The End of Fear

I love my childhood BFF.

I mean deeply and with no exception my relationship with her has stood the tests of time, distance and life circumstances without fail. (Hi E!)

So after this move, we began messaging across the globe and remarked about how unreal it was that my words to her and hers back to me could zip through cyberspace and keep us connected even still. Aaaah, there is nothing like the balm of a lifelong friendship to soothe your soul! ❤

During this conversation we shared some deep truths that each of us have recognized in ourselves and our lives and how we have been impacted by them.

They each somehow had the same root …fear.

As she and I shared our recent learnings, I realized that moving across the ocean to this beautiful remote island has come to represent the beginning of………. the end of fear.

Of course, it certainly didn’t start that way for me….you may recall reading about the intense fear I felt in those early days of decision making?? 😳😳

Trust me on this, when you face a huge decision, or are presented with a life-altering prospect (big or small) you would be wise to let that fear wash over you.

Speak aloud those words that get caught in your throat and seem impossible to utter….it is okay…just tell someone close to you what scares you most about what you are facing.

It won’t seem as daunting once you hear yourself say the words.

It is okay.

What we identify, we can face.

My husband started encouraging me to do this…he was right!

Nothing is as scary as something hidden in the shadows, lurking, preying on the wilds of our imagination. Getting those fears out in the open, makes your next steps possible. ❤

The beginning of the end of fear has softened my heart to a new culture. It has deepened my faith and helped me listen. It has renewed my love and understanding for the plight of others walking beside us on this earth.

Love seems to begin where fear ends.

I don’t know what scares you about your next move in life. It might be the rekindling of a lost dream? Taking a new job? Maybe it is forging a relationship with an estranged family member? Maybe your being called into a deeper ministry to others? Maybe it is simply taking a step toward spending your time differently right where you are?

Your journey is unique.

The cries of your heart are not silent.

The significance of your life is not measured by grandeur, even the smallest of acts in our day are important.

What represents the end of fear in your life? What fear creeps into the forefront of your mind and stops you today? Don’t let that fear win! Talk it through with someone….share it with a friend or loved one. It really does lessen the burden, and boost your spirit!

Whether your next step takes you to the other side of the planet, to another state, or across your street, let me encourage you that the blessings that await far outweigh the fear you face!

I am NOT saying I no longer experience fear!! Ahhh, far from it! There is so much to fear in new surroundings!

I fear my first hurricane, tsunami, my health concerns, being away from my kids, the distance between us and our family, on and on…..

But the annoying clang of fear gets swallowed up by the loud symphony of blessings ringing out each day! And I am learning to trust the music.

I started praying this scripture about a month ago. I recite it when I feel afraid, I lean on the promise of peace to guard my heart & mind when I get restless.

Phil 4: 6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

It has been a constant reminder of His faithfulness in all the tiny details of life. I hope it blesses you today and beyond.

You are valued, and you are loved.

❤Sending love and prayers to you from south of the Equator❤

May you begin to find…………….. the end of fear……and may blessings follow!