If I am in a crowded room and someone starts shooting, I’ll become scared and run. I am also afraid of failure and letting my wife and kids down. These are what most people would consider normal fears.
I also have irrational fears. Especially of bears. Why? Because bears can run 30 miles an hour and the Ft. Worth zoo is 30 miles from my house. So that means a bear can be outside my door in an hour. Why would a bear come to where I live, you may ask? Because they can smell fear, and I fear them.
It sounds so ridiculous when I say it out loud, but we all have irrational fears. Crippling fears are really only lies that hinder us. I’ve heard it said that fear is “false evidence appearing real.”
It is powerful to know we serve a God who is ready to tackle both our real and imaginary fears. Fears the devil will remind us of every day of our lives. Fears like, “Don’t start that business because you will fail.” Or, “You are the worst person in this room and everyone knows it. That’s why no one loves you.”
The Lord is your stronghold, and He will strike down every single one of these fears. He will give you the spirit of confidence and courage to handle anything the devil throws your way, and to do it with a smile. Anytime you start to feel afraid just say, “FEAR NOT! God is always with me.”
Heavenly Father, thank you for being my rock, my sword, and shield. Thank you for reminding me that you have not given me the spirit of fear. Help me to remember to walk in your light and in your salvation. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Go Deeper — Choose something you are afraid of, whether it be talking to a stranger, joining a small group, or taking a class. Before doing anything, pray to God about it. If you sense he is encouraging you onward, ask God to give you strength, then step out in faith and do it, trusting Him with your fears.
Photo Credit: Cam Adams