Fear Lies

When fear strikes a heart, it grips it like a vise. It paralyzes you in place. The thought of taking a step, any step, is agony. And it doesn’t come alone. When fear walks through your door, it throws a party and invites doubt, uncertainty, anxiety, insecurity, depression, even anger.

I’ve had my share of moments when all I saw were the negative what ifs and all I did was cry. Despite knowing the truth about God’s love, mercy, grace, and faithfulness, I have on more than one occasion entertained questions and scenarios I know I shouldn’t. Perhaps, that’s the downside to being a planner; you consider everything, including the ones that could go wrong.

Fear is a strong poison. All it takes is a miniscule drop:

“It’s never been done before. What makes you think you can do it?”

“You’re not cut out for it.”

“Others are more qualified.”

“How sure are you? In this current political climate? Things change all the time!”

A remark, a glance, and a hint of bad news... it only takes a little bit to lead you down a path straight to fear’s belly; and when you’re in it, you don’t see or feel anything other than the overwhelming desire to lock your doors, hide under the covers, and entertain your dark thoughts.

That’s why it is important to not give fear a foothold. Because the moment you do, you spiral out of control. Even though the grace of God will not allow you to stay in its depths, you waste precious hours or days of your life letting it toss you around like a rag doll that has no value.

So the next time fear lies to you, don’t listen to it. Shut it out and shut it down with the truth: God’s promises are YES and AMEN, and He would never leave you nor forsake you. 

“My fear doesn’t stand a chance when I stand in Your Love.” (Bethel Music, Stand In Your Love)

The future is bright, little one. Don’t allow fear to ruin it.