The Furnace of Affliction

Don't Let Fear Rule Your Life

Fear. Angst. Anxiety. Concern. Dread. And my favorite, Chickenheartedness. These are words that describe fear. Recently, I met with a doctor whom I had not seen in five years. She specializes in a practice that is necessary to my health and my ongoing stroke recovery. As I sat there with the doctor reviewing things, I was reminded how exceptional a doctor she was. She wrote several notes for me and drew diagrams to explain things in great detail. She encouraged me to follow through with the recommended tests of another specialist I'd seen months ago. I said, "I was AFRAID." She stated that the tests are nothing to fear. They help identify any issues. Leaving things to chance or ignoring them will not make them disappear. This story reminds us not to live in fear. It is easy at times to let fear control or dictate things in our lives. But as God's children, He has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7) I challenge you to live each day fearlessly, knowing that God is with you whatever you may face. "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He cares for you." (FYI: Initial test was negative. One more scary one to go!)