This world is a scary place these days. There is a lot of uncertainty and that creates fear. And fear is the root of many of our issues and struggles.
What are your fears? Here are a few of mine:
- Harm coming to a loved one
- Rejection
- Debilating illness
- Financial ruin
- Indecent exposure in public (have dreams about this one)
- Failure
- The direction that our world is going
- Spiders, snakes, lizards, most bugs (I like ladybugs okay, I guess)
Fear is defined as a distressing emotion aroused by impending pain, danger, evil, etc., or the illusion of such. There are two types of fear: healthy and unhealthy. The first kind protects us from harm and is tied to our fight-or-flight reflex. The second includes irrational fears that come from Satan and are designed to make us miserable.
What can you do to manage your unhealthy fear?
- Name your fears – Sometimes merely naming your fears helps give you the awareness and strength to deal with them.
- Read God’s Word – His Word is the greatest weapon against fear and, in fact, the Bible tells us not to fear over 200 times.
- Face your fears – Do it afraid! Afraid of public speaking? Do it anyway! Afraid of air travel? Take a flight!
- Trust in God – This is the ultimate remedy for fear. He has your back!
- Focus on the positive – We are wired to focus on the negative so we have to work to flip our script. Paul tells us to focus on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is admirable, whatever is excellent and praiseworthy” (Philippians 4:8-9)
Here is one of my favorite Scriptures that helps me when I am feeling afraid:
REFLECT:
Spend a little time reflecting on your fears. What will you do to deal with them? Which of these suggestions could you use?
Insightful as always Leslie! There is a lot to be fearful today. I am glad I have my friends to share with and to love!
Thanks for this post. Very thoughtful! I too have struggled with fear and thank the Lord that He helps me overcome. God Bless!