One thing that is at the forefront of my life lessons this season is to stop waiting until “the right time,” until I no longer have anxiety, to stop valuing having consideration for someone else’s needs and wants over my own needs and wants. My belief in God and his promises don’t allow me to be paralyzed by fear, even when fear is most present. I take a deep breath, and I recite my memory verse that I have been saying since I was a teen “No temptation has seized me except what is common to man, but God is faithful; He will not let me be tempted beyond what I can bear. But will lead me out that I may stand upon it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13). This scripture has healed me and delivered me from many stressful and intimidating circumstances; it has never failed me. I am reminded of many of my father’s promises, the other being “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” (Philippians 4:13)

I have learned to accept that the emotion of fear is just that, and despite this emotion, I must not let this feeling limit me in doing what I have been called to do. I cannot let fear creep into my parenting and place it on my children when they come to me with a desire to go on an adventure, and I immediately think of the threats. I have to trust and believe in the living word of God, using the word as my weapon. I can no longer be afraid of declining to do a favor, taking on a challenging assignment, speaking the unpopular truth, or not attending because it will make someone angry with me, especially if the spirit has said so. I must do what I am called to do, what is right, even in the presence of fear…because I am Rahab too.