Fear Not

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

Dear Friend,

Three years ago, a 4 pound shih-tzu puppy became a member of our household. Our large privacy fenced backyard provided a great place for our new fur baby to play. Four wooden steps from our back porch provided access to the backyard. For the first few weeks anytime the puppy needed to go outside, we carried him down the steps. A few months later, the puppy was a little bigger and he attempted to go down the steps by himself. As he made it down the first step, he became excited and tried to run down the next few steps. Unfortunately, he fell through the opening between the 2nd and 3rd step and hurt himself.

For the next 20 months, my dog refused to go down the stairs by himself. The memory of the fall as a puppy gripped him with fear. One day I watched my dog sit on the back porch and I thought, what a shame,. He has a large back yard to explore and run around, but he’s too afraid to go down the steps. The Holy Spirit immediately spoke to me and said, what dreams and goals have I placed inside of you, but you are too scared to try? Why are you waiting on me to “carry you down the steps” when I’ve already equipped you with everything you need?

This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your god is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (NLT)

Fear paralyzes. It stops us from accomplishing God given goals and dreams. Your business idea remains a figment of your imagination because you are too afraid of entrepreneurship. Do it afraid! Perhaps you are called to a career field that requires a degree, but you are too scared to go back to school because it didn’t work out the first time. Try again! Maybe you are divorced and want to be in a relationship but you are too afraid to be hurt again. Do not be afraid or discouraged! God is with you wherever you go. He has good plans for you. Fear is an enemy. Our enemies are already defeated.

My dog now goes down the back porch steps by himself. He experiences the full benefit of his play area. Friend, even though you may feel fear, put your trust in God and take your steps. Don’t allow fear to hold you captive any longer. Experience all the benefits of being God’s child.

But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3 (NLT)

Trusting Him,

Tracye M.