“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”  Isaiah 41:10

My world’s foundation crumbled the day I discovered my father left my mother – and us kids behind.  He moved on – to a new relationship and a new family.

Suddenly, I began to look for security and peace elsewhere – seeking fulfillment in friends and boyfriends – far from my parent’s world.  Decision after decision, however, brought shame and addiction – and brought me farther from the peace and security I longed for.

Through numerous encounters, I became convinced that Who and what I had been searching for all my life could be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.  When I asked Him - He forgave my sin, released me from shame, broke my addictions and gave me His peace.

As I relinquished all the “crutches” or ways I had medicated life’s pains – fear wanted to reign.  Initially, fear’s grip was so strong I didn’t think I would ever overcome. I cried to the Lord for help and He walked me into freedom. He didn’t remove fear instantly, but He taught me how to trust Him, cling to Him, and receive the strength to overcome fear. 

Fear doesn’t reign over me anymore but it still tries to bind my heart. Isaiah 41:13 and 14 are also key verses the Lord has proven true to me:

“For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, O worm Jacob, O little Israel, for I myself will help you,” declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.”

Heavenly Father, You know me completely and are able to release me from all of my fears.  Thank You that You promise that You are with me, You are my God and You will give me strength and help. Thank You that You have a firm grip on me and You are not letting go regardless of my circumstances or how I feel inside. Lord, walk me into freedom from fear; grant me Your peace and strength, help me trust You in the midst of the storms in my life.  In Jesus’ powerful Name I pray, Amen!

Take Action

Pray through Isaiah 41:10 and 41:13-14 in light of your current challenges. Ask the Lord to strengthen and help You. Think of a step you are afraid to take but you know that God wants to you take.  Ask for His help and strength to do what He is asking.  Follow through – journal what it feels like to take steps of obedience even though you are afraid!  We have to walk past our fears – the fear will never give us permission!

What are you facing today?



Tags: restored addiction