E35: Overcoming Fear: Understanding and Applying Biblical Principles for Financial Success

Wealth Well Done

Are you allowing fear to control your financial decisions? Well, fear can paralyze us when it comes to our finances and obedience to God's calling. In this episode of “Wealth Well Done”, Eric Scovill dives deep into the common fears that hold us back, such as running out of money and fear of failure or rejection. Discover how to recognize and overcome these fears by applying biblical principles and letting faith conquer fear. Don't let fear hinder your financial stewardship and God-given calling.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Biblical examples of bravery
• Identifying the different kinds of fear
• The herd mentality
• Overcoming fear with faith

Episode Highlights:

[09:24] Identifying the Different Kinds of Fears

• Fear of running out of money - Eric notes this fear can ruin marriages if it causes spouses to argue over finances or hold back from proper stewardship. It can also hinder obedience to God if it keeps someone from fully tithing or supporting causes they feel called to.
• Fear of failing - Letting this fear prevent someone from trying new things, taking risks in business or ministry, asking someone out, etc can go against God's plans to stretch and grow them. It keeps people on the sidelines rather than in the arena.
• Fear of losing - Related to investing and business ventures, this fear makes people overly cautious and plays "proven defense" too early rather than having faith in calculated risks. It changes one's mentality from victory to simply not losing.
• Fear of standing out - The pressure to conform to peers and fit in socially rather than stand up for one's faith. Eric notes this was an issue even in Christian school where faith wasn't considered cool.
• Fear of being overly Christian - Ridicule from friends for no longer acting as they do and separating oneself more due to faith convictions on actions/behaviors.
• Fear of taking a stand - Reluctance to boldly take an unpopular position in faith like David did against Goliath due to fear of backlash or consequences.
• Fear of rejection - A profound fear Jesus knew well but others face today, especially with social media amplifying opportunities for rejection.

[10:49] Overcoming the Fear of Losing

In sports, in order for a team to gain an early lead, they may prematurely shift to "proven defense" out of fear, ultimately changing their entire mindset. Relating this to investing and decision making, Eric emphasizes how some people's fear of losing prevents them from taking risks or even trying in the first place. Instead, don’t let the fear of losing hinder opportunities that God may want to bring into your life through obedience and courageous action, as this fear can impede the plans and calling God has for you.

[23:39] The Herd Mentality

During Jesus' beating and mockery, an estimated 150-200 or possibly up to 600 Roman soldiers participated, despite some having knowledge of his teachings and miracles. Eric highlights the parallel with religious leaders like the Pharisees who, influenced by the herd mentality, failed to stand against the crowd, though their hearts had hardened against Jesus. Only a few, like Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, displayed courage by defending Jesus even when it was unpopular. Eric encourages us to resist the herd mentality, prioritize what is right in God's eyes, and uphold personal conviction and courage to avoid being swayed by crowd behavior.

[29:02] Overcoming Fear with Faith

When we embrace the challenges of doing what God asks us to do, we often overlook the true magnitude of the monumental achievements and underdog stories in the Bible. It's crucial to comprehend the context of being like an isolated individual surrounded by an army seeking to harm you, yet rising up with unwavering faith and boldly declaring, "No, look at what's beyond them, the presence of angels." Discovering how to let our faith triumph over fear is truly life-giving.