From Worry to Worship: A 5-Day Devotional by Lekeisha MaldonSample

Day 2: Fear-The Catalyst Of Worry

"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will also help you, I will also uphold you with My righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

Yesterday, we learned that worry involves feeling anxious and uncertain about current or potential issues we face in our lives. This uncertainty can often lead to fear.

Fear of the unknowns.

Fear of the questions that we don't have answers to.

Fear of the future that we can't predict.

It's natural to feel fear when we anticipate unpleasant situations, especially if you've experienced trauma. I remember during one of my therapy sessions; my counselor described this as hypervigilance, "the elevated state of assessing potential threats around us." I discovered that my feelings of worry often stemmed from a sense of fear. Fear can be immobilizing, keeping us in a perpetual state of unease. This emotion generates anxiety and worry, making it challenging to focus, especially on our relationship with God. Do you see how the cycle continues? However, it's essential to remember that fear is simply an emotion, not a fact. But guess what is?

● "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)

● "He is your God. He will strengthen you, He will also help you, He will also uphold you with His righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

Now that's good news!

May I propose that often, the things we fear the most may never actually become reality? Instead, what if the things we fear are actually opportunities where God wants to demonstrate His power, love, peace, and protection? Perhaps these moments we experience are opportunities not to worry but to draw closer to Jesus (James 4:6) and be reassured that He will never leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).

The Bible reminds us 365 times to "fear not." Think about it. It's like waking up every day of the year, and before we even step out of bed, God says there is no need to be afraid. Take a moment and say that out loud: "Fear not, (insert your name here). Find solace in the fact that your Heavenly Father is always by your side. There is no need to fear or worry over your circumstances. Instead, you can place your trust in the One who has everything under control (Psalm 56:3)."

Pause. Pray. Reflect.

Take time throughout the day to repeat the phrase "fear not." How does knowing God is with you ease your fears?