From a very young age, I’ve always battled fear and anxiety. No doubt there are many reasons for this, but perhaps foremost is because my parents divorced when I was young. I remember feeling alone and vulnerable after my father left. I came to believe that I had to face life on my own, but didn’t have what it takes to do so.

So, for decades, I would avoid challenges and what seemed like threatening situations out of fear that I would not know how to handle them. This avoidance kept me trapped in anxiety for most of my life. Honestly, it is a battle I still face daily. But I have now found an antidote!

Five years ago, after spiraling into depression and sin, I surrendered to God’s grace, love, and salvation. His Holy Spirit came to live in me.

Since that time, 2 Timothy 1:7 has become very precious to me. Now there is hope. Though I still struggle with fear, I am indwelt by God’s own Spirit — a Spirit of power, love, and self-control. I can now face my fears with the sure knowledge that he has provided the resources I need to conquer them.

Are you captive to fear, as I was? Please know that you don’t have to go it alone! God’s Holy Spirit is near, and he will make his home in you. He will set you free. All you need to do is ask!

Holy Spirit, thank you for coming to live in this messy heart and life. Thank you for daily enabling me to face my fears and find victory in the battle. Please draw me closer every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Go Deeper — What fears do you have? Write them down. Then write “The Holy Spirit is the antidote” beside each one. Invite the Spirit to show you which aspect of God’s character or which of his promises help you overcome each fear. Memorize 2 Timothy 1:7 to repeat whenever any fear surfaces in your life.



Tags: Holy Spirit 2 Timothy 1
Photo Credit: Tiago Gerken