Avoid the Trap of Being Led by Fear

Fear has a strange way of showing up in our lives, right when we are on the cusp of something great. It’s sneaky, isn’t it? The moment you decide to step into the unknown, inevitably fear rears its head. It’s often in those critical moments that fear whispers in your ear, questioning whether you’re capable, worthy, or ready for what’s to come.

You should know that if God gave it to you and has given you the go ahead, then you are ready. The only real affirmation you need is His Word. Nevertheless, fear can barge in and fill our minds with doubt.

When we surrender to fear, we stop moving forward. We become stuck, afraid of what might happen if we try something new. We don’t have to deny that we’re scared. It’s a natural human emotion. In fact, fear can often be a sign that we’re on the right track. If we’re not scared, we’re probably not dreaming big enough—or we are relying on our own strength rather than God’s.

Even so, there’s a reason the Bible tells us that God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear is common to us, but it doesn’t move God. And because it doesn’t override what God has given us, it has no place in the decisions we make.

It’s important to check the source of our fears. If we can’t truly validate the fear we feel, and it doesn’t align with what the Word of God says or what the Holy Spirit has spoken to us, then it must be silenced.

Just like most enemies of your growth, fear is persistent. It will always try to find a way in. But it’s never going to be the thing God uses to move you forward. So we must always keep our eyes on the bigger picture. Fear doesn’t have the final say in the big decisions. We do, by God’s leading. If we let it, fear will keep us small, stuck, and stagnant. Let’s not accept that. Instead, let’s lead with our faith.

Pray

Dear Lord, You have not given me a spirit of fear, and I proclaim that I will walk forward in faith and not allow fear to derail Your good plans for my life. Amen.