Are you running from fear?
For some of us, the strongest indicator of where we are supposed to go next in life - the direction that we ought to face - is our fear. It bubbles up when we think about our dreams for a new career, change in hobby, assertion of boundaries, or hopes to be a better, more fulfilled person.
Fear serves as a waving flag, saying “Hold up, this is important!” It shows up in our bodies as a way to slow down and proceed wisely. It is also where the enemy puts his best effort to send us fleeing in the opposite direction, away from God’s plan for us. The devil can amplify our fear and before we know it, we rationalize staying put in our normal routine, playing it safe, and ignoring God’s gentle knocking for a path of growth.
That is why it is important to see unholy fear for what it is and is not. First, we need to understand that God gave us emotions and each one serves a functional purpose. Second, due to our fallenness, these emotions have the potential to become distorted and unhealthy. Take, for example, anger - a mama bear is flooded with physiological anger when the safety of her cubs is threatened. This anger gives her the energy and mobility to protect them. Similarly, if someone crosses our boundary, our anger makes it easier to take appropriate action. On the other hand, anger can be used to fuel unjust violence or trap us in a spiral of hatred or bitterness. Repressed anger can even lead to depression. Other examples of this are: guilt which mobilizes repentance and repair work; sadness which mobilizes connection (even if it is only to God) and the opening of one’s heart. Finally, fear mobilizes survival actions - fight, flight, flee. In life or death scenarios, this response is vital, but in our daily lives, fear is usually warped from its holy purpose. It fuels worry, doubt, and distrust - and what did Jesus command most often throughout the Gospels? “Do not be afraid.” Such a simple yet profoundly impactful command! That is why instilling fearfulness is an easy way for the evil one to keep you from following God’s will.
Take time now to wonder, “What makes me afraid?” When you think about your future, what makes you freeze up or procrastinate or list off excuses? Dig in a little…why is the thought of pursuing this “thing” charged with fear? Most people could probably not care less about doing this [business idea, travel, adventure, hobby] but for some reason you are both drawn to it and terrified of it. Two opposite forces, a tug of war. There is something interesting happening here!
Do not run from this flag. Fear can be a tool of the devil or it can be a pitstop of immense wisdom. Bring it to a trusted person or your journal, and most of all, bring it to God. Ask Him for help in taking a step towards it. If the fear proves difficult to overcome, consider reaching out to a mental health professional, especially one who shares your faith, to find ways that you can grow and overcome fear as God wills you!