It’s 5-minute Friday again. The prompt for this week?
AFRAID.
I know! Even looking at the word invokes fear doesn’t it?
It’s interesting that even in scripture the implication is that it’s a state of being-not just a feeling. Encompassing all of us, our whole selves. Head to toe. Even our hair and skin freak out when fear arrives.
The Lord knows what feeble creatures we are. He tells us over and over “do not be afraid”, “fear not” and still- we cringe and shrink back and hope He doesn’t notice how afraid we are. Fear can disrupt our lives and immobilize us.
I have discovered that being the age I am and the age that I will become as I continue down this path, succumbing to fear and living in that state of being afraid could overwhelm me like it does so many others as they age. However, I choose to move forward knowing that each step I take I am closer to the Throne of God. I have decided to trust that He knows best for me and that I do not have to be afraid. After all, He’s been teaching me that all my life.
When I was 3, the second bible verse I learned was: What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee Psalm 56:3. (if you are curious, the first one I learned was: Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10. It was probably chosen intentionally for a room full of 3 year olds!)
And I think this sums it up perfectly:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:10-11