Overcoming Fear
A few years ago my doctor wanted me to get an MRI, I went to the hospital with absolutely no apprehension. There were 2 attendants in the room and they both began to talk to me about how frightened they were of the procedure and how claustrophobic most patients feel in the tube. I had struggled over the years with claustrophobia, but really didn't think it would be an issue. The more they spoke as I stared at the machine, the more I could feel fear grip my heart, till I began to panic as they began easing me in. I'm sorry to say that fear won that day and the feeling of panic continued for several months.
I know a brilliant composer who once played at the Vatican, but now rarely leaves his home due to germophobe. He lives in filth which compounds his phobia because if he drops something on the floor he can't pick it up or clean his home due to the germs. I would speak to this man from time to time, on rare occasions when he would venture out, but had no idea of his gift...till one day he brought me a CD of his music...I wept...partly due to the beauty of the composition, but I was also heartbroken that God could place such talent in a man but due to fear, the enemy completely stifled it. Not only has he lost the joy of sharing his talent, but the world will never hear the incredible music that flows from his heart.
The enemy has so many tricks he uses, some may be very subtle, but as the thoughts are entertained, even for an instant, they take root and can potentially destroy our lives and effectiveness for God's Kingdom. I am blessed to say as I've been drawing closer to Him over the years, I no longer suffer from claustrophobia. We travel in small planes, something I couldn't have done before, and it doesn't bother me at all. I had one last attack a couple of years ago. As I was half asleep, I began to feel that panic grip me again. I rebuked the enemy in Jesus name, but there was no change. First of all I wasn't battling from a place of authority, but one of fear. I then forced my attention on Jesus and began to worship Him. It wasn't but a few minutes till I was completely submerged in His peace.
It's not just about the battle or how much you pray, but what are you focused on today? In the midst of fear, stress and chaos, you can still find peace when your eyes are staying on HIM!! If you feel like your buried too deep in fear and you can't see Jesus any longer, begin the process of seeking Him. Start reading your Bible, spend time admiring His beauty and worshiping Him. It could be an instant or it may be a process, but as long as you keep moving toward Jesus your healing and deliverance will come! One day you'll realize that His image is no longer blocked by your fear, but the fear will be blocked by His beauty and strength!!
Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Psalm 56:3 (NKJV) Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
John 14:27 (NKJV) Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
