Sermon Central
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Fear Of Failure Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Apr 11, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: As believers, we must recognise that failure is not final, and it is certainly not fatal when God is involved. We are called to live by faith and not by fear.
FEAR OF FAILURE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 2 Timothy 1:7
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
Supporting Texts: Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:15, Philippians 4:13, Matthew 25:24-30
INTRODUCTION:
The fear of failure is a common struggle in the hearts of many, including believers. It is the paralyzing dread that keeps people from taking bold steps, trying new things, or obeying God's call on their lives. This fear is not from God; it is a tool the enemy uses to limit potential and bury purpose. It convinces people that they are not good enough or strong enough to succeed.
Fear of failure can hinder divine assignments, kill creativity, and prevent destiny fulfilment. It whispers lies that discourage effort, fuel self-doubt, and foster procrastination. Many people today are not making progress, not because of external obstacles, but because of internal fears. This fear holds them captive and prevents them from walking in the boldness and authority Christ has given.
As believers, we must recognise that failure is not final, and it is certainly not fatal when God is involved. We are called to live by faith and not by fear. Let us explore five powerful truths about the fear of failure and how to overcome it through God's Word.
1. FEAR OF FAILURE IS A SPIRITUAL STRONGHOLD
Fear is not just an emotion; it is a spirit that must be resisted in faith.
a) Fear enslaves the mind
It causes mental torment and keeps one in a cycle of negativity (Romans 8:15).
b) Fear distorts God’s truth
It magnifies challenges and minimises God’s power (Numbers 13:31-33).
c) Fear paralyses action
It makes people hesitant and resistant to stepping out in faith (Proverbs 29:25).
d) Fear contradicts God's nature
God has given us boldness, not cowardice (2 Timothy 1:7).
Biblical Example: The ten spies in Numbers 13 were overcome by fear, and it robbed Israel of entering the Promised Land at that time.
2. FEAR OF FAILURE LIMITS DESTINY
When fear rules, purpose is restricted, and potential is wasted.
a) Fear causes people to settle
Instead of pushing forward, they stay in comfort zones (Exodus 3:11).
b) It robs confidence and courage
People who fear failure rarely rise into leadership (Jeremiah 1:6-8).
c) It hinders vision and creativity
Dreams die where fear is nurtured (Proverbs 29:18).
d) Fear brings regret later in life
Many live with ‘what ifs’ because they were afraid to try (Matthew 25:24-27).
Biblical Example: The man with one talent in Matthew 25 buried it out of fear and was cast out for his inaction.
3. GOD USES FAILURES TO PREPARE FOR SUCCESS
Even when failure occurs, God can use it to teach, shape, and prepare.
a) Failure is not the end
God uses it as a tool for growth and redirection (Proverbs 24:16).
b) God trains through failure
He builds resilience and dependence through it (Romans 5:3-5).
c) Lessons are hidden in setbacks
Failure can expose areas of weakness and teach wisdom (Psalm 119:71).
d) Failure refines faith
It purifies motives and strengthens trust in God (1 Peter 1:7).
Biblical Example: Peter denied Jesus three times but was later restored and became a pillar in the early Church (Luke 22:61-62, John 21:15-17).
4. FAITH CONQUERS THE FEAR OF FAILURE
Only faith in God can truly overcome fear and birth boldness.
a) Faith shifts focus to God’s power
We walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).
b) Faith energises obedience
Obedience becomes easier when trust in God is strong (Hebrews 11:8).
c) Faith silences fear’s voice
The Word of God feeds faith and weakens fear (Romans 10:17).
d) Faith expects victory
With faith, we anticipate good outcomes in Christ (Philippians 1:6).
Biblical Example: David faced Goliath fearlessly because he believed in God’s ability, not his own (1 Samuel 17:45-47).
5. COURAGE IS CHOOSING TO MOVE DESPITE FEAR
True courage is not the absence of fear, but action in the face of it.
a) Courage grows with use
Each step of boldness increases confidence (Joshua 1:9).
b) God commands courage
He expects His children to be strong and courageous (Deuteronomy 31:6).
c) Courage attracts favour
Heaven backs up those who step out in faith (Esther 4:16).
d) Courage leads to fulfilled destiny
No great destiny is achieved without boldness (Daniel 3:16-18).
Biblical Example: Esther risked her life to save her people and saw great deliverance because of her courageous stand (Esther 4:16).
CONCLUSION:
Fear of failure is one of the enemy's most effective tools for hindering destiny. It is a lie from hell designed to keep you stagnant and intimidated. But in Christ, you have not been given the spirit of fear. You are equipped with divine power, love, and sound judgment to face anything boldly.
