What would life be like if we lived without fear? I have been basing my decisions, priorities, and goals on fears. My entire life I have lived with a fear of something. When I was little, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to find my mom. Of what lingered in dark places. The unknowns in my closet. And balloons (crazy right?).
A few years later I feared not being included in the ‘in’ group. Fear of looking ‘stupid’ if I asked a question. Fear of pimples, not developing like the other girls and that people would see me with my parents.
My high school years were riddle with the fear of death. Peers had died, my dad was very sick. The thing I feared most, being alone. Then I married, had three boys and started moving all over the US, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic. Some of the same fears arose. Not fitting in the ‘in’ group, not belonging. Fear of failing as a mother and wife began to top my list. Then it happened. My marriage began to fail. My children began to disobey more and more. Life happened, and my fears were confirmed.
Fear paralyzes. It leads to panic and disobedience. Fear breaks our connections to others and deteriorates relationships. Fear stops us from doing things because we are afraid of the outcome, positive or negative. It robs us of power and love. All fears take us from the love and relationships that God has intended for us.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2Timothy 1:7
God has given us a spirit of power, love and sound mind. What can we do with this knowledge to overcome fear?
- Step out in faith with the power God has given us. When we step out into the places God has called us, we are given His almighty power to move with Him.
“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 41:20
- Love our selves and love others. In love, fear cannot exist. God’s love drives out the fear that the enemy wants to grow in us.
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us.” 1John 4:18-19
- Believe with a sound mind that He protects us. He is with us.
“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
What would life be like if we lived without fear?
Life is full of power, love, and a sound mind. We walk into new situations with confidence and strength. We stand firm in our beliefs and knowledge. We run into new situations knowing that we belong and are loved. Loved by the One that is Love. Without fear we are unstoppable.
Awesome word! I am learning to recognize when I am operating out of fear. It is becoming more obvious and then I can ask God for help and speak over myself words of love, power and a sound mind.
Recognizing is the first step! Believe that you are full of love, power and a sound mind, then LIVE it!!!