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“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
I hate HEIGHTS! From roller coasters to cliff ledges, I am prone to getting nervous and nauseous. This week I had to face this fear as I found myself taking an airplane flight. One of the ways I have combatted the turbulence of flying, by saying a quick prayer while laying my hand on the outer part of the plane when entering it from the terminal tunnel.
On another occasion, over ten years ago, as we were getting ready to travel to China to adopt our daughter, I could feel my anxiety rising in the weeks leading up to our trip around the world. This time I tackled my fear by going on the tallest ride at an amusement park with my boys just days before our flight. I was motivated to get this fear in check one way or another!
The Lord is wanting us to move in faith to get over our fears. Moving in a boldness of faith is not a reckless approach to life, but a desire to rise above anything that seeks to control us. Our being bold and brave, is not about having an absence of wisdom, rather it is having peace as we trust in God’s presence to be with us and cover us. 1 John 4:18 tells 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 all have different things that push our fear buttons. Some people worry about money/provision; other people are sent into a panic over their physical health; some are overly concerned about what others think and pleasing people; while others are pre-occupied with the wellbeing of a family member and/or friend. All of our fears, in their different shapes and sizes, can be overcome when we realize how much God cares for us! 1 Peter 5:7 reassures us, “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
When we are afraid, let’s take action. Stop and breathe; Say a prayer and speak a Scripture; Call or text a friend; Read the Bible; Resist the lie; Stand Firm and Move Forward! In 1 Corinthians 16:13 Paul encourages us, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” When we face our fears with faith we will fly to greater heights of freedom, peace, and strength in Jesus!