The Fear Trap

"The fear of man is a snare: but the one who trusts in the Lord is protected." ~Proverbs 29:25

Satan would love for me to live in fear... fear that money will run out before the end of the month... fear that loved ones will be taken away... fear that a strange noise outside the house at night is a lurking serial killer... fear that I'll never have my own family... fear of how something I said may have been received... fear that I've brought home parasitic insects from a client's house... fear that if I allow myself to be happy I will only end up in pain...

"For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment." ~2 Timothy 1:7

Fear is a trap laid by a very skilled hunter. It holds me back from experiencing true joy and perfect peace. It leads me to poor judgment. And, I begin using anger to mask it.

If I truly TRUST God is who He says He is, there is no room for fear. He is my Father, my Friend, my Counselor, my Savior, my Protector, my Provider... my ALL. He will keep me safe. He will give me strength.

"Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength." ~Isaiah 26:4

Roller Coaster

Watch at your own risk!

 

I have a tendency to get caught up in contemplating the 'what ifs' that can happen in my life.

The emotions launch me into a roller coaster. As my car climbs the first incline, anticipation and excitement builds. Suddenly, I crest the top of the railroad mountain to find pure terror waiting for me. My heart drops to my stomach, and I scream. The car jerks me to the right with laughter and joy, only to unexpectedly move left with fear. For kicks and thrills, someone has thrown in a few vertical loops, which has always been my favorite part of the ride!

The entire ride I find myself disoriented. I'm not sure what to expect next.

As I started my week yesterday, with the voice in my head screaming 'I don't wanna!', the Lord revealed my theme for the week:

"You will keep the mind that is dependent on You in perfect peace, for it is trusting in You."

Isaiah 26:3

 

"Commit your activities to the Lord, and your plans will be achieved."

Proverbs 16:3

Emotions are so unpredictable, especially mine. So as I pray for God to calm my anxious heart, I remember to focus my activities on fulfilling His purpose. If I do that, the 'what ifs' in my future will be His. If I do that, I will find perfect peace.