I was faced with a nerve wracking situation at work this week and it had me bugging for a couple of days. Have you ever been in a situation where you totally disagree with a superior, yet you know that if you point out their mistake it could lead to an even bigger issue? Yes, that is where I was this week. And I had to wonder if I was doing the right thing by staying quiet. I mean, we are all human, right? And even if you have a comma next your name, you are not perfect at leading all the time. So, I made the decision to talk to them about it. I knew I could not blurt it out or just speak to them like I would a family member. I had to use a tactfulness and patience that I was not feeling at the time when approaching them about this issue. And do you know what? It did not turn out as bad as thought it would. I had literally dreamed up this huge scene of fire and brimstone coming down on my head, when in actuality it was the most peaceful and productive conversation I had with a superior in my life. I left that day feeling great about myself because I not only pointed out an issue I was having, but I was heard fully and completely. If I had given over to my own fear about speaking up, then the issue would have never been resolved nor would I have felt good about myself. I would have slowly given over to the chip on my shoulder and became unnecessarily mean and/or bitter. Not a good look at all. When was the last time you pushed aside your own fears?
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Fear is a crafty thing. We all carry them. We fear not being accepted. We fear first days. We fear the unknowns in life. Fear is a very real and tangible thing that makes people either push forward or paralyze them. I can’t count how many situations in my life have made me fearful. I used to find myself siking myself out of amazing opportunities because of my fears. And the funny thing is if I had just pushed aside how I was feeling or all the fearful thoughts, I would have found the obstacles less daunting than I had envisioned. Every one of us fear our own limitations. Therefore, we either cling too hard to things or we put up walls around us to ensure we do not face the realities of our true fears. This is not the way God wants us to live.
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalms 56: 3-4
“Do not be afraid” is mentioned in the bible 365 times. This phrase is to let all of us know that with God, there is no need for fear because he has already cleared the way for us to succeed and to prosper. And it is not by our own strength, but His that we are able to accomplish the unbelievable things that we do. But we easily give way to our fears because we are not connected to our personal superhero. With God, we can move mountains and build bridges. The things we grew up facing in ourselves are easier to overcome when we hold onto the one who has faced the enemy and beat him. Your childhood, your family, your friendships, and your feelings often drive our fear. But here is the thing, you are strong enough to move forward from the things that are holding you back. You can do more that you thought, not by yourself of course, but with God who loves you and provides all your needs daily.
Lastly, do me a favor, and strive to overcome yourself this season. Take some time, maybe 3-5 minutes to discuss your fears with God. And then take the time to sit quietly and listen to His response. You can be strong by yourself, but you could be unstoppable with God! You may find that most of the issues you have been having has only been because you have not included God in your business, your relationships, your work, your fun, your hopes and your dreams. Invite Him in, and see how your perspective changes. I am a living witness to seeing how God is bigger than Fear. Try it and see! And you know you got this.
Sincerely,
Terryn
MODERN FAITHERELLA 