Taking a deep breath, I reflect on the journey we've been on this summer, exploring the complex world of emotions through our series. We've delved into anxiety, sadness, anger, and today, we confront fear. Emotions like fear are not inherently negative; they are God-given and serve a purpose, such as keeping us safe. However, when fear becomes a permanent residence in our hearts, it can hinder us from experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for us.
I shared a personal story about my fear of heights, illustrating how fear can sometimes grow beyond its intended purpose, preventing us from embracing life fully. We often fear tangible things like spiders or snakes, but it's the intangible fears—fear of failure, rejection, loneliness, change, or death—that truly alter our lives. These fears can drive us to make decisions that are not aligned with God's will, affecting our relationships, health, and spiritual journey.
In Hebrews 13, we find a powerful reminder that God promises never to fail or abandon us. This assurance should embolden us to live without fear, knowing that God is our helper, quick to action, and ever-present. The challenge is to internalize this truth and live confidently, much like the little dog that fearlessly confronted a hammerhead shark.
To live fearlessly, we must first identify our fears, often hidden beneath the surface, and understand their roots. Engaging with a community of believers can help us uncover these fears. Secondly, we must say yes to what God calls us to do, stepping out in faith and experiencing His presence and guidance.
Ultimately, the solution to fear is found in Jesus, who conquered sin and death. If you haven't yet embraced a relationship with Him, I invite you to do so, experiencing a life that is fearless rather than fearful.
