Choose Fearless
This week I’m excited to be part of leading 50 amazing writers through a day of exploring how to “reNEW Your Courage.” It not only takes courage to daily live in freedom and faith, but to be willing to share our hard stories through writing and speaking.
Some of the fears people share with me concern random violence, failing health, financial needs, environmental instability, and their children’s futures.
Fear is a healthy emotion God hardwired a response into our bodies to direct us to fight or flight when danger comes. But fear can turn into an unhealthy emotion if we become fearful in the face of that which is not actually dangerous. Those times when fear paralyzes instead of motivates because it attaches to what does not truly threaten us.
Do you find yourself worried and anxious about many things that never actually come to pass? Would you like to live without fear of the future?
Friend, we can choose to be fearless.
God’s Word contains many verses that offer some version of “fear not.” I suspect He kept repeating Himself because He knows what a problem fear can be for some of us. Here is some of what fortifies me:
I’m assured of God’s constant presence in hard times. Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. Isaiah 43:1
I trust God is stronger than anything the enemy can send my way. But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world. 1 John 4:4
I wear God’s armor to fight life’s battles. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil . Ephesians 6:11
I recognize the courage I possess through the Lord. So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you. —Deuteronomy 31:6
“Fear will always knock on the door. Just don’t invite it in for dinner, and for heaven’s sake don’t offer it a bed for the night.”
Max Lucado
Lord, I confess I still get frightened, even though I know better. Thank You for continuing to be the Abba Father who reaches to hold my hand and guide me through any peril, real or imagined. Amen.
May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the friendship of the Holy Spirit bring you comfort and strength, Lucinda
“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity and Strength”
©2021 Lucinda Secrest McDowell www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” She has authored 15 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” and “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most.” She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com
Want to read all of the “One Daily Choice” Blogs? Click HERE to read as each one goes live. These 12 weeks of blogs — adapted from Lucinda’s award-winning book “Life-Giving Choices” — come out each Wednesday morning through December 22. Thanks for reading. Click HERE to add your email to get blogs weekly in your in box.
I am praying for you all as you gather this Saturday. Only God knows where he will take your efforts from here. Cheering you on!
So excited about our Renew weekend. The cloud of witness surrounding this amazing group with its leaders breathes encouragement to all of us. Only 3 more days…Wooohooo!