Imagine a world without destruction and fear? Is that possible? We see fear everywhere, especially in these uncertain times.
Significant destruction takes place around us daily – persecution, violence, crime, natural disasters, terrorism, economic uncertainty, disease … These realities play a significant role with generating fear about what could happen to our children, our families, our jobs and ourselves. When we embrace and live our lives through the lens of fear, our mental, emotional and physical health suffer.
This article explores the insidious nature of fear and how increasing our faith, practicing self-awareness and care, will help to dimmish fear.
For you, fear may have originated as a result of childhood or recent traumas. When we can connect with these parts of ourselves, we open up space to discover whether or not fear is coming from the past or present. When trauma is recent such as the effects of Covid on our lives, fear has the power to torment us.
When we are controlled by fear, our significance and safety are threatened and we are more vulernable to fearing that the worst will make us feel better as we embrace the belief we are prepared.
Fear is a classic tool Satan uses to move us away from Christ; it manifests itself emotionally and physically via anxiety, stress, invasive thoughts and worries. When we place God at the center of our lives, our fears are diminished by our faith and covered by His love and protection.
Scripture says in Deuteronomy 31:8, “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.”
While it’s challenging to let go of our fears, which are often deeply imbedded, we may recognize the suffering, isolation and pain we are experiencing as a result of fear opening up space to lean into our faith knowing that God will not leave or forsake us. Fear holds us back from deepening our relationship with God, ourselves and with others.
The less we turn to God for our hope, the less we trust that He has the ultimate plan for our lives. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Essentially, fear moves us away from Christ as the center and authority of our lives. Faith is believing in the unseen, which decreases fear as it can no longer push out faith.
So why do many of us choose to lean into fear rather than on God for His strength, joy and peace? There are a number of reasons, control is the most prominent. We often strive to take control when we are afraid – no amount of our own strength can make us safe. God is strong when we are weak.
How can we increase our faith and overcome fear?
This will require some heavy lifting. Standing up to resistance and tension will be a part of the process as we move away from our old patterns, as well embracing courage, clarity, and confidence.
The result of releasing fear will ….
- naturally calm your nervous system
- help to regulate your emotions
- enhance your relationship with yourself and others
- help ward off disease
As you mindfully and faithfully understand, investigate your beliefs, appreciate, and scan your mind and body for fear – these may be the first steps towards releasing fear. As your consider embracing this practice, pray and ask for God’s counsel, comfort and strength; read and meditate on his word; allow yourself time and space to wait on Him; and lean into those in your life who will support you on this journey. He will be gentle, loving, and patient with you and will fully reveals Himself when you are ready to reveal yourself to Him. You are His beloved child.
Scripture in Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Connect with one of our qualified therapists to support you on your journey to releasing fear and increasing your faith.