We’ve all been there before. Paralyzed by fear that is so strong so debilitating that it robs us of opportunities, dreams, and goals. I remember the first time I felt this kind of fear. I was in middle school language arts class.
I had to stand and present a paper that I had written. And I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t dig within to find the courage to give my speech. I cowered back to my desk. Defeated.
As an adult, I’ve definitely had to face bigger fears than reading off a report in front of a class of middle-school peers. And I’m betting that you’ve had to as well. But here’s the truth of the matter, what we fear may change over the course of time, but that doesn’t negate the fact that we can be missing out on some pretty big plans that God has for our lives.
It’s time to unpack your fears that you have today so that you can move forward with confidence.
What fear is holding you back?
Fear is a thief. If you allow fear to take root within your belief system, it will hold you down and hold you back. So one of the first things you do should be to come to terms and come face-to-face with your fear. It might be any of the following:
Fear of failure or not reaching your goals
The opinion of others
Not being good enough
Comparing yourself to others
The list could go on, but here’s some advice and a quote that I turn to often:
“What you focus on expands.”
This couldn't be more true of a statement. And here’s the bottom line, sister: the beginning of overcoming a fear is your mindset. Because if you really want to overcome fear, it begins with transforming your thoughts.
Powerful thoughts lead to powerful actions and powerful results. Find a scripture that builds your courage and meditate on that daily. One suggestion is Phillipians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
God has big plans for your life.
If you have a dream, a desire, a goal, God has put that on your heart for a reason. And you know what? He wants you to act on that desire so that you can bless others with your talents and gifts.
I’ve heard it said before that inaction is disobedience. I’ve often thought about this statement. It sheds a whole new light on what we should really fear; am I right? Because our goal as Christians is to use every ounce of energy for His purpose and His kingdom. If we aren’t using up our gifts in service to Him and to others, we are missing the boat, friends.
So take a deep look inward. Reevaluate your dreams, goals, and talents. Understand that these are gifts from God to be used in order to be in obedience to Him. Because when we shift our perspective in this manner, then our fears should seem small, insignificant, and they should take a back seat to our desire to be pleasing to the Lord.
Evaluate what is at stake.
Let’s play the “What if?” game. What if you never step out of your comfort zone and tackle your fear? Well, there’s always the chance of regret, resentment, sadness...all of which breaks God’s heart. He doesn’t want this for you.
The Christian life is one of victory and triumph...whatever that looks like for you personally. You have everything you need to accomplish what you set out to achieve.
His power is made perfect in our weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9) This scripture should fill you with courage, strength, and empowerment knowing that you don’t have to rely on yourself to get through this life or to face your fears. You can fall back on the strength of the almighty God...the Creator of the universe.
So don’t risk a life of unfulfillment; allow God's strength to fill you up and propel you to the life that He wants for you.
Take the next, right step.
It’s time for you to break down your walls, and your fears with the help of Jesus. Stop allowing any self-made lies and insecurities to well up within and to keep you from taking action.
Address your fears and hold on to the knowledge that you are capable of making bold moves with God by your side. Find a phrase, a word, a scripture to meditate upon that will allow you to be proactive with a strategy that will pull you through the tough stuff that is bound to arise.
You are here on this Earth at the right time and in the right place. Your gifts are needed, and you have been equipped by God. As you move forward through your fears, make your primary focus be to serve Him and others - not yourself. This will no doubt take pressure off and increase your joy in the journey.
And if you are needing help or support with your next right step, feel free to connect with me for your complimentary, clarity call. You can schedule that here, and I can’t wait to connect with you.
Lifting your success up in prayer,
Alexandra