Fraidy Cat

It started out as a nice leisurely walk on a gravel road in the country near my parent’s house. I was almost back to their house when I saw it. I was not quite sure what the it was. It looked kind of like a cat but bigger. Maybe it was a coyote which they have around there but that didn’t make sense. They usually never come near the road especially in broad daylight. My feet were glued to the road but I took a few steps forward thinking the “It” would move. “It” didn’t but kept staring at me. I prayed and then debated what I should do. How long would I stand there? Maybe a car would come and scare it away. Finally I decided to press on and somehow up close the “it” didn’t look so big but was in fact a cat. So by now you can guess who the fraidy cat was. Me!!

My situation was funny but so true of life. We let our fears become bigger then they are. Our imaginations run wild thinking of all the horrible outcomes that could happen. It could deal with the election, the financial crisis, a health issue or even a family issue. We allow a fear to grow bigger by listening to Satan’s lies and soon we are crippled by it. Since fear is something I often struggle with the following have become my verses to fight back with.

II Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and discipline.

Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Phil 4:4-6 -7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

I also find that worshipping God does wonders. As I listen to worship songs, I find I am no longer focused on myself but on God.

Dear God, Thank you that we can come to you with all of our fears whether big or small. You are never far way. You meet us where we are and take us into your presence. May we never forget you are our rock and strength. Amen