her courage flowed from the confidence of God's presence and her surrender. As we face our own fears, let's choose faith, knowing that God walks with us every step of the way.

This blog is based on a sermon delivered by Catrin Lewis on December 15, 2024, at the City Church Swansea