I John 4:18019 ESV “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 19 We love because he first loved us.”
On a childhood visit to the Grand Canyon, my dad had my sister and me pose for a picture. Climbing up a little higher was not difficult; our backs were to the canyon’s stunning view. We posed and Dad captured some photographic memories. The view was lovely.
Then it was time to climb back down from the ledge to the path. This was only a couple of feet down but on the other side of the path was a view of the canyon: red, deep, intimidating. There was no railing. I froze. I could not climb down because I was afraid.
My sister, always the braver one, hopped down with our dad guarding the way. Then it was my turn. There was no way I could do that. Dad promised to help me down. I could climb into his arms if I needed to. All I could picture was me knocking him off his balance and both of us falling off the cliff. My dad’s perspective was different than mine. He knew he could help me down. I knew it too, but fear – not reason – stole my mind.
Fear is like that. It tells us that not only are we not able to do something but that we cannot trust anyone to help us with it. Fear keeps us on a ledge with a frightening view and far from walking the amazing path set out before us. Fear lies and steals and creeps in when we do not actively war it away.
Needless to say, Dad managed to help his fearful girl down off the ledge. We safely enjoyed the trip to other parts of the Grand Canyon that day and our family has returned on other occasions.
“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 5 Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” I John 5:4-5 ESV
How has fear paralyzed you? What scripture have you used to combat fear?
Where have you found confidence, even when facing intimidating views?
