Tag: fear

Is it Wrong to be Afraid?

We’ve all struggled with fear, and it’s mentioned many times in the Bible to not be afraid. But is the feeling of fear actually wrong?

Whether it’s standing in front of a judgmental crowd, peering over the side of a mountain, or asking someone we like out, we all have struggled with fear before. I’m sure if I asked you to list out five things you’re afraid of, you could list double that. Fear is something I’ve been trying to combat for years. When we’re fearful, we certainly don’t feel good, right? The clammy palms, racing heart, and fitful sleep aren’t particularly pleasant. But does that make fear a sin?

Technically, anything that separates us from God is a sin. That means that perfectly good things, like our careers or loved ones, can become a problem when we place them above God. However, that doesn’t mean they’re inherently sinful or that they will always be a sin once we put God first again.

But there is nothing good about fear. Yes, fear can protect us from things, but I’d like to think of that as intuition more than fear. Intuition, or rather the Holy Spirit’s leading, is what keeps us away from harmful situations such as back alleyways at night or wild parties.

Fear, on the other hand, is the sole culprit when it comes to keeping us from fulfilling our purpose. We don’t reach out to people because we’re afraid of their opinion or reaction. We don’t apply for the more difficult job because we’re afraid we won’t do it well. We don’t share our faith because we’re worried we’ll be seen as weak or part of the stereotypes surrounding Christians.

However, I once heard a quote that said, “A true act of bravery is when we are afraid but do it anyway”. I don’t believe that feeling fear is sinful at all. It’s just a part of how we’re wired. We can’t control when our mind races with doubt or we start picturing the worst case scenarios. But we can control whether or not we allow fear to stop us from doing what we have to do.

That’s when fear becomes a sin: when we use it as an excuse to not do what God is prompting us to do.

This is something I personally struggle with on a regular basis. I allow other people’s opinions, fear of failure, and many other fears that surface at “just the right time” to keep me from believing that God has a perfect plan for me. God will call us to do things that are sacrificial, humbling, embarrassing even, but in the long run, it’s worth it. God promises to use us mightily; He doesn’t promise that it will go the way we want or that it will be easy.

Ask yourself the tough question, how is God calling you out of your comfort zone? Is there someone you need to reach out to? An opportunity to be had? A possession donated?

Sometimes, a lot of times actually, God’s plan doesn’t make much sense to us. But no matter where you are in life, I promise that God is working in you and through you to make a difference. Keep on hoping.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.

Hebrews 11:1-3

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

Isaiah 43:1

When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.

Psalm 94:19

Song Recommendations:

Keep On Hoping, by Riley Clemmons: https://youtu.be/_GKqi4pFGoM

Same Stars, by Xander Sallows: https://youtu.be/Yyf1iedjWQQ

Why You Don’t Have What You Want

Are you upset right now because you don’t have something that you believe is meant for you? Here is some encouragement.

What is it that you want most in life? A different job? A significant other? A deeper relationship with Jesus?

If I were to ask you why you don’t have that thing, you’d likely come up with a plethora of reasons. Perhaps you don’t believe you’re qualified or attractive enough. Maybe you believe only a theology degree can get you an intimate relationship with Christ.

Though those answers may sound convincing, the truth is, there are two reasons why we don’t have what we want.

The first is pretty self-explanatory: It isn’t meant for us. Sometimes that person who seems perfect is actually the one who would’ve broken your heart had God allowed them to be in your life. Maybe that job isn’t the one that would help you witness to the most people. Whatever the reason may be, Jesus knows it’s better for us to have something or someone else.

The second reason gets a little more complicated: fear.

Did you know that you are at least 20% more attractive than you feel? That’s because we allow ourselves to believe the lie that we aren’t beautiful. In fact, it’s almost easier to believe that we are unattractive than admit that we are created in God’s image. It’s also easier to hide behind the idea that you aren’t good enough or attractive enough to talk to the person you like rather than admit your true feelings.

The same goes for other goals in life. We often say we aren’t qualified rather than go back to school and learn. We would rather say we don’t know than spend time in the Bible finding the answers.

This isn’t laziness– it’s fear.

We fear rejection. We fear conviction. We fear judgement.

I believe that there are two main things that separate people from God: fear and pride. When we cling onto our fears, we forget the truth, that God has a wonderful plan for us and that He can do anything. We believe that we are on our own, with no one there to save us. But actually God has an amazing plan for you and He can use you to do remarkable things.

The saddest thing about fear is that it keeps us from reaching out to others. Have you ever thought about how incredible it felt when someone expressed their appreciation to you or wanted to get to know you? Then how come it’s so hard to reciprocate that action to someone we don’t know very well? Because of fear. We don’t know their reaction.

God doesn’t promise to tell us the results before He calls us to do something. You might experience humiliation or defeat. But in the long run, it will be worth it, because you will have no regrets. You will know that you did what God wanted you to, and that feeling is enough to bring you peace.

Today, ask yourself if there are any practical steps you can take in getting what you want. If God has made it clear to you that this isn’t what’s right for your life, then step away and trust that something better is in store. But if God is calling you to take a leap of faith, then do it. Reach out, share your feelings, learn something new.

We can’t comprehend the incredible things God is doing through us. That’s why we just have to take it on faith and trust the results with Him.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

1 John 4:18

 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 14:27

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34

The Reason for Life

Do you ever wonder why you’re here? Here’s some encouragement.

Spending time with horses has taught me about overcoming fear, trusting others, and building relationships. But one of the greatest takeaways from spending time at the barn is an expression my instructor uses frequently: Where you look is where you’ll go.

In the horse world (and driving world, I’ve learned), this literally means that where your eyes are, that’s where you’ll end up. Horses can sense what you’re focused on and how you’re feeling, which is partially why this happens. But the main reason is that when we are focused on something, the rest of our body follows suite to get us there. We often don’t notice these subtle changes, like turning our hands or shifting our weight to one side. But our horses notice, and eventually if we’re focused on the wrong thing, we’ll notice too.

Part of my job with working with riders is taking the beginner riders on the longe line, which is this long rope that goes from the horse’s head to me. If the horse is too close to me, then he won’t go, but if he’s too far away, then I am no longer in control. This can be an issue since kids on the longe line are practicing riding without reins to get muscle control and build their core, as well as their courage. They rely on me to keep them safe, yet they have to do their part too by keeping their horse at the right distance away.

Occasionally, (okay, often), a young rider gets distracted by the other, more advanced riders out in the arena. They are looking at them instead of looking ahead in the direction they need to go. That allows the horse to take the opportunity to go where he isn’t supposed to, often ending up in a frustrating situation for all of us.

If you’re not a horse-person and you’ve stuck with me this far, great job! I promise this leads somewhere. You see, I’ve come to learn that “where you look is where you go” applies to life too. I mean, sometimes we wish this literally was the case, since then we wouldn’t have to walk anywhere, we could just appear there. But when it comes to goals, if we get distracted, we will never get to where we want to go.

More importantly, when we don’t focus on Jesus, our lives go off-course. I’ve talked about focusing on Jesus countless times, because that’s the only way to have a fulfilling life. When Jesus gets taken out of the picture, the reason behind our existence disappears too.

My friend and I were discussing the meaning of life a couple months ago. (A light topic, I know) When I really get into a conversation, I say whatever comes to me without thinking through it, which can sometimes be a good thing, actually. I told her that if we didn’t have a purpose in life (aka living for Jesus, fulfilling His will) then we wouldn’t want to life. She gave me a startled look and clarified, “So if I didn’t know my purpose, I would just want to die?”

I thought for a moment. Was that really what I meant?

Maybe it actually was.

You see, whether you realize it or not, we spend our entire lives searching for our purpose. When we finally figure things out, we realize that “knowing our purpose” isn’t having some step-by-step formula of how we want life to go. It doesn’t have to be knowing our career path or who we’ll end up with. It just means realizing our purpose is found in relationship with Jesus. Apart from that, we live empty, shallow lives.

So if you’re freaking out because you don’t have answers, don’t be scared. No one has all the answers. We may never have all the answers on this side of Heaven. But as long as you are relentlessly pursuing Jesus, you will find your purpose, I can promise you that.

You are here for a reason. You are loved.

 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Colossians 3:2-4

Hope Amidst the Chaos

Is it hard for you to find hope amidst all that’s going on in the world right now? Here’s some encouragement.

If I surveyed every person on Earth, I bet the general consensus would be our world is in a state of chaos. Numerous people are dying from COVID and other illnesses, there is so much division and animosity (even within the church), and people have turned away from the only true source of love and joy. But the truth is, God is no stranger to all that’s going on. Just check out the Bible, and you’ll read about things much stranger than what’s happening right now.

I’ve been trying to read the entire Bible, and I’m currently in Ezekiel. (For those of you who remember it, don’t worry, I’m not focusing on the *extra interesting* parts…if you know, you know). Anyway! There is a lot of drama happening in Ezekiel, for those of you who haven’t read it. Basically, God is using symbolism to tell Ezekiel about the coming punishment the Israelites will face due to their lack of loyalty and love for God. They had turned away from Him, allowing idols to fill their hearts instead.

Now doesn’t that sound familiar? Our world feels so dark these days, like everyone’s lost hope in God.

Something fascinating after each warning from God in Ezekiel is the phrase “Now they will know that I am the Lord”. God is using these terrible events to help His people turn back to Him and realize His power.

This actually brings me a lot of comfort. You might be wondering, “Hannah, how can knowing that God is judging us for our unfaithfulness bring you comfort?”

During a Bible study about our life’s purpose, I shared that the defining factor that makes a life successful is bringing others to Jesus. It doesn’t matter if you had no money in the bank, struggled to keep up in school, or were unpopular. As long as you reap eternal rewards, your life’s meaningful.

The best thing that can happen to our world is a spiritual revival. If these horrible things, such as oppression, illness, poverty, (the list could go on…) make people understand God, then isn’t it all worth it?

Yes, the suffering is terrible. I definitely don’t want to undermine it. We should be helping people suffer less. But maybe within the suffering, there’s a sign from God. A clear message painted across the sky, in fact.

God is the only one in control. He knows what He’s doing.

The best part of that is we don’t have to worry about a thing. The most important thing we can do right now is place our trust and hope in God. God hears us, and He answers, whether it be in a still, small whisper, or a loud roar.

With a strong hand and an outstretched arm,

for his steadfast love endures forever;

Psalm 136:12

Trust in the LORD forever,

for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.

Isaiah 26:4

“Skimming” Through the Hard Parts

Is it easy or difficult for you to confront your painful feelings? Here is some encouragement.

Growing up, I was always a fast reader. I’d love rereading my favorite stories, and one of the benefits of knowing the plot ahead of time was skipping or skimming through the parts I didn’t like. Those parts generally included descriptions of bodily harm, embarrassing moments (second-hand embarrassment is real!), and generally any time a character I liked got hurt.

It appears my method of “skimming through the hard parts” has stuck with me through the years. I’ve been journaling for several years now, during a time when I’ve changed a lot, and looking back at old entries makes me cringe! I used to enjoy going through old journals, but now I avoid it because I’d rather just ignore the embarrassing (or even painful) memories.

I’ve shared this before, but I’m not one who easily shares her feelings. I don’t like to admit something has hurt me. Perhaps I subconsciously think that admitting weakness makes me a weak person.

A wise mentor once told me that “the moment we admit something made us afraid, fear loses its power over us”. That will forever be one of my favorite quotes, and to think I heard it in person! Today my pastor tweaked this idea a little bit in a way that may help us both be willing to admit our wounds.

During my Easter series, one of the posts was focused on Thomas and how we can relate to him. Jesus welcomes our questions and our doubts; they aren’t signs of unbelief. Believe it or not, Jesus can handle whatever question we throw at Him!

In the service this morning, the pastor shared how Thomas was able to touch Jesus’ wounds for himself. They must have been healed in some way, right? Thomas wouldn’t have needed to even ask the question of where Jesus’ wounds were if Jesus had blood gushing out of His palms. But yet, there was still enough of a mark to show everyone that He was truly Jesus. And perhaps those wounds never went away until Jesus ascended into Heaven.

But did Jesus hide His wounds, these symbols of the pain and torture He endured? No, he opened conversation about them. He used them as ways to bring others into belief.

What kinds of wounds have you been carrying around with you? Perhaps it’s a painful loss, an abusive relationship, a childhood trauma. Or maybe it’s being rejected, not being seen, or feeling betrayed. Whatever you have been hiding, allow yourself to fully grieve.

You can only heal when you admit your pain and your loss. You can only heal when you allow yourself to feel what you’ve been avoiding, or “skimming”. You see, we can’t skip over the hard parts in life. We can’t speed up the grieving or healing process.

And in those moments of grief, if we turn to God, we can find belief. We can find answers. We can find unexplainable peace.

These wounds are always going to be a part of your story, but they don’t always have to be a painful part. They can lead others to Christ or bring you closer to God.

Today, ask yourself, “What am I running from? What about grief or loss makes me avoid it?” Allow God’s comfort to fill your heart.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18

May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Romans 15:13

Going Off-Course

Taking a lesson from Philip, we’ll be learning how to obey God when He calls us off-course.

As a society, we’ve made the mistake of putting people into categories based on a few personality traits. You’re either an introvert or an extrovert, a planner or a spontaneous person, chill or uptight. Now, obviously based off what my blog was originally created for (the Enneagram), I am not against personality quizzes. I love them! But something we have to keep in mind when categorizing people is making sure we aren’t making assumptions about them based on their “category”.

Now, we all probably can think of the assumptions that come with the most common “either/or” category: Extroverts v.s. Introverts. Technically, the only real difference between the two is that extroverts get their energy from being around people while introverts get it from being alone. But now we just assume extroverts are friendly while introverts are shy; extroverts enjoy late nights while introverts prefer to stay in…you get the idea.

Another common grouping is planners v.s. spontaneous people. Planners are known for being wise, thoughtful, observant. Spontaneous people are fun, flighty, and adventurous. You can’t be wise and spontaneous or fun and a planner, right?

Or can you?

And what should you be if you’re a follower of Christ? Well, the Bible says to be wise, so a planner, right?

Well, let me introduce you to a man named Philip, who may change your opinion on these stereotypes. We learn the most about him in Acts. His two defining characteristics are being wise and attentive to the Holy Spirit. (Getting planner vibes…)

Anyway, he’s on his way to work when the Holy Spirit leads him to go out of his way to approach a complete stranger and share his faith with him. There was probably some part of Philip that said, “Are you crazy? You’re going to be late! You don’t even know this man!” But you know what Philip did? He ran right up to the man and soon struck up a very meaningful conversation which resulted in the man getting baptized right there and then!

How often do your plans get interrupted? Do you react in a way that shows you’re attentive to what God’s trying to tell you? I’ll confess, when my life gets interrupted, I get frustrated. I don’t always immediately obey God. But I once heard that God isn’t interrupting our lives, He’s sending divine intervention.

I hate going into the “What If Zone” because there’s nothing we can do about the past now. But we’ll journey there for just a moment. Can you think of a time when God prompted you to do something that was out of your comfort zone or seemed strange? Did you do it? If not, do you think it would’ve made an impact had you done it?

Like I said, we can’t go back, and that’s okay. God uses wherever we are and whoever we are to make His plans happen. Just consider the amazing impact you could have on the world if you listen to God.

Anyway, back to the story. So, Philip has just baptized the man and suddenly he disappears. Now, why don’t we focus enough on that part of the story? Like, HELLO! Philip disappears?? Then he reappears right where God wanted him to be, back on track.

Obviously he didn’t do that vanishing act on his own. God honored Philip’s obedience and took care of his needs. Philip likely didn’t know that God would help him get there on time, but he trusted that whatever happened next would be okay.

Maybe your life will be okay if you don’t say yes to what God says. But will it be meaningful? Purposeful? Incredible? Probably not. You see, God has all these unfathomable blessings and surprises waiting for us, but we will never see them if we just carry on with our plan and are never open to going off-course for God.

There’s nothing wrong with planning or just letting life take its course. There’s a time for both approaches. Just don’t let either approach cause you to miss out on what God has in store for you.

Today, really listen to God and see what He might be calling you to do. Perhaps there’s been a gentle nudging all along and you’re finally taking the time to listen to it. Whatever your purpose is, I know with God, anything is possible.

Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea.

Acts 8:38-40

I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.

Job 42:3

The plans of the heart belong to man,
But the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.

Proverbs 16:1

The True Definition of Success

Do you feel like you’re living a successful life? Whether you are or not, here’s some advice and encouragement.

In a creative non-fiction course I’m taking, we watched a video where a professor argued that children are being stripped of their imagination and creative confidence by being taught they must strive to never make a single mistake and they have to follow the same career path. He shared a story of a young woman had trouble sitting still and focusing in class. Thanks to an understanding doctor, she was encouraged to pursue dance and eventually became an incredibly successful choreographer. But if no one had understood her unique abilities and appreciated her differences, she wouldn’t have been able to share her gifts with the world.

So often our society belittles the idea of being different from everyone else. We want to hide our secret love of childhood books or our talent for cooking because we’re told we should really be focused on “more important things” that will make us successful. While this hinders our enjoyment of life, it also harms our witness for Christ.

When children are mocked or disciplined for not being like their peers, the idea that they must please others becomes ingrained in their minds. As they grow up, they believe they can’t share their true feelings or beliefs if they differ from others’. We allow these invisible barriers to come between us and others.

The woman at the well surely understood those barriers. Besides being a Samaritan, a person despised by the other people groups, her conversation with Jesus revealed her less than pure past. She even went to the well at a time when no one else was around, and to a well that was less frequented by her neighbors, in order to avoid displeasing others.

But after one simple encounter with Jesus, her life and her legacy changed forever. Instead of hiding from others and following the status quo, she ran throughout the city, telling everyone about Jesus. And you know what? Instead of being known as the “girl who gets around”, she became known as the one who introduced people to Jesus and helped save their lives.

Sure, it was probably humbling to do what she did, especially at first. Her reputation didn’t change automatically. But she didn’t let that stop her anymore. Instead, she lived for Jesus.

I’d consider her a very successful person, but I know others at the time wouldn’t have. After all, she didn’t have a great status, a good job, and I doubt she had much money. She didn’t even succeed at love. But she did bring others to Christ, and that’s what’s most important. If you save even one person, I’d count that a successful life.

Now, I know sharing your faith is easier said than done. I’m one to talk, since I get nervous even posting a Bible verse at Easter. But here’s the thing: people don’t want to be preached at. They don’t want verses recited to them or flyers shoved in their faces. I doubt they even want to watch that motivational video that mentions Christianity every five seconds.They want to see how your life has changed. Once they see something different about you, they’ll want that same thing too. Maybe you’re more patient and loving. Perhaps you don’t have as much fear as you used to. Whatever it is, if you share that light with others, even when it isn’t popular (especially when it isn’t!), then you will have a successful life.

The big key here is to not spend all your time worrying if you’re being successful or not. Rather, just be willing to stand out from the crowd, be told things you don’t appreciate, or be humbled. The more you rely on God’s strength, the less those things will bother you. And someday, those moments won’t even matter. All that will matter is your relationship with Jesus. In fact, that’s all that really matters now, huh?

Now many Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of what the woman said when she testified, “He told me everything I ever did.” 40 Therefore, when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to stay with them, and He stayed there two days. 41 Many more believed because of what He said. 42 And they told the woman, “We no longer believe because of what you said, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this really is the Savior of the world.”

John 4:39-42

And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

1 Thessalonians 5:14

 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

Holy Week Series: When God Feels Far Away

Do you feel like God is silent? Are you struggling to believe in His promises for you? Here is some encouragement.

I once heard a pastor refer to Holy Saturday as the day when “everything was quiet”. The only events that are in the Bible that take place on Holy Saturday are the placement of the guards outside Jesus’ tomb, though I’d guess that the disciples are in hiding at this point and there is still a darkness and emptiness throughout the city. To those who loved Jesus, Holy Saturday probably felt like a terrifying, lonely time of confusion. Where was Jesus? How could He have possibly died this way? What does the future hold?

I’ve often wondered why Jesus rose on the third day. I’m sure someone with a Theology degree could explain all the reasons why the number 3 is important in the Bible, but it still puzzles me. Technically, Jesus could’ve been put in the tomb and suddenly sprung back to life on that same day. The Good Friday really would’ve been “good”, right? No waiting around, no anxious thoughts, no loss of hope.

But you know, I think the reason why Jesus waited three days was to test the faith of His followers. Did they believe that He would rise up again like He promised? Would they be waiting for His return? Or would they be disappointed, frustrated, and scared?

For us, knowing that Jesus did rise up again in a matter of mere days gives us hope. We didn’t have to live through those dark days of waiting. We already know that God had something better planned.

But still, we go through our own dark days where it feels like all hope is lost and God is silent. We cry out to God and wonder where He went. We feel abandoned, disappointed, and fearful. We forget about God’s promises.

The last time I felt this way was a few weeks ago. I felt stuck in my life and concerned about the future. I felt like I couldn’t hear God the way I used to. I lost perspective.

I once was given the wise advice that everything God is doing in the present moment is preparing us for the future. When we remember that God has a bigger plan, we don’t lose our hope when we feel alone. During those moments when we can’t hear God, it’s a test. God is testing us to see if we really do believe His promises. God promises to never leave us. God promises that He will make all things new. Do you believe that?

I’ve come to realize that after every dark season in my life, a wonderful, joyful season comes right after it. It’s like God was preparing me to enjoy and make the most of the season ahead by helping me persevere through the tough times.

Waiting feels like a long time for us because we don’t know when it will end. For us, three days is 72 hours. For the disciples, three days felt like eternity. But when we keep perspective during our times of waiting, we won’t lose our hope and faith. Nothing except eternal life with Jesus will last forever. This dark season will end, I promise. God has something wonderful planned for you. You are needed here.

I can’t tell you when the pain will stop or when you will finally be able to fully experience God’s love and grace. I don’t know what exactly will happen that will give you hope. But you can have that hope now by remembering that God always makes good on His promises. You don’t ever have to worry about God’s plan not working out. Trust me, or rather, trust God’s own words. He will always be victorious in the end. And when we are on His side, we will also win every battle against all the forms the enemy takes against us.

May you be filled with God’s strength and patience through every trial you are experiencing. Amen.

13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

1 Corinthians 10:13

7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7

31 For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath.

Deuteronomy 4:31

For Such a Time as This

Queen Esther made the choice to trust God and fulfill her purpose, despite her fear. How have you struggled to be courageous?

I’ve often heard people make the excuse “I can’t do this because I’m not a brave person”, like bravery is a personality trait or something. No, it is not. I believe that anyone can be brave. Yes, including you.

Fear is the enemy’s favorite weapon against us. He uses it to trick us into not fulfilling our purposes. God knows that we need encouragement to be brave, which is why He reminds us over 300 times in the Bible to not be afraid. So, if you’re trying to figure out what God wants you to do every day, it’s to get rid of fear!

But the thing is, being brave doesn’t mean we aren’t afraid. We can only be brave when we overcome something we’re afraid of; when we take action despite our fear.

My very favorite female Bible character is Esther. What’s not to love? As a kid, we learned in Sunday school about how brave, devoted, and loyal she was. She’s the model for what a young woman should be, right?

Well, what actually makes me appreciate her even more is that she’s more human than we often make her out to be. Her initial response to her cousin Mordecai’s request for her to stand up for her people, to use her power and position in the best way possible, was not one of eagerness and bravery. She didn’t immediately say, “Yes, I absolutely will risk my life for you all!”

No, she actually told him that she couldn’t do what he requested because she would put her own life in danger. She allowed her fears to get the best of her.

But thankfully, Mordecai didn’t accept that response. He pushed her to step out of her comfort zone in order to fulfill God’s purpose for her, which is what we should do for our loved ones too. He reminded her that she was created for just a time as this.

Even with these words, Esther didn’t immediately take action. She needed guidance from God, more than usual, so she asked Mordecai to tell all their people to fast and pray for her. She agreed to go before the king, but that threat of dying was still in the back of her mind. That fear wasn’t gone, which was apparent in her next course of action.

She came before the king, and instead of bringing up the issue right away, she asked him and Hamaan (the one trying to kill all the Jews) to come to a feast she prepared. Perhaps this was all a part of her plan, or perhaps she was too nervous to tell him what she really wanted right away. Likely it was a little of both. I’m sure we’ve all had that moment where we’ve created a plan of action when trying to do something we’re afraid of doing in order to feel more in control. Making a plan is totally fine as long as we seek God’s wisdom while making it.

It took two feasts before Esther got up the courage to ask the king to spare her people. She did it afraid. She did it after not wanting to earlier. She second-guessed herself and had to create a plan of action before doing what God wanted her to do.

But she still did it and saved her people. She still fulfilled her purpose. She wasn’t any less brave for doing it afraid. Because essentially, she did it.

What’s something God’s calling you to do today? Is fear holding you back from fulfilling your purpose? Remember, nothing is impossible for you when God is your strength. You are put in this situation for just a time as this and you have the same God-given power and abilities Esther received to do what you need to do.

Now’s the time to do it.

For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14

But He said, “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.”

Luke 18:27

Loving God Through Trusting Him

Is there something God’s placed on your heart that you are afraid to do?

I was watching a movie last night, a Christmas rom-com, which I would not recommend because it was pretty much a waste of time 🙂 However, I did get a lot out of one scene from it that inspired me for today’s Encouragement Thursday.

One of the main characters was trying to figure out if her coworker and best friend loved her, and she asked her father how he knew her mother was the one. He replied that she was willing to face her biggest fear for him. If you are willing to face your fears for someone else, then you love them.

This got me thinking. There are so many verses in the Bible about trusting God, but I don’t think we realize that it’s an act of worship. When we listen to God and do what He tells us to–acting on our faith–we are proving to God that we love Him.

So if we are too afraid to do what God tells us to, then do we truly love Him?

I’ve been thinking about that question a lot over the past couple days. I think we can certainly love God while having doubts. But I think the way to truly show God that we love Him is by doing what He commands. Sometimes God commands us to do things that we don’t want to do, or even worse, that we are afraid to do. But that doesn’t mean we have an excuse not to do them. It just means that we need to call out to God and ask for His peace and strength to overflow within us so that we can do what He asks.

God wants to help us. He wants us to become the people He created us to be. But that requires us to do our part, too. We need to ask God each day to help us listen to Him and to renew our faith. We also need to be willing to stop sitting around questioning whether or not we should do something and instead jump up and just do it.

I know that what I’m suggesting isn’t easy. I have a lot of trouble doing what God tells me to sometimes. But trusting God is vital for our spiritual growth. It helps us develop an even deeper love of God when we trust Him with EVERYTHING. Our relationships, our health, our finances, our future, our everything.

So today, think about something that God has been telling you to do, but you’ve been too afraid to do it. It’s not too late. God is patient and He knows that you may have needed some assurance before taking this leap of faith. Pray about it and allow God’s peace to fill you. Then, go out and do it. 🙂

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.

1 John 5:3

So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.

James 2:17