Overcoming Fear
What are you afraid of? According to a recent study conducted in 2017, the top 10 fears in America were:
- Public Speaking
- Heights
- Bugs/Insects
- Drowning
- Blood/needles
- Closed in Spaces
- Flying
- Strangers
- Zombies
- The Dark
It is no secret that some things have changed in our society since 2017. It seems we live in such an uncertain time where fear is ruling the thoughts and actions of individuals. Author, Brene Brown, explains we live in a culture of deep scarcity, never feeling safe, and that a disaster is right around the corner. She explains further that rather than being excited about the things to come, one lives in a constant state of anxiousness waiting for the other shoe to drop.
In my own life, fear has been something that I have allowed to hold me back from experiencing the goodness and peace that fills the earth. When fear fills my thoughts and overtakes my feelings, I can no longer see the good or feel peace, but rather, become consumed to the point of paralysis. Entering into this new decade, I would be lying if I said I did not feel anxious or unsafe, however, I have learned it is not what I feel but what I choose to think about that makes the difference.
Am I thinking about the little things in my life that bring me joy? Am I practicing gratitude acknowledging the things in my life that I am grateful for? Am I considering how the fear I am feeling might be used to make me stronger, ultimately allowing me to conquer the fear right in front of me?
I would encourage you today, whatever fear you are currently facing, to pause for a moment. Take a few minutes to think about or write down what you are grateful for. Take a few moments to recognize the ordinary moments in your life that bring you joy and peace. And lastly, take a deep breath acknowledging that we are not in control of the order or outcome of this world.
If, by chance, you believe in God, rest in the words of Jesus today that he left us:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27, NIV).
-Cory
