The book of 1 Samuel offers us another lesson about the effects of fear. In chapter 13, Saul has his armies gathered to fight the Philistines. They are waiting for Samuel, the priest, to come and offer a sacrifice, beseeching God’s favor. They waited and waited, but Samuel didn’t come. The Israelites grew scared and began to scatter. Saul, seeing that he was losing his army, decided to wait no longer. He offered the sacrifice, even though he knew that wasn’t his job. Samuel arrived soon after and rebuked him for what he’d done.

Why did Saul offer the sacrifice? The immediate catalyst was fear. He was losing his army and didn’t think he could win without that military power.

Now look at chapter 14. Jonathan, Saul’s son, had a different perspective on things. He was willing to attack the Philistines, going into battle with only his armor bearer by his side. How could he attack like that when his father was afraid to do it without the help of an entire army? He remembered what his father didn’t. “Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.” (1 Samuel 14:6)

That’s the thought that can drive out fear. When we depend on men, fear will be a natural part of our lives. And it will lead us to ungodly actions. But if we can remember that all that matters is whether or not the Lord is on our side, fear will no longer be a part of our lives. Saul feared because he focused on his army. That fear led him to sin against God. Jonathan was brave, not because of his own skill, but because of his trust in God. And he did great things by God’s power.