Then I was very much afraid. (Nehemiah 2:2, ESV)
Nehemiah doesn’t say he was just afraid. He says he was very much afraid. In other words, he was terrified. His fear was extreme.
This is one of the things I love about the Bible. These are real people with real struggles. Nehemiah was a great hero, but even Nehemiah was afraid. He wrestled with fear just like we wrestle with fear.
The king had noticed Nehemiah’s sad disposition. Nehemiah’s life was in jeopardy. If the king were to look unfavorably upon Nehemiah, he would have Nehemiah executed. It was not a good place to be.
Fear is a natural response. It is a survival trait. Having fear is good. Fear helps us avoid situations that are dangerous. It keeps us from taking unnecessary risks.
Let me give you an example. I have gone skiing a couple of times in my life. I don’t have much experience. Fear keeps me from going down the black diamond hill. This is a good thing. I would probably injure myself and walk away with several broken bones if I tried. Thank God for fear!
The problem is not fear. The problem is what we do with our fear. Fear will paralyze us and cause us not to act. And sometimes we need to act. We need to jump. We need to go. We need to speak up. But our response to fear is inaction.
Courage is not the absence of fear. It is the ability to act in spite of our fears. Think about this:
- You will be afraid to do the right thing.
- You will be afraid to answer God’s call.
- You will be afraid to have that difficult conversation.
- You will be afraid to make that move.
- You will be afraid to volunteer for that new role.
- You will be afraid to tithe.
- You will be afraid to live your dream.
If you wait till your fear is eliminated, you will be waiting your entire life. It is a certainty; you will be afraid. If you were not afraid, you would not be human. But what will you do with that fear? Are you going to listen to your fear? Or will you listen to God?
Reflection
- Where is God leading you today? What are your fears?
- Ask God for the courage to make the leap.
Prayer
Lord, you are my God. I know that nothing will separate me from your love. Of what shall I be afraid? But too often I am overwhelmed and afraid. I am paralyzed to inaction. You call me to act, and I cower. Give me faith to live with courage and to answer your calling. Speak to my doubts. Make me bold for the sake of your kingdom. Amen.
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