“Atomic Brain Invasion” is about an invasion of the mind, a supernatural invasion. Paul reminds us that we’re not fighting against people, but against rulers of darkness (powers in the spiritual world). We must resist the invasion because this world is not our home; we’re citizens of heaven, aliens in this world. Therefore, we must live differently, see differently, and think differently. Proverbs 4:23 instructs: Be careful how you think, your life is shaped by your thoughts. This is a call to protect your mind because what invades your mind shapes your life.

One of the most destructive thoughts is fear. That’s why the most common command found in Scripture is “fear not”. Fear is universal; we all wrestle with fear. While there is a good fear that keeps you safe and warns when danger is near, most fear is destructive, even paralyzing, keeping you from trusting and obeying God. Two people can face the same challenge, and one gives in to fear and panic, while the other responds with faith and confidence. What makes the difference? It’s not the circumstances but rather the mindset. Your mind determines how you approach everything. Fear flourishes when your mindset is twisted, but faith flourishes when your mind is fixed on God.

Fear invades our minds in many forms …fear of loss …fear of failure …fear of rejection …fear of the unknown. The “what ifs” can capture the mind. “What if I lose my job?” “What if I’m not enough?” “What if they don’t accept me?” “What if the future falls apart?” In 2 Timothy we learn that fear is not from God. God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-control. Fear is not the opposite of faith; fear is misdirected faith (faith in the wrong things) in the “what ifs.” What you fear often reveals the area where you trust God the least.

To move forward toward faith and away from fear you must first acknowledge your fear. Name it and then choose to trust God. David, when hunted by Saul, said, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” (Ps 56) David sought the Lord and David acknowledges that God delivered him from all his fears. God didn’t take the fears away, but he delivered David. The closer you are to God the smaller your fears become. Seek God, worship, pray, and stay in His Word, and He will give you peace. Don’t let fear invade your mind, resist it. Allow God to get between you and your fear. The God who created you and upholds you will keep you in perfect peace if your thoughts are fixed on Him.

Scriptures – Ephesians 6:12 (CEV); 1 Peter 2:11 (Voice); Proverbs 4:23 (GNT); Isaiah 41:10 TLV); 2 Timothy 1:7 (WEB); Psalm 34:4, 56:1-4 (NIV); Isaiah 26:3 (NLT) 

Verses – Beloved, remember you don’t belong in this world. You are resident aliens living in exile…. (1 Pe 2:11) “Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Surely, I will help you.        I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Is 41:10) Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts. (Pr 4:23) For God didn’t give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. (2 Ti 1:7) You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you. (Is 26:3)

Discussion – How does the most common command in Scripture “fear not” reveal how God understands our struggles? Which fear (loss, failure, rejection, the unknown) do you find most challenging? How does this fear affect your trust in God? How does your mindset shape the difference between responding in fear or faith? In what ways have you seen fear act as misplaced faith? What practical steps do you need to take to help dispel any fear you are dealing with?

Prayer – Dear Lord, when fear invades my mind, help me fix my eyes on You. Teach me to trust You more than the ‘what ifs,’ and fill me with Your power, love, and peace. In Jesus Name I pray Amen.