As a child, I feared flat tires. Every time I rode in the car and felt a bump or a jolt, I wondered if I would be stranded on the side of the road, waiting for help. Eventually, I outgrew my fear, though I can vividly remember the anxiety that accompanied everyday travel.

Today, I don’t fear flat tires. I don’t worry about being stranded on the side of the road. But I’m still afraid. I fear losing the capacity to provide for my wife. I fear disappointing those closest to me. And I fear failing in my career.

Are you afraid today? Maybe, as you return home to an empty house, you feel lonely. Worried you’ll never find someone to share your life with, you drop your keys, take off your shoes and make dinner for one. Maybe, as you walk home from work, you feel insecure, constantly looking over your shoulder to see if you’re being followed. You just want to make it home safely. Or maybe, while reading through your credit card statement, you fear you’ve hit rock bottom. Wishing you had the money to work your way out of debt, you reluctantly submit the minimum payment and shut your computer.

In these moments, when your fear feels insurmountable, open your Bible and meditate on God’s Word. Resist your uncertainty by clinging to its messages of peace and perseverance. And rely on God for the courage to conquer your fear.

These five Bible verses will get you started:

1. Isaiah 41:10 (GNTD)
   Do not be afraid—I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.
2. Philippians 4:6-7 (GNTD)
   Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.
3. Deuteronomy 31:6 (GNTD)
   Be determined and confident. Do not be afraid of them. Your God, the Lord himself, will be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.”
4. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (GNTD)
   Humble yourselves, then, under God's mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time. Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.
5. Psalm 34:4 (GNTD)
   I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me; he freed me from all my fears.