Overcoming Fear

“For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”  2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

Fear. I am very familiar with fear. For me I wonder will it happen again. Can someone get into my home? Am I safe? Are all the doors locked? Is anyone hiding under the car or in the closet?

These things may sound crazy to you or you may have had similar thoughts. There came a point where I would check everything before I went to bed.   Front door locked. Door to garage locked. No one in coat closet. No one in downstairs bathroom. Sliding door locked.  Stove burners are cool and turned off. Oven off. Bedroom closet clear. My bedroom door locked. My bathroom clear. Under my bed clear.

I was overcome with fear. Unrealistic fear that was rooted in the sexual assaults and abuse I endured growing up.

One therapy session after I frustratingly explained my nightly ritual, my therapist told me a verse I’d heard many times but never applied. “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

He told me to repeat that verse and to pray it as I got ready for bed each night. So as I prepared for bed the night after my appointment, and got ready to go upstairs, I had my index card with the verse. I started praying to God and saying the verse. I made my way upstairs. I did not check anything.

I am not completely free of fear. I still lock my bedroom door, and I still cannot sleep some nights because of my fear of the unknown and other things which come up. However, God is holding most of my fear. He’s helping me release it to him as I’m able. He will help me with my bedroom door and my other fears. He can help you if you need it too.

Remember, “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

Write it down. Memorize it if you are able, and repeat it to yourself when you are fearful.

Father God,

 I still struggle with fear of what may or may not happen to me. I know only my work in therapy guided by you and your Word can heal me. Help me allow you to take my fears as I’m able to hand them to You.

 Amen

© 2018 Susan M. Clabaugh. All Rights Reserved.