Phillip Duane Anstine

The following was written by Phil, and shared at his graveside service. The family has given permission to share it below.
"Be Not Afraid"
An essay on faith by Phillip Anstine (1962-2021) which was found in his Bible after his death.
Dealing with fear is one of the toughest problems we face, but how successful we are depends on the approach we take.
We're sure to fail if we try to be God. We will succeed only if we trust God.
What we fear most is uncertainty, and in these times there's plenty of uncertainty to go around. God wants us to give up our fears, and give it to him. He especially does not want us to fear trusting him, and that's what can make all the difference between life or death, success or failure, win or loss. God wants us to know he is with us and for us.
From the beginning to the very end of the Bible, in minor trials, tribulations and impossible crises, God tells his people, "Don't be afraid."
God is a loving Father who never expects us to do something we're incapable of doing. He either equips us for the task at hand, or steps in to help us do it. We see that principle at work throughout Scripture and since God never changes, his principles don't either.
I've been thinking about fear a lot lately because I've been seeing it and sensing it all around me. I've been thinking about my past, and I've come to a surprising conclusion. I'd rather have God know and control my future than me.
I make a lot of mistakes. God never makes any. Not one. Even when I know what to expect, I sometimes make the wrong decision. God never does. I don't have much pull. God is the most powerful being in the universe.
It's always going to be a struggle for us. Fear is a very strong emotion, and we're all control freaks at heart. Jesus knows that. And because of that awful night when Judas narked him out to the Romans, he knows firsthand what fear is like. In spite of that, he can still tell us, "Don't be afraid."
When we're trying to obey that command, willpower alone just doesn't cut it. We can try to squelch our fearful thoughts, but they just keep popping up, like a ball held under water. Three things are necessary.
First, we have to acknowledge that fear is too strong for us, so only God can handle it. We have to turn our fears over to him, remembering that he is all-power, all-knowing, and always in control.
Second, we have to replace a bad habit-fear thoughts-with a good habit, namely prayer and confidence in God. We may be able to switch thoughts with lightning speed, be we can't think of two things at once. If we're praying and thanking God for his help in mentally and physically preparing us for the task at hand, we can't be thinking about fear at the same time.
And third, remain highly focused on the task at hand and accomplish your mission.
Fear is a lifelong battle, but God is our lifelong Protector. He promised to never abandon or forsake us. When we are secure in his love and salvation, nothing can snatch us from him, not even death. By giving our fear to God, no matter what, and staying focused on the task at hand, we will make it through, and survive, succeed, and win because we have no fear.
Obituary
Phillip Duane Anstine, 58, died Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at his little acreage east of Hutchinson. He was born December 19, 1962, to Duane and Phyllis Anstine.
Phillip is survived by: his father, Duane; siblings, Melody Weiss, Randy, Robert, Scott and Darin Anstine; bonus sisters, Kate Rudiger (Ric) and Marjean Meeder (Alan); half-brother, Vince Wernsman; half-sisters, Monique Maxa and Cristyl Wernsman; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by: his mother, Phyllis Wernsman; bonus mother, Norma Anstine; and baby sister, Melinda Anstine.
Phillip graduated from Palmer High School in Colorado Springs. He then entered the military, where he was on active duty for twelve years, followed by six years in the National Guard. Phillip returned to Hutchinson following his active duty and attended Hutchinson Community College, where he received two associate degrees.
Phillip worked at several positions over the years, but the one he enjoyed the most was at Interfaith Housing, because he could help people in need. He also really enjoyed being a substitute teacher in the Hutchinson schools. The many students whose lives he touched always called him "Mr. Sir". Phillip made life-long friends from his teaching.
Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 27, 2021, at Trinity United Methodist Church, 1602 N. Main, Hutchinson, with The Reverend Michael Tomson-DeGreeff officiating. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, with military honors conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday, September 25, 2021, and 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, September 26, 2021, with the family present from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary. The casket will remain closed.
Memorials are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Church, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.