Finding Courage in the Midst of Fearful Challenges

Number 55 in the series “God Rocks: 101 Amazing Everyday Gifts!” The miracles and promises of Jesus that show us the awesome blessings we can experience each day. I hope it encourages you!

I don’t think a day goes by that we’re not bombarded by things to be afraid of. It’s one of the benefits of being totally connected isn’t it?

Photo Credit: Alon

I mean the stock market tanks and we fret about our financial future.

Some nut job sets off a bomb in a city and we fear for our safety.

An egomaniac with a nuke starts threatening World War 3 and we worry about our future and the future of our kids.

Add on top worrying about cancer, the latest resistant disease, heart attacks, Alzheimer’s.

Or how about just keeping our job in the next recession? Yikes!

I’ve said before, “I’m not surprised by all the people who go crazy. I’m only surprised there aren’t more.”

Then how we deal with it is often perhaps less than helpful? Maybe a little too much TV? Or a wee small dram too much alcohol? Or an extra dessert a little too often?

Yet, the fear doesn’t leave does it? Oh, maybe for a moment but it always comes sneaking back.

I’ll tell you though, when I’ve struggled with fear I’ve found comfort in a promise Jesus gave.

“What is the price of two sparrows— one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.” *

I’ve found the antidote to fear is remembering that God still loves me, he knows what I’m going through and no matter how ugly will turn it into something good.

At times that’s hard to get a hold of.

But when I do I’ve discovered a couple of surprises.

I rediscover counter-intuitive peace. That miraculous peace that let me know God had entered into my life.
When struggling with a challenge when I sense that peace again I know I’ve found my way back.

The other piece is remembering God hasn’t lost control. Frankly, sometimes it feels like he has.

Yet, I come back to remembering this time is no different. He still knows I’m here and what I’m going through. And he loves me enough and has the power to turn what I’m facing into something good.

We all face fearful challenges but we don’t have to be afraid.

When have you experienced this?

Please share your thoughts on Facebook, Twitter or email me. Thanks.

*Matthew 10: 29-31 (NLT)