Researchers say that at least 645 known fears exist. Like the fear of heights, fear of spiders, fear of change, fear of failure, fear of lists . . .

Fear is a feeling that can tell us something about ourselves, our hopes and priorities—if we’re willing to listen. That doesn’t mean fear is the boss. More like a tour guide. 

Jesus’ own disciples experienced fear after he was crucified. Fear that they’d be next! Fear about the future. How did the risen and alive Jesus help them calm their fears?

Jesus’ wounds rescued them and us from our fears.

Like battle scars, when Jesus rose from the dead, he showed these saving wounds from his crucifixion to his disciples. “See my hands. . . . Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27). These are the receipt of payment for sin accepted. 

Jesus’ words reframe our fears.

Have you seen Jesus? touched the nail marks in his hands? felt the scar from the spear plunged into his side? No. “Good,” Jesus says, reading your thoughts as you wish you could touch him and then you’d really believe. “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed” (John 20:29). That’s you. Blessed by Jesus’ promises, as much or even more than the disciples who touched Jesus. 

No circumstances can create fear in you bigger than the faith in you that the wounds and words of Jesus create. Your fears aren’t afraid of you. They will continue to assault you. But they are afraid of Jesus.