“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” Isaiah 41:10
I am a “worst-case scenario” thinker. No matter what the situation, I can always jump to a horrible conclusion. A little cold could turn into a life-threatening disease. A vacation could end in disaster. One small risk might be the worst decision I’ve ever made.
It’s sad really. It would be so embarrassing to talk about some of the places my mind goes to. But beyond the embarrassment, my fear is like handcuffs around my wrists keeping me from serving freely.
Fear keeps me from taking a meal to a neighbor because I don’t want to be taken advantage of. It prevents me from speaking the truth to a fellow believer because I worry about what they might think of me.
We have been invited to enjoy a blessed life, full of joy, love, and contentment. It means we have to step out to do the things God has called us to do. He invites us to participate in what He is doing around us, to connect with and serve people. Sometimes caution is wise. We must act with our eyes wide open. But if we don’t do things because we are afraid of what might happen, we have said, “No” to the blessings of God in our lives.
The invitation is simple. It’s time to trust His leading. We need to serve our neighbors without fear.
Lord, help me discern caution from fear. Help me act wisely, but boldly to your invitation. Amen.
TAKE ACTION
Ask God to show you where fear shows up in your life. Ask Him to reveal the times when fear keeps you from following His Spirit. Read and memorize Isaiah 41:10.
Dig deeper - Learn How to Resist Fear.