Facing Your Fears

As someone with a weak stomach for gory scenes and scary tales, I usually try to avoid graphic sci-fi and horror films. However, this fall there was no escaping from creepy, crawly, dark, hideous monsters that stalk in the shadows. 

My family and I recently moved into our new home. It had been a hard move and we were ready to settle in; but we soon realized that we were not alone. Our home was being invaded by Sewer Roaches!

Occasionally we began to see these dreadful bugs in one of the bathrooms. After several failed attempts to get rid of them, I became paranoid and envisioned them nesting throughout the house. I would check every seat, cover, and articles of clothing before using them. I felt trapped in my own home. I began to pray endlessly that God would forbid these creatures from entering my house, but he didn’t… and I know why.

In reality, these so called “MONSTERS” were just 2 inch long insects. Though most people would agree that they’re incredibly gross, we also know that they lack any real ability to cause us harm. With one step, or spray of the Raid, their lives would cease to exist. Yet, I was giving this tiny creature the power to rob me of my peace, joy, and sanity. 

As silly as my story may seem, many of us struggle with both rational and irrational fears. Whether we fear insects, heights, death, or something else, we allow our minds to conjure up thoughts and images that make our fears seem true.  Once we accept our fears as truth, this leaves us in a paralyzed state, feeling trapped and defeated by our enemy. 

2 Timothy 1:7 says…

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (NKJV)

As I called out to the Lord to deliver me from facing these pests, I was reminded of this verse. I soon realized that even though God had the power to rid my home of roaches, this would not cure my fear, but simply delay the confrontation. If I wanted the peace back in my home and mind, I was going to have to face these ugly creatures and take back the power I had given them! One afternoon, through the words and power of Jesus Christ, I was finally able to muster up the courage to kill one myself! Thanks be to God… though I still loathe these tiny foes, my peace came back and I have not seen a roach since! 

You might not have to face roaches in your home, but I’m certain there is some issue that God is calling you to face. As big or small as it may be, I am confident that God will give you the strength to defeat it.  As I have recently learned, sometimes it takes defeating the smallest of things, to give us the power to later face the giants.  

Donna