Inner Peace: The Source of Strength Against Fear

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III, speaking on the occasion of the earthquake, emphasized the importance of inner peace in facing fear. He explained that people’s panic did not come from the earthquake itself, but from the lack of peace within the heart. Whoever possesses this peace does not fear death or destruction because his heart is firm in God.

Biblical Examples of Faith and Courage

The Pope referred to King David’s words, “Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear,” showing how David, the young boy, did not fear Goliath because God was with him. He also recalled Christ’s words to His disciples: “Do not be afraid, it is I.”
Fear, he said, results from weak faith and the absence of awareness of God’s presence.

The Spiritual Origin of Fear

Fear did not exist when humanity was created. It entered after the fall into sin, when separation from God began. Sin gives birth to fear, while union with God removes it.

A Call to Faith and Courage

His Holiness urged believers to fully trust in God’s protection, quoting God’s words to Joshua and Moses: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you.” True strength lies in placing God before our eyes in every situation.

Confronting Fear with Faith and Reason

He explained that fear paralyzes thought, nerves, and even the body, but can be overcome through prayer and reflection on the Psalms, such as Psalm 91: “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”
When a person focuses on God, fear of people or events disappears.

The Saints as Examples of Strength

The Pope highlighted the martyrs and saints who never feared emperors, torture, or death because they lived with deep inner peace. Even the monks of the desert, surrounded by wild beasts and demons, were fearless because God’s presence filled their hearts.

The Cure for Fear

He concluded that the true cure for fear is prayer, faith, and inner peace, for prayer reminds us of God’s presence and help. His closing message was: “May God be with you; I do not want anyone among you to fear.”

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