FEAR

Recently the 'F' word has come up a lot, fear that is! I've had several different conversations where it was discussed and reminded of how much it impacts life and gets in the way of living. Fear; it's such a conniving, overwhelming, and somewhat paralyzing thing and quite simply, I hate it!

As a child, one of the most natural things we do from day one is to hold onto the hand of our loved ones. Those curled fingers grasp tightly onto the seemingly giant fingers of their parent and are images that are forever imprinted on a loved one's heart. Holding hands is something that brings peace and comfort and reminds us from a young age that we're not alone.

So how is it that we lose the ability to hold hands, especially in times of fear? And beyond that, how do we struggle to hold on to the one hand that can take away all fear - the Big Guy Himself? We're reminded "For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you" Isaiah 41:13 As simple as that appears, the innocent grasp we were able to make as infants now eludes us and we struggle to hold onto the hand of God that is reaching out.

The one thing we know, however, is that in tackling fear with the help of another, all of a sudden things become attainable. What once felt like an insurmountable problem now becomes something that has a tangible solution. Together, hand in hand, the journey becomes less overwhelming and we're reminded that through that warm touch, we are not alone. God places people in our lives so that He can be there through them - we just have to be willing to let them in.

So today I DARE you to think about one thing that you've been worrying about, that you're fearing, and think about one friend you could let in. I'm sure their hand is reaching out already so I DARE you to grab it. I promise, you won't regret it if you do!!

Here's to holding hands, letting go, and trust that His hand will not only hold yours but that He will take away your fears and worries and provide a friend to walk the journey with you. H