In the Gospels, Jesus repeatedly says “Do not fear” during some of the most intense and miraculous moments—storms at sea, life-threatening illness, even death. These words weren’t empty. They were backed by His presence, His power, and His compassion. Whether He was calming waves, healing a bleeding woman, or raising a dead girl, Jesus used “Do not fear” to shift focus from fear to faith, reminding people—and you—that He is in control even when life feels out of control.
This message still speaks directly to your fears today. Whatever you’re facing—uncertainty, illness, loss, or anxiety—Jesus’ miracles show that fear doesn’t have the final word. Faith does. And Jesus meets honest fear with real help. Keep reading to take a deeper look at how His words and actions can guide you through whatever storm you’re in.
When Jesus said, “Do not fear,” it wasn’t just nice encouragement—it was power. He said it often, especially during moments of deep fear, uncertainty, or pain. And in the context of His miracles and healings, this phrase takes on even more weight.
Let’s unpack why Jesus said “Do not fear,” what it meant in those moments, and what it still means for you today.
“Do Not Fear” — More Than Words
In Scripture, “Do not fear” (or “Fear not”) appears over 365 times—that’s one for every day of the year. But when Jesus says it, especially while performing miracles or healings, it’s always tied to faith and trust.
He didn’t say it to minimize someone’s pain or pretend the danger wasn’t real. He said it because He was greater than the storm, the sickness, or even death itself.
1. Jesus Calms the Storm – Matthew 8:23-27
Imagine you’re in a boat with Jesus. A violent storm breaks out, waves crashing over the sides. The disciples panic. Meanwhile, Jesus is asleep. They wake Him up, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!”
What does Jesus say?
“You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” (Matthew 8:26)
Then He gets up, rebukes the winds and the waves, and the sea becomes completely calm.
Key Takeaway:
- Jesus didn’t tell them to ignore the storm.
- He told them not to fear the storm because He was with them.
- Fear shrinks when your faith grows.
2. Healing Jairus’ Daughter – Luke 8:40-56
This story shows us exactly how Jesus connects miracles to faith over fear.
Jairus, a synagogue leader, begs Jesus to heal his dying daughter. Jesus agrees, but while they’re on the way, someone brings bad news: “Your daughter is dead.”
What does Jesus say?
“Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” (Luke 8:50)
Jesus goes to the house, takes her by the hand, and says, “My child, get up!” (Luke 8:54). She comes back to life.
What’s the Lesson?
- Fear says, “It’s too late.”
- Jesus says, “Believe anyway.”
- His power isn’t limited by death, time, or circumstances.
3. Healing the Woman with the Issue of Blood – Mark 5:25-34
A woman had been bleeding for 12 years. Doctors couldn’t help her. She was considered unclean, and by Jewish law, she wasn’t even supposed to touch anyone. But she thought, If I just touch His clothes, I’ll be healed.
She touches Jesus’ cloak and is instantly healed. Jesus feels power go out from Him and turns to find her. She comes trembling, afraid.
What does He say?
“Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” (Mark 5:34)
Notice:
- She was afraid to approach Him.
- But Jesus didn’t shame her—He affirmed her.
- Fear didn’t stop her faith. Faith overcame her fear.
4. Walking on Water – Matthew 14:22-33
The disciples are in a boat again, and Jesus walks toward them on the water. They think He’s a ghost and are terrified.
Jesus immediately says:
“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” (Matthew 14:27)
Peter replies, “If it’s You, tell me to come to You on the water.” Jesus says, “Come.” Peter walks on water—until he starts to doubt. Then he begins sinking.
Jesus saves him and says:
“You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31)
Lessons from This Story:
- Jesus speaks peace before He fixes the problem.
- Fear comes when we take our eyes off Jesus.
- Even if you start sinking, He’ll grab your hand.
Why Jesus Says “Do Not Fear” During Miracles
It’s not just a feel-good phrase. It’s a command, tied to the truth that:
- He is present – Fear melts when you know He’s near.
- He is in control – Even death, disease, and nature obey Him.
- He acts with compassion – Miracles weren’t for show. They met real, human needs.
- Faith invites power – Jesus often said, “Your faith has made you well.”
5 Common Fears Jesus Addresses
Here’s a breakdown of some fears He directly confronts:
| Fear | Jesus’ Response | Scripture |
| Fear of death | “She is not dead but asleep.” | Luke 8:52 |
| Fear of sickness | “Your faith has made you well.” | Mark 5:34 |
| Fear of storms | “Why are you afraid?” | Matthew 8:26 |
| Fear of the unknown | “Take courage. It is I.” | Matthew 14:27 |
| Fear of rejection | “Daughter, go in peace.” | Mark 5:34 |
Applying “Do Not Fear” to Your Life
You may not be in a boat during a storm or dealing with a physical illness like those in the Gospels. But fear shows up in your life too—fear of failure, of loss, of the future, of being alone.
Here’s how Jesus’ words still apply:
1. Recognize the Fear
Don’t pretend it’s not there. Jesus never scolded people for being honest. Bring your fear to Him.
2. Remember His Presence
He said, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). You’re not walking through life alone.
3. Trust His Power
The same Jesus who calmed the storm and healed the sick still has power today.
4. Move Forward in Faith
Faith doesn’t mean you don’t feel fear—it means you choose to trust anyway.
Final Thoughts
Every time Jesus says, “Do not fear,” He backs it up with action. He doesn’t leave people hanging. He heals, calms, restores, and saves. His authority over the physical and spiritual world is real. So when He says, “Don’t be afraid,” you can take Him at His word.
He’s not asking you to be fearless on your own. He’s inviting you to trust Him—the One who’s proven over and over that He can handle whatever you’re facing.
Quick Recap: What Jesus Shows Us About Fear
- Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to win.
- Jesus consistently meets fear with power and compassion.
- Faith doesn’t ignore fear—it overcomes it by focusing on Him.
So the next time you’re afraid, remember what Jesus says to you:
“Do not fear. Only believe.” (Mark 5:36)
🔹 FAQs: Jesus’ “Do Not Fear” in the Context of His Miracles and Healings
1. What does Jesus mean by “Do not fear”?
When Jesus says “Do not fear,” He’s calling people to trust Him in the middle of fear or crisis. It’s not a suggestion—it’s a command backed by His power, presence, and authority over every situation.
2. How many times does “Do not fear” appear in the Bible?
“Do not fear” or similar phrases appear over 365 times in the Bible—enough for one for every day of the year.
3. Why did Jesus say “Do not fear” before performing miracles?
Jesus often said “Do not fear” to shift people’s attention from their fear to faith in Him. It prepared hearts to receive healing, peace, or breakthrough.
4. Which miracles involved Jesus saying “Do not fear”?
Key examples include calming the storm (Matthew 8), healing Jairus’ daughter (Luke 8), the bleeding woman (Mark 5), and walking on water (Matthew 14).
5. Is fear a lack of faith?
Not necessarily. Fear is a natural response. But Jesus calls us not to stay in fear—instead, He invites us to trust Him in the middle of it.
6. How can I apply “Do not fear” to my life today?
Recognize your fears, remember that Jesus is with you, and choose faith over fear. His words are still relevant for the fears you face—financial, emotional, physical, or spiritual.
7. Did Jesus ever rebuke people for being afraid?
Jesus corrected fear when it got in the way of faith, like when Peter sank while walking on water. But He always did it with compassion and help.
8. Is “Do not fear” a promise or a command?
It’s both. It’s a command based on the promise of Jesus’ presence, power, and love.
9. What’s the difference between healthy fear and spiritual fear?
Healthy fear keeps you from danger. Spiritual fear—worrying about things God has control over—limits your faith. Jesus calls you to release that kind of fear to Him.
10. Can miracles still happen when we’re afraid?
Yes. The Bible shows people often came to Jesus in fear, but He responded to their faith despite the fear. Even small faith can move Him to act.
