A Life in Words

Fear...

You read time and time again in the bible "fear not". It is strange to me how often God or Jesus makes a reference to not fearing. It is only strange to me because fear is such a common thing in my life and I am sure so many more. Not common as in I fear all the time but more that it is a very well known emotion that frequents my thoughts on numerous occasions. And oh does it work. The enemy has done quite well in mastering the art of fear. We read in the bible the absolute first knowledge of fear was experienced by Adam where after he ate the fruit he hid from God. Because he was afraid of what might come. Life hasnt really changed yet because fear is just as strong now as it was then. It grips you in ways that you would have never expected. We are told in the bible "fear not"... we are told in the bible "do not be anxious"... but we still fear and we still become anxious. The enemy has indeed perfected this dastardly thing. This emotion that swallows you hole. It chocks you from the world and covers your eyes. You cant breathe. You heart feels like it is pounding and your head matches the toucher. You mind runs and things on every level dealing with the situation. How you can beat it, how you should not be where you are, and the ever tempting "woe is me". Fear is smart... The enemy is smart. He knows where to poke and when to poke and how to poke at things that you thought were long gone. He sits and waits... and waits for your guard to slack just slightly where he can try his games again. We have a protector but I hate it when someone stands up and screams with all of their might, JESUS is our protector and he shall get us through this. Yes... I agree, with all my heart that Jesus is my protector. But when I dont give him the chance. When I lay down my shield, the enemy has full reign. Why must we hide??? Why must we run??? Why dont we stand tall and be the iconic inspirational hero that we always dreamed of being. Standing toe to toe with the enemy... Feeling Jesus standing beside us as we battle for our very soul. Our sanity even. Why must we shuffle off into the night with our tails between our legs. God help us.