Overcoming Fear: A Journey of Faith
Aug 09, 2023Dear Beloved Sisters in Christ,
I pray that this letter finds you enveloped in the grace of our Heavenly Father. Today, I wish to share with you a journey of overcoming fear, a journey that transformed my life and allowed me to step boldly into the path God had set before me, especially as I had to overcome some extreme fears starting my podcast. I believe these lessons can empower you to overcome your own fears and uncertainties.
1. Journaling: In my darkest moments of fear and doubt, I turned to journaling. Just as the psalmist cried out to the Lord in their deepest despair, I poured my heart onto the pages. It was in these moments of vulnerability that I uncovered the roots of my fears, stemming from childhood experiences and past wounds. It became clear that I was allowing the shadows of my past to hold me back from the glorious future God had in store.
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24, KJV)
2. Finding My Why: In the midst of my journey, I discovered the power of a strong "why." Just as our Lord's purpose on Earth was unwavering, my "why" became a beacon of light guiding me through the darkest fears. It was the desire to make a difference in the lives of those who were suffering, to offer hope to the weary and the discouraged, that became my driving force.
"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:9, KJV)
3. The Importance of Accountability: As I set out on this journey, I realized the significance of accountability. Much like the early Christians who supported and encouraged one another, I too sought a community that would hold me to my commitments. Being accountable to others pushed me to persevere when my inner doubts and insecurities threatened to hold me back.
4. Small Wins to Build Momentum: Starting with small, achievable goals allowed me to build confidence and momentum. Just as David faced Goliath with a single stone, I began my journey by deleting time-wasting habits and organizing my life. These small wins were the stepping stones toward my greater purpose.
"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much." (Luke 16:10, KJV)
5. Feel the Fear...and Do It Anyway: The book "Feel the Fear...and Do it Anyway" taught me that fear is a universal experience. Just as Peter needed faith to walk on water, I needed faith to confront my fears. The truth is, the fear never truly goes away, but when we take that leap of faith, we find that we can overcome it.
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7, KJV)
6. My Miracle Mornings: Discovering the power of my morning routine, or "Miracle Mornings," was a revelation. Just as Jesus rose early to pray and seek His Father's guidance, I too found solace and strength in the quiet moments before the world awakened. These mornings with God have become my sacred time, empowering me to face the day with courage and confidence.
"And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed." (Mark 1:35, KJV)
7. Vision Board: Finally, I began to visualize my dreams through a vision board. This board was my place of inspiration, where I placed my goals, affirmations, and the truths I needed to remember in the face of fear. Just as the Israelites kept the Ark of the Covenant as a visual reminder of God's presence, my vision board served as a constant reminder of my journey's purpose.
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV)
Dear sisters, I want to leave you with these guiding words. Fear is not a sign of weakness; it is an opportunity for faith to flourish. Embrace your fear, confront it with the knowledge that God is with you, and watch as He transforms your life. Remember, "Two people can do anything if one of them is God."
In the darkest valleys, may you find His guiding light, and in the face of fear, may you rise as warriors of His divine purpose.
With love and blessings,
Tamara K. Anderson