So, apparently God isn’t done teaching me about being
afraid, fear, and trusting Him.
Although, one could argue that we really never stop learning. How many
times have you read a book, or a passage in the Bible, and learn something new
each time you read it.
In the book Soul Detox,
by Craig Groeschel, chapter 8 is appropriately titled “Scare Pollution.” The chapter begins with a quote from John
Wesley, “I have never known more than fifteen minutes of anxiety or fear. When
I feel fearful emotions overtaking me, I just close my eyes and thank God that
He is still on the throne, reigning over everything, and I take comfort in His
control over the affairs of my life.” I
am reminded that this is exactly the way that Mary reacted when she found out
that she was going to be the mother of the Lord Most High… and yet, I am
reminded, once again, that although I do trust God wholly, I still try to feel
like I have control over my life and circumstances.
Craig goes on to write that there are four areas that people
tend to fear the most:
1.
Fear of loss (yup, been there – done that,
probably still a current fear to some extent)
2.
Fear of failure (ditto)
3.
Fear of rejection (definitely used to… not so
much now)
4.
Fear of the unknown (lesser, but sometimes it
rears its ugly head)
There is value and wisdom in recognizing your fears. I agree
with Groeschel when he writes, “[your] fear reveals what you value the most.
Examining what you fear can illuminate your priorities, which are always good
to know.” He goes on to say that “what you fear reveals were you trust God the
least.” This really struck me because if
there is one thing that I fear it is the loss of the companionship,
conversation, and challenges that I Have come to thoroughly enjoy with a dear
friend of mine. I fear that one day we
won’t be able to be friends or that something/someone/whatever will pull us
apart. Because, if I’m being honest
about my fear, it is centered around not trusting God with this. You know when
you meet someone and the friendship develops so easily because you understand one
another so well… that’s what I’m afraid of losing.
Ironically, Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling wrote in her devotional for January 9th,
I am with you and for you. When you
decide on a course of action that is in line with My will, nothing in heaven or
on earth can stop you. You may encounter obstacles as you move toward your
goal, but don’t be discouraged – never give up! With My help, you can overcome
any obstacle. Do not expect an easy path
as you journey hand in hand with Me, but do remember that I, your very-present
Helper, am omnipotent.
Much, much stress results from your
wanting to make things happen before their times have come. One of the main
ways I assert My sovereignty is in the timing of events. If you want to stay close to Me and do things
My way, ask Me to show you the path forward moment by moment. Instead of
dashing head-long toward your goal, let Me set the pace. Slow down, and enjoy
the journey in My presence.
Reading from these authors, it becomes clear to me that God
IS omnipotent and has perfect control over everything in my life. After all, if He is for us, who can be
against us? And it is with this very
comforting reminder, that I remember that I do not have to be afraid of losing
friendships, failing in the gifts and talents that He has given me, wondering
what other people think of me - because God made me in His image, and that He
has a plan for me that is far greater than anything I could possibly imagine.
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