I am very fearful – though not a pleasant adjective to describe myself but it is just to say that I am not always that courageous a person although I do most courageous things by the grace of God. As a melancholic, I find myself thinking about how things will work out before I step out to do them. I recognize danger as soon as I see it and it tempts me often to coil back into my comfort zone of not doing anything. When I was younger, I sat in front of the class, so I didn’t have to compete with the rest of the class in the raising of hands to answer questions.
Did my fear help me? I don’t think it did – but rather made me more intimidated to stand up for my rights. I would rather keep quiet than talk for fear it would make someone unhappy. So, over time, I had to learn how to deal with it, when a friend pointed that out to me. I have come far with it though by the grace of God. Needless to say, we all experience fear at one time or another at the apparent site of danger or problem. But the prophet Isaiah encouraged God’s people with this verse: “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 (NIV) As we know, these were comforting words of God to his chosen people, and in this case, it is to us too who have been grafted into sonship. Isn’t it comforting that our Father in Heaven tells us not to fear, no matter the situation we face because He will strengthen us (i.e. if we feel weak, he will make us strong) and help us (i.e. whatever area we might need assistance, He God is our help) and lastly, He will uphold us with His righteous right hand (i.e. even when we are falling, his arms are there to sustain and keep us from falling)
So, what do I do with my fear? – “When I am afraid, I will trust in you …” Psalm 56:3&4. This has been my wake-up scripture and so whenever fear emerges from wherever or whatever situation, I remember to trust in my God. And the way I do that is to vocalize my trust in God. I speak to him about the situation that is making me fearful and tell him that regardless, my trust is in Him and He should help me overcome it. Sometimes it takes seconds, and the fear evaporates, but depending on the situation, it might take a few days, I must keep my focus on Him and his words of love to me reminding myself that He is with me, and I take solace in His word. He is our ever-present Help, and we can count on Him no matter what we face.
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