My strong suggestion is to examine the life, work, and words of Jesus Christ as foundational. There is no Christianity apart from the person of Jesus, and He left a rock solid testimony in the New Testament writings concerning Himself. The evils of certain church organizations through the centuries, supposedly in the name of Jesus, show what they really are in comparison to Jesus Himself and their lack of real love. Jesus then sent the Holy Spirit in His place (John chapters 14-17) so that we would always have His very presence with us. It is the person of God the Holy Spirit who assures you that you are in the faith and secre in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Perfect love casts out ALL fear, and the love of Holy Spirit is perfect and strong! draw near to Him and He draws near to you. It is ALL about an abiding and intimate relationship with the living God. Everything else falls into place out of the strength and power of relationship.
Blessings, Andy
Andy,
You have provided an awesome answer! And it was something I needed to hear again ... so thank you so very much for taking the time to write it out.
I've only become a true believer in the last 1.5 years ... so I do have some personal "kinks" to work out (old habits, etc). I think that is where the "fear" is coming from mostly.
Time, prayer, and further Scriptural study, all via the Holy Spirit, will heal me of this lingering fear.