Fear Not

Fear not” is found 365 times in the bible.  Make no mistake, fear will try to come knocking on your door, but, it’s how you choose to answer  that matters.

Years ago, I went on a missions trip to Africa. I was eager and excited, but internally, I really had to come against some hard-core fears. Would I allow these fears to overpower me and not fulfill the assignment God had put before me or would I choose to feel fear and do it anyway? I am happy to share, I chose to feel fear and do it anyway. You are going to face fear. It’s inevitable. But your response is where the power lies.

Moses was afraid to lead the Israelites. Joshua was afraid to step into his shoes.  But, they have one things in common, they all chose to do it afraid. And because of this, they helped change the course of history as we know it.

I would love to tell you that fear will eventually leave your life completely, bu that wouldn't be truth. But I can tell you this, the more you say yes to God in the face of fear, the stronger your confidence will grow in his faithful care for you and your life.

1 John 4:18 says, "perfect love cast out all fear". Years ago I had a revelation of this verse. When we understand how perfectly loved we are, by our Creator, fear has no place. We can rest confidant and assured that he is always going to provide, empower, and, take care of us.  

Practical Tip- If there’s an area of your life where fear has tried to hold you back, let today be the day that you say, “NO MORE!” Today, take an action step in the face of fear. This action step doesn’t have to mean climbing Mt. Everest tomorrow. It may be as simple as opening your heart up to a friend over coffee or committing to a group study. Whatever it is, it’s time to move in that direction.  

Remember- You will feel fear in this life, but it’s how you respond to it that matters.