Fear

Fear

 

 

Fear: a crippling, gut wrenching uneasiness; a restlessness that infects your mind, body, and emotions.  Fear can be created by the most simple, insufficient things, yet has a stronghold that can overtake you if you’re not intentional about seeking the Savior in the midst of it all.  When I was a little girl, I can remember lying in my bed at night, paralyzed with fear. Sure, looking back, the things I was afraid of were probably rather insufficient and dramatic, but it didn’t matter.  The fear I faced was incredibly real.  I distinctly remember feeling as though I literally could not move because I was too afraid to.  Although being older, we may not frequently face this extreme degree of fear; it is metaphorical to the distress we so often may feel in everyday situations. There are ways to avoid fear, and there are ways to ignore fear, but I only know of One who can destroy it.

The truth: Fear is a choice.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

 Since the children are made of flesh and blood, it’s logical that the Savior took on flesh and blood in order to rescue them by his death. By embracing death, taking it into himself, he destroyed the Devil’s hold on death and freed all who cower through life Hebrews 2:14-15 (MSG)

It’s easy to fall into the trap of fear.  If you let it, fear can completely overtake your being.  On the contrary, the Bible specifically states (hundreds of times, might I add) that we don’t have to fear. Rather, we can dwell in the safety of the Lord. The simple awareness of God’s presence brings a peace greater than our own understanding.  God died for our freedom, and by simply seeking his presence He offers us this peace. Fear is, in fact, a choice as a result of God’s sacrifice.  I don’t know about you, but I think that offer sounds pretty good!

The truth: Acting in spite of fear is POWERFUL.

 God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Ephesians 6:11-12 (MSG)

Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you. Deuteronomy 3:22

Whatever your “them” in that last verse may be, it is clearly stated that if we stand up against fear, God will act on our behalf.  And from my experience, when God acts on my behalf, He moves in a powerful way!

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

God has already overcome evil, so fear is such a miniscule battle we face.  God’s got your back, there’s no need to fear!

Back to my childhood story….

This fear I faced as a child, I was very blessed to have overcome.  Although my experience may not be considered a typical way God defeats fear, I have decided to share something that reminds me (and can remind you) that God really does care about our struggles, like fear.

As stated earlier, many nights I spent, restless and paralyzed with fear.  On one particular occasion, however, I was especially fearful.  I wanted to run to my parents, but was too scared to move.  Just then, I heard a comforting voice state, “Fear not, for the Lord your God is with you.” Instantly I felt a weight had been lifted off of me.  Peace enveloped my being.  I was calm, and I could rest.  I woke up the next morning, wondering where this voice came from.  The voice seemed to have been an angel speaking to me.  Whether or not that is true, God used those words to bring me peace. 

Although God may not always audibly free you from your fear, He is dying to take away your fear, too. Literally. (Sorry, this post was lacking humor… ;) )

With that, I close….

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

-Tamara