It’s the first week of the New Year brimming with excitement and anticipation over all the new things for 2014.

But sometimes …. FEAR can wash over unexpectedly.

Wrapping up the holidays and headed back to Virginia, my mind shifted toward the January calendar.  I began making a mental checklist of all I needed to address in the coming weeks.

The further I traveled the longer my list grew. Before I knew it, I had exchanged excitement for fear.

Webster’s defines FEAR as:

• a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.
• something that causes feelings of dread or apprehension

What am I afraid of ? What overtook me?

The FEAR of Inability.

The FEAR of not leading well.

The FEAR of not being and doing all that is needed.

The FEAR of having nothing to say.

The FEAR of not hearing the Lord.

The FEAR of hearing the Lord – but not obeying.

Fear.

I’m even afraid of saying, “I’m afraid.”

Fear  is exhausting. Fear is paralyzing.

Fear is a tactic of the enemy that unexpectedly washed over me like a huge ocean wave…  Stunned and short of breath.

Fear makes me freeze.  Fear will keep me from taking the next step and it could keep you from taking your next step.

Fear.

The truth is … 

We only have one chance at 2014.   No matter what our role in ministry, business, or at home.  Our decisions have consequences.  If I face the decisions of this year anywhere except on my knees, I should be afraid.  Following Him I don’t need to fear.  Following Him – I don’t need to get off the path or be frozen in my steps.  Not because I am able but because He is completely capable.

Psalm 112:8
Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.

Psalm 115:11
You who fear him, trust in the Lord— he is their help and shield.

Isaiah 41:10

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Psalm 56:3
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

Today we do not fight for victory; we fight from victory.  We do not fight in order to win because in Christ we have already won.  W. Nee Sit, Walk, Stand

“Every mountain that every Christian ever faces, the Lord levels with sufficient grace: The Lord Will Provide.”   @AnnVoskamp

Father, thank you for your Word and your faithful encouragement.   Thank you that we don’t have to be afraid because You are with us.   You are our help and our shield.  You are FULLY ABLE to accomplish Your work using any vessel.  You will equip and you will bring the victory.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

Today – we choose to begin this New Year free from fear –  because You are with us.