For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. (Isaiah 41:13 KJV)
Why do we sometimes delay making decisions or avoid taking the needed first steps? Often, the culprit is fear, and it can be paralyzing. In my own life, fear shows up in many ways. There are times when I’m afraid of failing or of making a mistake or of what something might cost in terms of hard work and sacrifice.
Those are not the only kinds of fears that hold us back. Sometimes taking the next step involves asking for advice, financial help, or permission. In such instances, the fear of rejection comes to the fore. Even if we don’t take the time to analyze and identify our emotions and put these fears into words, they’re there and they hold us back. So what do we do about that?
Having faith in God’s goodness and believing that He wants to bless us puts us on the path to overcoming fear. But this victory over fear can’t just be in our thoughts; it’s not just a philosophical or spiritual matter. God often expects us to face our fears and take action and move in the right direction.
We have to come to grips with our fears and overcome them so that we can be free to pursue our lives and have the full experience that God intends for us. If we deliberately put ourselves out there and do the very thing that we’re afraid of it becomes easier. Eventually we will no longer be afraid. That is conquering our fears! [1]
Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy. - Dale Carnegie (1888–1955)
[1] Activated Slay the Dragon!
