FEAR

What scares you most? What do you fear? Do you think about it on a daily basis? Has the fear ever paralyzed you? Most of my life fear has ruled and I've made decisions based on what was the easier, safer route to take. I have not wanted to venture out of my comfort zone. Of course, over the past few years, God has been working with me on this. I think that the enemy took notice of my weakness and preyed upon the fact that if he could instill fear, I would not seek God with all my heart.

Last night I went to church with a small group to pray for the people who will walk in the doors on Sunday. The band was practicing and we prayed for the band as well. It was an amazing time. As I touched each of the rows of chairs, I just asked God to touch the hearts of the people sitting in the seats. I prayed that God will wash away the shame and the guilt and disappointment and the FEAR that holds them back from the Lord. As the band was singing, "You are all I need," I prayed that that phrase will be the cry of the hearts of the people that walk in the doors on Sunday. When I was finished, the band was playing a song with the line, "I'm leaving fear behind...." That really struck a chord with me and moved me to tears as I realized how much fear has shaped my life. Of course there are still things that cause fear, (like the thought of raising two teenage daughters!) but I have come to a place where I understand that God will take care of this for me. I am leaving FEAR behind! And as I joyfully praised the Lord for that, I prayed that FEAR will paralyze no more. That the truth of God will set people free from the bondage of being scared all the time. Of living life according to their fear.

On a side note - I have this bookmark with my name on it. "Nicole," it says, means victorious. I know what that means, but I always think it is interesting to look it up in the dictionary for the literal, actual meaning. Victorious, means, "having achieved a victory; conquering; triumphant: our victorious army." I love that! It has much meaning to me when I think of all the things that I am finally able to have triumph over because of who God is - especially FEAR!

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

I am determined to live my life according to this verse. FEAR NOT! I pray that God will help you to realize that your fears are powerless and HE will carry that burden for you. I pray that my girls will see me living this truth and that they will be able to walk in the glory of the goodness of God!

Praise the Lord today, for He is always good!