Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Crippling Fear

If you're anything like me then procrastination, especially on school assignments, has just become a part of life. I have just about convinced myself that I will work better under pressure. Lie #1!

This past week I have really been struggling with getting this research critique done (the presentation part, anyway) but for some reason it has been quite overwhelming. Although I tried putting it on the back burner it literally consumed all of my mind robbing me of peace and joy.

When I woke up this morning at around 6:30 am I felt so much anxiety and fear to the point that it was almost paralyzing. I'm not sure if you've ever experienced something as powerful as this but it was just awful. Negative thoughts just kept playing in my head over and over like a broken record until I decided that I would speak the truth (God's word) to my worries.

These verses came to mind: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" and "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind" and immediately got up from my bed, prayed, read my devotional and got to business. I was amazed at how just minutes earlier I was facing a fear so real that it had the power to incapacitate me. And then when I used the "Sword of the Spirit" I defeated the enemy and extinguished his fiery darts. By reciting the word of God I was able to overcome that irrational fear.

Where do you find yourself today? Are you struggling with a crippling fear so real that it threatens to steal your joy? Are you ready for the battle? Have you put on the full armor of God?

Ephesians 6:11-17

*Photograph courtesy of Flickr.

3 comments:

Aburtomichelle said...

actually i am living with a fear i dont wanna say but yeah it taking over me at time i need to get in to God word more often its really taking a toll but i have hope and reading this help me thx INDY!!!

Melody said...

yes, I struggle with this issue of fear and was just talking with my mentor today about this very topic. She encouraged me to remember who is in control and to trust Him. I "know" this but need to be reminded of it. What an awesome experience in speaking the Word aloud and seeing its power.

The Learning Journey said...

Procrastination is a huge issue for many, including me. thanks for the wise words and help to refocus. Plus I like the photograph, very cute.