Break Free From The Fear Of Man

God is dealing with the fear of man in so many people right now ( myself included ). I would have never thought that I might be dealing with the fear of man. I see myself as strong, confident and secure in my identity with God. God started putting His finger on this with me in July 2024. Once He started to point it out, there was no way of getting around what I was seeing in myself.

God also showed me that fear of man is connected to the spirit of religion, which is another thing I wouldn't have seen about myself, had He not pointed it out. But there it was and I needed to deal with that as well.

Thank goodness He was so kind and gentle as He pointed these things out to me. Not only did I have to see these things, I had to walk through some of the most painful and scary situations I'd ever have to in order to get some freedom in this area. If you relate to any of this, I pray you find your way out with the power of the Holy Spirit and that your freedom will begin today! 

Signs to help you recognize if you may be in agreement with the fear of man:

Anxiety and Nervousness: Feeling anxious or nervous in social situations, especially when interacting with authority figures or peers.

People-Pleasing Behavior: Going out of your way to please others, often at the expense of your own needs or values. Having a hard time saying NO or compromising your own convictions.

Avoidance: Avoiding situations where you might be judged or criticized, such as public speaking, social gatherings, or expressing your opinions. Avoiding hard conversations or speaking your true opinion or feelings. 

Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with self-worth and feeling inadequate, often comparing yourself unfavorably to others.

Overthinking: Constantly worrying about how others perceive you, leading to overanalyzing your words and actions. Feeling stupid or not having anything of value to offer.

Fear of Rejection: A strong fear of being rejected or not accepted by others, which can lead to withdrawal from social interactions. Suicidal thoughts after being rejected is very common with the fear of man.

Inauthenticity: Acting in ways that are not true to yourself in order to gain approval or avoid disapproval from others.

Difficulty Making Decisions: Struggling to make choices due to fear of how those choices will be perceived by others.

Emotional Distress: Experiencing feelings of shame, guilt, or frustration when you feel you have not met others' expectations. This one was a big one for me!

Overcommitment: Taking on too many responsibilities or obligations to avoid disappointing others, leading to burnout.

Social Withdrawal: Isolating yourself from social interactions due to fear of judgment or criticism.

Physical Symptoms: Experiencing physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or a racing heart in social situations. Having to face a fear, especially when it involves what other may think of you, is not for the faint of heart. However, you can do it and once you do, you'll find yourself much stronger. 

Recognizing these symptoms can be helpful. Getting help through a Therapist, inner healing, or talking with a pastor or someone you trust for accountability is important as you make the changes needed to get healthy. I am sharing my personal experience and being vulnerable because I know how deeply this can affect you and how painful it is when not dealt with. Proverbs 1:7 should be our guide rail as we navigate through the traps that have been placed on us from the fear of man.