Imagine the endless ways that fear can grip you.
Perhaps, you are a talented artist. You sense power in your creativity, but your mind trembles at the thought of showcasing it.
Maybe, you’ve met someone who is struggling with something you’ve overcome. You feel a tug to share your story with them, but the risk of vulnerability is too scary.
Or, you could be the one person in your family trying to live by faith. You pray that your walk will inspire a desire inside your loved ones to know God for themselves. Still, you fear that your imperfect self can’t be used for such a possibility. You forget that grace is in the color of God’s love. You forget that you wouldn’t need him if you had it all figured out.
Fear may grip you in a silent way that nobody else knows about. It reaches all of us sometimes or maybe most of the time. It suffocates our peace and hopes with its heavy arms. Fear can grow so familiar that it masquerades itself as a “safe” comforter.
Whenever fear has too much of a grip on you, try this: think of a hand. Think about the unique sketch of lines and fingerprints that are scattered across its back. Think about the nervous sweat that can seep out of its surface. Then, imagine that someone who truly loves you grabs that same hand and holds it with warmth and firmness and no shame. Chances are, you’ll feel more confident. You’ll feel more brave.
God, who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-present, wants to have that type of grip on your hand and on your life. The type that frees you from being stifled by the simple thought of worst case scenarios:
“For I hold you by your right hand— I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.”
Isaiah 41:13 NLT
Roots & Hope 