Be Set Free From the Prison of Fear
I go to bed wondering if I’ve dotted my i’s and crossed my t’s. The day past and the day to come run through my mind like a video stuck on replay. 
The questions roll in.
Did I remember to close the damper on the stove? Is my cell phone plugged in? How will I complete all my tasks for tomorrow? Did I write something that will offend?
It’s not the big things I worry about. I pray for the safety of my children but don’t fear some horrible tragedy. Even after my fourth miscarriage, I didn’t fear another. While pregnant with my last son, the idea that I could have another child with disabilities didn’t consume my thoughts.
No. I’m much more a prisoner of measuring up … of doing enough … of being good and righteous … of daily performance. I am afraid of failure. (Thus my One word for the year: Persevere).
Yet God says we should take captive our every thought—bring them into obedience to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
We are not to let our worries and fears rule our lives. Instead those very concerns can bring us into closer communion with the Father …
… because being wrapped in the Lord’s love, His peace, His strength drives away every fear.
Being wrapped in the Lord's love, His peace, His strength, drives away every fear! Click To Tweet
Jesus Christ has the key to your prison.
Let me encourage you. At the beginning of each day and as you turn in at night, offer your thoughts to the Lord. Let Him unlock the cell and set you free from your worries. Whatever they may be.
Complete freedom won’t ever be ours to claim this side of heaven.
But in Christ’s power, you will find yourself entering the cell of fear less often.
Complete freedom won't ever be ours this side of heaven. But in Christ's power, you'll find yourself less fearful. Click To Tweet
“For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment” (2 Timothy 1:7).
Reflections: What are you afraid of today? Can I pray for you?
By His grace ≈
Julie
Linking with Lisa-Jo where a group of us write uninhibited for 5 minutes (or 10+ in my case) on a given topic. It is a wonderful exercise in letting the words flow. Click the button to check out out more posts or consider linking up yourself. Today’s topic is “Afraid.”
Don’t forget to enter my giveaway of Ann Voskamp’s One Thousand Gifts audiobook and journal by clicking here. You have until Sunday at midnight to enter.
Photo courtesy of Bernard Goldbach.
Find hope in your real-life struggles. We'll chase it together! I am a wife; mom of 4 (including a young adult daughter with special needs); miscarriage mom of 5; author & follower of Jesus Christ. I write, edit, speak and enjoy everything outdoors.
Hi Julie, I found reassurance in your words. Thank you. This word from Lisa-Jo had me…fearful. Funny, really, but I don’t like to examine the things I am afraid of. I too found I was reflecting on the same fears you have…not being good enough, disappointing others. Ugh…will it ever get easier? Then, I remember, His promises are new every morning. Thank you for reminding me once again. Blessings, jana
I’m glad I encouraged you, Jana. It is a process to be intentional with our thoughts–each and every day.
Thank you Julie – you write from your heart – to ours…going deeper – fuller – speaking truth into hurting hearts.