The dictionary defines fear as an alarm or dread that implies a painful emotion that is experienced when one is confronted by threatening danger or evil. Fear is a word that is familiar to all of us. Fear of being not successful, fear of harm, fear of irrational thoughts… All I know that my biggest fear is being stolen. My other fear growing up was germs and still somewhat is. I would wash my hands constantly and to this day I will do just about anything to not touch garbage cans. Other fears often consume us as human beings. We are taught to fear heights, sharp objects, hot objects, etc. We are taught to be fearful of others. As Christians we are taught to be fearful of God.
When people first hear of my trip, fear is immediately employed. They ask questions like are you going to be in a big group? Will ISIS be present? What if you get a terrible sickness over there and can’t be medically treated? What if you are STOLEN and SOLD into the human trafficking ring?
The fear questions seem endless. As humans we often don’t like uncertainty. We like guaranteed outcomes. To field these fear questions I just say that I feel peace when those questions are presented. God gives me reassurance that he puts me where I am supposed to be and confirms his promises. Not only do I have the sense of peace, I also see it through actions. I am normally a nervous wreck all the time. I often wonder what the future will hold, the next exam (luckily I won’t be having these for a while), what if I don’t get into OT school, What if I don’t get married… Again the lists are endless. I often took it out on my nails. I have bitten my nails for as long as I can remember. Since the world race journey has started and school has ended, I can say I have not bitten my nails once. I know some of you are laughing while reading this and will check my nails as soon as you get the chance but it is TRUE! To say I am over my lifelong stress habit of chewing my nails is a little steep but I think it is another reminder to not be stressed about things. It is a reminder that I am not fearful of “the harm” that might happen to me on this journey. Throw away this fear, break through the uncertainty, and spin wildly into the next chapter of life that God’s doors have opened for you. Embrace the fear and turn it instead into great power. After all, there are no big rewards without big risks.
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
