Happy No Year Part 2: Not By Fright // Pastor Rafy Panlilio

Grace Testament Church continues the “Happy No Year” series with the message “Not by Fright,” anchored on Genesis 26:23–25. This message reminds us that while saying “no” often sounds negative, learning to say no to fear is one of the most freeing decisions we can make. The Bible repeatedly calls God’s people to live without fea —“fear not” appears throughout Scripture—because fear does not come from God. From Joshua 1:9 to 2 Timothy 1:7, we are reminded that the Lord gives us not a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control. God calls His people to live not by fright, but by trust. Through the life of Isaac in Genesis 26, this message shows how fear can drive people away from God’s promises—whether fear of crisis or fear of people. Yet when Isaac chose totrust the Lord instead of being led by fear, God protected him, provided for him, and reaffirmed His covenant. The message also points us to the greater covenant we now have in Christ, where believers are no longer slaves to fear but children of God who can call Him Abba, Father (Romans 8:15). This message challenges us to examine what controls our decisions: fear or faith. As we start the year, God invites us to build our lives like Isaac did—placing the altar before the tent, prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. Be encouraged to say no to fear and yes to trusting God, not only this year but in every season of life. #HappyNoYear#NotByFright#LiveByFaith#FearNot#GTCSundayService#WhereLivesChange