Material and Spiritual Well-Being

"Fear … of economic insecurity will leave us." —Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 84

As I reflect on the concept of fear, I ask myself: Do the wealthiest among us experience fear? The answer comes almost immediately: Yes. Wealth and possessions may offer comfort, but they do not shield one from the fear of loss—especially the irreplaceable losses of loved ones, health, or personal security. In a world where power and possessions are envied, losing something that cannot be bought is a terrifying prospect.

Merriam-Webster defines fear as "an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger." The key word here is emotion. Emotions reside within us; they are not external forces. The way to manage fear is not by controlling external circumstances but by transforming our internal responses. At its core, fear is a result of a lack of hope and faith—a sensation akin to free-falling without a parachute.

As the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous states:

"Lack of power, that was our dilemma. We had to find a power by which we could live, and it had to be a Power greater than ourselves. Obviously. But where and how were we to find this Power?" (Alcoholics Anonymous, Chapter 4, We Agnostics, p. 45)

In my own journey, I have found that a lack of power directly correlates with a denial of the presence of the infinite. As the Big Book reminds us:

"Well-being always followed spiritual progress; it never preceded it." (Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 127)

Similarly, the scriptures reaffirm this truth:

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

This is my guarantee: If I place my spiritual priorities first, fear will begin to fade. Like the morning dew that vanishes as the sun rises, fear dissolves in the presence of faith and trust in God.

I do not suggest that challenges will be eliminated. However, I do affirm that fear will no longer be the chain that binds me in emotional enslavement. By shifting my focus toward spiritual well-being, I find the courage to walk through life with confidence and peace.

Spiritual Sources of Well-Being

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation."
(2 Nephi 22:2 / Isaiah 12:2)

"Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him."
(Alma 58:11)

"Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail. … Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not."
(Doctrine & Covenants 6:34, 36)

Today, I fear not, and I want not, for God has provided me with all the tools and resources to be happy, joyous, and free in this moment.