Fear or Courage?

(Guest blogger, Lisa Thurman, brings us a few thoughts on fear and courage.)

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage. (Anais Nin)

I read this quote the other day and it made me think how sometimes what we do or don’t do revolves around our fears and how much of life we miss out on when the latter happens. That, in turn, got me thinking about what God says about fear.

God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:16-18)

What fear is overcoming you?

Failing, losing, doing, not having enough, not being good enough, harm, death, life, abuse, panic, sickness…

How is it impacting your life?

Paralyzed, scared, unable, limited, paranoid, unhappy, miserable, threatened, immobile, trapped, missing out…

Do you have the courage to break free?

Yes? No?

Do you believe?

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Psalm 56:4)

When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. (Proverbs 3:24)

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)

So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. (Matthew 10:26)

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)

…teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)

And my personal favorite...

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Start expanding your life with God given courage. ~LT