25 Bible Verses About Fear Of Man (With Commentary)
The fear of what others think or do can be a powerful influence in our lives. The Bible offers verses that encourage us to trust in God’s approval above all else and find freedom from the fear of man. Join us as we explore these scriptures and learn how to overcome the paralyzing fear of human opinions.
Bible Verses About Fear Of Man
Proverbs 29:25
“The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe.”
This verse reminds us that the fear of man can lead us astray and ensnare us. When we are consumed with the opinions and approval of others, we can easily compromise our faith and integrity. However, when we place our trust in the Lord, we find true safety and security. Our focus should be on pleasing God rather than seeking the approval of others.
Psalm 56:11
“In God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me?”
When we trust in God, we can confidently face any situation without fear of man. The power and authority of man are limited, but the Lord is sovereign and in control. This verse reminds us to place our trust in God, knowing that He is our ultimate protector and defender.
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
In times of fear, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always with us. This verse reassures us that God is our strength and helper, and He promises to uphold us with His righteous right hand. We can trust in His faithfulness and find peace even in the face of opposition from others.
Matthew 10:28
“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Jesus reminds us in this verse that the fear of man should not overshadow our fear of God. Man may have power over our physical bodies, but God has ultimate authority over our eternal souls. We should prioritize our relationship with God and fear His righteous judgment above all else.
1 Peter 3:14
“But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.”
When we face persecution or opposition for living according to God’s principles, we are promised blessings. This verse encourages us to not fear those who may oppose us but to remain steadfast in our faith. We can find peace knowing that God is on our side and will reward our commitment to Him.
Psalm 118:6
“The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”
When we have the Lord on our side, we can boldly proclaim that we will not fear man. No matter what challenges or threats we may face, we can trust in God’s protection and deliverance. Our confidence should rest in the power and faithfulness of the Lord.
Psalm 27:1
“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
In this verse, the psalmist declares the Lord as their light and salvation, instilling confidence and dispelling fear. If God is our stronghold, there is no need to be afraid. With Him as our protector, we are secure in all circumstances.
Psalm 23:4
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
When we are faced with the darkest and most challenging moments of life, we can find comfort knowing that God is with us. His presence and guidance bring us comfort and dispel our fears. This verse reminds us that even in the midst of trials, God is our constant companion.
Proverbs 19:23
“The fear of the LORD leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.”
The fear of the Lord results in a fulfilled and satisfied life. When we prioritize our reverence for God above the fear of man, we experience His blessings and protection. This verse encourages us to choose a life centered around God, knowing that He will keep us safe.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
God’s command to be strong and courageous is a powerful reminder of His presence in our lives. We should not be intimidated or discouraged by the fear of man because our God is always with us. This verse encourages us to step out in faith, knowing that God goes before us and guides our every step.
Romans 8:31
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
When we fully grasp the truth that God is for us, we can confidently face any opposition or fear. No matter who may come against us, we can rest in the assurance that God’s favor and protection are upon us. This verse reminds us that our faith in God’s sovereignty overcomes any fear of man.
Psalm 118:8
“It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.”
This verse emphasizes the superiority of relying on the Lord rather than putting our trust in man. Man is fallible and can disappoint, but God is faithful and steadfast. We are encouraged to find our refuge in the Lord rather than seeking the approval or validation of others.
Galatians 1:10
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
As followers of Christ, our allegiance is to God, not to please man. This verse challenges us to examine our motives and priorities. If we seek the approval of man above pleasing God, we hinder our ability to be true servants of Christ. Our focus should always be on glorifying God rather than seeking the favor of others.
Psalm 56:3-4
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”
When fear threatens to overwhelm us, we can choose to place our trust in God. The psalmist proclaims their trust in God’s Word and declares that they will not be afraid. They recognize the limitations of the flesh compared to the power and sovereignty of God.
Hebrews 13:6
“So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?””
In this verse, we are reminded that the Lord is our helper. When we keep this truth in mind, we can confidently face any situation without fear of man. Instead of worrying about the actions or opinions of others, we can trust in God’s provision and care for us.
Psalm 27:3
“Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.”
Even in the face of great opposition, we can maintain a steadfast heart and trust in God’s faithfulness. This verse encourages us to be confident in God’s protection and deliverance, even when we find ourselves in the midst of a battle. Our trust in God should overshadow any fear we may have.
Luke 12:4-5
“I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!”
In this passage, Jesus instructs His disciples not to fear those who can harm them physically, but instead to fear God, who has authority over both the physical and spiritual realms. This verse reminds us that our reverence for God should always supersede any fear of man.
Psalm 112:7
“He is not afraid of bad news; his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD.”
A person who places their trust in the Lord remains steadfast and unafraid, even in the face of negative circumstances. When we have confidence in God’s faithfulness and His ability to work all things for our good, we can approach any news or situation with a firm and trusting heart.
Acts 4:13
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”
When we consistently spend time with Jesus and allow His presence to transform our lives, we can display a boldness and confidence that surpasses human understanding. This verse reminds us that our association with Jesus should be evident in our attitudes and actions, causing others to take notice and be amazed.
Psalm 34:4
“I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”
When we intentionally seek the Lord and bring our fears to Him, He faithfully answers us and delivers us from them. God is ever-present and ready to comfort and guide us. This verse reassures us that we never have to face our fears alone; we can trust in God’s love and protection.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
God’s promise to never leave or forsake us should dispel any fear or dread that may attempt to take hold of our hearts. This verse encourages us to be strong and courageous because the Lord is always with us. We can trust in His constant presence and guidance in every situation.
Psalm 34:9
“Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!”
As believers, we are called to fear the Lord and acknowledge His sovereignty. When we live in reverent awe of God, we experience a sense of fulfillment and provision. This verse assures us that those who fear the Lord lack nothing because He faithfully takes care of His children.
2 Timothy 1:7
“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
As children of God, we have been given a spirit of power, love, and self-control. Fear does not align with the qualities that God has entrusted to us. This verse reminds us to tap into the power and love that God has placed within us, enabling us to overcome any fear that may attempt to cripple us.
Romans 8:15
“For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’”
Through our faith in Christ, we have been adopted into God’s family and are no longer enslaved to fear. Instead, we have been given the Spirit of adoption that allows us to approach God as our loving Father. This verse emphasizes our identity as children of God, enabling us to face the fear of man with confidence.
What Does the Bible Say About Fear of Man?
In the Bible, the fear of man is often discussed in the context of the fear of God. Proverbs 29:25 (NIV) states, “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” This verse highlights the danger of allowing the fear of what others may think or do to dictate our choices and actions.
The Bible encourages us to cultivate a deep reverence and awe for God instead of fearing humans. Matthew 10:28 (NIV) reminds us, “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” This verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our fear of God over the fear of man.
When we fear man, we are more likely to seek the approval of others and conform to worldly standards, potentially compromising our faith and convictions. However, when we fear God, we place our trust in His sovereignty and guidance, seeking to please Him above all else.
Additionally, 1 John 4:18 (NIV) reassures us that “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” As believers, we are called to dwell in God’s perfect love, which casts out the fear of man and allows us to live boldly and confidently in His truth.
Ultimately, the Bible teaches us to prioritize the fear of God, trusting in His protection and provision, and finding our security in His unfailing love rather than being ensnared by the fear of man.
