I’ve blogged on the subject of fear before. I probably gravitate to the subject primarily because it’s so common to all of us. Personally, I need to be reminded of the positive and negative aspects of fear again and again. That’s right…there are some positives. Fear is the fundamental emotion that protects us from danger. Fear activates the “fight or flight” response in all of us. Fear can be a powerful motivator, helping us to take action and achieve goals. When I was in college, the fear of failure drove me to study harder for an exam. Each time we confront a fear, no matter how small, we strengthen our ability to cope with future challenges. So there are a few positives.
But the negatives are what consume me and raise my anxiety levels. Here are some of the “clinical” definitions of “fear.” It can contribute to depression and feelings of hopelessness. It’s a key element in the development of PTSD. Fear can disrupt your thinking process like memory formation, decision-making, and problem-solving.
But here’s the piece that matters to me today as I write. Fear can immobilize you. As I write this blog, there are global conflicts in Israel, Iran, Ukraine, Russia, Pakistan, India, Congo, and Rwanda. I don’t believe that is an exhaustive list. But, the fear of “what could happen” can paralyze you. It can keep you from making good decisions, helping others, demonstrating God’s love to those who need it. So what’s a person like you or me to do? Let me suggest…
- Read and Meditate on Scripture: Fill your mind with God’s Word, which provides truth and strengthens faith.
- Pray: Cast anxieties on God because He cares for you 1 Peter 5:7.
- Worship: Choosing to worship God focuses attention on His goodness and power, displacing fearful thoughts.
- Confess God’s Truth: Speak God’s Word aloud, reinforcing belief in His promises.
- Seek Wise Counsel: Connect with other believers, mentors, or Christian counselors who can offer support and guidance.
- Faith requires action: Do not allow fear to paralyze. Step out in faith, knowing that God will equip.