Fear.
This word has been on my mind a lot recently.
Today I decided to tackle the ghastly task of cleaning out an old dresser in my room. In the midst of the chaos I found a few old journals, so of course all cleaning came to a halt as I sat down and flipped through pages and pages of my life. I saw the same theme over the years.
"I'm afraid of what might be coming next"
"I'm afraid that God won't come through this time"
"I didn't talk to this person I felt led to talk to because I was afraid of their reaction"
How much have I missed over the years because of this word that has been known to dominate my actions and emotions? What steps have I not taken? What words have I not said?
Fear.
It seems daunting, intimidating, impossible to conquer, but then I flip the coin.
What is the opposite of fear?
COURAGE.
"The ability to do something that is frightening"
"bravery, boldness, confidence"
Fear asks if I made the right decision to step out, if I'm even going the right way.
Courage tells me that HE is the way.
(Jn. 14:6)
Fear asks if I'll have money this month to pay rent.
Courage tells me that my God will meet all my needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
(Phil. 4:19)
Fear asks if I'm afraid to be in this alone.
Courage tells me to be strong and courageous because the Lord himself will go before me and be with me. He will NEVER leave me.
(Deut. 31:7,8)
Fear asks me why I'm so weak and timid.
Courage tells me that HIS power is made perfect in weakness. When I am weak, HE is strong.
(2 Corinth. 12:9,10)
Living in fear does not have to be my reality. Fear is a choice, and fear is a lie. Rise above the fear, choose courage.
"When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose words I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?" -Psalm 56:3,4
"The Lord is my light and my salvation-
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life-
of whom shall I be afraid?"
-Psalm 27:1
