Ann Voskamp
About the Author

Ann Voskamp is a farmer's wife, the home-educating mama to a half-dozen exuberant kids, and author of One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, a New York Times 60 week bestseller. Named by Christianity Today as one of 50 women most shaping culture and the...

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  1. Wow – “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.”

    That is very powerful, and I think I will need to chew on that for a while. Thank you for sharing these beautiful thoughts!

    • Ann I’m 46 years old a homeschool mom of six and have struggled wIth fear for most of my life. Today was a particularly rough morning, you know those morning when tears flow effortlessly. I found your article and knew God was present. I will choose eucharisteo even if my heart is faint. Thank you for sharing Ann.

    • Ann I’m 46 years old a homeschool mom of six and have struggled wIth fear for most of my life. Today was a particularly rough morning, you know those morning when tears flow effortlessly. I found your article and knew God was present. I will choose eucharisteo even if my heart is faint. Thank you for sharing Ann.

      • Dear Christina, I know your pain; I feel it now and live it. I was thanking God tonight after being criticized, rejected, hearing sarcasm…I thanked God for taking on the ultimate rejection and pain for all of humanity. I know I can face any fear knowing the fear and pain and rejection that Christ took on for us… for you and for me.May Jesus Christ be Praised through this trial you are going through. Susie

    • I choose faith over fear because God did not give me a spirit of fear but of Power,Love and a sound mind (from 1Timothy 1:7)

    • I was married over 30 yrs. ago. I learned how to be afraid over those years, till I became someone else. Someone who always thought what to say, when & how to say it so that I wouldn’t receive anger as a response. So many times I just didn’t do something to try to keep things peaceful. I came to accept Christ on Good Friday, 14 years ago. I was about ready to just give up. I didn’t want to be here anymore. God gave me so much strength. I thought my husband would come around, but no. He thinks I’m a Jesus nut. So be it. I’ve never not been afraid. But now Ive realized I can’t do this anymore. I must trust God that if it’s something He puts in my heart or mind, then I must say or do it. It scares me to death, but He says He has a plan for me. Not to harm , but prosper so I’ve got to take Him at his word. So if you think of it please pray, cause I don’t want to be afraid anymore. I’m needing much courage. Thanks for listening.

      • I am praying for you, Christina. God is for you, and He will give you all the strength you need, even when it seems you cannot possibly take one more step. With Him, nothing is impossible. You can do this. He will protect you–He is a shield. Please read Psalm 16:8-9, as it will give you strength, resolve, joy, and peace. Just remember to set the Lord always before you. 😀

        • I’m praying for you, too, Christina! I read your story and it is very similar to mine. I changed into a different person, too. Doing what you did, too, in order to avoid the “anger as a response”. I nearly gave up too…. but I’m still here. 🙂 Hang in there. You are loved by the Greatest Lover. You are beautiful in His eyes. He made you, and you belong to Him. Joel 2:25 “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…” It’s a beautiful passage…. full of hope.
          Here are some things that have helped me:
          *Anne Voskamp’s book “One Thousand Gifts” I read it and it is what began my journey to healing and hope.
          *Professional counseling has also been invaluable for helping me not give up.
          *This John Piper sermon… reminding me that Jesus is praying for us, too!!

          http://www.desiringgod.org/resource-library/sermons/the-sifting-of-simon-peter#.T4LCCkjeBko.facebook

          Know you are loved! Tears for you, Christina. God bless you!

      • Christina – I am praying for you. I too had fear of an angry response and hurtful words. In reading and meditating on God’s Word, I know of his love and strength. I remind myself (a lot) that our God is a wonderful, loving God and he is in control and have come to trust fully in Him! ( Joshua 1:9.)

      • I understand and I will pray Christina . Thank you for having the courage to share this in an authenic way. You are not alone in this.

        The Lord is near.
        Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation
        by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.
        And (here’s the promise) the peace of God, which transcends all understanding , will He guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Phil 4: 6-7

        He will be faithful to keep His promises.

      • Christina, God hates divorce!! Do NOT become like people of this modern world and throw away over 30 years of marriage. If you do, you may find that you may end up with someone else’s problems instead of working on the husband you have. Keep praying for your marriage…prayer still works. If your husband is not physically/mentally abusing you, and if you’ve not sought Godly counsel, you must try to make your marriage work. God does not put your prospering before your marriage. You are to love your husband as God loves the church which means you must continue to forgive your husband and try to let him know how he’s hurting you. Even in the new testament it says it is permissable to divorce only for adultery and abandonment by an unbeliever…if you can’t forgive. Does not mean you should divorce but it’s permissable. The break up of the family is the number one cause of the declination of society today. Fight for your marriage/family with God on your side!!

        • Rick, I can appreciate your desire to follow God and his word. At the same time, God does not call us to lay down and let a husband abuse and kill us in their anger and rage. We are each created in the image of God. Allowing someone else to violently mar that image, to kill, steal and destroy us is not from God but from the enemy. God values marriage. God values life. I do belive in contending in prayer for marriage. Christiana said she has prayed a lot for her marriage. Let her have her voice.

          I continue now, 30 years after geting out of an extremely abusive marriage, to deal with the after effects of PTSD from the horrors I experienced and witnessed. I have forgiven my former husband, who was a believer in Christ and in the Bible and frequently misused it to keep me entrapped. However, I have also been physicially and emotionally scarred by the events. There were no shelters when I was abused, no hotlines, no safe place to get away from someone who carried a concealed weapon 24/7 and had multiple guns, who committed adultery on many occasions, who destroyed objects, killed pets, and tried to kill me on several occasions. I had pastors tell me to go home and be a better wife or tell your husband to take a cold shower when he is angry or have him take more B-Vitamins.

          It is not God’s will or plan to remain in a place of fear and oppression. It may be easy for you as a man to say what someone else should do, based on the Bible. I would, however, encourage you to pray, to care, and to have compassion, not to try to lecture someone, who has probably had more than her share of lectures which have already silenced her. I pray God may speak to Christina His words of love, endearment and encouragement as she finds her voice in His love. Christina, may you find God’s healing love helping you to find your voice, God’s healing and peace.

          God has been helping me to find gratitude in everyday, to be thankful for simple things like the wind in the trees and profound things like God’s incredible love and care for me, his protection, his grace, helping me to heal, to find life and to have a voice with which I can share his goodness with others.

          Blessings to you Christina! May God’s love surround you and protect you as you stand as a beacon of light.

        • Rick, I didn’t see Christina saying anything about divorce or remarriage. I wonder why you jumped to that conclusion. Standing up to an emotional abuser may very well lead to a necessary separation for her safety. It is not better or more godly to live with a dead heart to survive and keep the “peace” in an abusive relationship. I think she made it very clear that he is mentally or emotionally abusing her. Those that have never experienced this can not understand how destructive it is to wives and children. And the church often adds to the pain and isolation by telling her that if she were only being respectful and submissive enough he would not be doing it or that she has to stay and support him even if it kills her or her children. I believed that for 30 years and now coming to freedom but experiencing the shame of being a single mom in church. Yes we must forgive but God does not expect any one to live with abuse long term.

        • Betsy,
          I thought the same thing Rick did when I read that Christina said she “couldn’t do this anymore”. Now I see that she may have meant she can’t live in fear anymore. Anyway, I can honestly say that folks like Rick are a huge reason I hung on for over 25 years. People who lovingly and courageously spoke the truth of God’s Word to me. I’m so thankful that God enabled me to “hang on” because my marriage is now sweeter and stronger than ever before. So, thank you, Rick for speaking the truth of God’s Word.
          Oh, I will pray for you, Christina. Hang in there! We’re in a spiritual battle! Keep praying. Keep clinging to the truth of God’s Word. God promises He will never leave you nor forsake you.

      • Christina,
        My story is much like yours- Verbally abused, emotionally wrecked by a rageful husband, putting on my “false-self” so I could endure the emotional pain, staying for my child’s sake, knowing that God hates divorce, knowing that I would be so alone if I left, knowing that God works through painful situations to teach us and maybe just maybe, because He can do the impossible, He would save this marriage, and so on, and so on- Well last spring in Charleston, SC at an Ann Voscamp conference, a funny thing happened- Donna started to get her groove back after 17 years. I heard a little whisper that Jesus still loved me,which was validated again when Ann wrote in my book, “Donna, You are so loved by Jesus! All is Grace.” Well the next 2 months involved a 15-day stay for my child at UNC in the psych. ward for anxiety and family systems stuff, a 15-day stay for me at the Ronald McDonald House, my Dad having 3 strokes and my Mom having dementia. So along with a Raging, angry husband thrown in for good measure, it has been an eventful summer! But, then there’s God and those whispers! Alone in Chapel Hill, my heart being ripped out daily, the God Gifts started coming. And they came right in the middle of my Biggest, Dirtiest, Messed Up Pain Places! Oh, how HE LOVES US oh! I have struggled for years and years about leaving this verbally abusive man. I am scared out of my wits! But on Monday, I will be 50 years old, and I know that God has not put me on this earth to be someone’s personal verbal punching bag, or live in fear and walk on egg shells every minute of my
        life. I know I have purpose and I have to choose Life over death and Truth over lies. In the next days, I will be choosing LIFE by the GRACE of God. I am going to have a home where I am always accepted, always safe to be authentic, and not live in a place of fear! I am going to have a Soft place to land! Please, please get in your car and go get this new book called “Love Isn’t supposed to Hurt” by Christi Paul. This is not another Oprah moment where I am woman hear me roar thing. This book touched something in me that the other dozens of christian and secular books that I’ve read haven’t. Also, I read Ann’s blog everyday and also John Eldredge’s blog at “Ransomed Heart” They touch me so much! I promise I will pray for you, and I ask that if you think about me, please pray for me. Even though my next little while may be painful, I believe this will be a pain that heals, and not a pain that kills. Thanks for letting me share.

      • Christina,

        Your email so touched my heart. Over the course of many years, I, too, learned to be afraid, guarding my responses and my heart. He has changed little, but by God’s grace my heart and spirit are healing. I am reclaiming the years that fear stole from me and my ability to minister. Six years ago a business was started that ministered to women-physically through pilates with loving care for each one who came through the door. Many lives have been changed and despite a tough economy we continue to grow with God’s blessing. I am still a work in progress and must face down insecurity and fear daily, standing firm on the promises of God who loves and encourages me. My prayer for you is that God’s strength, grace, and peace will empower you today as you move to action.

      • Praying for you Christina. Can relate, 25 years
        My fear kept me in bondage to a person as I tried to keep him from getting angry, & from being sarcastic and verbally abusive. I started to see that our stuff was hurting our children. I started to attend a recovery group. This made him angrier, but God gave me strength to keep going. I started to set a few healthier boundaries- very small ones. He became more abusive and angrier. I had been having panic attacks for years and didn’t realize it- just thought I couldn’t sleep. Then I started to have stomach problems and couldn’t eat and lost 20 lb. in one year. I despised the thought of divorce and felt that it was the last thing I ever wanted to do to my children. Witnessing me being abused was worse for them During a study of Ezekiel I recognized my behavior was a form of idolatry. I tried to serve 2 masters. One would never be pleased with me. The other died for me & saved me and has never condemned me and never will. I kept on pursuing Christ. I realized that part of the problem was that he was jealous of my relationship with & my love for the Lord. But love is not jealous. He wanted the worship that I was to give to the Lord. There is a lot more. Separating from him was not a “decision” so much as a matter of life & death. The final event/comment left me feeling like I was in a fire and I felt that the skin was going to explode off my arms. My response was to flee. (When the pain exceeds the fear we get out of denial.) Since then I have been through a tough couple of lonely, difficult years of recovery, but I no longer have panic attacks. I am no longer a victim of abuse. I have recently filed for divorce and it feels horrible and sickening and like a big failure, feeling worse than a death at times. But it is not as bad as living in fear. There is so much I’d like to share, but mostly I urge you to please get good counsel. What you describe is a mockery of what God designed a marriage to be. Marriage is to be a picture of Christ and the church. The husband is to be dying for you, cherishing you, loving you (even if you did nothing to deserve it. ) Your “husband” sounds like an unbeliever/not a follower of Christ. And you are not living peaceably together. I believe you are free to go. I will keep praying for you. I pray that you will know how beloved and cherished you are by the Father. He is never going to leave you or forsake you or harm you. I’m so sorry for your pain and for your fear. I pray that God will set you free. Stay in the Word. Be very kind to yourself….you are fragile and hurt.

      • Dear Christina,
        I am also one who has been married over 30 years and lived in great fear the whole time. My children also. When I reached the place you have and realized I had to speak the truth and not be quiet anymore things became much worse.
        After two years of trying to live out truth instead of being shut down in fear my children were being destroyed and I had to separate from it. We also separated from a church that kept us in that place of fear. Now two years later we are still in the healing stage and coming to know who God made US to be instead of who someone or a whole group expected us to be. It took years working with a close friend/counsellor to realize it was sin to shut down in fear and not play out my part in the relationship come what may. Being quiet and letting an angry abuser think they are always right is not God’s plan for us as help meet. Yes, it takes much courage to do this and brings more anger when they realize they can not just overpower you into silence any more but God is able to provide it. I’ll pray for you and hope you will also pray for me.

  2. why I’m done with fear and living on the wing of His perfect love that casts out all fears? Because HE is all I need.

  3. Some time ago my son made a small dock with a cross on it to remind us of god’s forever presence and undeniable power-grace. When fear mounts, I slip that to k in my pocket as a carry along reminder that He’s got this. And it reminds me of the many times in the past when He’s shown this to me, again and again. (the giveaway would make ideal Christmas gifts for my amazing wife).

  4. I have feared being alone for many years and didn’t realize it. As God has shown me this paralyzing fear through his truth and painful circumstances in my life, I now cling to him and his truths knowing I am never alone and never will be. My God is enough!

  5. Fear is a lie. I have listened to the lies. No more will I let them stop me from living a life fully for Him.
    2 Thessalonians 3:3 the Lord is faithful, he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

  6. Fear is an emotion used by the devil….. When its all said and done God WILL prove himself faithful if I put faith in him. If I put faith in fear the devil will be right there, smiling, saying “gotcha!”

  7. Ann Voskamp, this was posted at a perfect moment for me. I have been struggling with fear, and you have encouraged me and pointed me in the direction where I need to fix my eyes. Thank you.

  8. Fear is a lie, praying this morning that I be a woman who stands in truth. This message is perfect in it’s timing, God is so good at that! Thank you for allowing His truth to speak through you.

  9. Worrying won’t add a.single.day to my life! A single day. Often times the worrying and fears I think of end up making my feel worse and more anxious than if I were to put my thoughts on Him. Just like Philippians 4:8 says: And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

    Worry less, my friends!

  10. My biggest fear is often that I am not good enough….and right now I am both excited and afraid to start a women’s Bible Study at my church….mostly because I am afraid I will not be good enough to lead it. Thankful for this entry this morning and the encouragement this site always brings!

    • for april: i was right where you are now about 7 yrs. ago. the very Bible-knowledgable women that had led our Bible study for many years seemed to all leave within a year and there was no one else stepping up to lead but i NEEDED this Bible study to continue. God was telling me that i was it. i felt so inadequate to the task before me but i trusted in my Lord that he would equip me with what i needed. my style is different than the other gals’, i feel more like a facilitator than leader but it is perfect for us. i have a small (under 10) group of ladies that i just adore. God has given me the confidence i need to be their leader. if He calls you He will equip you, that is Hils promise.

  11. Well, there to be a lot of things I fear intensely…One reason I want to be done with fear is that when it gets intense (multiple times a day) I feel like I’m going to throw up–not fun…I want to rely on God to take away the fear, but it takes time I guess…

  12. Fear has paralyzed me from many things. I don’t step out of my comfort zone because I fear failure. I am coming to understand that I need to step out of my comfort zone so that Jesus can be my strength! He has gone before me. Deut. 31:8. He’s got my back!!

    • Agreed! I never thought of it that way, I’ve struggled with stepping out of my comfort zone a lot, but I like this perspective!

    • Tricia, I understand exactly how you feel. I live with the Same fear every day. I’m terrified to get a job so I’ve been a housewife for many years. I’m scared of what’ll happen to me if something happens to my husband. I’m not sure I could survive. I live with this daily. I pray you find your strength and peace.

      • to anonymous
        When my husband of 40 years was battling cancer and it didn’t look good I woke up in the middle of the night in paralyzing fear – terror really – how could I survive without him? financially? so much about our house I didn’t know (he was a better doer than teacher) the marriage had been very difficult but I had no confidence that I could survive without him. The Lord whispered to me in that dark night “I have been providing for you all along, I just did it through him. And I’m not going anywhere. I will continue to provide.” That was in 2003. He died that fall. My husband thought he was the one providing for me and that he was leaving me ok financially. Nothing ended up being the way he expected. But the Lord has provided in many ways – financially and emotionally and with the help I needed when I needed it. I have been through illness and fatigue and unexpected (and frightening) opportunities since my husband’s death. The Lord has been faithful through them all and as a bonus has allowed me to see all the ways He was preparing me for this time all along. I am surviving just fine – don’t know what the future holds but as the saying goes “I know who holds my future.” Nothing that lies ahead of you will catch our loving Father by surprise. He is already preparing you in ways you do not know. He IS FAITHFUL. I could write a book about all the ways He has proven His faithfulness – despite the tragedies and pain I’ve survived (father’s suicide – alcoholic husband – house fire – abduction and rape – and many many other difficulties). He doesn’t promise easy or painless – just His ever present love and faithfulness. You are unable to manage on your own – but you are not and will not be on your own. Tomorrow is in His hands and He is already taking care of it. His instruction is to trust Him for today – His strength is sufficient for our todays. And when tomorrow comes it will be sufficient for tomorrow as well. Fear really is the devil’s open door into our hearts. Keep that door shut with His help. Claim the truth of God’s faithfulness and send Satan packing. He has no rights were you are concerned. Perfect love casts out fear. God’s perfect love (we are never perfect).

        I now feel more free and confident and at peace than at any other time in my life. I know there will be pain and hurdles and difficulties ahead and I’m not getting any younger (I’m 69) but all the hard times have proven God’s faithfulness and sufficiency and tremendous love. My prayers are with you. It doesn’t matter how strong or capable you are – what matters is that His strength and His love are sufficient. May He bless you daily with His unfailing love and presence.

  13. Fear is exhausting…..I am tired of being exhausted. Freedom is free. So, freedom it is. Look out, here we come!

    • I just love this! 7. Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living.
      It is SO true!!!

  14. Fear keeps us from following God’s leading and doing his will. We need to keep our hearts and minds tuned in to hear God’s voice. Enjoyed your message.

  15. As a child growing up having been abandoned by my mother, the fear of not measuring up has hounded me like a blood-thirsty beast for years. It’s always been about the people. So many people have loved and left, and if I could just be whatever, better, good enough, then maybe, just maybe they would stay, love, be with me. It still hounds me, but I have chosen to shift my thinking when it’s nipping at my heels. I have a God Who loves me. Who wraps me in His arms. When so desperate to know of His love and steadfastness, I prayed, pled and begged for a sign that it wasn’t a farce. He showed me a beautiful picture of the day I was born. It wasn’t my father or mother or even a doctor or nurse who caught me. I was caught up right into the arms of THE Father. Since then, when the fear dogs, I remember. This most beautiful gift of belonging, just as I am. “Because He lives, all fear is gone.”

    • Yes, because He lives! Thank you for sharing today, BJ. Such a beautiful heart. Grateful with you today, for His mercy and grace…always helping in our times of need. With you! Because He lives!

    • John 1:12-13….. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

      BJ, this blessed my heart…. Thank you for sharing this!! He completes you!

      🙂 hugs

  16. I am done with fear how a significant other is living their life.
    Realizing I have done all I can do and now it’s their turn to take responsibility.

  17. Thank you so much for this wonderful post! I so needed to hear this. I often let fear paralyze me which prevents me from being the wife, mother, and homeschooler that my family needs and God intended me to be. I am not living my life to the fullest, but with God’s grace, I will put fear on the shelf, way out of reach, and trust in Him.

  18. This is great. I am thankful for these reminders about not fearing. I am not fearing because God is able and He loves me with a deep abiding love.

  19. I have feared failure so much over the course of my life, that may times, I have simply stopped in my tracks. I only take the known path. It would be untruthful for me to pronounce myself “done with fear of failure,” but I am taking baby steps. Each day, I move ahead. I take a risk, however small. And, I am consistently surprised by two things: I can do more than I give myself credit for; and failing every now and then… isn’t that bad.

  20. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. I am stomping out fear, because, I know it has held me back from things, and even people, that God would’ve heightened my spiritual awareness and blessings with. While I believe I’m where I’m supposed to be, and have learned so much, I will move forward, making sure that fear doesn’t keep me from being blessed, or being a blessING. 😉 Thank you for being an instrument, that has shaken me & given me more determination.

  21. oh wow! this couldn’t have come a better time. I’ve been stryggling with the fear of the unknown and I panic ay things I think might come – silly, I know! I turn to Jeremiah 29:11 when fear starts to stalk me and Icotinue to read that outloud over my life, my family and all our situations. Thank you for another rminder – bless you!

  22. I’m done with the fear of being the perfect mother and wife! Each new day is a gift from God to start fresh and be the mom and wife that God has made me to be and I am now giving thanks for these gifts He has given me rather than constantly reminding myself of what I could be but rather thanking Him for who HE has made me to be! Thank you, God!

    • Beautiful words and hearts here! I am reading, learning, soaking it all in. Truth. Daily reminders of Him, His love, His presence. Thank you, friends.

  23. That first one..”don’t fear failing…fear not obeying”….oh yes, there’s blessing in obedience, isn’t there? His presence is so thick when we step out in what He has for us. The Lord’s been pressing this issue with me lately – showing me His faithfulness when I choose His will….even in the face of fear and inadequecy.

    Fear will stifle a woman – rendering her useless. I know – it’s been something I’ve dealt with since childhood. Handing it all over to Him…daily, moment by moment even – He deals with my fears so gently.

    He is faithful.

    Blessings to all. Thanks Ann, for the needed encourgement today.

    – Kate 🙂

  24. Lovely post and an apt reminder for me today, thank you.

    Fear can look like a snake but if you turn and face what you fear it can in fact turn out to be a rope instead. I am turning and facing my fear , my snake if you like instead of running away. I am turning to look at past trauma I have suffered and the fear that is associated with that. I had to come up with a safe place for this trauma work and what came to me was Jesus and his love for me, a safe love. I take Jesus with me to face the fear and the love of Jesus standing holding my hand as I turn and face my past trauma and look at the fears turns the snake into the rope for me. Jesus love casts out all fear.
    Behind The Smile.

  25. The first time I traveled to India alone I knew I could not take fear with me. If I was trusting God to follow Him half way around the world, then I knew I had to trust Him with everything. He provided for me in amazing ways! Big and small. Needless to say it has changed everything no matter where I am.

  26. It changes all the time: walking the seasons in to another decade, some i have given to him with no a return postage stamp. Others i try to take back out of the mail box just typing this put a smile on my face, because of how i feel when my hand get stuck in the big blue box. His Grace/Faith his Love

  27. When fear tries to rear its ugly head, I think of scriptures about fear and peace and I remember God’s faithfulness and goodness to me through the years, and I choose again to fully trust Him, trust triumphs over fear because trust sets my heart free.

  28. My God is bigger!! If I want to really trust Him and believe Him, I have to let go of the fear. I have to claim His word. Sometimes I do this much easier and better than at other times!

  29. I am done with the fear of what other people may say about me, my shortcomings, my failures. I know God redeemed me and if God is for me who can be against me!

  30. Dearest, Tender Heart, Mama Ann,

    I am so sorry for coming here a few weeks back and splattering comments all over these pages…so…well…in such an ugly and chaotic way. Today, will be different 🙂

    Remember that license plate I photographed? “I’m Rockin” Remember how I said that I would give you prayer cover, and claim, peace beyond all understanding?

    I believe that the Lord, sometimes, will check to see if you will carry another’s burden in your intercession. He will test your heart, see if you also will have FAITH in your prayer request for your loved one.

    Well, before I read your beautiful and comforting words here which have VALIDATED my! peace 🙂 … I actually received a PEACE beyond ALL understanding last night that I think we both can share together.

    I am going through a terrible grieving process, full of temptation to FEAR, to not TRUST. However, I am using the lens of the WORD, and I am looking to Joshua. Let’s both look to Joshua. As you go to speak and love on… As I go to grieve and love on… Let us both arise {Awaken from our slumber} Obey what our wonderful teachers have taught us (Iron sharpens iron} Let’s have FAITH and let’s wait and trust for the most beautiful miracle… which may actually just be this peace that we both feel 🙂

    I would give you a long lasting gentle hug if I was in the airport with you. Just to give you a human expression… a human understanding… of HIS arms around you {us!}

    Guess what? As I pray. As I intercede for you. As we carry a very similar burden, together, this yoke, together, have faith that I will have faith! I am willing to share this yoke with you. Let’s both be faithful. Let’s both CONTINUOUSLY let HIM carry the yoke.. the burden with us… it is so beautifully LIGHT!

    ALL of my love,
    Tracy May

        • Oh! Ann!… I just got out of the shower… Look… Moses had to die… The Moses in us had to obey! The Moses in us has to die in order for Joshua to arise! We have gone to our our people! Hee Hee! Oh, this is delightful! The right lens! I love you Ann!!! I love sharing this yoke!!! I love that my soul is tied to yours, that I get to learn from your burdens and yokes! My heart needs the JESUS in your sharpening me! 🙂

  31. I never knew fear. I would try anything at least once. Until my dear Mother at only 63 went home to be with the Lord after only 6 mths of suffering from breast cancer. Fear and anxiety grabbed ahold of me and shook me to my core. I tried the drugs and relaxers that the Dr gave me and they made me worse. I finally gave it all to God. He is the only one that can heal me. I started taping verses everywhere I looked. My favorite was “The Lord has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power and love and a strong mind.” Every time I felt fear creep up on me I would repeat this verse until the fear starts to go away. I also have the verse from Isaiah 41:13 on my screen saver, I am the Lord your God I am holding your hand so dont be afraid I am here to help you!! What an amazing thought that the Lord is holding my hand!! I still fear, but God has made it a whole lot easier for me to look fear in the face.

  32. I’m done being stressed out with so many changes in life. Lord, I’m laying this stress at the altar today! To be used of God is my desire <3

  33. Im done with fear it gets me nowhere fast. Lately I’ve been having lots of med tests and usually when that happens (& it happens often) I get very worried and stressed and seem to get sicker. This time I asked God to help me to not worry about any of the tests or results and for it not to affect how I’m living… And wouldn’t you know it, first time in my life I’m not in constant fear of my copious tests!! The Lord gives me strength each day, and each day I ask for more but I get it, slowly but surely.

  34. Thank you for this wonderful post. Your reminder could not have come at a better time! Just this week I decided it was time to start again. I’ve started and stopped so many endeavors lately, I’ve lost count. Fear is always lurking. Praying, asking for help, requesting love, and having faith that His hand will be there, is where I am now. Really, I go through this list about 50 times a day. It’s working. Turning my eyes from fear, I see Jesus in the hearts of people I’ve reached out to, and it gives me supreme hope that I can find the courage to continue.

  35. I love that even the women at the tomb were afraid … yet still filled with joy {Matthew 28}. The emotions we experience are real and valid. But nothing can steal what the Spirit has given as fruit in our souls … love, joy, peace, patience …!

    Ann … I honored you here this week
    http://creeksideministries.blogspot.com/2012/08/gleaning-from-13.html

    Thank you for what you’ve poured into my life. I gladly share the gift, the choice of gratitude with all the women I work with … and it is increasing their own emotional healing and spiritual growth.

  36. I’m afraid I have more fears then I realize. Anxious thoughts and notions that have been twirling around and around in my heart and head more then I knew. It’s only been the last couple of days that I’ve been “taking them head on”… talking about it. Getting it out. Expressing those anxieties… to the ONE who (already) knows all things. and to others. Giving them a voice.

    This post – was sort of a confirmation. Giving “my gig” a platform to stand on. The promises of GOD!

  37. I am working on and learning to grasp onto “Let go and let God” because he knows our plan and future and he is always there for us no matter what!!

  38. I am choosing to rest in the perfect work of Christ instead of wallowing in fear over my aptitude as a mama. It’s been so challenging to parent-specifically as a foster mom, but as we prepare to adopt them, I want to surrender my fear at His feet so I can be who He intended me to be.

    I don’t want to sacrifice my destiny as a mother at the enemy’s altar of fear.

    Thanks for your encouragement today, Ann.

  39. Wow, Ann! God is truly using your words this week to speak to me… so powerful and so relevant to what I’ve been feeling all. week. long.

    I will say “YES!” to God and “NO!” to fear… for it is the not only the better way, it is the only way that a Christ-follower should live!

    My thoughts from yesterday after being ministered by your blog post on “A Holy Experience”.
    http://mamaof2greatkids.blogspot.ca/2012/08/saying-yes.html

    Praying for you, friend… that God will be glorified through the words you speak this weekend.

  40. When I fear, I stop looking at God and start focusing on the fear. Not smart! It is paralyzing. It does absolutely NO good to fret. NONE! I want to trust God in everything and stop worrying.

  41. Thank you, so, for these words today. Fear is something I deal with daily – needless to say, your words brought much comfort. A verse that helps me when I feel fear growing strong is Psalm 94:18-19 – When I said my foot is slipping, your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.

  42. Fear has done nothing but rob me of things. Time with my children, pets, and friends. I have given that up and just given thanks for taking my fears from me. And I am slowly feeling better about the outcome no matter what it is. So thank you God!

  43. Sometimes I think I was crowned the “queen of fear”, as I’ve been fearful since childhood of many things, including my own shadow! BUT I AM DONE WITH FEAR! I’ve seen how the lies of fear have robbed me of so much: joy in the moment; new adventures; appointed opportunities; precious time with loved ones; sleep! Each time the enemy edges or blasts fear in my face, I blast back the Word in his and throw myself on the throne of Grace where Perfect Love meets me there. And fear dissipates. May God be glorified in this.

  44. Fear and worry just stops me in my tracks – paralyzed. It does nothing to help me. With the Lord’s presence in my life, I shout AWAY – and I start LIVING and MOVING again – knowing that all is according to His purpose. Facing my fears & worries has given me new purpose in my life – and I’m using it to try to help others who have a similar rare health issue. I read Ann’s book in the midst of one of my health trials – and so found true that gratitude for what we are given simply brings joy. Good or bad – it is all a gift – from above – for a purpose.

  45. Sometimes I think I was crowned the “queen of fear”, as I’ve been fearful of many things since childhood, including my own shadow! BUT I AM DONE WITH FEAR! I’ve seen how the lies of fear have robbed me of so much: joy in the moment; new adventures; appointed opportunities; precious time with loved ones; sleep! Each time the enemy edges or blasts fear in my face, I blast back the Word in his and throw myself on the throne of Grace where Perfect Love meets me there. And fear dissipates. May God be glorified in this.

  46. I have lived battling fear most of my life. Fear has been my constant companion. What I’ve learned is, so has God. When I look back, most of what I feared never happened. Some of what I feared, did happen. Either way, God was with me. He never left my side, and He enabled me to walk through that which did happen. Not only that, but I grew through each and every experience. Oh, I still hate fear, and I do still battle with it. I believe I probably will for the rest of my life, but that battle has significantly eased upon realizing God’s presence and His strength in my battle.
    Fear caused me to live like that which I feared had already happened, even if it never did. What a waste! My God is bigger than that. Slowly, I’m learning to trust, and as I do, fear loses.
    Ann, I’m hoping to see you this weekend! So terribly excited!!!!

  47. I need to work on giving up fear and putting trust in God so that I can be the mom my kids need. Even when fear hides to look like something else, like procrastination, shyness or protectiveness. I really like “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.”

  48. Honestly, I never think of myself as “fearful” — until I look at the things I resist/hesitate/avoid doing…fear. Falling into trust today! Thanks for this!

  49. I’m not sure I AM totally done with fear…though I try to be. I’ve even done public speaking about fear–and public speaking is a fear of my own. I think fear & insecurity are woven together because when I am afraid of something, I think it is because I start thinking “who am I to do this?” “why would people listen to what I have to say?” or just because I am not a flashy or entertaining speaker (and that is what seems to be the norm; people want to be entertained). Oh well…I’ll get there, to that point of not having fear…hopefully.

  50. Worry gives me the feeling of being active but leaves with the gnawing feelings of fear and a misplaced trust in the power of my circumstances over the power of my God. I want to walk out of fear and into assurance that my God is who He always has been. He is faithful.

  51. Fear.. wow something that has impacted my life.. fear was stepping out to an unknown town and planting a church..fear was feeling like all my world was falling apart when people i loved and trusted walked away from our small church plant.. fear was the unknown of what our future holds… But perfect love casts out FEAR… i rest in the knowledge of whatever tomorrow brings i can hold it as gift from my heavenly father who will never leave me or forsake me.. 1000 gifts has changed my perspective,like getting a new pair of glasses and the world comes into focus all new and exciting….. i can say goodbye to fear and rest fully in Gods grace.

  52. I am so glad I found this amazing post today!! Thank you so much. I am done fearing I can’t please everyone!

  53. Fear has crippled me for going on 10 years…ever since my husband and I were married. Fear of not being enough, fear of my son’s previously undiagnosed crippling health conditions, fear now of knowing what is ‘wrong’ with him–autism, fear of my marriage failing due to the fears of financial insecurity, fear of not being a good enough teacher, fear that my daughter, who in trying to cope with the stress of living with a constant screamer and non-talker (our son, pre-diagnosis) would kill herself by binging and purging in an attempt to control our uncontrolled lives, fear that my family wasn’t accepted anywhere due to all our problems, fear that my husband would lose his job…again, fear…crippling fear. I am not even who I used to be…this fun-loving, happy-go-lucky mother who raised her only daughter, took trips, took risks, and had fun in the process…I don’t recognize me, and I am SICK OF IT. Over the past year I have claimed hold of the MANY promises that God has given in his Word for me and for my family. Despite all these challenges and the fears, we are coming back, stronger, more congealed, and we are healing…we are facing our fears…with GOD as our armor! Thank you for this post. I am walking in victory, thankful that God is winning the battle over fear in my life! Thank you God!

  54. I would have never considered myself a fearful person until HE unmasked all the way fear disquises itself…and I came to understand fear is at the very core of a woman…and when that fear comes out and we don’t hand it over to Jesus…we control…when control doesn’t work we get angry….So what kicks fear to the curb…perfect love…and not that I walk totally free…but once God really…really won my heart over to know who much I am loved…His perfect love for me…fear could not stay when Love takes over.
    xoxox to you…I will carry you this weekend in my heart…Oh, triumphant in Christ you will be…He will be your strength…If He calls…He will provide because He loves us too much not too.

  55. God has been speaking to me lately…and I am truly listening for the first time. I so desperately want my relationship with the Lord to grow and ease my fears of what tomorrow may hold. I will rest in him!

  56. God bless you!!!!! Fear has been such a struggle for me these past few weeks as I moved to college for the first time, thank you for sharing the grace God has put in your life!

  57. I am done with fear because God has shown me over and over that He is faithful, that He will do what He says He will do! It should be enough for me to read these promises and truths in His word but He so graciously has shown me personally these promises! I can trust Him, therefore I have truly have nothing to fear!

  58. Dearest Ann: I praise God for your gift of sharing His grace with all of us who need it so desperately. Your book has changed my perspective on life just as God was leading me into a new season of relying more fully upon Him as my Provider and Source. I go back to your book and your wonderful Web site frequently when I need reminders of His love and grace and rest. It helps me see the abundant life, peace and joy that comes only from Him. I am still a work in progress on getting rid of all fear and trusting in Him alone, not in flawed human beings. I want to serve other women for Him and see your book as a key resource for my ministry. May He continue to richly bless you and your beautiful family. Mary

  59. I see myself as a work in progress, but am trying every day to let His love and grace wash over me. When I catch myself being afraid, I ask Him for guidance and pray for the peace of mind and strength to overcome that fear.

  60. I’m done and over with fearing that I’m not good enough: not a perfect wife, mom and Christian. Grace.is.enough.

  61. The Lord has been reminding me lately that I may be anxious about many things, but one thing is necessary: to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to his teaching. So that’s what I’m seeking.

  62. I’m done with the fear of things not working out how I think they should work out. I have discovered that God is with me regardless of how life goes. I should not have to fear what I can not control anyway. Just trust in my God and know he has the best plans for my life.

  63. I am trying to get past my fear of screwing up as a mother -thankful that His grace is sufficient and mercies new every morning!

  64. Is there a mama alive who doesn’t fear for her children? That they will be healthy, preserved from harm, walk by faith, find what God created them to do and be? I have been fearful for my son, a gifted musician who is struggling to find his way beyond his own fears.

    And so I want to control and manipulate and make things happen for him. Because, ultimately, I’m afraid God isn’t going to come through for him.

    But I’m learning to rest, to trust the God who sees–the One who saw him when he was an infant in the Philippines. The One who drew him out, gave him to me, and put him in front of a keyboard where he could offer his gift to the world.

    I wait. I pray. I remind my son that the One who sees is good. And He’s got him.

  65. I feel like a failure as a mom daily and fear that I will never measure up…I need to release that and accept His daily grace and mercy.

  66. I’m done with fear because teen girls need to know that only Jesus can fill the love gap in their hearts, no guy can or ever will do it. So, I have to push past my fear of failure, fear of exhaustion and being stretched. Fear of rejection and do what Jesus has called me to do. For these girls and His glory. Give me the strength I lack, Lord!

  67. Thank you so much for this. I am two and a half weeks off giving birth to my first child. The pregnancy has been far from simple-my husband had to undergo two significant operations for his Crohns disease, just at the same time as we found out our baby hasn’t formed properly and faces major surgery on birth to separate the oesopheagus and traces which have formed together and don’t connect to the stomach. Our little one also has Down Syndrome and I am so anxious about the weeks, months and years ahead-the surgery the baby faces, the lifetime of challenges, how we will cope, whether I will have to give up my career, and selfishly-even the cesarean birth. I KNOW God is in control but I can’t seem to let go of the fears, and your words were a very welcome reminder that if I’m serious about praising God and thanking Him for the gift that this child is, I can’t also sit fearing the future.

    God bless you.

  68. Thank you so much for this. I am two and a half weeks off giving birth to my first child. The pregnancy has been far from simple-my husband had to undergo two significant operations for his Crohns disease, just at the same time as we found out our baby hasn’t formed properly and faces major surgery on birth to separate the oesopheagus and traces which have formed together and don’t connect to the stomach. Our little one also has Down Syndrome and I am so anxious about the weeks, months and years ahead-the surgery the baby faces, the lifetime of challenges, how we will cope, whether I will have to give up my career, and selfishly-even the cesarean birth. I KNOW God is in control but I can’t seem to let go of the fears, and your words were a very welcome reminder that if I’m serious about praising God and thanking Him for the gift that this child is, I can’t also sit fearing the future.

  69. I have missed many opportunities when friends were seeking a comforting prayer, from me, and I choked. I cowardly said “I’ll pray for you” when they needed me to pray WITH them right then and there. I joined our prayer group at church to give me a somewhat controlled environment to learn how to pray aloud, and not be afraid. 6 months later and I’m not afraid anymore. I volunteer to bless a meal, and pray with a friend right when it is needed. It wasn’t easy, but so worth it!

  70. FEAR… well it has become more relivant in my life since Aug 3. My husband lost his job and as of right now has not found one. FEAR grips me as to how we will pay the bills. My son (21) is looking at a possible 4th back surgery. FEAR grips me as to how I can not “fix” his pain as a mother should be able to do. My 16 year old twins daughters driving. I FEAR for their safety…. But I have printed and posted Bible verses around my desk, listen to KLOVE on the radio to keep a more positive enviroment and keep reminding myself that GOD is IN CONTROL… and keep repeating it to myself whenever the FEAR keeps sneeking in my thoughts…. and PRAYING without ceasing…

  71. For far too long, I’ve let my fears prevent me from serving God and my church.

    Fear of public speaking. Fear of praying out loud. (I know, that’s one crazy, right? But I’m pretty sure it’s connected to the fear of public speaking.) Fear of saying or doing something that someone else isn’t going to agree with. Fear of not being “good enough” to serve…

    Thank you, Ann, for yet another reminder that we don’t have to be perfect. As the new school year kicks into high hear, I am delighted to say that I have pushed those fears to the side, and that I am now on the Children’s Committee at church and will be teaching 1st-3rd grade girls during children’s missions on Wednesday nights. I am praying that God will use me boldly to do His will.

    Prayers for all of the others posting comments here. I know it’s hard to put your fears to rest and just “let go and let God.” We just have to trust in Him and His unfailing love for us.

  72. I am done with fear, because fear is just a lie. And I serve a God Who Is Truth. Thank you for sharing, dear Ann–this post is my #613th gift!

  73. I have totally and fully turned my son and his future over to God. As hard as it has been over the past month, I have not done anything other than pray for my beautiful child. I have not enabled, I have not financed a less than healthy lifestyle, I have not allowed guilt or fear goade me into giving in to others who want me to take him back in under my roof and under my wing. I know God can do all things and I know that regardless of where my son is now, God loves him more than I do. In doing this I’ve layed aside the fear that people will find out that I’m not a perfect mother, wife, employee or human. I am who I am and with God by my side, that is enough!
    Thank you for the uplifting words of encouragement. Thank you for overcoming your fears and sharing yourself with us!

  74. My fear? It’s that I am not enough.

    So many days (like today, for example) I long to be different, stronger, better. And my utter and complete inability to be The-One-I-Want-To-Be leads me far away from faith, directly down the road to frustration, marching right into the ugly cage that is Fear.

    Today, though, I am going to look up. I am going to hope. I am going to recognize my Father’s hand working in the very moment of my “accidentally” visiting this site. I am going to trust that God–the Father who created me, after all–can take my very-rough edges and not-very-resilient emotions and use me anyway. Maybe to encourage someone else with a similar struggle.

    That is my fear-to-faith prayer on this day.

    [p.s. I am so grateful for your encouragement, especially today. May the blessing circle back . . . . ]

  75. Fear has changed my plans so many times. I am tired of letting it control me. And now I am seeing the same signs in my 5 year old daughter. I don’t want her to just live with fear the way I have all these years. I want her to overcome and not put up with the devil stopping her in her tracks. She has so many talents and giftings but fear has begun to stop her from doing all she can and being all she can be in Jesus. I pray, that God delivers her from the spirit of fear and she doesn’t have to fear anything every again. She is strong and courageous. Nothing can stop her!

  76. “I command you be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Josh 1:9 My life verse on my wall by the door to remind me daily…to keep walking in His will. I have been like Johah, running and hiding from my calling..which I heard from the voice of the Lord..I ran, and have been in the belly of the fish…but I am ready to go now..He has made me ready. Instead of being a teacher, I am to start a women’s crisis counseling center here in my town. I know..He is showing me every day…peeling the scales off my eyes to see that my own suffering was to give me the compassion and mercy and strength I would need to help others. He will use it all for His Glory! Hallelujah!

  77. It was our dear Gitz who literally took fear off the table and planted the seed that I could too. Even though I haven’t been able to remove fear in all situations, I am learning to just live anyway. #7- yes! I am living with stage iv breast cancer and a healthy dose of fear goes hand in hand with the diagnosis. But I keep stepping forward in faith and trust, knowing He knows, and I am safe resting in Him. Less of me = less fear = more of Him.

    Thank you sweet Ann!

  78. I want to live life to the fullest & all too often some sort of fear has held me back. I don’t want to live fearful, but fearless so that I can freely share with broken & hurting people the One who can love them back together again…

  79. Fear can be so paralyzing if you let it! It can stop you in your tracks & keep you from obeying what God has called you to do.We must remember that God has told us that it is better to obey than to sacrifice. I pray veryday to let the fear fall away & God is a;ways there for me! Thanks for this great reminder! Love the giveaway!

  80. I’m done with fear because the peace God offers is so refreshing when compared to the anxiety produced by fear. I love just resting in His arms and giving my fears over to Him.

  81. I cannot tell you how impactful your blogs on overcoming fear are to me, Ann. Reading this post plus the one about Malakia on your blog have been so encouraging. I have lived with so many fears for sooo long that even thinking about giving up my fears makes me fearful. Crazy, I know, but true. I have overcome some things but tend to waiver on most…going forward then backward. This, however, I believe is the season in my life to truly start trusting God through them all. I appreciate your honesty about the struggles you’ve had with fear as well. Thank-you.

  82. Ann, thank you for the en”courage”ment. I am a mother of three, one with special needs. I’m done fearing the future because or Lord is already there. All glory and thanks to the Father!

  83. Give me a crowd to speak to any day…but please, not one on one with someone. Seems a bit of a twisted fear…to let myself be seen. But then I ask why God seems so far away? Must be I am the one who won’t get close…to lose that fear..of the unknown to be known. God is not safe, but he is good…always…and there is no fear in that.

  84. Beautiful post – loved the truth that you can’t feel fear and give thanks. So glad to know that God’s love never ends and that He is always there for me. Giving up my fears to Him today. Thanks.
    Darlene

  85. Fear sucks life out of me at times . . . especially the fear of losing another child. A few days ago it was over six hours we could not get a hold of our son who forgot to pick up his sister from work. I had myself so worked up – then some of the kids. We “expected” the worst – rather than the truth that our son was helping a friend who was hurting, miscommunication with his sister, a cell phone that died, etc. It’s something I am still so working on – releasing the fears to God – and releasing – and re-releasing my children to God.

  86. I am DONE with fear because I serve the God of the Universe, the One who holds all things together and who cares for me personally and loves me unconditionally. I am DONE with fear because I KNOW that He is bigger than my doubts and fears… and despite my tiny faith, He is sovereign and never fails. Thanks Ann! Your thoughts were an inspiration, as always.

  87. I am a 25 yr old missionary doctor working in India. One of my fears is that somewhere down the line I am going to wake up and regret this decision I made or that I won’t have the strenth to follow this through and I will have to come back with my tail between my legs. But my biggest fear…on a more personal level is that I will have to to do this all on my own. That I will be alone fighting, struggling forever. Then I wake up every morning, smell the the morning and feel His love keeping me alive, safe and I know He will always be with me, even to the end of the age.

    • He knows our fears, and our needs. He will bring who you need when you need them. Don’t be afraid! You are chosen and you are beautifully and wonderfully made. Thank you for stepping out in faith and doing what He has called you to do! My heart is touched by your post. I will pray for you today Lydia.

  88. Being unemployed and physically sick has had be living in fear with worry and doubts… Every day I say I’m just going to trust in GOD and not worry anymore.. but every day I fall back to worry and fear.. but after reading this… I’m encouraged to try again.. and to resist wanting to worry… GOD is with me and I am certain of this… I just need to continue to believe and trust in Him and His timing…. I’m feeling a whole lot better today….

  89. Just this morning I was praying about this fear that has been waking me up the last few nights. It feels like terror and I pray til I fall back asleep. In my devotion this morning I was reading about Jesus calming the sea and the storm around the boat of frightened disciples. (Mathew 8:23-27) If He can calm a raging sea and sky then my heart and soul need to know He can do the same with my fears. So I turn my focus to Jesus and His strength rather than to this fear. Always reminding myself to keep turning to him, over and over and over. He needs to be my focus, not the fear.

  90. I am a 25 yr old missionary doctor working in India. One of my fears is that somewhere down the line I am going to wake up and regret this decision I made or that I won’t have the strenth to follow this through and I will have to come back with my tail between my legs. But my biggest fear…on a more personal level is that I will have to to do this all on my own. That I will be alone fighting, struggling forever. Then I wake up every morning, smell the morning and feel His love keeping me alive, safe and I know He will always be with me, even to the end of the age.

  91. I have release my FEAR of a problem marriage to GOD! He is working in mine and my husbands life, so I know he will be the center of our marriage and help us through our problems.

  92. I’d love to say I’m done with fear but more often than not, I get stuck on it, like a merry-go-round with no off switch. Fear is exhausting though so I tend to end fear when I’m simply exhausted with it. Faith is like a free fall but I never feel exhausted with faith, just very peaceful. And God always catches me when I let go of fear, when I get off that crazy spinning ride that just makes me dizzy. Today, I am done with fear. Thank you for writing this post – it made me think.

  93. Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it.”

    Numbers 13:30

    Because it’s time to silence the voices that say we can’t do what God has called us to do!

  94. I am finished fearing I will repeat my parents’ mistakes and that my lovely marriage will end in divorce, too, after forty years. I’m done making a fearful thought of a “what if tomorrow” a focus so that it strangles life today because I’ve seen that fear kills and it hurts everyone all around the fearful one. I’m done fearing last year’s struggles will never change and will continue on today because He is always creating a new thing and He is working, pouring in His grace to change me. I’m done fearing my mistakes will doom my children to unbelief because Jesus is the only Savior and I could never be the ones who saves them. I want to dazzle them woth His grace. There is only one Savior- and He is more than enough so I don’t have to be enough. So I’m going to GIVE THANKS instead of being fearful and anxious. It’s high time to free up! He is transforming me by renewing my mind and giving eyes to see all the grace He endlessly pours on me. We do become what we behold, as Andrew Kern says. I want to behold Him. And I want to live by His grace. No more fear.

  95. Fear not obeying. I prayed continually for discernment, then when it would come and it didn’t agree with what I had planned I cast it aside. When everything went wrong I would think “Oh, NO!! I didn’t obey God – AGAIN! ” Now I pray for the wisdom to be obedient to God’s discernment and I truly fear the outcome of not obeying.

  96. Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.
    I’m through looking at those who disappoint…fix my eyes on Jesus. Thanks for this Ann.

  97. I have wrestled with God lately with the fear of letting go of control…completely letting go and entrusting every area of my life to Him. I KNOW He is good, in my head; but I am allowing it to move into my soul. Allowing it to be truth in my inner most being. This has been especially true with letting go of my children; fear of the what ifs, thinking I can control their lives better than Abba Father can, fear of me dying and leaving them alone…. the list goes on. The thing is, it does not to me any good. And how could it, for it’s all lies from the enemy. I am learning to relinquish what I think of as control, and lay this all down at the feet of the One who loves my children more than me, the one who created me to trust Him, the one who gives life and breath and peace and indescribable joy and peace. He IS good, no matter what. How freeing and peaceful to let go of the fear and the lies, to rest in the One who can take my fears and turn them into rejoicing and thanksgiving! Why would I not fully embrace this? It certainly is better than this way that has not been working for me. He is the author of life and giver of all good things! Amen!

  98. Thank you so very much!! I so needed to see this message today. I’ve been struggling a lot this week with fear. You are so right, it does takes the place of your faith if you let it. I’m changing this around, because my God is bigger!! Thank you Lord!! Thank you again for the encouragement!! What a true blessing!!

  99. I have trouble in this very area. Right now, I choose to trust God for every provision during this time that my husband is in school and not working! I choose to trust God to help me build my business and be who He wants me to be. I am not in control. 🙂 God is!!

  100. Even though it is hard to admit that I have alot of fears, actually too many to list. This post was a great reminder that through God I can face any fear that I may have, time to jump in and start facing alot of things. Thank you for the reminder.

  101. I am done with fear because I believe it is the one thing that I am allowing to control my joy. I fear working because I won’t be home with my children, which then causes me to be frustrated from needing money and time of my own. I fear dancing in front of the church because of my weight when I know it is what God wants me to do and my gifts can change someone’s life. I fear speaking my heart for I will be turned away, when I know God is in control and He gives me my dreams. I do not want to fear! I want to jump joyfully onto God’s path for my life. The bible says perfect love casts out fear, well God’s love for us is perfect, there is no reason for fear to even exist in our hearts. So I MUST move forward with God and without fear.

  102. For the longest time the enemy had me convinced that I had no fear. I could slip on my tough girl mask and plow through life as a “strong, independent, fearless woman” and no one could stop me. And then grace showed up on my doorstep. God held my hand and walked me through fear and He didn’t let me fall for one second. He gently allowed me to experience the chunky, fleshy layers of this onion called fear. Fear of abandonment trapped in memories of chasing after my daddy’s truck when he left our family. Fear of rejection and failure when my attempts at perfection never quite measured up (this one especially wreaked havoc as I became a mother). Fear of hopelessness as a survivor of abuse, rape and cancer. I feared all of those fears…and they stole beautiful memories, blessed love, and unconditional acceptance. God has shown me that HE will never abandon me. HE will never reject me. In HIS eyes, I will never fail. And I can overflow with HOPE in HIM!! He has shown me He is WAY bigger than the boogey man in the garage that has haunted me in every dark area since being raped. He is WAY bigger than every tiny speck of fear lingering in my father’s footsteps. He is WAY bigger than any worldly judgment or expectation branded on me the moment I gave birth. He is WAY bigger than any sneaky cancer cells, PET scans, doctor’s visits, blood work or lab report. He is a mighty God who does amazing things with fears that the enemy attempts to steal away the very Joy that God has placed in our hearts.

  103. I have been struggling so much and it is so true that all fear is the notion God’s love ends and it doesn’t – nothing can separate us. Thank you for reminding me of that. x

  104. each day i want to choose life and joy and freedom– fear closes the door on allowing Christ to be a strong Savior for me and on God being my father. I want to allow Him to provide for me when I feel fear showing up at my door….
    Thank you so much for the continued encouragement!

  105. I remember a commercial about Nestea I believe. The man loves it so much, he just falls backwards into a pool of water. So trusting! That’s what we need–fall back into the arms of Jesus in total trust. Fear disappears!

  106. Ann,
    You did it again. Nailed it. Today.
    I have Sonshine #1 leaving for college. Flying on Monday. He is afraid. “I’m worried that I will continue to be lonely and nothing will change.” “I am guarding myself because I don’t want to be disappointed. Again.”
    I copied and sent. I told him, scale the fence of fear. Jump.

    • have him contact a Christian Campus House near campus for instant fellowship and acceptance! several denominations (and non-denominations) have great groups of students that strive to hold each other accountable and grow closer in Christ, while having a lot of fun and growing in community!

  107. Amazing post. God did give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. That is why I’m done with fear!!

  108. Why I’m done with fear: Probably 95% of the things I stress about do not ever come to pass, so why am I dwelling on it??

  109. Sometimes I am afraid, but my wonderful community of believers loves me through my fear.
    1 Thes 5:11 Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do.

  110. God has really done a lot of work in me regarding fear. My husband passed away last September after a year and a half battle with pancreatic cancer. He was only 47. I was only 37 and our son was 7. Jesus held me up through the entire process and has reassured me over and over again that HE will be there for my son and I and that we need not fear our future with Jerry. Through this He has strengthened my courage in Him and reassured me of his never ending love. Of course, it’s a daily battle against the lies, but at the end of the day I know the truth and run to Him.

    Thank you, Ann, for sharing your life. I just received your book and am so excited to read it. When I read your words it’s like they are going directly to my soul. God is doing great things in my life through your words. Thank you for being faithful to Him and your calling.

    Blessings!

    • prayers for you and your son as you continue to learn to live with the pain of your great loss. .. i know our God is big enough to carry you both through. may He bring joy-filled memories to your heart in the darkest times. bless you.

      • Thank you for your prayers! God blessed us with so many wonderful and cherished memories.

        God Bless You!
        Vicki

    • Dear Vicki,

      I will keep you and your young son in my prayers. When I read your final words to Ann I was thinking they could have been my words. Ann speaks directly to my soul, as well. You will love one thousand gifts over and over again.

      God bless you, Sister!
      Dawn

      • Thank you for your prayers and blessings to you.

        I started the book tonight and am already riveted.

        God bless you too!

        Vicki

  111. My children are still very young, but I’ve begun to fear for them, about everything! I’m done living in fear for them, and am instead striving to teach them where to look when we fear – “I lift my eyes up to the mountains. Where does my help come from?” God’s got them. And He’s got me too.

  112. The thing I fear most is the future of my children and the exposure and lies the world is telling them. I know our God is larger than any fear, and His promises gives me comfort, just as it says in Joshua 1:3-9
    “I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you … No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.”

  113. I’m done with fear because it is a liar! It lies to me then paralyzes me, unable to move. It is like a soccer goalie trying to intimidate with its ugly mask, and keep me from scoring when God has given me the ball and a set up.

    I’m done with fear because it is an enemy of love. It separates me from my Papa who has never given me a reason to engage fear. In fact Papa warns me not to associate with fear because fear is a fake.

  114. I have struggled for ages with the fear of others’ misunderstanding of or negative opinions concerning my parenting choices, work, writing, and other things. I know that the only One whose opinion matters eternally will never misunderstand and will always love and extend grace when I mess up.

  115. “5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail. Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.”

    I started walking this edict out last year (about this very time) when God asked if I would commit to a year-long women’s group at my church. One of my greatest fears has always been women and the enemy of comparison. Will I fit in? Will I be judged if I don’t dress like they do? Will there already be impenetrable cliques, like back in high school? Will there be whispering and gossip and competition? There were many obstacles in my heart to saying yes to God’s request. But, I did. And after completing that year, and gaining many new friends, and understanding the hearts of women like I never had, and being accepted, and, more importantly, being genuinely loved for who I am, I am now stepping into my second year with this women’s ministry group, except this year God asked me to step up again and become a small group leader. Did fear begin speaking? Yep. But God kept speaking directly to that fear.

    “6. Travel in the direction of your fears — to let God direct your life.”

    By hearing God and being empowered by the very women I was afraid of a year before, I am traveling directly in the path of my fear; and God is directing me and my purpose in Him simultaneously.

    Conquering fear one day, one decision at a time!

  116. The Lord has been reminding me that even though I may be anxious and distracted about many things, only one thing is necessary: to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His teaching. So that’s what I’m seeking today.

  117. I am a 25 yr old missionary doctor working in India. One of my fears is that somewhere down the line I am going to wake up and regret this decision I made or that I won’t have the strenth to follow this through and I will have to come back with my tail between my legs. But my biggest fear is that I will have to to do this all on my own. That I will be alone fighting, struggling forever. Then I wake up every morning, smell the morning and feel His love keeping me alive, safe and I know He will always be with me, even to the end of the age.

    • I’m praying for you, and the work that you do, right now.
      Praise God that He moves obedient people beyond fears into action, to be His hands and feet…thank you for being obedient!!
      You may always wonder “what if…” – but be assured, that HE is pleased with this path you are on! I trust Him with your future, and that although your future will, most assuredly, not have a resemblance to success in the American dream standards – but will be wildly successful in your relationship with Jesus. Lean in hard on Him. I’m sure He wants to carry you through those rough days.
      If there are things you desire, ask Him. I trust Him to find fulfillment for those desires in the field you are working. He cares!! I’m praying for you to feel His presence and peace…
      ~marina

  118. So fearful of everything, every day, I made choices based on those fears. Through it all God has been faithfully caring for me and my family. Half my life, statistically, is over and I am ready to live in the Son-shine.

  119. I am done with fear because it holds me back. I can’t move forward. I have to be willing to take that leap of faith and step out of my comfort zone. I NEED to stop fearing how others will react to my decisions. I am perfectly imperfect and I struggle with the fear of my decisions daily.

  120. I was less than two months into a job when I had to speak to a group of over 300 – about that job! Fortunately, I had a great manager and had met a hand-full of those folks, whom I used as my focus points (unknown to them). So, after a pep talk and a prayer, I presented the information and made it through what seemed to be the longest 30 minutes of my life. If I had not had the knowledge that “my God will supply all your NEED, according to His riches in Christ Jesus”, I’m not so sure I would have made it through that first of many presentations. To quote a wise prayer warrior I know, “I can do anything that God can do through me”… ;D

  121. My fear isn’t public speaking. I found that I can do that and my knees don’t even knowck too much anymore. My fear is speaking one-on-one that people will expect that I know more than I do. I’ve adopted as my motto,”I can start anything with twenty seconds of insane courage!”

  122. I am through with fear ~ God’s plans are good plans; He is my sufficiency; this wold is temporal. I serve a good God. Thanks for the reminders. Blessings

  123. Ann, thank you for those words. I am stepping out into unknown territory this very moment. My husband and I are separating and I don’t see a reconciliation coming. He has held another in his heart for a few years now. I have two beautiful children and I am so afraid to tell them this news that I am waiting until the last possible moment. I have always been so afraid of being alone, and now I believe God wants me to walk through that fear. I will do it with Him. Without His hope I would give up today. I know you don’t know me, but I read your blog every day, and every day it is a blessing. I especially appreciated the part where you said that He uses those who don’t disappoint to point to the one who never disappoints, as God has blessed me with a dear, faithful sister and friend who just yesterday reassured me that she would walk with me through this and be as involved as I wanted.

  124. Living in fear paralyzes you and keeps you from being PRESENT and enjoying the moment and the gifts HE has given us. My mother died when I was six and I have been fearful of dying and leaving my girls without a mother. I’ve taught them to be independent at such an early age…..it’s sad. I held out from truly giving of myself to them because I didn’t want them to miss me as much as I’ve missed my mother. After talking to my priest, he helped me see that I need to be here in the now and let go of that fear. Prayer has helped and I can feel myself giving more of myself to my girls and being PRESENT.
    Carolina
    sewcarolinaknits

  125. I always tell my children: we do not worry (fear)… If you are going to worry dont PRAY… IF YOUPRAY DONT WORRY!!!

  126. You have no idea how timely this post is for me. I have some major decisions to make today regarding my marriage and my family. I was up half the night filled with fear and despair. Today I will pray, and listen for that still small voice, and remember that “God hath not given me a spirit of fear, but of peace and love and a sound mind.”

    Blessings to you as you travel and speak, Ann. Oh how I wish I could be there.

  127. Faced beyond midlife with a possibility for love and marriage, I have had a few knee-knocking episodes. And my beloved has too, because we would both be starting over, with no financial resources beyond the Father’s ‘cattle on 1000 hills’. He wants enough to provide security for us, & for me it would mean a change of countries after a lifetime of service overseas. But I’m kicking fear in the teeth because if the God who has called & provided for me in His service to this point isn’t able to ‘carry us’ into loving old age, then heaven together, then nothing on which I’ve based my life & ministry is true. Why NOT trust the God whose faithfulness is proven every morning with a new start, & the sun coming up by His love? Get out of the boat, Peter, & experience what only Jesus could empower you to do!

  128. I am afraid to step out and make decisions and this has crippled my life. It is painful to me to make choices. And I can’t seem to get a handle on it, even though I know these are not matters of life and death, and that God watches over me and sustains me through anything.

  129. I have feared a lot of things since my husband moved out. Loss of my family, loss of my kids, financial fears, fear of losing my job and having no income. But now, when fears start rearing their ugly heads, I pray God would remove the fears. I know, no matter what happens to me, God is still there. I am learning to trust Him in my journey. Fear is the enemy of Faith. I choose Faith. 🙂 And i pray for her enemy, Fear.

  130. I’m done with fear because it has stolen too much of my purpose, and I’m tired of living in less than God has for me. He is trust worthy- slowly I’m learning that’s enough.

    • And two hours later…I get asked to speak in public for a women’s Bible study. I’m terrified to say “yes.” I think it’s a great time for Jesus to return!

      • I will be praying for you! Speaking in front of people terrifies me! But God is in control and He will give you the words!

  131. Great is He that is in me… than he that is in the world… 1John 4:4
    I love your book Ann… we need to rest in Christ. When my youngest son was diagnosed with epilepsy I didn’t know how to handle it… I was in denial. Over the year and a half that he had seizures I learned to rely and trust God and came to find that when you give it over to Him believing He has a plan and a purpose and that you can’t control everything but that He does… it takes the fear out of the situation. It gives you peace and rest. It was humbling and restoring for my soul…
    and I’m thankful to say we found the right meds and that my son has been seizure free for almost 2 years…

  132. I just turned 48 this month. For the first time in years I feel free from fears. It has been a long road to trust and peace but God has been faithful. We serve an awesome God who seeks after our us daily to bring liberty and assurance that He is all we need. I am so grateful for His goodness.

  133. Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying. — that’s awesome and that’s what I want to remember as I seek His direction in this season of being uncomfortable in my comfortableness.

  134. Great post! I am (trying to be) done with fearing (lack of) man’s praise and accolades and fearing God instead (the good kind of fear) 🙂 Thanks for a wonderful giveaway!

  135. Like so many others have commented, this is an ongoing challenge for me. Thank you for this beautiful reminder. I will be printing it out and putting it into my journal!

  136. I have always been a people pleaser. The idea of people being upset with me is sometimes unbearable but I am trying to remind myself that I do not have to please everyone, only God. It will not be the end of the world. Staying in the Word is definitely a big help in this area.

  137. I have struggled with fear all of my adult life. Fear has kept me from doing a lot of things in my life. But I prayed a prayer of transformation and I know God has set me free from anything I think is impossible from that day forward.

  138. Fear has held me back and made me less confident in my abilities to the point of almost being paralyzing. I have determined to take back my life and trust God over my fears.

  139. Can I trust that God is good and is control regardless of circumstances? I’m thankful for His presence.

  140. Last night I went to a parenting workshop about eliminating fear and anxiety to bring calm to the family. For the first time, I realized something that was said- that perfection only causes our children to quit since they don’t ever think they’ll be good enough. I learned that fear of what others think of us is the only reason we care about when our children pick out tacky outfits or do things that aren’t “normal”. We teach them not to learn how to become self-confident in their decisions, how to become followers and not leaders, and that other people control their emotions.

    I’m done with fear because I want my children to grow up knowing that they are the only ones that control their feelings. That no matter what, I’m not shaken by fear and that they can come to me when they have a small problem or a huge problem. I’m done with fear b/c I want my husband and I to be people of our word- of His word. Just like God is not shaken of our mistakes and is always there, no.matter.what.

    So, fear– I’m leaving you and God help me, won’t be back. You aren’t worth it – and I hope you DON’T find someone new! I hope you know I’m stronger than you and happier without you. So there!

  141. I am done fearing the state of our finances! My husband is a licensed massage therapist, quit his job at the age of 50 and went back to school to do what he has always wanted to do.
    Praise the Lord, I have a full time job with benefits. Our needs are being provided for – but I still fear, because, let’s face it, this is a challenging time to have a small business, especially one that provides a service that, lovely and splendid though a massage is, is considered a luxury by many folks, and when money is tight, luxuries go first.
    But – God is bigger than my fear – and he “works all things together for good” as my favorite verse, Romans 8:28 says. Fear keeps me from fully enjoying the blessings I have – and that’s bad! I join you in giving my fear a good swift kick to the curb!

  142. What ever we fear, we worship. Longing to give Him all my fear instead of anything else.

  143. God is good ALL the time! His perfect love casts out all fear! When I notice my thoughts have wandered away, which can happen unconsciously, the Holy Spirit reminds me to look up and focus on Him. I must be intentional in choosing God over fear. Through praise I can refocus and rest in Him. By remembering who I am in Him and who He is the raging storm inside can calm no matter what the circumstances. I am a work in progress…He promises to complete!

  144. Done with the fear of putting my kids in school. God’s led us to this place and more importantly, He’s got them. He loves them.

  145. I’m done with fearing that something terrible is going to happen to my husband, and I’ll be left alone caring for an infant.

  146. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

    This sits on my desk in front of me while I work, it is the root of His word for me. He Will NEVER Leave You or Forsake you. I just have to keep coming back to it when the devil starts to steer my thoughts. Thank you Lord for Your word, it is so good!!

  147. I am determined to be done with fear, because My Daddy loves me completely, He can be fully trusted, and He has given me power in the name of Jesus!!! Though I may feel jostled at times, I will praise and thank Him until the breakthrough of His peace and rest fills my soul!

    Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this community!

  148. WOW…fear has been {sadly} a family trait kinda passed down from my gram to my mom to me…BUT when I read the line that said ‘fear lies saying that God’s love has a limit’..it hit me- WOW- there is no line limiting God- and if God is there {which He is} then I have nothing to fear- how LIBERATING!!! I have nothing to fear..NOTHING..thank you LORD!!! Thanks to you, DaySpring, for bringing God’s truth and what an awesome giveaway!! I purchased the bag and grace pins for my girl’s 20th bday-she loves them and will be going across campus with that message of redemption on her shoulder 🙂

  149. I am done fearing, because I finally let go of the notion that I am in control. I now trust that I need to give it to God and it will work out as it should, not always how I would like, but something good will always become of it (even if I can’t see it at the time).

  150. am done with fear cause it no longer holds me in chains. He has set me free!! staying free by staying in His word and in His presence. =0)

  151. I am done with fear so that I do not make my kids fearful. I want them to grow up without fear and if they see fear in me then they will think its ok. So i am choosing to walk not in fear.

  152. Ann, each day God speaks to me through you. Thank you for sharing His Heart and your fears! I have been living in a fearful state for the past few months, I let go of what i knew was right and followed the devil and listened to him whisper into my ear what a bad mother I was. I am turning the corner now and listening to God not the devil and He whispers, I love you, you are the mother I want you to be. Thanks for sharing!

  153. I think that fear has paralyzed me most of my life. In my head I know that fear is NOT from GOD and that He is sufficient to meet all of my needs according to His riches in glory. But I don’t live that way most times. I need to break out of this shell I’ve been living in and live the life that my God has intended for me. Let go and let God!! I’m going to try to just relax in Him and do what He tells me.

  154. I’m done with fear…..had me paralized for years. Refuse to miss out on anything the Lord wants me to do & show me. Want His best. Plus, it has given me freedom to be able to share with my son about overcoming his – with His confidence & assurance.
    Done with fear of being compared too – I’m a twin & have always been compared. But resting in the knowing that I’m beautifully & uniquely made has given me such courage in sharing with my daugther to rest in what He thinks about her.

    I’m DONE with fear! =)

  155. My biggest fear is not being the perfect mother. I have to remind myself that my love will always mean more than how many books I read him, how many cute outfits he has, than the approval of other mothers… I am overcoming my fear because it is essential that my little boy knows the love of Christ. If I am afraid, how can I teach my son to not fear failure?? I am leaving this fear behind because I want my son to trust in Him, always, without a doubt in his sweet little mind.

  156. Thank you for this encouragement today! I have been held back in fear with my job – I have been praying and know that I must leave and yet I stay back out of fear of finances, what will a new job be like, etc… I must trust God as He is in control of our family’s finances!

  157. I am done with fear because he spared me from what should have been a horrible car accident. Not only spared my life, unharmed physically as well. I am here because He wants me here and it took that moment to see that all is truly grace.

  158. Thank you for the reminder.

    He is our Refuge and Strong Tower…our everpresent Help in times of trouble. Fear can seem so huge when we focus on it, but when we look to Him, it shrinks in comparison. I choose to keep my focus on God, the Author and Perfector of our faith.

  159. I have recently learned that I do have a choice. According to Philippians 4:6-7 (CEV), when I choose God’s peace over fear or worry, my thoughts and feelings will be under His control . If I choose His peace I will be guarded by it and I don’t HAVE to be like a wave tossed about by the enemy’s schemes on my emotions. I choose to be done with fear because I now realize that I have the choice. To say no to fear is to say no the the devil and yes to Jesus. Why would I choose anything else?

  160. I am a traveler on this journey, and often I fall into a ‘hole’ of fear. Sometimes I think I cannot get out of that hole, but I find that the Arms of Jesus are right there in the bottom of that hole, to lift me back up to resume the travel again. How can eucharisteo not be a part of my every breath?
    Thank you, Ann, for encouraging all of us during this journey to trust and not fear. Thank You, as well, for not being afraid to express your fears, and show yourself transparent to those of us who are sisters of the heart.
    Sue

  161. wonderful to hear how so many people are facing (and winning!) their battles over fear!! YAY! thanks for posting this! good timing for me as we sit on the cusp of another move, to a new state. while i’m so proud (and happy) that my husband is loving his new position, i’m seeking God’s will for my life as i leave a church, ministry and community that was a perfect fit! i totally trust Him, just fidgety in this waiting room. 🙂 your post reminds me i don’t need to consider being fearful! not an option! His Word is true, and gives me the courage i need to keep moving forward.

  162. Thank you for sharing your words and encouraging others to as well. Still working through… again thank you.

  163. I have lived with fear most of my life but about 5 years ago God literally healed me and along with anxiety meds, my life has changed so much. But every once in awhile it wants to creep back in….I remember how good my Father was in healing me and hold on tightly to Him while praying that i will never go there again. It is a constant fight but my Father has defeated the one who brings the fear and I stand on that……and His promises. 😉

    With a grateful heart,
    Niki

  164. I am done fearing man, I am ready to keep my eyes fixed on the Lord and be excited about what he has in his plan for my life. I am ready to put one foot in front of the other and walk in faith knowing that my God is way bigger then my fear.

  165. Such a timely post! I want to print this out and learn these truths in the fearful moments. I struggle with fear and cling to the reminder to “trust in the goodness of God.”

  166. Oh, dear friend, my love is flying with you! Praying for you, Ann. I can’t wait to hear how you bless all the women of faith who attend. And I’m done fearing because…because…it separates me from Him–from the goodness of God. And when I am close to Him…what do I have to fear?

  167. Amazing thoughts as always.
    I was afraid to go to the mission field because I was 50 years old, afraid of public speaking and afraid to leave my kids and handicapped grand children. I was also afraid the youngest who was only 2 would forget me.
    God has proven himself faithful so many times that I can’t doubt his leading and that He will always be enough.
    I love sharing what God is doing and am closer to my Children and grandchildren than ever.

  168. Oh thank you Ann! That spoke right into my heart. Thank for allowing Him to use your words to speak to all of us that need to hear it.

    I have many fears that I’m working through, the central theme being fear of failure so this really hit home with me. I’ll be copying those 10 Things to Know about Fear and carrying them with me. Thank you for helping me to see those fears in a different light.

    I’ll be at women of faith this weekend in Des Moines and I am looking forward to hearing you speak.

    I’d love to win a copy of your book because right after I bought it, I made a “box of joy” with the book inside of it and gave it away to my friend who is going through a very rough time. I desperately want to read it for myself too! I should have made myself a box of joy too! 😉

    Thank you thank you thank you Ann!

  169. I’m done with fear. Because whenever I am, God shows me how much better it is, without all these heavy thoughts.

    <3

  170. Although I have a personal relationship with our Father, I have pretty much let fear rule my life. To the point of panic attacks and the fear to leave my home at times. I am fighting that fear right now and I want to break free so badly. I pray each and every time for Jesus to help me to take a step to regain my life. Thank you Ann…your words always speak to my heart.

  171. I work writing radio commercials, I write a blog, and yet, I have a hard time considering myself a “real writer”. I signed up for a writers’ conference. I started reading about all the seminars that used terms I’d never heard before, and began to fear I was in way over my head. After all, I’d never had anything published, so who was I to sit with authors or meet with publishers? Craziness! I waited until the last possible moment to apply for a scholarship and still almost turned back. I was listening to the lies that I was not good enough, not smart enough, not talented enough to express what God put on my heart for others to hear. God granted that scholarship, I had wonderful feedback, 2 of my devotionals are being published in Oct/Nov and I won a prose contest with a prize of savings on next year’s registration. I am so grateful to my pastor who had encouraged me with Joshua 1:9 days before the conference. “Have I not COMMANDED you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” He had not given us a spirit of fear…it is a lie from the evil one! Be blessed in your speaking tour with Women of Faith (love them!!).

  172. I have a note in my wallet that I put there sometime back it says…”Fear is a LIE.” I have to remind myself of this daily. I want to be able to trust God no matter what I’m facing. Not to let my feelings (which we are told in the Bible not to go by our feelings) over shadow the promises our Lord has made to you and I. He has good things planned for me and a future. We’ll have to face uncertainty that’s a given but we have all the tools we need to conquer them victoriously!! We are over comers and the battle HAS been won. We just have to claim the victory and continue to trust in our God.

  173. When I was 15 I had the spirit of fear on me. I was afraid of everything – I mean Eh-Vre-Thing!! It was all encompassing and effected my friendships, family, and life. My parents were faithful to pray for me and when they were at a marriage retreat and in the middle of a prayer time, the speaker got up and announced that someone there had a 15 year old daughter that had just been released from the spirit of fear. They looked at each other and knew, it was me! A few weeks went by before they told me, they just watched as I was back to me again, when they told me I was stunned to realize that it had left me so quickly, I did not even realize that I was no longer paralyzed by fear. Through the years, I remember that, when I become afraid – that He has released me and it is not mine to carry. My main “fear” these days is that, as a single mom of a 3 year old little girl, I will fail to raise her well. I will not set her up with enough of a foundation to always seek the face of our Loving Father. My human-ness scares me – I want so much for her heart and spirit to be aligned with His.

  174. I am a pleaser. I have a fear of letting others down with either what I say, do, or how I act. I worry so much about what others are going to think of me I forget sometimes that the only one I need to please is God. I want Him to be pleased with my life and where my heart is at. Help me Lord to get over the fear of letting others down because all it does is drag me down and makes me feel inadequate in so many ways. Thank you Lord!

  175. Wow. I think I may need to post those top ten on my mirror in my bathroom every morning. I need that reminder daily…hourly…minutely (is that a word?) I’ve only recently admitted this to someone but I am afraid. And not just public speaking but everything. I am afraid of speaking up. Of making mistakes. Of leaving the oven on. Just recently God decided to hit me between the eyes with the fears I allow to control my decisions. I know I need to just ‘Let go and let God’ to trust that He has everything in control and that my fears will not be what defines me. I can’t say that I have given up my fears, I don’t know if I will ever fully be able to give them up, I hope and pray that I am able to lay them all at the feet of Jesus and be able to trust in His love for me and allow Him to guide my steps and not my fears. When I get discouraged and afraid I turn to Isaiah 41:8-10 from the Message
    “But you, Israel, are my servant. You’re Jacob, my first choice, descendants of my good friend Abraham. I pulled you in from all over the world, called you in from every dark corner of the earth, Telling you, ‘You’re my servant, serving on my side. I’ve picked you. I haven’t dropped you.’ Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you.”
    Sometimes I allow for my fears to kick me down but no matter how far my fears get a hold of me I will daily, hourly, minutely when necessary give them over to Jesus because He’s got His hold on me, not on my fears. He has called me and placed within me a spirit of power, love and self-discipline NOT of fear and timidity. He doesn’t want me to be afraid! I don’t want me to be afraid, so I will hand them over and trust what He has promised. That He is in control.

  176. Mom of 3, wife, and homemaker! I have faced my fears by having my faith in God to always get me through it! Once I was burdened and had a weight on my shoulders that I couldn’t stand before a crowd and speak let alone try to sing without my lips trembling and voice cracking. Once I layed my fear at His feet, all anxiousness and fear was released and I now am able to sing/speak before a crowd knowing I do it to worship Him!!!

  177. Wow, reading all these posts of women who fear the same things I fear. That in it’s self encourages me. I’m so thankful for Christian sisters everywhere who back me up, love me when I’m downright awful, pray for me. And I’m thankful that I’m learning to have the courage to do the same for them. That I’m “good enough” to encourage. What an amazing and wonderful Father we all have that binds us together!

  178. This always gets me, every time I read something like it from you: “It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear — and give thanks.”

    Kicking fear to the curb because it is not welcome here! I’m honestly just plain tired of fearing.

    Thanks for this post. (And love that giveaway package. It sure is going to bless someone!)

  179. I was just thinking about fear this morning. I fear failure, so much that I won’t even bother trying to change because I fear that I won’t. I’m ready to step out in faith.

  180. Thank you, Ann. Beautiful, raw, and real as always. I used to call myself the Queen of Fear. Now I’m a recovering fear girl. It’s a hard, hard work to break the habit of fear. Praying for us all that we would believe more, trust more, live more, and fear less.

  181. Only because of God’s amazing and sustaining grace have I survived three life shattering and altering fears I believe each woman wholeheartedly would agree which is at the top of our real fear list:
    1. Divorce (after 25 years of marriage)
    2. Death of a child (my precious 35 year son)
    3. Breast Cancer this past year!

    Praise God HE is Faithful moment by moment, minute by minute, hour by hour, morning by morning , month by month, mile after mile, decade after decade! The enemy of our soul strikes fear in us by whispering his lies “you will never live through this…you can not survive” Yet, He has left me here to testify “satan is a liar”!

    Smack dab in the middle of the word through, you find the word “ROUGH” and in the middle of the word rough is U. As my pastor said, “God is not always a God of deliverence but a God of Throughness. God’s gonna get you through this Rhonda.” And God enables us to face our fears and give us life experiences to encourage others!

  182. Beautiful post! I’m done fearing because it’s not worth it – not worth the time, energy, mental exhaustion that it brings. My life is so much easier when I just give it to God.

  183. I’m done fearing what others think about me and my decisions about my life and my families life!
    Thanks for the encouragement!

  184. I’ve been reading this blog every so often and everytime its straight from God. Today’s post has been extremely motivating. Every fact about fear listed encourages me to pick everything up again and keep moving forward. To push through the boundaries man has created and step into the Freedom God has given me. To realise it is only through Christ’s strength that I can truly walk in the peace of God despite every fear I have.

    Thank you so much for sharing the lessons you have learned and the revelation God has put on your heart.
    xxxL

  185. I am afraid of making mistakes, looking stupid, being the odd one instead of worrying about whether I’m doing the right thing. God has been working on me about this, and your post goes right along with what he’s teaching me. Thanks for this post!

    I would love to win the giveaway!

  186. I’m done living with fear because my Heavenly Father is like my earthly dad who once coaxed his cowering little girl out from under her bed where she was hiding from a thunderstorm. He brought her outside and stood her facing the storm with his arms around her. He made her count the seconds between lightning and thunder and told her that each second between meant the storm was 1,000 more km away. Now I face fears and count gifts in remembrance that storms are farther than they seem, that it is a Good Father who holds us right close.

  187. Fear is a fraud! It’s not something I have to live in. I choose thanks, and joy and grace! What an awesome, loving and beautiful Father we have!

  188. It’s amazing how the growth from fearless crawling and unabashed shame as a child grows and molts into a fear of face to face interaction and quiet insecurities. I struggle with fears. Struggle at even shining light at them, afraid of…of the possibilities and opportunities that God would present allowing more fears to press in close and drown out the child. But even Christ says–He tells His disciples to let the children come near, to let them draw close and to even be like them. Stop thinking, stop analyzing, just do, just be, just love. There is no fear in love, for “perfect love casts out all fear…” right? I hope, I pray I can find that confidence. It’s been too long away from His throne. Pray for me please…

  189. I’ve been forcing myself to do things even though I’m fearful, because this just has to stop. I can’t stop the way I feel, but I can try and change actions.

  190. In June, I was frightened and scared for what was going to happen in a certain country that I love, for awhile, I felt there was no hope, but finally, I had enough of FEAR, and dug into reading Ephesians and then 1 Peter. I couldn’t get enough of God’s truths for me and when fear started to rise, I went back and reviewed the truths of God’s Word!

    Now today, I can joyfully say that my husband and I could be in a fearful situation, but we have chosen peace as we take a step of faith (aka by some people: Risking everything we have worked towards! Stepping WAY out of our comfort zone! Completely insane!), but we look at it as tough love and obedience as we continue to fear God to walk through this new phase of our lives and ministry.

    Love the giveway package too and thanks for your ministry here at inCourage! 😉

  191. Thank you for the encouragement today. I love what you said about “Your fears don’t decide your fate – your fears destroy your faith.” I am not going to let that happen. It is scary to think that I am putting a wall up between me and my Lord. Also, as you said it is impossible to fear if you give thanks to Him. I plan to make a conscience effort to pray/give thanks in/for all things. Psalm 30:12 “that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.”

  192. I often think of what Grandmama said to Annette in Treasures of the Snow. Perfect love casts out fear. If we believe that God loves us with a perfect love we know that he will not let anything into our lives that we can not handle and that He cannot make something beautiful out of. If we believe that, what have we to fear.

  193. I am done with the fear of not pleasing. Always have an underlying fear I disappoint someone. As long as I please God everything else will fall into place- Thank you God for loving me exactly where i am…

  194. Dear Heavenly Father, free me from Fear! Starting over in a new community can be frightening! I pray daily to overcome my fears and for strength to do Gods will.

  195. For God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power love and self control. I taught my grandchildren this verse many years ago. As our family is separated I pray my grandchildren remember this powerful verse and know that Popi and I love them very much and miss them. I ask for prayer for God to intervene and bind the work of Satan.
    Thank you Ann so much for your gift of words.

  196. Ann,
    I discovered your blog two years ago ,during a really tough time for my family.
    I was overwhelmed with fears, and dreaded darkness,and going to bed at night. My husband worked thr nite shift. I poured myself into reading your blogs and digging into the archives for past posts. They are so uplifting. Each night before I went to bed,Iturned Gods Word on my computer ,Loud!! So I could hear His reassurance to me as i drifted off to sleep. { This freaked my husband out the first night he came home and heard it ! } Absorbing Gods Word into my thoughts whenever fear tried to creep in ,set me free !!! I praise Him for being my deliverer.

    • A powerful Word, yes BobbiLynn? What a beautiful story of triumph over fear. He IS our deliverer. For this I am so grateful today. Focusing on Him…

  197. For over a decade I allowed myself to be obedient to fear and it has gotten me no where! Time to face the fear for what it is- a lie- and turn to my all-mighty, loving God!

    ‘don’t tell God how BIG your mountain is, tell the mountain how BIG your GOD is!’

  198. Fear has been my life’s theme. It has not gone well. Today I choose FAITH over fear. This I know…My God loves me! I choose to rest in that Truth as I earnestly seek Him.
    Thank you Ann for choosing FAITH over fear and allowing God to use you to point the way to HIM!

  199. I love ‘Fear is always the flee ahead.’ I am fearful that I am going to lose my child and I get overwhelmed when I flee ahead to the prospect of an empty crib. God has called me for right here; right now. I want to be done with fleeing ahead.

  200. I don’t think I am done with fear yet but with His help, I can get through it! I would give anything to fly right up to the Son! Without Him……I am NOTHING. ♥

  201. I have such a fear of money. Of not having enough. But every single month, HE provides. Somehow, someway, it all works out. I will no longer fear going broke, because HE provides all things.

  202. Because God wants to use my pain and my ugliness to reveal His grace, His glory and His beauty!

  203. Strangely, I just received a call from my college daughter. She was on her way to visit a friend at another college and her car broke down on a very lonely dangerous highway. She tried to call and text me but I was busy in a class and missed it.
    My first reaction when I discovered my baby was on the side of a road (by that time a police officer had picked her up and taken her to a safe spot) was fear!
    A million thoughts ran through my mind and I wanted to run out of my classroom to rescue her. But then the Holy Spirit stopped me and said…”Calm down, call your hubby and trust me!”
    After speaking to her and my hubby….and listening to the Spirit, I feel confident that all will be ok.

    My fears come when I seem to have my guard down. Always TRUST HIM!

  204. I am done with fear because it keeps me from being in communion with my God and fulfilling His plan for my life (which is loving others well). And it makes me feel lousy!

  205. I’m done with fear because I Fully Rely On God. I know His Love. In the late 1980’s, I was fixing to fly overseas with my daughter (then age 12), my husband asked: “what if the plane crashes?”. My immediate reply: “when it is my time to go, it is my time to go.”. I knew then, Fear Not.

  206. Wow! Reading all these posts I realize I am not the only one thatstruggles with this. I worry bout our finances, health of me and my family. Fear of failure too. And it’s true fear stops you from moving forward, from doing what God wants you to do, from enjoying the life God has given you. He has been speaking to me a lot about this that I need not fear cause he’s always with us he never leaves us. That he works everything out for the good. Above all that he loves me, that perfect love casts out all fear! We need to receive his love and believe that he loves us. Recently was told have a tumor in my uterus thanks to God it’s not cancerous however they do want to monitor it. Yes fear came when i got the news but God and wonderful women in my life encouraged me told me not to fear that God is in control! To believe that he will work it all out. I have a necklace with a cross that says Believe whenever I wear it, it reminds me that God is tellng me to believe! I will choose to believe and not give in to fear and the lies of the enemy! It’s not easy but all things are possible for him who believes.

  207. I’m done with fear because it steals my happiness, it robs me of time in my day that can be used for good, it makes me a person I don’t want to be, it is not who God designed me to be. I am done with fear!!!

  208. I am done with fear (worry) because:

    “9. Fear is always the flee ahead. God is I AM and His presence fills the present moment. Just. Rest. in. Him. in. This. Moment.” (Ann Voskamp)

    Replacing the lies, the worries, and the fears with the truth right now! Trusting Him for everything I and my family need now and forevermore … “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:9)

  209. Fear for me is rooted way down deep to the core of do I really trust that God loves me. The creator of the universe who created millions of little people throughout the centuries, does he really have the details of my unimportant life in his hands? Can I really have peace in all circumstances? Fear of letting go of the control I don’t have to begin with and free falling into his arms. Do I trust Him?

  210. I am done with fear because I have a 3 year old daughter I don’t wish to install fear in. I’ve spent most of my life fearing things from past sexual abuse I never dealt with. I’m on the journey of recovering and have decided to claim my life back and kick fear to the side!! God’s grace is has been amazing in this journey!

  211. Dear Ann,
    So many comments here, but another voice in the midst of them to say I will be where you are flying out to be this weekend. A sweet friend and I, two homeschooling farm wives, will be hoping to meet you and say hello.

    Praying for you, and all of us who will gather together

  212. I can thank Him and be right here, in this moment, and I can experience His Grace ……. Not Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. He is healing my heart!

  213. I like the acronym for FEAR: False Evidence Appearing Real. As it is a counterfit for faith. Making daily choices of choosing faith instead of fear, because fear paralyses and makes us feel like failures. But faith moves, it does something. Walking by faith and in love.

    “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.” Because perfect love cast out all fear, and God is love. Often ask God to perfect us in His love, fear has to go!

  214. Learning everyday to stop fearing the dark, hideous things of this world that could harm me and my loved ones. When I read about kidnappings, and children being stolen and trafficked, raped and murdered, my blood runs cold and I bed God not to let it happen to my own precious little ones. But I am slowely learning to stop fearing and start trusting. These are GOD’s little ones too – not just mine. And HE will take care of HIS little ones.

  215. my husband is making a total career shift and taking over a ministry that works with at-risk inner-city youth. gangs are rampant and drive by shootings are a risk, but for the first time in my fear-filled life, I feel peace that he is completely in God’s hands…and that the most important thing is that these overlooked and precious children and their families hear and experience the love of Jesus…I’m done with fear because I don’t want anything standing in the way of that!

  216. Goodness, I’m sorry -that was a bit dark and brutal what I just wrote – I’m sorry if that upset anyone. Maybe a little too open and honest…sorry. 🙁

  217. It is in the moments where I am scared that I find I am really telling God that there is a chance He’s going to let me down. Then he taps me on the shoulder and reminds me that He’s right there and asks me, “Really, Lauren? Name one time I have let you down.” Never.

  218. How appropriate! Separated from husband (after 25 years of marriage) who is a atheist, and believes I live in a fantasy world. Moved into a teeny apartment with a puppy I recently rescued (and spent $600, which I dont have, to save her) and starting over! Ironically, my bigget fear all my life BEING ALONE! Fear, lots of it at times, but God is good and faithful. But I am finished with fear, because I am never alone!

  219. I am giving up the fear of man… so often my actions are motivated by trying to ensure that others won’t be disappointed in me or see my weaknesses. But that fear encumbers my days… eats up my time… and makes wrong priorities. In giving up fear, I am choosing instead to dwell in God’s lavish grace and love.

  220. 5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.

    Oh, thank you for these words. I don’t feel like I live my life in fear…. But, perhaps I do. For, this is my great fear. I fear, most of all, letting down those I love.

    I struggled so with great depression after the birth of my eldest. After 30 hours of labor, 3 hours of pushing, my fate was a c-section birth. My great desire to do this thing perfectly, making proud my mother and my husband was crushed. For 8 months, I was tearing myself apart with my own words of self loathing.

    Even now, I fear trying things because I may fail those I care for. Mother-anxiety plagues me, accusing me when I let these sweet children down in some way. Keeps me up at night, makes me fidget, makes me pick myself apart.

    Thank you for the reminder that my insufficiency might just be the thing that points out God’s greatness.

    Perhaps I will find rest in that.

    Des Moines is the home of my favorite aunt. Her church is doing a bible study of your book right now. She’s such an encouragement to me! Your book has been, too! Thank you for the words you write. Those words have been used to grow me… To create a thirst. Thank you so very much.

  221. I am done with the fear of thinking that I won’t continue to be an Honors student and a Phi Theta Kappa member, that I won’t be able to keep my GPA at 3.8 while getting my A.A.S. this year, that I won’t perform well enough to recieve a scholarship to a Neuroscience program next year, that I won’t be able to handle the Neuroscience program, that I’m not smart enough to be successful in this purpose (Behavioral Neuroscience) that God has called me to fulfill. I am done with fear! My confessions as of late have been “I am the righteousness of God, and I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me, He has called me and He will not let me fail, He has equipped me with everything that I need to fulfill His purpose (my mission in life) and I am more than a conquerer in Christ, I am victorious in Him.” Today, I choose to abide in the vine (Jesus), to let the vinedresser (God) keep me, and to be a producer of good fruit so that He may be glorified!

  222. Through a Bible study this past spring, God showed me that when I have fear, it’s really me not trusting Him. I desperately want to trust the Lord with EVERYTHING in my life! The more I trust Him the less I’ll fear.

  223. Thank you for this gift this morning, Ann. I am kicking fear to the curb this morning. Joining with my sisters to pray and proclaim that God is greater. I have been experiencing long-term numbness in my body, and I have been fearful. Fearful of what I’ll find. Fearful of not having an answer after I’ve done my seeking. But the truth is this — “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.” And GOD’S LOVE NEVER ENDS. Not in this body, not on this earth, not ever. Hallelujah!

  224. I am walking in complete faith right now. I am looking for my work that God has been preparing me for the past 20 years of walking The Sermon on the Mount. After reading One Thousand Gifts, last October, God brought me into complete commitment to Him and His path.
    That meant giving up things that did not align with His will. July 27th I left a two year relationship with a non-christian man, who did not want a marriage commitment, just the live-jn arrangement we had been in. It was not an easy move to make.
    He gave me a deadline to leave and I honored it, with nothing but faith to go on. I know God and this is not about my plan, it is God’s plan. I am not very comfortable at the moment. I have nothing,, except the path of extreme grace I have walked since 1990 to give me assurance that God will provide! Please pray with me as I continue to count my gifts and blessings every day! I am so grateful and have committed to give thanks in EVERY circumstance! Everything is truly grace!
    http://www.lifeacousticandamplified.wordpress.com

  225. ugh, fear is my thorn. many times, in light of oposition and failure. i’ve struggled with it my entire life. but Jesus has been so good to transform my thinking. now when i see that dark shadow encroaching on my joy, the faithful Counselor reminds me of the Truths and Promises sung over me as a child of God!!!

  226. I am walking in complete faith right now. I am looking for my work that God has been preparing me for the past 20 years of walking The Sermon on the Mount. After reading One Thousand Gifts, last October, God brought me into complete commitment to Him and His path.
    That meant giving up things that did not align with His will. July 27th I left a two year relationship with a non-christian man, who did not want a marriage commitment, just the live-jn arrangement we had been in. It was not an easy move to make.
    He gave me a deadline to leave and I honored it, with nothing but faith to go on. I know God and this is not about my plan, it is God’s plan. I am not very comfortable at the moment. I have nothing,, except the path of extreme grace I have walked since 1990 to give me assurance that God will provide! Please pray with me as I continue to count my gifts and blessings every day! I am so grateful and have committed to give thanks in EVERY circumstance! Everything truly is grace!

  227. Lately, I’ve been realizing that almost always for me… on the other side of fear… is gold. And if I don’t push through the fear, I’ll never get to the gold. Whether its an amazing experience or a new friendship or new lesson learned, I’ve never regretted pushing through a fear to see what waits on the other side. So I’m making the decision to push through the fears and find that gold!

  228. My #1 fear is being alone – which is CRAZY, because I KNOW in my heart that I am never really alone. However… when I find myself physically by myself, this fear sometimes seems overbearing. Today I will not give in to this fear – and if I make this pledge day by day, then I beat satan! Let the days of winning begin!!

  229. I fear for the future of my children. Am I doing what God wants me to do to raise them right ? What if they turn away? What if something horrible happens to them? How can I control this? These thoughts go through my mind a lot.
    I need to be reminded that I can’t control it. I do as much as I can and I pray for them constantly. Although sometimes I fear that is not enough.
    Thank-you for this post. I’m writing down your 10 things to know about fear and posting it on my board. It’s a great reminder to me when I feel like things are spinning out of control or I’m not doing enough.
    I’m facing my fears in another way and helping out with the youth of our church- teenagers- my children are still young but when I was asked to volunteer I felt the need to say YES! I’m praying God works through me to help this fragile age between child and adult and I’m sure they can teach me a thing or two also.
    Thanks again for another uplifting post.
    Lindsay

  230. Thank you for such a beautiful post!

    I have always had some sort of fear in my life. When I was young, I feared being rejected by others. As I got older, I feared failure of new tasks. But, God systematically delivered me from these. Now, as a mom who homeschools, my biggest fear is somehow failing at my children’s education. But, words from a more seasoned homeschooling mom that God just happened to put in my path stiil stay with me combating that fear. She said that God knows our strengths and failings. And God has a plan for our kids. A plan, that He will accomplish even through out limitations.

    Moses was not good at speaking. David was small. Peter denied Christ three times. Yet His plan included these men. So I know His plan also includes my shortcomings. He can overcome and that is what overcomes my fears.

    • Oh. Katie.
      This: “Moses was not good at speaking. David was small. Peter denied Christ three times. Yet His plan included these men.”

      Thank you, Lord… Thank you, Lord… so we just offer up our very small loaves and fishes…

  231. Ann, as always you so beautifully put into words the thoughts that I haven’t yet thought. (Hm, does that make sense?) I am learning to put my fear aside. I do not like dealing with difficult people. In the past I have run from them, fearing to confront, no, rather to remain around. But in the past 5 years I have grabbed a hold of these fears, prayed hard, and remained under the trials brought on by others. And the beautiful thing has been, I have seen God working in me, through me, to them, or sometimes merely to strengthen me. I fear what these people think, might say. Yet, it is only what He thinks, what He has said in His Word, that really matters. And so, I am remaining under.

  232. I have lived my life in a type of fear, shyness. I know I have missed out on some great relationships because I was too afraid to take the step and make myself available. No more! Fear be gone!

  233. WOW! God is perfect in His timing! I so needed to be reminded of these precious truths today! I am overcoming fear because He said I could and because I’m ready to live the abundant Life that He promised and paid for!

  234. I am done with fear… because every time I I fear I fail and honestly I AM not failing! I need to stay spiritually alert so that I don’t become lazy and fall back into fear, so I replace it with a little thing called faith and what do you know it takes alot of fear away.

  235. I am always in need of a reminder about fear. It’s a beast I contend with daily.

    As always, Ann, I find your words timely, and thought stirring–ever encouraging me to lean harder on Him.
    Bless you, my friend. XO

  236. Ann,
    It’s like you look into my heart each day, and then write the posts that I need to hear the most. Thank you for that. I didn’t realize I had fears until this past year when I realized they were getting out of hand. I have a fear of failing..at so many things. Today I offer it all up to our Father, who knows the plan for my life. I am here, giving thanks for you. Safe travels.

  237. Thank you for these words!! For about 4 years now my husband and I have been praying about becoming foster parents. Also, those same 4 years we have been fearful of taking that step of faith. We had excuse after excuse why we were not foster parent “material”. Year after year God showed us He is bigger than any of our fears. He took care of every excuse we came up with. From a vehicle to transport the extra children to a house big enough to house the extra children. God showed us in a BIG way. September 18 my husband and I start our training classes.

  238. Fear to me is an emotion, reaction to things that happen, but can actually be HIS way
    of reminding me that HE is there, no matter what, FEAR NOT, For I am With YOU always! So to fear (no matter how small or large the incident) it can be , it is a gift, that is it is a way
    of renewing one’s trust, one’s faith, and love for GOD!

    Fear Not HE is Always With US!!

  239. This week, my son-in-law’s father committed suicide. This is the 3rd violent death in his immediate family in the last 3 years. First his 18 year old daughter died in a drunk driving accident, then his brother was murdered, now his dad killed himself. Bobby is wrestling with a nameless dread. Every day he wonders what will happen next. Bobby is a very young Christian without a history of God’s faithfulness. Please pray that he will see and know God’s faithfulness that destroys fear. Thank you Ann for your encouraging posts.

  240. I am learning to put fear behind me. I am learning that it is a thief that steals from my earthly relationships and most importantly my relationship with Christ. I want all of Christ Jesus my Lord and fear limits my capacity to trust Him. God Bless you Ann!

  241. I feel comforted reading the comments of others as I tend to feel alone in this fear issue especially because I am a Christian and am ashamed to admit I still struggle with fears…mostly of death…not that I am going to Heaven…. I have that assurance, but just how it all happens…the unknown and also how I will die….fear of being in a nursing home and alone. But, I do know I am never alone..God is always with me. I keep reading the bible and praying about this and I know God will answer my prayers.

  242. I want to be done with fear, yet I’m not quite sure how to be completely done? One step at a time? One choice at a time? “It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear – and give thanks.” So in this moment, I choose to give thanks . . . and the journey continues : )

    Sweet blessings to you, Ann, as you continue to face your fears and speak what he puts in your heart. No doubt HIS words will flow forth and touch hearts!

  243. This was an amazing post! It home! Everyone has fears…no matter what they are. Self inflicted fear can be the worst sometimes. When a situation happened in your life that you may not be proud of….where you let go of your faith…and walked your own path…only later realizing you don’t succeed walking YOUR path ONLY his.
    Years back…I made some bad choices. Choices that have affected my marriage. I was walking my own path. One away from the Lord. I thought I knew what I was doing. I was reckless. I have come along way since that time. I have given all those issue to Christ and asked for forgivness and have choosen to walk with HIM!
    Just a few days ago…a situation happened where I will every day have to face years ago….I fear old memories will be brought back up. I fear altercations. I KNOW i am a different person now and have changed and come so far. But the fear is there. I live with not only the fear but the regret, being ashamed of those years. worried people will find out and all think horribly of me. Maybe God placed this situation in my life to not have me deal with all of those things…..maybe just as a reminder. IDK….but fear is a hard thing for me. ALways has been. I am working very hard at not fearing because I know I have God looking our for me.

  244. When my husband got a job in another town, I decided to embrace the change as God’s will instead of falling into the pit of fear as I used to. . .I wanted it to be an adventure. . .It is an adventure in waiting so far as our house isn’t selling and we are stuck in a state of limbo. . .still I am trying to embrace what God has for us but it is a daily choice. Some days I do it and others I dip my toes into the mire of fear hanging behind me. This is a great post. Thank you.

  245. Oh Ann~
    Love this post. I’ve struggled with fear for years. What I found was that so much of my fear was rooted in pride and feeling alone.
    Love this ” All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.” Oh to just remember his love never ends and He is always there. At a Women’s retreat I attended a few years ago a speaker said: “God will never put you in a situation where you do not need Him”. I love that thought.

    Love your words this morning and love the give away. Some very cute items.
    Blessings as you speak this weekend. I love Women of Faith. Been to a few in my day.

    Marita

  246. I’m done fearing- “what do others think of me?” HE is the only one who completely knows me and only his opinion really matters!!!

  247. I especially like how your No. 7 – Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living – expresses my experiences. Over the years, my “greatest fear” has always come true. After the death of my husband when we were 30, and raising 2 sons on my own, I realized that fear didn’t not stop anything from happening, and even the smaller fears chip away at my joy. I learned that God would always be there to see me through, so I made a conscious choice to live without allowing myself to worry about what might happen. Although I sometimes miss the mark and fear tries to creep in, my life has been so much fuller!

  248. Financial fears weary. I’ve determined to retrain those thoughts–slay them with this powerful truth: “It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear — and give thanks.” How I LOVE that thanksgiving is both weapon and worship!

  249. Fearful of what others think.
    Fearful of what is not yet and may never be.
    Fearful for my children.

    but perfect Love casts out all fear.

    Thanks for the reminder.

    {lovely giveaway! have a wonderful trip!}

  250. I am done with fear b/c I am His and if my God is for me , who then can oppose me! I hope that I win one of these lovely things!

  251. OK, so is it all right to still be fearful? Even though I KNOW my God is bigger? (I need some faith-work)

  252. Was set free when I learned to obey even if I was “afraid”. My dear friend says just that, “do it afraid”. Obey, and know He never will leave or forsake. What sweet release to walk into obedience, knowing He holds all things.

  253. I am done with the fear of speaking/performing in public. I don’t mind doing it to small crowds.

    Used to have a terrible fear of performance in public/in front of crowds. Then God used my sign language skills, such as they were. Now periodically I will do sign language to music in my church. The more that I’ve done it the better/more confident I feel.

  254. I’m done with fear because I have to be. If I choose to follow God, I cannot be led by fear. No man can serve two masters.

  255. I am definitely done with fear in many areas…it keeps me from jumping fulling into TODAY and accepting the unknowns and adventures a head with a smile on my face..gotta leave it behind and hold onto his love !!

  256. I can’t tell you how many times i let fear keep me from travelling. Lately i had to travel a 17 hour trip to watch my son deploy to Afsghanistan, we drove this trip…do you know, i paced it, i prayed it, i trusted and believed God to see me past my fear and we were able to enjoy our trip not just to see my son off in July 🙁 but again
    back for another trip this August to see my youngest graduate the ARmy. God is good in the midst of my fears.

  257. I have feared and I have trusted… trusting is the only way! I am done fearing and instead will put my life, faith, & trust in God… for he cares and will provide all that I need!

  258. I’m done being afraid of doing the wrong thing in ministry. (Well, I am trying to be done.) God has been teaching me that holding back is the wrong thing, especially when I refrain out of fear of messing something up. The fear that I am ill-equipped to do something, and my insecurity is a sin because He is my ability and my security.
    I pray that I receive whatever He has for me with upraised arms and open hands, because He loves me and I can trust that whatever He gives me is good. Even if it looks bad, it is good, because He is good.

  259. Fear has been gnawing my stomach, stealing my sleep. In a few short weeks I fly 10,000km, back to my ministry, regular home school schedule, life. And in each of those areas there is hope, but there is also fear. The hopes are for what I know IS: lives to be reached by Christ, changed by His love; living education, full, vital, preparing for life; walking with a heavy lean in God’s direction. The fears, though, are for what is yet unknown, undetermined: my ‘usefulness’ as a tool for His work, my children’s educational future after they outgrow my teaching, not knowing which challenge is the next one (and surely there will be a next one) to strike me paralyzed, to bring panic and anxiety to the sleepless morning hours.

    I am so DONE with the fear. It doesn’t come from the Lord, my Shepherd. His voice is peace, His Word is true. The truth is that the life I’m returning to is hard. But that doesn’t mean that I’m going to be walking it alone. In fact, in my weakness, that’s when I’ll see His strength.

    Thank you for words of peace and truth, Ann.

  260. Great post! Because fear keeps us from being perfectly in tune with so many good things, so I’m continuing to fight against it and LIVE.

  261. I am done fearing what hurt people can cause because God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind and there is so much FREEDOM in casting our burden or FEAR on Him knowing that it is only harming us to hold our heavy burdens.

  262. I have lived with the fear for 25 years. The fear that a husband gifted to me by God is actually my cross to bear…my teaching post. A husband with a life long addiction to alcohol. As we were baptised together and enjoyed a full five years of sobriety always present was the fear of what God was asking me to do. Endure, persevere,be long suffering. Even when times were good this fear was in the back of my mind. What if I can’t Lord? What if I can’t see my husband the way you do and plow ahead with my care of him? Why can he not be the spiritual head of the household? I still struggle but God is ever-present showing me the way!

  263. As I fear the unknown (where we will be living with six animals once the lender acts on the foreclosure or the long term health and recovery of two of our sons), He brings to fuller understanding the answer to the question He continually places before me…What do you know, Cindy? He knows I want to see complete pictures of what lays before me. He wants me to see and understand He and only He is that complete picture. What do I know?…He is my God, my Lord and Savior. Do not be afraid.

  264. I am a missionary in England from the states and I can’t help but think that being here highlights my fears and vulnerabilities like a spotlight on an actor during a play production. Life is uncomfortable all the time and very much on display.

    I have been gone so long from my home culture that I don’t have the option to run or to not face fears that have crippled me. He has ruined me for any type of normal.

    His love and His grace will never keep me the same, I have been changing by grace from the moment we were first introduced. For that, I am thankful.

  265. Knowing your writing and loving spirit as well as knowing the incredible love, support, and peace at a WOF event…you have nothing to fear. You ate called to be there and supported totally in prayer!

  266. 7. Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living.
    That is so true in my life. I can easily give way to fear, then regret what I haven’t done because of that fear.

  267. I am done with fearing “that thing” because I am done with letting it steal my joy–the joy that God has given and promises. I am done with the fear because it has caused too much emotional ruin in too many generations and it is time that me and my house live in victory, not fear. I am done with being a pit-dweller that is suffocated by the fear pressing down on me–I breathe the freeing, life-giving air that my Lord and Savior provides every time I say His sweet name and am thankful for His name and His grace.

    Ann–to God be the glory that this particular blog arrived in my e-mail inbox this day–a day when my supervisor is talking about his health issues that have come up just due to anxieties and fears and losing his joy. God is so good that He would send a word of encouragement through you so that we can share with others!

    Amanda

  268. I don’t think of myself as a fearful person. I’ve chosen to follow the harder route of life in many ways, even when it meant leaving people around me shaking their heads. But fear is sneaky, flooding in through the cracks of your choices until suddenly you’re drowning in it. Two weeks ago, God redirected me away from what I wanted and loved … again. He “took away” what I’d dreamed of … again. I’m setting off in a new, crazy direction … again. And I’ve been drowning in fear.

    Thanks for this outpouring of truth! I needed to be reminded that all is for my good and His glory. I needed to remember that it is all Plan A, and that fear is the result of deception! Now to move forward in confidence and in gratitude! I’m pulling out my 1000 Gifts Journal again and starting to count ….

  269. I have never thought of myself as fearful…..until i had children!!! then i worried about them. I over examined every situation, some times in complete fear. What would happen if clouded my mind. My first son has a severe heart condition. I checked him moment by moment (and 7 years later i still some times wake up to check his breathing!) I never thought of myself as a fearful person until my husband went off to war. What if something happened? How would we survive with out him!!! I don’t know when it all happened exactally. the fear consumed me. then one day instead of scripture comforting God allowed me to remember a hymn. Blessed Assurance.
    Perfect submission, all is at rest!
    I in my Savior am happy and blest,
    Watching and waiting, looking above,
    Filled with his goodness, lost in His love
    i can’t tell you exactly why it spoke to me but it did. I still struggle. And this article was perfect timing (or should i say God’s timing) to remind me not only who is in charge but what is at stake (my very faith). Thank you for sharing, and letting others share. i can’t tell you how incouraged i have been since finding this site and http://www.aholyexperience.com in the last few weeks!

  270. I have struggled with the fear that my husband and family will die/be taken from me because I have believed the LIE that I don’t deserve to be happy. But that isn’t true. God loves his children 🙂 I choose not to fear anymore because God is never surprised by our circumstances!

  271. LOVED #5–“We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.”

    I needed that today! I’m done fearing and letting disappointments from others rule my thoughts and heart, instead I choose to rest in Him Who never disappoints trusting that He’ll work out perfectly the circumstances I’m facing.

    Thank you for this beautiful post and thoughtful giveaway!

  272. God is so faithful! I was weeping last night, letting go of ultimately not trusting God to protect my children when I go out of the country in the coming weeks. I thought I trusted Him… Until I was shaking with fear, feeling like I need to stay with them at all times for them to be ok. A combination of homeschooling my four treasures (always with them) and the loss of my mother and two sisters at a young age put me in an unrealized expectancy of loss. Anyway, I prayed, wept and had communion with my Jesus to turn towards Him and trust…with unabandon knowing His perfect love has cast out all of my fears. I read this knowing He is just loving me, confirming and is happy with my choice. Truly, thank you for sharing Ann! I feel great just sharing that! In Christ!

  273. I am done with the fear that stalks me because it has stolen enough of my JOY I want my JOY back. The Joy of the LORD is my strength!

  274. Past fears had caused my body to break temporarily. This I have recently discovered. Fear had kept me from searching different avenues of my career. Thoughts of less-than camped inside my mind for years. But the Lord sought me out, I listened, and He stood beside me as I began this new adventure. The fear has not yet disappearred, but together I find greater strength in whatever purpose He has for my life in this season.

  275. I am so done with fear! At 54, I’ve lived to see God bring me through times that I never thought I could survive, and today, I live and thrive in His grace and peace most every day. Sure, there are some tough days, but you know what? They are only as bad as I let my fear make them. The key is living in conscious thanks every moment of every day, (yes – document it), and when I get off that path, I can accept that fact that I’m not perfect and make a correction. A big bonus is helping someone else who is struggling find their own path of peace and thanks, too. 😉 What a blessing that is! Thanks, Ann, for your many words of wisdom. I have been on this path for ten years, but it is such a blessing to continue the journey along with you.

  276. Thank you Ann!
    “We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail. Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.”
    This post is so appropriate for the place I am in lately! I am stepping from my comfortable homeschooly world (15 years, 3 children, 3 graduates!!) to teach at a brick and mortar school feels intimidating. Remembering that God chooses my path and places me into experiences of audacious faith so that He can show His powerful love and faithfulness empowers me. Embracing His grace when I know that my weakness is evident will be even richer now that I have considered that He proves Himself.

  277. I am done fearing what my future will be like- with college facing me this next year and big steps ahead, big decisions to make; I am done fearing what the enemy can do in my family, I am done fearing that he will pull us apart. Yes, we are an easy target, with my dad as a pastor and my mom battling mesothelioma (rare type of lung cancer) and melanoma (skin cancer). But our God redeems and He saves and He will ransom me unharmed. (psalm 55:18). I am done fearing the next years ahead, I am done fearing for my mom’s life, for my life- should she leave to be with Jesus. I am done living each doctor’s appointment, each xray, each surgery, with fear and dread. I am done because through each circumstance, I have come face to face with God, finding Him true and trustworthy, able to do all He has promised, and more. Because, I have found He loves me. Extravagantly. And more than I deserve. I have found His grace. His grace, it has changed my life. It is true. Fear is not possible while giving thanks. And He has blessed me with the ability to give thanks- in every moment. I am done fearing each day, for every new morning is a gift I have been given, not a prison sentence I have to dread. I am done fearing because I have seen how He welcomes me, wants me, even after I have fallen and disbelieved and given in to fear. I am trusting that our Lord will save me, as He has said He will. And even if He does not, I will continue to trust Him. Like Shadrach and Meshach and Abednego proclaimed so fearlessly- “We do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and He will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:16-18). The God I serve is able to save me from that which I fear. But even if He does not, let it be known that I will not cave to fear. I will stand firm on His truth.

  278. I am done fearing the movement of time for our God has already sanctified it.

    Nearly all of my anxiety is centered around time past or anticipating the time to come. Yet, the demons seem to reside always in the past or in the future. When I live in the past, I am filled with regret. Where as when I live in the future, I am filled with anxiety. Yet as one of my favorite prayers says in regard to the future, “neither eagerness nor apprehension with hasten or postpone it.”

    Jean Vanier says, “Learn to love reality and then discover that God is present in it.” If I wish to dwell where Christ is, I need to recover the real, the present, and the NOW.
    For as C.S. Lewis says, “The present is the time that most closely touches eternity.” It is only when I subject myself to the blessings that Christ has in store for me HERE and NOW that I encounter Christ and time itself is sanctified. Time is indeed a gift when we are present to it – for it is filled with so many opportunities of pleasing the Lord. The Lord is with me here and now; therefore I will not fear.

  279. i battle fear every day. mostly it seems it is all the little things. Last week we climbed pyramids in Mexico. We cheered our youngest all the trembling terrified way UP. After she faced the fear of being at the top and having to come all the way down she was happy and said “I did it!”. Do it. Face it. and sometimes it IS one step at a time. :).

  280. I am through with the fear that the sins of my past are too much and that I can not be redeemed. I have lived with the lies that fear brings that I am beyond the reach of God’s love and I am DONE. MY SAVIOR LOVES ME and I will trust in his promise that no matter what my past holds, HE holds my future and I am forgivenand will spend eternity with my Heavenly Father.So I will sing my praises and give all of my thanks to Him and kick that fear to the curb!!!!

  281. This was a hard post for me to read today. Some of the 10 points seemed to hit me between the eyes. I’m not like all of you; I am afraid MORE than I trust.

    My life has been a complicated one; but then- whose hasn’t? Recently, I was told that my husband & friend had a 10 month affair together. My heart shattered, and I must confess, my faith didn’t hold up much better.

    Fear and anger have long been my companions; weeds that strangle my heart and threaten to forever squeeze out any hope of trust and forgiveness. How does one move forward when so afraid? Afraid to love again? Afraid to look in the mirror and compare? Afraid to forgive? Afraid to trust? Afraid to even believe that God could have stopped it, yet didn’t…

    While I spiral up and own, God is supporting me. I am learning what it means to “Let Go- and Let God”…to trust Him in the small things, knowing it will lead me to a place where I can again accept His greater Plan. I have made some choices for reconciliation… and stepping out without knowing the future causes me to feel fearful.

    And then, I read a blog like yours, and He lifts me up again. “Courage, my love, courage.” He gives me enough manna for each day.

    Thankyou for what you do Ann.

    I’ve been finding that fear does indeed cripple- as you alluded to in your post.

  282. There is such great freedom in trusting our Lord and Savior. I wish I could say that I am totally over fear. But there are those moments that come unexpected and fear creeps in. That is why I am so very grateful to our Lord that he is there to quickly remind me that fear only takes away from my walk with him. I place my hand in His once again and walk by faith , not sight.

  283. Fear has always been a huge part of my life. Recently, I’ve stepped out and have started two one one on Bible studies, and a ladies book club at my church. I’ll be leading the discussion. I’m scared spitless.

    But … I’ve finally chosen to face the fear and step out of my comfort zone. And I have determined to rely on His strength, not my own. And I will pray, each time I speak in front of others or meet with others, as Spurgeon prayed …

    “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.”

    So much is wrapped up in that itty bitty prayer.

  284. I have a way of signing off on my blogs with : Awake N Unfraid, Leesa
    This reminds me that I have chosen not to be afraid of what others think of me. To not be afraid of living a glorous life with Christ, dont be afraid of the journey because there is always light at the end of the tunnel no matter how long that tunnel is.

    Whom shall I fear? My God and no one else!

    peace be with you always,
    Awake N Unafraid,
    Leesa

  285. Fear. I am afraid that my married life will never change for the better. Silly fear – what does it matter? I have a savior waiting for me on the other side of heaven. This minscule slice of life, though often immobilizing me, will not be with me forever, for I have a savior who loves me, delights in me and is preparing a place for me.

  286. Fear makes me feel like I am lost. And, because of Jesus’ completed work on the cross, I am not lost anymore. I have been found. Thank you for this posting…this marker that points me to the Savior.

  287. Thank you. Every day your blog fills me with peace to remind me God is in control. I struggle with fear and anxiety for as long as I can remember. Even though I have been raised in a Christian household, and now raising my own household of little girls for Him, I still have fear. Fear of rejection, fear of failure in home education, fear of my daughters medical issues finally taking her to be with JESUS ( Yes, that is a selfish fear). So thank you as I am facing another anxious moment in life, your blog inspires me to find joy in this chaos called life.

  288. All of life’s fears can be won by trusting in Christ but that simple truth does not sink into me as much as I want to.

  289. I’m done with fearing the unknown because God is so Gracious and Loving. I know that all things work for good and that God will use me even in all my brokenness. I don’t need to fear because He’s got it all figured out.

  290. I’m done with fear; I’m stepping out and trusting HIM. Despite/because of the challenges of life, I choose to walk with God and trust He will show me the way. How to be a peaceful, loving, obedient daughter of His, and wife, and mom. Learning to count my blessings and gifts.

  291. i have dealt with fear since i was 6 years old and watched my father walk out of my life for 10 years as he left my mother, brother and i. i have struggled with fears relating to my children, my marriage, my life…and i am SO DONE! thankful to the bone that my Lord Jesus is trustworthy and present! thankful He will not leave me and provides the stability through His Word that I NEED!!

    i would LOVE to win that gorgeous bag and goodies, too! 🙂

    blessings,
    mariel
    http://www.marieldavenport.com/blog

  292. I am done being afraid that my body won’t hold up physically! I am going to climb the 3rd tallest peak in Oregon this weekend and I am trusting in faith He will enable me to do it.

  293. each & every of your 10 things was for me, but “don’t fear failing; fear not obeying” is key right now. i’m in the middle of a hosting frenzy before the harvest rush, for i am a farmer’s wife, too! =) as i prepare for the next upcoming guests, i find myself stressing/fearing about everything being perfect, organized, & beyond fault-finding. this is not realistic nor a Godly goal. God has asked us to be hospitable not perfect housekeepers, loving not totally organized, & accepting not beyond fault-finding. thank you for your encouragement today!

  294. I’m tired of fearing that others will find me repulsive, unlovely, ugly, less than. Tired of fearing a sense that I’m not in control. I want instead to trust God. Lean into the mystery. Love Him for not being a safe God.

  295. fear is not about faith; it’s not about victory and it’s not about freedom. We can choose life and liberty

  296. I have scars behind, and uncertains ahead, but a God who owns it all. I made a choice that I would refuse to let the enemy have my scars or my fears. My husband is going blind at the age of 41. We got his diagnosis right after our family grew from three to six children through foster/adopt. I am watching my husband evolve and change through this trial. God’s got this, and that is ALL I need to know.

  297. Thank you for your blog – it sure hits home almost every day.
    Fear…. I’ve lived with it so long it seem a natural part of me, but I know it’s not of God. I have to battle it every day… every minute it seems some days.
    But I am triumphant thru Christ. His blood covers me and protects me.
    I know it…
    I believe it….
    I stand on that promise.
    Fear it’s getting smaller and smaller………

  298. I just want to do be done with fears. It has driven my life for too long when faith should. I don’t want fear to take captive of me any longer but be taken captive by Christ alone and obeying Him. If the safest place to be is in His will, then fear of Him should triumph over other fears that I may face along the way in seeking Him.

  299. We have been seeking the Lord for His will in a ‘place’ we are in at this moment. We are fearful of moving because we don’t want to hurt others or cause any strife in our family. We believe we’ve heard God’s voice, but are still frozen in place….I vow to move in His direction

  300. “Your fears don’t decide your fate — your fears destroy your faith.” This is so helpful right now. I MUST remember that fearing the future, the change, the unknown, doesn’t make any of it come faster or slower…it simply destroys the trust I am trying so hard to have in Christ. Thank you for this reminder.

  301. I have a fear of failure … to fail as a wife, a mother, a friend and fail even as a child of God. But God’s Word reminds me that perfect love casts out fear and that I am made perfect in His love (1 John 4:18). So if I have His love and trust, then fear has no chance but to flee.

  302. Love this post!
    I have lived with fear for as far back as I can remember and it’s just now that I have come to terms with the idea that God isn’t going to leave me. HE is love and I have eternal life with him and how could I possibly be afraid of anything?!
    Romans 8:31
    What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

  303. This was a very timely post for me today. We’ve been working through fears in our marriage and the quote “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living” was amazing.

  304. My husband and I started dating while serving overseas, and got married with the intention of returning to the field….but some serious health issues (now resolved) and 3 very small children later, it is rather scary to think of going back to a third world country where we are far from help, health care, family, etc. Your blog reminded me that letting that fear control our decisions is to NOT be faithful…thank you!

  305. First John 4:18 tells us “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.” Our God IS LOVE. And our Savior, Jesus Christ, paid our punishment on the cross. Our enemy is fear. I choose LOVE, joy and EUCHARISTEO to refute the enemy’s lies!

  306. I am a single mom of a beautiful little 4 year old. Since her dad walked out two years ago I have been afraid. My fear has centered around my daughter never grasping our heavenly fathers love because of the failing of her earthly father. Through two years of searching Gods word and intense bible study’s I now know as long as I teach her the beat I can Her heavenly Father will show her the rest. So I am letting go of my fear of failing my daughter. I can do this because she is Hos daughter first and foremost.

  307. I will admit that I am addicted to fear. I cannot imagine my life without the daily/hourly infusion of fear. I can try to acknowledge fear each time it rears its head: and stop feeding it! but I will not lie and say that I have given up fear, my faith is not yet that strong. Yes, God is bigger, I am willing to give thanks, even for the fear. Ann, it always comes back to gratitude, doesn’t it?!

  308. This is a very fitting post for me today as I have decided that I am done with fear but from time to time it pricks my heart once more. I AM done with fear though because I know who my God is and what He can do.

    There is a verse that has been dear to me: ‘Do not fear for I am with you; do not be afraid for I am your God; I will strengthen you and I will help you.’ Isaiah 41:10

    Ellie

  309. Wow, thank you for the pierce in my heart that I didn’t even know I needed. I literally, I mean literally, just got finished catching up on my daily political news. And do you know what I felt as I read the horrors happening in our own country and around the world? FEAR. Icky, looming fear. And I was so angry. And I prayed to God in my head, “Why do you let your children act this way? Do you see this? Do you care? I am so angry God.” Little did I know, I’m not angry, I’m scared. I’m scared because I, wow, it’s difficult to even type out right now, I’m scared that ultimately God will forget His people, His children, forget me. And by His bountiful grace, I came across your blog 🙂 Praise HIM! Today I will choose to leave fear where it came from and trust Him… the God who created me, the God that loves me, the God that takes all of my fears away. Today, I choose trust in Him over fear of losing Him. Amen! God bless you and know that I will be praying for your trip as you keep letting Him use you. You rock, Ann!!

  310. I am letting go of the fear for my 18 year old daughter who left home when she was just 16. I know she is God’s child and he is in the midst of her journey. I hold on to this truth with everything I have.

  311. Everyday I wake to battle fear but I know that He that is in me is greater than that of this world!! I know that my God has overcame this world and He is with me always. I am done with letting fear ruin my life and ready to Let God Rule my life! Giving thanks today for that with God day by day I am overcoming yhe obstacle of fear and an living with freedom on Christ. Knowing He is with me and He will never forsake me. Thank you for these 10 statements! I will hold them close. God is so good, so sweet, so true and so here with me!!

  312. I’m a new mom, and looking at my baby son I realized that I now had the potential to experience greater, deeper fears than at any other stage in life so far–fears about failure as a mom, fears about catastrophe striking our family, fears about my son’s future. Thank you for these encouraging words about trusting our awesome, good, sovereign God. Because we’re never our of his grasp, I can face my fears boldly and live life fully.

  313. The are many things that i fear but they all seem to connect to a fear of not being in control. I want to let go of this fear and fully lean on God because i desire him more than anything else and i know he has started a good work in me and he is faithful to complete it even when i am blind to his ways. I pray for open eyes ears and heart. And i am seeing that this comes through thanksgiving. Thank you Ann

  314. I choose to love, wholeheartedly and completely, even if I’m not loved back.

    I won’t fear what people think of me any longer, because I am His child, I have taken refuge in Him.

    “In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” (Psalm 56:4)

  315. Everyday I wake to battle fear but I know that He that is in me is greater than that of this world!! I know that my God hasI overcame this world and He is with me always. I am done with letting fear ruin my life and ready to Let God Rule my life! Giving thanks today for that with God day by day I am overcoming yhe obstacle of fear and an living with freedom on Christ. Knowing He is with me and He will never forsake me. Thank you for these 10 statements! I will hold them close. God is so good, so sweet, so true and so here with me!!

  316. Dear Ann I have been following your blog after discovering and reading your book. Praise our Heavenly Father for your gift of words, they have changed the living out of my life…such a huge part in rescuing my soul, although I’ve claimed Christ as savior for 22 years.
    I’m learning to let go of fear so others will no the power and love of my God. I’ve told my family that I want to live in such a way that when I die they won’t have a doubt of whose I am and where my final home will be. I want them to know it is very possible to live this, sometime grueling life out with abundant joy. Thank you for the key of thanksgiving which unlocks the door of joy!!!!! I am richer because of your testimony.
    God bless you….

  317. This was exactly what I needed today…thank you for these timely (for me) words of encouragement. My family has been called to missions and, like Abraham, we have no set destination – just the undeniable call to *go*… I’m so very afraid of the unknown. Flying = fear. Leaving my children = fear. Bringing them with = even bigger fear! The very real possibility that what I experience might well destroy me = (selfish) fear.

    However, relying on and abiding in the strength, presence, and grace of my sovereign, holy and just King = no fear, just peace. An absolutely incomprehensible, all consuming peace. Thank you, my Jesus. And thank you Ann, for your enviable ability to put the Spirit’s words into human words…

  318. Perfect Love casts out all fear (1 John 4:18) Oh, LORD remind us of that as we walk daily in this broken world. Remind us to trust Your Perfect LOVE and to not trust what our eyes see and our minds imagine……teach us to PRAISE YOU in the storm. EUCARISTEO

  319. After losing my dad suddenly, traumatically, I find the battle of fear can be fierce. Fear of further loss; of another phone call that turns my world upside down; of my husband not coming home one night; of a loved one receiving a terminal diagnosis… the list goes on, unfortunately. The only way I really know to fight it is with the Truth of God’s word, and by reaching my arms up to my Father, the only one who never leaves. I often think of Psalm 40, of waiting patiently for the Lord and him turning to hear my cry, pulling me out of the miry pit of fear, and (my favorite part) – putting a NEW SONG in my mouth, a hymn of praise to him. The more I reach for him in my fear, the more the tune of my heart changes…

  320. I find reading psalms & singing truly can help with a fear. and journaling out my thoughts. love your blog ! 😉

  321. I have the fear of never being strong enough or enough of a spiritual support to my pastor husband. I daily feel in the shadow of his bibical wisdom, and refuse to share with him my trepidation of growing because I feel like I will never be at the same point in my faith. I have to constantly remind myself that this faith that I live is mine and not my husband’s, or my family’s or friend’s. Sometimes this fear is a constant reminder from deep within that I am never going to be good enough for my husband, my family or my God. Thank you for reminding me that this is a control issue and I need to get over it and give it to my Heavenly Father.

  322. I have lived with a fear most all of my life…..fear of abandonment, rejection, of being “lost”. Yet, God has poured out His love into my heart and He has shown me that I am HIS and that I need fear nothing. He has placed a song of Eucharisteo in my heart that has stilled the voice of fear. Will it rise again? Maybe. But, I will sing louder than it can speak.

  323. My fear is that of taking a cross country bike trip with my husband on his Harley. Well, last night I chose to set aside my fear and we sat down the plan the trip. We will be camping our way across the country from central CA to Oklahoma City to visit our son and his wife in September. Whew. Hang on to me, Lord! I am trusting in your perfect love that will cast out my fear!

  324. I am done with fear because I finally see how it has bound me to believe the lie keeping me in a cage I’ve been trapped in even though the door is open. I’m done with it. My loving Lord, leads me out of that cage everyday when I let Him.

  325. I need to let go of the fear of what others think of me…I’ve come a long ways, but still struggle! I love Isaiah 41:9-10…”I have chosen you….so don’t fear…” He is all I need. Blessings!

  326. I have lived with fear that I will never have enough, never be able to keep my roof over my head, provide my kids with what they need, be the wife and mother I am supposed to be. I am afraid that I am not enough.

    Fear is exhausting work. I am tired of working. I want to rest. I want to rest when the bills come. I want to rest when the phone rings. I want to rest when the bank account is empty. I want to rest when the mail comes.

    I want to rest in His Love. Trusting Him.

  327. God recently delivered me from a fear that had been ruling and slowly wrecking my life for exactly 2 years (nearly to the day!), and it is such an amazing feeling of relief to be set free from it. All you have to do is love God, love His flock, seek wise counsel from a spiritual brother or sister, and humble yourself – rest in His care. How amazing you will feel! He took on my fear and replaced my sad and destroyed heart with a joy filled and thankful one. Praise God for freedom from fear!

  328. I am done with fear because I am tired of trying to do it on my own and am ready to give my life plan over to Him to guide me instead of trudging along blindly.

  329. Done with lack, fear of losing things or of being forced to do without. I have what I need and what I need that matters (faith, grace, acceptance in Christ) can’t be taken away by anyone.

    Love the list. Handy reminder for my forgetful mind.

    I went to the Women of Faith Over the Top event last year. It’s amazing and fun and full of laughter and wonderful stories and sweet, sweet women. Have a blast!

  330. For many years fear had me in its grips in my relationship with my husband. Such overwhelming fear would shut my mouth but open wide my emotions, so much so that I lost the ability to express my feelings, they were so tangled up! Fear intimidated me and took me too often into a deep pit of depression and unhappiness. I knew the scriptures, knew that He who is in me is greater than he who is in the world, knew all the times Jesus said, “Fear not.” But I needed someone to teach me how to find my voice in our marriage.

    We entered mentoring with another couple who had been there, done that. Getting my husband to agree confirmed God’s mighty work and gave me hope. In that safe environment I began as a shriveled vine but week after week was watered and fed and began to grow stronger and taller, learning to speak the hurts and pain and anger. “Speaking the truth in love” became real and powerful and began bearing fruit. Honest speech produced power and healing when we as a couple were by ourselves. It has lead to an intimacy I had yearned for but rarely experienced.

    Fear still wants to rear its ugly head and ensnare me, but Power, Love and Self-Control from the Spirit within many more times than not prevail. I cannot thank God enough for what he has done in our marriage. It’s amazing to believe I’m learning the perfect love that casts out fear!

  331. Fear is such a cruel task master and I hate it. I think if I worry about something maybe I can prevent it. But it’s a lie and as I bask in His perfect love it cats out all fear

  332. With God’s help, I am DONE fearing singleness. I know my Father has my best interests at heart. His plan is perfect and I believe that He will order my life for my best and His glory.

    Also, I am done with the fear that I somehow accidentally will miss God’s will. How would a loving Father let His daughter stumble in darkness when her heart is seeking Him? He won’t – so I need to quit being afraid.

  333. HE pushed to places I never imagined I could go;

    Working for a very small company (9 years) , your boss gives you a day off only to find that your boss and dear family friend passed away in the office on your day off. The Lord knows just how much we can handle. During this unimaginable season of 2012 HE has provided; peace, safety, people that have been jesus with skin on, pulled me up when the weight was more than I could bear and all the while I felt Him pushing me on to honor the legacy of fellowship, friendship and true need.

    I think of Tom in heaven surrounded by children (they were precious to him) with a peace I envy and cannot quite grasp this side of the veil.

    My Lord is Redeemer, Savior, Healer and the lover of my soul.

    Until HE shouts,
    Celeste

  334. Fear holds us captive in unbelief, but hope changes everything. Jesus came to give us life and to set us free. I am free from my fears when I am looking at Him, fearful when I take my eyes off of Him. It is a battle I still struggle with. But, He came to over come the world and set the captive free. Praise Him!!

  335. If God tells us about 365 times not to fear, then maybe it’s something I need to read every day!

    I’d like to be done with twisting the fears of failure and not obeying together. Somehow I made the connection in my mind that if I fail, then somehow I’ve failed to obey (or hear) God in some way. I’ll leave that thought at the curb so I can travel the road of obedience to God light and free.

  336. I’m done living in the fear that I made the wrong decision and am not where God intended me to be, and i don’t need to know the answers to all the “whys?” because I know the nature of my God, and His heart towards me. He desires me to walk in the same trusting freedom that, as a mother, I long to give to my children. That even when we don’t understand and see the bigger picture, He does, and He is for me. May we not allow the things of this world and philosophies of man to strip us of our spiritual innocence and ability to live as children who know their Father. Because when we know our Father, the doubts and fears and “whys?” cannot remain.

    • I’m done living in the fear that I made the wrong decision and am not where God intended me to be, and i don’t need to know the answers to all the “whys?” because I know the nature of my God, and His heart towards me. He desires me to walk in the same trusting freedom that, as a mother, I long to give to my children. That even when we don’t understand and see the bigger picture, He does, and He is for me. May we not allow the things of this world and philosophies of man to strip us of our spiritual innocence and ability to live as children who know their Father. Because when we know our Father, the doubts and fears and “whys?” cannot remain.

  337. I am going in tomorrow for a follow up breast ultrasound. They are checking the lump that was considered possibly “nothing” last time. And my stomach twists and knots still when I think of it. So, I have emailed a few faithful friends because I know that prayer of the righteous accomplishes much! I have quoted scripture because I know it is The Sword which protects me and defeats fear and all kinds of evil! I have held certain quotes close to my heart and mind…”Do not forget in the dark what He has told you in the light”…because Words, the resource God used to create all, are still that powerful! I am still living today, instead of worrying about tomorrow – literally – because Jesus told me to. I am running and resting in His arms because He said to “come” and being with Him just makes all life right.

    • Anastasia, I wanted you to know I am praying for your peace! I have been undergoing breast cancer treatment for the past year – I know the anxiety and fear you are experiencing. No matter what your diagnosis is, you will get through it with more blessings than you ever imagined. No matter what, God is there holding your hand and leading you along the journey. It’s a twisty bumpy road, but the views are breathtaking. Sending you giant hugs!

  338. Fear almost, almost stole my marriage. I was sitting there listening to the pastor, as he was gracious enough to meet with us, and I suddenly realized: I had been taking over and trying to play God’s role in my husband’s life. Only I play a really, really poor version of God. In fact, I botched it pretty badly! I feared God was no longer working in our marriage, on my husband. So I took over. Fear has kept me from being the honoring wife, and what a weight was lifted when I realized that it’s so much better to rest-in-God’s-timing. To be brave enough to be honoring, without fearing hurt. I am FREE to love without fear, hallelujah!!

  339. I’m done with fear because I’m too tired to keep thinking about what might happen! I need to remember that my God is bigger than my fears and He’s already got it planned out.

  340. My raging fear right now, is the fear of a friend who hurt me. She works beside me every day – I have to interact with her, I cannot escape her presence. I am struggling with being strong, and yet remaining gracious. It is a narrow path. It is a lesson in letting go, and letting God lead the way. I would gladly trade it for public speaking!

  341. I’ve learned some powerful lessons about fear and about God’s grace. Fear is best answered when I simply step back and pray for the Lord’s strength, direction, and guidance to show me the way–God’s way. I truly believe that when I let go of the fear, and place it in God’s hands, he provides the answer. It’s been a difficult journey and lesson learned.
    Thank you for sharing and offering others guidance and words of encouragement. It is truly appreciated. May God bless you!

  342. Done with fear… because I can never be perfect or enough or complete apart from Him…. and He calls us to jump off the edge in FAITH that He’ll carry us and we’ll fly with Him… and we come to those edges every day, and fear tries to convince us not to jump… but we won’t be really living if we don’t jump….. So we trust…. and jump…. and soar.

  343. From my blog this morning, after a dark, difficult night …

    I gather strength to rise and face the morning … I stare into the eyes of that which will not go away … and my heart struggles without success to beat independently of my emotions. My mind stubbornly fights to understand and make sense of His ways … instead of seeking refuge under His wings. I elevate my own limited perspective … I hold on to what I think I know … and I argue, “but God … you promised …” He says … ”then why are you crying?” Impact. I redirect my eyes … and look into His. And in this moment, my heart is at rest.

    Love your heart, Ann … you bless us.

  344. I’m breaking free of fear because my God is big enough and living in fear only puts Him in a box and makes me the ruler of my life, instead of Him. I WILL BELIEVE.

  345. I am done with fear as I don’t put my trust into man or things of this earth, but trust only in the One!! People will always disappoint you, but God never does. He is the One who gives me my JOY!!!

  346. Fear, anxiety, worry…that is me most days in a nutshell. But literally just two days ago I stumbled upon this verse: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” I sat in these wise words a while, reflecting on what exactly they mean. What they mean for me. And for me, this verse is so incredibly freeing. It means the fight is not mine to fight. The fear, the anxiety, the worry…it will all be fought by Him…(if I just sit still and allow Him to).

  347. Just what I needed today! In the words of a church camp song my kids love, “His everlasting love is LOUDER than my fears! “. Thank you Jesus and thank you Ann!!

  348. This is perfect! Fear only stems from an enemy who seeks to take our eyes off of the love, grace, and peace we find in our Father. Goodbye, good bye to fear!! 🙂

  349. I’m done with allowing fear to skew my understanding of the Father’s heart towards me. I choose to believe that God’s heart towards me is good and that he is able to do for me, in me and through me better things than I can even ask or imagine on my best days. “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him” (I Corinthians 2:9).

  350. Fear is like a pimple….It’s ugly. You don’t want it there, but somehow it just shows up. :o) I’m done with fear because the ugliness is, that it takes me further away from my Savior. I’m going to wash my mind in the Scripture verse that says “Perfect loves casts out all fear.” God is greater than all my fear. I will not allow fear to plague my mind, and take me away from Him.

  351. I am a 20 year old, second year university student and fear and anxiety have been my number one struggle for as long as I can remember! I think it may be rooted in my parents divorce, but I used to be incredibly afraid to be alone, always afraid of being not enough, and didn’t seem to have the same amount of courage that my peers seemed to have (even little things would keep me in fear). But, God has been relentlessly speaking to my heart about His love, and His goodness – and I know I am on a journey to being set free from anxiety. I know that the more I give thanks, even for the the hard things or the things that make me feel anxious, and the more I hide God’s word in my heart and worship Him, the more freedom I will live in! It is for freedom that Christ has set us free… and I am learning to walk in freedom from fear as He leads me! Thanks so much for these 10 insights, they are truth!

  352. Perfect LOVE casts out fear.
    I know His love did that for me 20 years after my parents divorced and a year before my father died. He worked deeply in my heart while hearing Peter Marshall, Jr. Then in 2 days , I was in NY seeing my dad. All fear was cast out , even using a dream I had as a little girl back in our house on Long Island. YOU , the Lord said, have shut me out of this part of your heart for all those years. Deep healing from the fear of facing that wound.

  353. I used to fear a lot, and I am sure I am not completely over it all, but I have come a long way. I have found that I just need to put my trust in God and I will be okay, no matter what happens. If I focus on Him and spend time in His Word, that helps send any fear away for me.

  354. Wow! I needed this encouragement today! I have had fear and anxiety today! God knows exactly what we need and when we need it! HE IS AWESOME:)

  355. My God has helped me to overcome FEAR by focusing on Him and what His plans are for ME!!!! They are big and I believe in Him…He is mighty and fearless…That is AWESOME!!!!

  356. I am done with letting the one thing I fear deter me precisely because of your #3(4) above that states fears destroy faith. Because, fears do that, and that is something that I do not want to happen because faith is one thing that can keep you going when it seems nothing else can and lately I have had a hard time with that.

  357. I think I just made up my mind at some point that whenever I feel that tinge of fear, I know it’s like an alarm being triggered and warning of an intruder having broken in – at that point, I just turn my self and my heart and my concern immediately over to Him! Just like He told me to!! – “Be anxious for nothing but in everything, through prayer, supplication (asking), and THANKSGIVING, let your requests be made known to God. Phil. 4:8

  358. I am embarking on a journey for which the end goal is not perfectly clear. I really am unsure of how the challenges will feel now that I’m awake- and I do feel fear. But I’m not paralyzed by that fear. Where there is fear, there cannot be love and love is the only way I can heal this body. Jesus is the only one who can handle this situation- I cannot…so here it is, take it, and I’ll follow.

  359. I am going to choose against fear by focusing my eyes on God. My tendency is to worry “am I doing enough?” “Am I looking the part?” “Do I appear to have it all together?” “Do people think highly of me?” Goodness! No wonder I’m exhausted! Living out of fear of rejection or people’s disappointment wears me out body, mind and soul. Listening to God about what HE says about me can replace fear with trust.

  360. I am learning that money, or the lack of it, has been a source of fear for me for some time. God is teaching me that whether I have ten cents or ten thousand dollars, He is in control and He provides for all of my needs! Fear is a liar.

  361. Oh… Fear…the nagging feeling in the back of my head and heart that I am again approaching this relationship with my sweet adopted son wrong. Daily I pray, struggle, smile and get up and start again because… Jesus…Jesus shines his perfect Love and casts out Fear and if I ,in my tiny self,can shine a bit of Him to this Boy He gave to me….then Fear has no power over us….over this sweet son….praying and remembering these truths…Thanks Ann…

  362. Thanks so much for this Ann…..we can all use the reminder that Perfect Love casts out fear. Know that you will deliver an awesome message.

    Gail

  363. I want to be done with all this fear because My Lord tells me “for I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

    Thank you Ann for this gift.

  364. I wish I could say with all certainty that I am done with fear…because if I REALLY knew my God was bigger, and I do profess it, why do I fear? My biggest fear is that my children will die not knowing Jesus…most of them are so far from Him, but maybe I am too?

  365. I chose No. one and No. five, thank you… those fear facts are all just right, but those two are for me. No. 5-I have not thought that my fear of writing my book is bound up in fear of disappointing the very people who do not really think I can do it in the first place. So here’s to No. one…the obeying part. It’s why I do what I do, really. The appointment is from the Creator of the universe and He is very excellent in what He does. Thanks for the list and the insight. You will be terrific with Women of Faith.

  366. I’m done fearing that I’m messing my children up. I am praying, studying, leaning on God’s Word and heart, and doing my best to LOVE. They will be ok.

  367. “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living. ”

    I am done being afraid of writing, just because others in my family, life, or even my church might not see my words the way I see them.

  368. Thank you for the lovely article! I’m over 700 gifts and have made 2 joy in a box. Your book has made such an impact on my life. I have decided to stop fearing the future of what God has planned for my life. I’m going to trust my Father and give thanks for the present. Thank you so much. Blessings to you!

  369. I have wasted so much time in fear…not living, not moving. I am done being paralyzed by it because it doesnt change anything and God will be glorified even when I disappoint. I love that!

  370. I read this as my kids start the day in a new school in a new state. We moved across country this summer and the hardest thing for me to look in the eye is the unknown. There has been a lot of it lately, but I choose to believe that God has only His best intentions for this change. It may be uncomfortable to be in the unknown, but it is nothing to fear.

  371. Hi Ann, praying for you as you speak at WOF, and I have to tell you that God always has used geese to encourage me, I see them at any time of the year, I even just hear them and feel Him. 🙂 so it was so sweet that that is what you saw out your window! I am so amazed at how He is bringing words, songs, blogs, books, teaching me just what I need right now, as in your words! Blessings to you and thank you so much. 🙂

  372. Eleven months ago (tomorrow) I chose to cut through a whole lot of fear cords and take a huge step into the unknown. They are still trying to wrap themselves back around me, but I have the Sword of the Spirit to keep cutting them away! Like a lot of these other commenters, #3 resonates with me.

    “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.”

    I’m going to write that on a note card and put it where I can see it every day. And right underneath it I’m going to write this:

    “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18)

  373. Letting go of what people think of me. I have lived way too many years wrapped up in what others think I can and can’t do. I am finding freedom in simply being me. And even greater freedom in knowing that God loves me, simply for being me.

  374. Yep, got a big fear hanging over my head for next weekend. Thanking God that I can let it go, trust Jesus and fly! Thanks, Ann for the encouragement.

  375. Letting go of what people think of me. I have lived way too many years wrapped up in what others think I can and can’t do. Great freedom in knowing that God loves me, simply for being me.

  376. As a childhood sexual abuse survivor, fear has been such a huge battle for me. My innocence was taken so young, fears and self-protection were close friends of mine. It still can peak it’s ugly head and make me feel so crippled. I want to be free in Christ and not be overcome with the “what ifs” life may bring. My little girl is 3 and I want to model trust and confidence in the Lord.

  377. I’m DONE with fear because God spoke to me with gentleness and authority on January 30 this year that it was FEAR destroying my health. I was tested for countless autoimmune diseases, but finally a god-fearing family physician looked into my eyes while listening to my heart (both literally and figuratively) and asked me what I thought I had to do to please God. The short conversation that followed led me to repentance of idolizing my family’s opinion of me and worshiping my fear–and then complete physical and spiritual healing before I even left the parking lot of the hospital! No. More. Symptoms. So I’m done with the fear that makes a mockery of my faith.

    #4. Your fears don’t decide your fate — your fears destroy your faith.

  378. Wow. My husband and I were just having a conversation about this last night. A revelation that fear has held me hostage a good part of my life. It all points back to it. Fear of disappointing people, of not being liked, of making the wrong choices. Thank you for your timely word, reminding me who(se) I am. I’ve been listening this morning (before I saw this word) to the song “One Thing Remains” as an affirmation and fits so well with your word. “Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never gives out on me…In death, and life, I’m confident and covered by the power of Your great love…My debt is paid, there’s nothing that can separate my heart from Your great love…On and on and on and on it goes, for it overwhelms and satisfies my soul…And I never ever have to be afraid…this ONE THING…remains…Your love never fails…”

  379. I spent almost 2 hours awake last night because of fear. You have no idea how in time today’s post has been, like God whispering peace in words. Fear of the unknown and of making wrong decisions, fear of not being in control.
    But I am done with fear, because my Lord sweating blood chose to go ahead for me, and now He wipes my sweat, holds my hand and points me to the cross, worthy of bearing for Him. But unlike Him, loneliness will never be part of my cross, and the word forsaken will not leave my lips.

  380. I’ve always been fascinated by The verse’Perfect love drives out fear’ in the past I couldn’t see how this could be so. My fear was so great and any love I had known seemed small and weak and temporary. But now I begin to see new measures of his love and think I see for the first time that the love of God could drive out a fear as great as mine

  381. I guess I’m not average…at least in that I look toward death with a sense of hope and that I am a motivational speaker and become energized by speaking to groups of people. This however does not mean that I am not fearful, not by a long shot. My fears have always been about worth. “Who do you think you are?” asked with a tone of contempt one too many times. Who would want to see me, hear me, talk with me, love me? No one is really all that interested in me, so I’ll just sit here and fade into the background while I watch other people live.
    Why am I done with fear (well, done again in this moment, you’ll have to check with me in the next moment as I may have to be getting done with it again!)
    I’m done with fear because I realize that this fear is at the heart of the enemy’s attack and in complete contradiction to God’s promise. When I believe this lie and allow this unfounded fear to dictate my actions, or my inaction, the enemy wins and other women are robbed of the communion offered by sharing my story with my struggles as well as my hopes that can be theirs as well. Fear tells me that I am weird, unloved and a nuisance to people. Truth tells me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made with a hope and a future. Thank you for sharing your struggles and your heart that we all can continue to journey together, encouraging and inspiring one another to walk through Him, with Him and in Him until we reach that eternal rest.

  382. I am done with fear because not only is it a lack of TRUST in my Loving Father, but it really makes me SICK. I lose sleep, get headaches, etc. with my worry and fear. I do NOT want those things!! 🙂

  383. You know. I don’t do alot of things because “I Fear” failing. Most of those times I’m afraid of what others might think of me. Wow. I am keeping fear from allowing me blessings that God has for me. That makes me sad. Thank you for making me see that I am not OBEYING my Lord. You see, I am a pastor’s wife, and sometimes, all the time, I feel that everyone is watching me, to see if I fail. That is scary. But, I am human, and I will, and do fail at a lot of things. But, I know, that with my Lord with me every step of the way, that when I do fail, my Lord will be right there with me to pick me up, wrap His loving arms around me and says, “I Am Here”. That is comforting. I can do this. God bless each of you today. Psalm 18:2.

  384. I’m done with fear and living on the wing of His perfect love that casts out all fears … taking God at His Word!!! He’s already given me the full freedom & peace that is Jesus…drawing closer to Him helps me accept that in fullness & with all authority given to me by God. He will keep me in perfect peace as I keep my mind (heart soul body) stayed on Him.

  385. I am done fearing my abilities as a musical theatre performer! That may sound strange, but I’m a returning college student this semester to complete my degree that I never finished before I spent about 10 years working professionally in musical theatre. Lately, I feel attacked on all sides in regards to my age and abilities at the university level. God has had to remind me my identity is in HIM, NOT my work! The Redeemed collection is my abosolute favorite of Daysprings…it’s truth helps me remember I am free of pleasing other people. It sounds like a cliche, but I must remember to perform for an audience of one! 🙂

  386. Fear. I can’t help as I read these entries how all of us fight it, yet as we walk we do not see it in others, only ourselves. I have always known about Christ, but it wasn’t until the worst tragedy entered my life that I had to choose. Choose to believe that he really does love me, really can comfort me, really did intend for me to pass through this valley of the shadow of death. Or choose to give up that hope and…..and what? Lay my spirit down and seek the wildly disappointing comforts the world offers? I tried that for a short time. There is no comparison. I have been astounded as I turned to him, and his love has and is currently pulling me through that valley. Pulling me, sustaining me. We need Him. We all need Him. I need Him, oh and how. Ann, you will never know how important your testimony has been to me.

  387. I am tired of not living life because of fear. I am on purpose living life faithful, thankful instead of fearful. No longer will fear keep me from experiencing the brilliance of this spectacular life God has given me!

  388. I choose everyday not to fear because I serve a big God, bigger than fear and the lies it tells me. Thank you for sharing this and thank you for not giving into fear and sharing your gifts.

  389. I am done with fear because my strong, loving, fierce Father has my back ~ right now, tomorrow, always, forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  390. I have just been diagnosed with brain cancer that has spread to my liver and ovary. I was scared to death but I soon turned to my Lord and he has blessed me with so much courage faith and hope. I would be lost without my Lord Savior and he has taken my fears. With Him I know I will beat this ugly disease. PRAISE YOU JESUS!!!!!!

  391. Fear has been luring around in my life as my husband and I look at how to keep our 3 young children, commitment to homeschooling and marriage thriving as God asks us if we are willing to go… willing to go at 30 yrs old, whole life unfolded into the National Guard to Serve and change everything, everything we know as familiar and predictable. As I wrestled with the unknowns my faith and love for the Lord tells me COMING TO THE END OF FEAR IS THE BEGINNING OF FAITH, REAL FAITH!

  392. I have such a paralyzing fear ofspeaking in a group setting that it makes me physically sick. I go to a group meeting 3 to 5 days a week and I’m so afraid to share my feelings with the group. Then I go home with feelings of guilt and shame. I know this is not God’s will for me! I so much want to feel a part of the group but I clam up every time. I don’t feel good enough. I think it is due to being made fun of as a child. I had an aunt who told me I was worthless.

  393. I am done with fear because it has held me back too long. I have hidden for most of my life and all I have done is miss out. I am learning to trust God to handle all the things before me – after all, the problems in front of me are never as big as the Power behind me!

  394. I’m done with fear because even though a house offer that we made was accepted over two months ago fell apart yesterday, God knows where our little family will live and He has the perfect home for us. If not here below, surely above our heavenly home is set, secure. TRUSTING.

  395. This post was so uplifting and I appreciate you sharing. I would love to print out the 10 Things You Should Know About Fear, to hang on my wall. My entire life has been a struggle to break free from fear, whether it be fear of the unknown, fear of failure (which has caused me not to try anything), fear of what others think about me, fear about death, and on and on. I’m going to remind myself of His truths daily, and ask God to cast out these fears, once and for all. I’m done with it!

  396. I’m done living in fear – because I know this world is temporary, but Heaven is everlasting! I can give up discomfort here and now for an eternity with my blessed Father!

  397. THIS was just absolutely incredible timing… i’ve been on the fence about something and honestly, it scared me to death, to the point of being totally frozen. I’m tired of listening to satan saying, “what if….” and it always being negative. What if God has such an awesome plan for me, something that is what i’ve always wanted? He is God after all! He knows what’s best for me. And all I have to do is reach out and take that first step and keep my eyes focused on Jesus. and I won’t fall or drown or fail because He is all I need… he’s my Savior, my redeemer, my healer, my provider, my Everything…. that’s why i’m done with fear.

  398. I have been going to Women of Faith for I think going on 12 years……You are going to do wonderfully and they are going to Love you:) God Bless and I will be praying for those old fears to remain lying on the curb:)

  399. Wow! I am so refreshed and humbled by these words. I confess that I let fear of failure as a mama and homeschooling mama consume my heart, mood, joy, life, relationships, etc… Jesus came to give me freedom so I want to stand firm in that, but, oh how easily I forget the truth. Thank you Ann! His power is made perfect in my weakness so I will remember your words and face my fears and let God get all the beautiful glory!

  400. I am done with being afraid of what happens to my kids. As if I have any control over their lives.(one is 24 and the other 30 and not at home anymore).I KNOW the Lord has them. They are really His anyway. He only loaned them to me for a short season. He loves them more than I EVER could. They were both saved at a young age and have run away. But, God is allowing me to see glimpses of them coming back down the drive to Him.I was a single mom for years. My ex-husband was living as if he was unsaved as well. My greatest desire, prayer, wish, etc. is to KNOW that my children are truly His, walking with their heavenly Daddy everyday , so close they can feel His breath on their face. They are Yours, Lord and they are safe under Your wing! Amen and Amen! To God be the Glory!

  401. Fear is something we choose or it can creep in as a lie from the enemy. I have chosen not to fear because I know God is on my side and He is always with me. I don’t have to be afraid of the future. He has it all laid out just for me. Going through big trials in life is hard and sometimes fearful. But what has comforted me the most is that my faith in God an in His word an timing is way bigger than any fears I may be feeling. Knowing that God in everything He is, is bigger than any fear on this earth is very comforting to me. thank you for the devotion, it has opened my eyes to answers I’ve been needing.

  402. There is no doubt that fear is limiting the “life” in my life. It’s a choice that I have to make more than even just daily, but moment by moment, to trust. He is always faithful and he has graciously proven to me again and again that HE IS ENOUGH! Thank you for this beautiful reminder today! (p.s. have a great trip!!! You’ll look back on it with delight I imagine!)

  403. I am to love, with no fear, as if my life depended on it. Fear dibilates me of the amazing things God has for my life and robs me of His joy and fullness. He wants so much more for me. I’m learning that. I long for it. I ache for it. This year I’ve committed myself to plunge into those fears and it has been a ride that I have never experienced before. For I know that IN HIM….THROUGH HIM….and FOR HIM….are ALL THINGS. I lift HIS name above those doubts and fears for He has overcome.

  404. in the last several weeks I have fought with fear and frustration – simply rooted in not fully realizing God’s acceptance of me…and how, through Jesus, I can truly release the condemnation that comes from trying to measure up to other people. learning to be fear-free!

  405. 15 years of speaking at Silent Retreats… and still fear plagues me on the journey to the podium… but faith wins, drawing me gently forward, standing shaky in His shadow, sharing passionately the hope that panic cannot prevent… and prayer helps me breathe easy… and He comes and welcomes us all into the quiet spaces of the day. Breath prayers to slow, Lectio Ann style to feast on His Word, worship songs to carry us out into His world where silent women walk and listen and rest with Him who holds our fears and feeds our faith. Finding always the thread of courage woven in your words that echo His. Thank you!

  406. Thank you for the words from your authentic heart. They spur me on my course of destiny further into faith waters. Like a life raft out on the crashing waves. God, bless my sister by preparing her way as she prepares yours in the hearts of others through the beautiful voice you’ve given her. Her words and others from this community are a blessing beyond what our mere words of thanksgiving can express. Lord, you make us want to be brave. In Jesus name, Amen

  407. After having been sick and weary of the testings in the night…not being able to sleep, sudden awakenings struggling for breath~yet my confession remains-I will trust You my loving faithful Savior. You have become my closest friend, Jesus. Facing fear in the day can be difficult, but with brothers and sisters prayer support and encouragement there is much comfort. Walking alone in the wee hours of the morning, when fears voice sounds the loudest, even while speaking the truth of the Word out loud, declaring Who God is, thinking of every possible way to stop the fear. In the darkness, in the silence, I cry out. After one particularly tormenting night I confessed my fear, to expose the enemy lies. My loving husband prayed with and for me. Nothing changed about the kind of difficulties that night except my heart said, No matter what -I trust You Jesus. My life is in Your hands. I am Yours. His Presence was tangible. He walked me through and is still walking me through. I continue to put on thankfulness, and worshiping my King. Thanks Ann for the timely word!

  408. I just LOVE Women of Faith and am so excited you are joining them, and thankful you kicked fear to the curb and are flying into the Son. Because I just know God has big plans to use you this weekend as His messenger to hurting hearts, and am sure lives will be changed because you laid down the fear and said YES to Him. I will be earnestly praying for you, my friend, and am so thankful for you!

  409. Ah, my old friend fear! Thank you blessed Ann for shining light on this debilitating disease! I am done withballowing fear to affect my choices on how I spend my time and how I parent my children and how I perceive the future. I pray for freedom foe every person who replies to this post. May God help us all throw fear into the fire and allow us to walk in His light! May His glory fall in this place Ann has created through You!

  410. I love #5: We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints. I’m a teacher beginning a new school year, but I’m teaching two new subjects and I’m fearful I won’t be as good as I want to be. Yay that God will teach through me and that He won’t disappoint.

  411. With God’s grace I choose hour by hour to not fear the future because today has enough worries of it’s own! So thankful for this post today!

  412. I live with my husband and 2 children in a city in Africa where foreigners are targeted for kidnapping. We moved to this city because God wants these 35 unreached people groups to know the freedom that comes in worshiping Him in Jesus. But before we moved, I was so afraid that my husband and I would be kidnapped and my 1 and 2 year old girls would be abandoned. I am not afraid anymore because God spoke loud and clear to my heart, “I will take care of them.”

  413. Fear, something that is a moment by moment struggle for me.
    You see my littlest guy started having seizures at the age of two. Not just a single seizure, but hundreds in a day. I was gripped with fear. Slowly as our family walks down this new road I am learning to let that fear go. I can not be there to catch him every time he falls, I can not prevent the injuries, and I can not make the seizures stop. Oh how I wish I could. I am living every moment remembering that God is in control. Healing or no healing I can not live in fear. I choose not to fear what will happen in the next ten minutes or the next ten years. He is my source of peace.

  414. There are sooooo many reasons why this day I am choosing to be over fear but two of your reasons stood out to me in particular – 5. Everything your Father has for you — is over the fence of fear. I took part in a Sozo prayer session not too long ago and one of the areas that was addressed was the moving of a fence that God allowed me to visualize, a very big tall, that I am now having confirmed as fear. And 7. Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living. Fear has absolutely paralyzed me and I have let it keep me from doing almost every normal activity of daily living – just everyday fun life stuff – and yes, most definitely the stuff that God has called me to do too. So, today, I am choosing to not live fearfully but to live the life that God purposes me to have – a life of peace, love, joy, hope, power, and prosperity!

  415. I have let fear stop me from doing what I am called to do. I also fear leaving my children before they are grown. It has been overwhelming at times. However I am a work in progress and am refusing to accept The lie of fear!

  416. Thank you for sharing your heart with all of us! You and your family are such an inspiration to me. I have recently been thinking of how I am living in fear of so many things and that it is not how God intended me to live. Thank you for your courage to share your heart on-line and in person. I was so blessed to hear you in Nashville a few months ago. It made a difference in me! May God continue to bless your family and your ministry as you walk His path. Blessings!!!

  417. It’s taken me a long time but, I’m done with fear because I know that God is and will take care of me.

  418. I am done fearing the unknown. God is always before in time and space and I have no fear of that!

    Thank you for offering the giveaway.

  419. I am a mama to one, and soon to be two! I admit-fearing that I am not doing enough to be a “good parent” has been a struggle! Thank-you for these reminders-#9 spoke specifically to me. It really combats that feeling of never doing or being enough. I am reminded that there is rest in our Lord…and peace to be still and know that through Him I am enough as a parent.

  420. Oh how I want to be done with fear once and for all! I think that battle will be won only when I am called Home. Until then, I will strive to rest in Him. When fear that I will lose more of the people I hold dear creeps in, I will remind myself of my Great-grandmother’s final words, “God never makes mistakes, and His timing is always perfect.”

  421. I live with my husband and 2 children in a city in Africa where foreigners are targeted for kidnapping. We moved to this city because God wants these 35 unreached people groups to know the freedom that comes in worshiping Him in Jesus. But before we moved, I was so afraid that my husband and I would be kidnapped and my 1 and 2 year old girls would be abandoned. I am not afraid anymore because God spoke loud and clear to my heart during a time of crying out to Him in desperation, “I will take care of them.”

  422. I thought I was done with fear, but it came calling again today. Then I saw this post, and I am fighting and praying.

  423. So I copy the 10 things to know about fear… and lurking there I find 11! And I smile… fear always wants to loom larger than it is, to intimidate, to sneak in and rise up unexpectedly… but the lessons override the threat! I print it out to paste into my journal, challenged to add what I know… the fear vanquished by my own experiences with an every faithful Father. Blessings!

  424. I was raised with fear and fear still often keeps me up at night. What wins the battle for me is recounting my reasons to thanks th Lord and His past faithfulness to me. I am cupped in His hands.

  425. As I read this – this song kept singing in my head”

    “Oh, Love that will not let me go,
    I rest my weary (fearful) soul in Thee;
    I give Thee back the life I owe,
    That in Thine ocean depths its flow
    May richer, fuller be.

  426. Love this post–very timely for I’ve been fighting fear recently. I’m done with it because it is exhausting, doesn’t change anything, and keeps me from living the life God wants me to and has equipped me for.

  427. I am not afraid because God promised never to leave me nor forsake me. I am done with fear because of Jesus I can have victory over any obstacle or fear I face because He has overcome the world!

  428. I simply refuse to fear for my future anymore!! It sucks the joys out of my todays and robs my time in the now!! I know that God has my back and I choose to live in the present, and remember Jeremiah 29:11!!

    For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a FUTURE and a HOPE!!!

    thank you for being so YOU!!!

  429. All my life I have been told that I was crazy or too sick or that I just can’t. Whenever I have dreamed of doing something, I have feared failing or disappointing someone, so more often than not, I have just not even tried. Then I really gave it all to God and I got brave and I stepped out and started taking things one day at a time letting Him lead. I felt led to start ministry believing that he was telling me that if I trusted Him, He would make me healthy enough for this ministry and provide me with the people I needed to help me in this ministry. I prayed for the people to help me and for health. I started to get healthy and people started to come forward to help with the ministry. I moved forward always praying for God to lead me. Then things started to turn. My health started to take a down turn and the people who said they would help slowly disappeared. A war broke out in my church, which is the reason all of the people left, it had nothing to do with the ministry. In the midst of all of it, my ministry told me twice that he was disappointed in me and that I was a disappointment to the ministry and the leadership of the church. I felt I must be a disappointment to God too, because I got so sick again. It all destroyed me and I just haven’t been able to come back from it. I have been so afraid to open myself back up to getting hurt again. This isn’t the first time I have been hurt in ministry. Fear has been crippling me for a year now and that is just too long.

  430. I am so done with Fear! I have lived in fear all my life and I have come to realize through God’s revelation that I do not truly know the Father’s Love for me. I have been spending more quality time with God and reading the Word more and getting to really know Him. Perfect Love casts out all fear. I desire to be FREE and I know God promises that whom the Son sets free is free in deed! Thank you Lord for growing me and drawing me closer to you every day. I am so thankful for His Grace and Mercy and for putting people like you Ann, in my life to help me along on the journey. You truly are a blessing to me and many, many others. Be blessed 🙂

  431. Fear paralyzes us – I choose to cast aside fear and let God move me. He says, “Don’t be anxious about anything, but in everything…give thanks….” I choose to give thanks!

  432. I’m finished with paralyzing fear of failure with raising my kids.

    Thankful for God’s moment by moment grace!

  433. …because just before reading this post, I sent a message to my husband in the Middle East, telling him that the fear of losing our little boy to regression is strangling me… eating me alive… and he said to “TRUST God…” and I know that He is in control…that He is SO much BIGGER than autism… And I have nowhere else to turn… nobody else’s arms to fall into, but His… Thank you for this post. It really spoke TRUTH to me tonight.

  434. I am done with fearing that thing that’s been stalking me, because that fear has made me smaller than He ever intended me to be, and my God is bigger than the fear.

  435. I’m done fearing bouts of anxiety because they push me to my knees and cause me to look up which is a great place to be if you want to experience more of God. Thanks for your blog:)

  436. I am saying good-bye to the fear that has held me captive from living free. The fear that has convinced me that I have been disqualified and that I have been a disappointment to Him.

  437. Fear has certainly kept me from living–really living–my life, for my family, for myself, and for God. Coming to the realization that God wants us to stretch and grow and it’s in facing our fears we become fearless. Knowing that He won’t place us in a situation that we can’t handle is quite comforting. So is knowing that it’s when we are weakest that He is strongest!

  438. Thank you for this post…I have to pray against a spirit of fear almost daily..and His love and promise never ceases to fill me with peace!!

  439. i’m done with fear because it doesn’t avail me anything… only Christ changes me!

    what a great giveaway- thank you!

  440. Loved this, Ann. Thank you. I needed to read this today.

    I especially resound with #7. When I was pregnant with our first child, a daughter we named Eve, I prayed for her physical and emotional and spiritual health often. And often, (I can see this much more clearly in hindsight, of course) I would sense God prompting to pray that her life was His, that whatever He had coming for her was okay. And I said no. I would not pray something that seemed to lead to death. It was incomprehensible.

    And then she died. She died before she was born, at 31 weeks of pregnancy, totally healthy and perfect, except that she was dead. The doctors could never figure out why she died. And now I am 32 weeks pregnant with our second child, a boy named Jacob. And although I have not felt Him prompting it this time, I have thought long about whether or not I want to pray “your will for Jacob, Lord, whatever it is, even death.” I have come to the conclusion that I will pray it — and I HAVE prayed it, even though it’s scary — because not praying in this way, not giving my daughter fully over to God did nothing to save her. If anything, it only robbed me of whatever healing blessing might have come from such a risky prayer.

    So even though I am still afraid, I am willing to give my son’s life fully to God, because I know that He is the only one trustworthy enough for such a precious treasure anyway, and because I don’t think there’s really anything else I can do if I want to stay sane.

  441. My worst fear for a while has been that my son is gay. But because of wise counsel this week from one who pointed out to me that because he is sharing his struggles with me, this has been removed from the darkness “where Satan lurkes” into the light where he can be prayed for and we know what happens when God’s people pray. I don’t fear – I face it.

  442. Perfect love casts it out ~ where it belongs!. I am who God says I am and He is absolutely without a doubt who He says He is and can do what He says He can do (one of the many Truths received from a Beth Moore bible study I took years ago).

  443. I’ve been wrestling with this very thing…and I’m done with fear. It is not from God. It limits me and what I might dare to do for Him. His grace is enough for me!

  444. God uses Ann Voskamp to continual speak to my heart and life. Thank you, Jesus, and thank you, Ann, for sharing your heart.

  445. There’s more fear gnawing at the corners of my soul than I would dare admit. Last night His peace and comfort swirled around me with rich grace, seeping into the cracks of this previously shattered pot, as He is putting me bak together for great purpose. The benefit will be for my husband, my wonderful little stepsons, and this squirming little man who has yet to take his first breath in the world. They will be the first to reap the benefits of a woman without fear, a woman secure in the Lord.

  446. Years ago one of my greatest and deepest fears was divorce. It happened anyway. And God had told me all along he would walk me through ANY valley I found myself traversing. That valley was a nightmare. But God was faithful. He did exactly what he told me he would do. He walked me through it. We came out of that valley, and when I was exposed to the light I was a new person. Fear still knocks on my door, but fear no longer holds me captive.

  447. I live in fear, always. I fear failure. I fear my faith is too small (it must be, right?). I fear my children are growing too quickly and I fear I fail them daily. I fear I’ll never break this cycle and trust God the way I’m meant to trust Him. Is wanting to break that fear enough to do it? I’m afraid to try. Stifled. Reading your post again, with hope (and a little fear)…

  448. The deeper I go with God, the more peace I find. I think the fear can’t handle the deepness of God!

  449. I am free from fear of the future because the Lord promises that he has it planned out for my good. I am about to be stepping out into a new adventure alone and I don’t have to be afraid because I am never alone.

    Love this post!!!! Need constant reminders about not fearing.. 🙂

  450. Done with fear because I want to live fully. Done with fear because I have lost nothing but the gain of Christ. Done with fear because it hampers and I wan to be free. Done with fear because it does no good thing.

  451. I will no longer fear because at God’s worst He is far more than I can ever need or want. And blesses me much more than the fear itself does. I am more productive as a wife, mother, sister, friend if I am inspired by the Holy Spirit than fear. Thank you Lord for a fearless future!

  452. Why am I done with fear?? Because according to 1 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

  453. I’m done fearing/worrying about tomorrow, and I am gonna live by this…

    “Just. Rest. in. Him. in. This. Moment.”
    Because that is all I have been given “This moment”.

  454. I have feared way too long over many things but especially in confrontation and allowing timidity take me prisoner. I always go back to the scripture that says, God did not give me a spirit of fear, but of love, power and sound mind. Just recently, I have been praying for Him to allow me to face this fear head on. Well, I was given a big opportunity to come face to face this week with someone who violated our children within our family and I confronted him. It was so freeing but terrifying at the same time! It was like I had broken free from my own personal prison. Then, just today another situation presented itself to face the other biggest fear of confrontation. It has been a year grieving process of leaving a place of worship that our family loved being a part of. I often wondered if we really heard from the Lord to leave and today I was able to finally stop grieving and God allowed me to face theme with confidence and give me complete peace that our decision was His! Even through these difficult situations, I realized how much He loves me and knows me better than I know myself. I am so thankful today!

  455. I’m done fearing failure because it’s not obedient and it’s a fraud and it keeps me from the abundant life God so graciously has for me. My husband and I are about to move over seas and the process of going has me up in arms! Cheers to letting go and letting God move how ever he so pleases!!

  456. I very recently wrote down this quote: Feed your faith and your fears will starve.
    I’ve been trying to live that out each day. When I can see that feeding my faith reduces my fears, I am even more eager to dig into His Word each day. In fact, I’ve taken to writing down a verse and sticking it in my pocket to carry with me throughout the day.

  457. Ann, I am done with fear. For about six years really lived in fear of losing. Losing my husband. Losing my mind. I went deep. Deep in His Word. And what can I fear losing when I have Christ? He holds. I know that whatever happens. He loves. And He is good!
    And Ann! I quietly whisper the same thing I did in March for you as you journey. I pray God wills. And the creek keeps on singing! Love and Blessings, Amy Kneen

  458. On Sunday, a guest pastor encouraged us to fear only the Lord, and this post is reconfirming that I need to stop fearing what people think of me — what friends, family, even my parents see when they look at my home, my family, our decisions. If I am doing what the Lord’s will is, I should have nothing to fear – what can man do to me?!

  459. Ann, I am done with fear. For about six years really lived in fear of losing. Losing my husband. Losing my mind. I went deep. Deep in His Word. And what can I fear losing when I have Christ? He holds. I know that whatever happens. He loves. And He is good!
    And Ann! I quietly whisper the same thing I did in March for you as you journey. I pray God wills. And the creek keeps on singing! Love and Blessings!

  460. I am done with fear because it squeezes out faith. FAITH. That which keeps me singing, loving, working, striving, playing, praying, encouraging, reading, worshiping and teaching until the Lord scoops me up to be with Him.

  461. Fear and worry have wasted time, cost me sleep and worn me out time after time – a reoccurring struggle in my life. Thanks for the reminder to stay with I AM in the present as “fear is always the flee ahead”!

  462. In Courage Ladies,
    I have fears…Yes and have been captive to those fears for many years! Thankful that my Redeemer has done just that redeemed me and brought my fears to light as I have been made new in HIM! And I wrestle with fear daily….daily!

    But today, it is not my fear that brings me to post. It is the #2 most feared. It is my dear friends fear. Her fear of losing her precious 5 yr old son to cancer that brings me to comment. You can read about her fear here….
    http://www.christiansfight.blogspot.com

    She says this about her fear…
    “I carefully wonder what my life would be like without the constant worry of cancer, relapse, pain, anxiety and fear. I long for days of normalcy and cold mornings in my pj’s with. ALL my children” ~Megan

    And everday she clings to this truth, even if it is while she is wrestling with fear…
    “Don’t get me wrong – each day is a struggle and everyday I wake up and say, “oh yeah, I forgot, ok here we go again…..” Each day I must surrender my life to God and the life of my child to God. But knowing that God wants this responsibility, knowing that God doesn’t want us to fear or worry is what gives me peace.” ~Megan

    But sometimes fear grips her and she feels troubled and afraid!
    So this post is for Megan. I would love for her to be blessed with the gifts as a token to reassure her that our God is Bigger and that as she walks this journey with her son and her family that she can cling to the Truth she knows and loves and that if the #2 fear of people takes her child from her that she can rest knowing that they will meet again and there will be no tears when they do!

  463. Wow!! I need to print that out and read it every day!! I have been struggling with fears, and letting go of hurts from my past, and just trusting God with them all. I am slowly learning, slowly!!

  464. Fear is paralyzing my life. Somehow I have let my neurotic
    tendencies take over my thought life, and now my actions
    are dictated by everything that might possibly happen, but
    most likely will not.
    This is a total lack of trust that God is good and He has control.
    I repent of my lack of respect for God’s ultimate piloting of life.
    I would love to live out the rest of my life being fear-less.

  465. Right now my life is very uncertain, I have a lot to be fearful of. While my life seems to be in the middle of a very large storm, God wants me to paint, and step out in faith that He will use my paintings, inspired by God to His glory. I pray that I can step out and overcome my fear of not being good enough , and go forward with God.

  466. #8 – I flee ahead to the worst case scenario when I am afraid or worried. I’m learning (slowly) to lean on the One who can do more than I can ever imagine and who is always there for me. Fly safely and bless those people with your wisdom and your love, Ann.

  467. I am done with fear because if He has done it for you my sister in Christ, He will do it for me, too. Just finished your book and continue to be grateful in all things. thank you and God bless.

  468. You got me at #1.
    I’m learning not to fear falling. I’m even learning to trust him with my obeying too, I mean I have been so delayed at it…and now I want to be immediate. It’s fear that delays my obedience. Yet he is able to cover me, so I can trust him with timing. Just, working on that!
    So, no fear except the fear of God. His perfect love drives out all other fears, but when I can’t feel that love I can remember just to make fearing him more imporant than the fears I’m feeling, the what ifs that never come true anyway.

  469. I learned a long time ago that I would rather FEAR face everything and recover rather than FEAR f— everything and run!!!

  470. Fear is the enemy’s territory. I choose to live with the faith, grace, courage and love available to me through union with Christ.

  471. I’ve been afraid that, despite what I’ve been taught and teach others about God’s grace, that it somehow does not/has not/will not extend to me. This fear/belief/deception has robbed me of joy . . . and I’m sick of carrying it around. As usual, Ann’s gift of expression has helped me see beyond myself to the One who knows better than I do . . . that all of us/each of us belong, are worthy. Even me.

  472. Right now I’m a newlywed of (almost) 6 weeks in a new city where I don’t know anyone but my husband. I don’t have a job yet. I don’t have any friends. But I’m finished being afraid about those things. God brought us to seminary for a reason, and he is going to work this out.

  473. One day on a walk in some woods near our house, I was telling the Lord about a certain fear. I looked down and saw two twigs directly in front of me arranged as a perfect cross. What a gentle and wise gift…the CROSS is between me and that fear…and I have peace. Thank you Jesus!

  474. Thank you so much for your encouraging words…just what I needed, at just the perfect time. On Monday morning I will put my eighteen year old daughter (who has never flown on a plane, who has never been away from home for more than a week, whose nickname fits her place in our home – “sunshine in the room”) onto a plane, all alone, heading to Bolivia by way of Chicago then Miami. God put it on her hear over a year and a half ago to serve Him through missions, before the business of college, career, husband and children fill her life. On her own she found the missions organization to be a part of, and on her own she will embark on an exciting adventure that will take her far from her small town life in Iowa for the next year. I am excited, in awe of her, and admittedly, afraid. I’m not afraid of her time in Bolivia, only of the flight down there – without us there to help her make her way through airports and now with reports of a hurricane heading to Florida at the same time she will be stopping there.
    I so needed to see – in words that I could see with my eyes, for impact – the reminder that “Nowhere on Earth is beyond the reach of God”. I will print those words out to remind me over the next few days, and even over the next year – and I will be thankful for your sharing of them. God bless.

  475. I won’t to remember that fear is not from God. When things are scary it doesn’t mean things are less certain than usual. It just means we are more aware of how frail everything is when it comes to our countrol of anything ever.

  476. I am done with fear as I point blank REFUSE to believe Satan’s lies over my life anymore. I am believing the truth from here on in: I am Forgiven. Saved. Accepted. LOVED. A Child of God. A Jesus girl. A Truth seeker. Grace lover. Faith stepper. A co-heir with CHRIST. Amen, Amen!

  477. Fear is the opposite of Faith. Without faith it is IMPOSSIBLE to please God. I’m done with fear because God proved His love for me on the cross and removed what should be our biggest fear–separation from Him. Won’t He take care of the smaller things? He died so I can BOLDLY LIVE!

  478. I have dealt with fear (panic attacks) most of my life and still managed to raise 4 awesome children, one who has dealt with autism for 37 yrs. I chose Jesus when I was sixteen and have given Him my fears and taken them back a zillion times. The Lord has been with me through every up and down. It wasn’t until many of the things I feared actually happened i.e. flying, divorce, cancer, that I began to put Him before the fears and realize He was always there waiting for my eyes to see & my ears to hear. Thank you Lord for your perfect love and teaching me you are truly bigger than all things.
    My dear aunty told me to take our burdens to the cross and tie them down with faith!

  479. my husband travels a lot for work & the neighborhood in which we live has really gone down hill. i barely sleep the nights he is away. i am done being fearful because I know the Lord has our family & our house in His hands & that His plan is perfect for my life.

  480. Oh how I needed to read this today! Fear has been creeping in this week with something that is totally out of my control. Normally this situation I lay at Jesus feet but there has been some serious occurrences (from my daughter’s ex-husband) the last few weeks that bring shades of the abusive relationship she was in. Numbers 2, 4 & 7 really spoke to my heart but 8 was such a gentle reminder – It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear – and give thanks!!! That’s exactly what I’m going to do right now. Ann you are such a blessing personally to me and that’s my first thanks!

  481. I battle fear everyday — the fear I won’t be obedient to the Lord’s calling in my life because He is asking me to give up a part of my worldly identity. I have been in the business world for more than 20 years and do very well there, But, He has asked me to leave and work for Him. It has been a really hard road to get over my fear of “How will I pay the bills? How will I pay for college?” etc. But the big flaw in those questions is the word “I”. When He asks for something, He will pay for it … I just have to believe, trust and then obey. So my faith is stretching and my love for Him is deepening as he has been gentle with me on this road. Soon I will have worked my last day in a corporate office in my current world. Who knows what he has for me … all I know is it will be fabulously focused on Him.

  482. God has used my husband to teach me how to deal with my fears. He reminds me pick a verse or a statement of truth that I can cling to and repeat. This has helped me through sleepless nights shen looking at large bills, when dealing with an illness. An in the words of casting crowns “The voice of truth says do not be afraid, the voice of truth says this is for my glory….”

  483. So timely a read for me today, God timely of course! I’ve been wrestling for some time with a particular writing. Today I confessed to a discipleship partner that I feared dealing with the words and memories when I open that door. I also confessed the thoughts that derail…”nobody wants to hear what you have to say thoughts”. I told her of that line of obedience that we have to step over inspite of the fear. Fear fall off! It’s the day of freedom in this area. This blog confirmed and {in}powered me to take the step of obedience. It’s HIS…power, work, outcome! Thank you God for other women who bust right through fear and by you, obey!

  484. I am amazed how God has been speaking to my heart about fear the past week, my devotions have been about fear, several posts on blogs I have been reading this week including this one have been about fear. I have been afraid to really step out in faith and follow God’s calling for my life in my career and to fully commit that area of my life (which since I’m single and don’t have kids is pretty much the biggest part of my life). I am done with fear that the bills won’t be paid, that people will be upset, that I may have to cut some relationships and make a lot of scary changes. I am trusting that God will provide what I need if I make this change because I will be doing what I am called to do. The peace from typing that and saying it out loud is amazing. Thank you for this post!

  485. As a new mom awaiting the birth of my first child, fear has been trying to creep into my life. This blog post is just another way that God has shown Himself to me in meeting me in the moment by providing encouraging, nourishing and refreshing reminders of God’s truth.

  486. So much goodness in this post and in all of the reader comments!! I have two fears that seem to rise up in my every day: fear of my house being broken into (my husband works over-night shifts half of the year) and fear of what people think of me. I’m letting go of these fears because God has a perfect plan for my family and I and because I should only care what He thinks, not others!! God is so good!!!

  487. Ever since a friend lost her husband in a car accident, I have lived almost crippled by the far of losing mine. “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living.” I want to choose instead to LIVE!

  488. I’m slowly letting go of fear as l learn to accept God’s love and acceptance of me. It’s a slow process because I can be forgetful. He is forgiving however and so we go on.

  489. For far too long, I allowed fear to rule my life. Fear that I was not good enough, fear that I would not be accepted, fear that if I tried – I would fail, fear that caused me to always say yes to everything and pile my responsibilities far too high and then fear that it was all going to come crashing down, fear that if I couldn’t do it all for everyone – I wouldn’t be loved, fear that it was just never ever going to be perfect…
    However – now – I have accepted the fact that I am loved and cherished, just as I am, that I was created in His likeness, that He loved me so much that He would die for me, that I am valued and cherished by many around me, that I have a lot to offer and then when I need to rest…it is okay. I’ve learned that when I stumble, I can get up. Fear is from the enemy, from darkness and I will no longer let it rule my life.

  490. For a while now I’ve been hesitant to move my family to a different location because of how the rest of my family would react. Scared that it would hurt their feelings or make them angry. But, I know that where we are is not healthy for us. Over the past few weeks I’ve realized that my fears, over things not in my control, we’re keeping me from experiencing God’s blessings and provision. Resting in him sure has brought a sense of peace 🙂 Now my family and I are stepping out in faith and I look forward to see the new home He has in store for us.

  491. The geese, flying high, loved that photo. Then, in your words, the geese flying straight to the sun, and I thought, that I too, should be flying straight to the Son. Your words, as always, fly straight to my heart. Thank you. Deeply grateful for you, for your words. The Lord bless you (and others through you) this weekend.

  492. I’m done with fear because it holds me back and hurts those around me and doesn’t point to God who CAN.

  493. This came up the oher day with my kids. They were asking of the things I was afraid of I couldn’t think of one, praise God I have been redeemed through my Savior and am learning daily to appreciate the gift he has given me.
    God Bless for all you are obedient to

  494. I spent years, my whole life really, being afraid. And then, by 30, almost all of it cameto pass. Multiple miscarriages, my parents plane went down, my niece with multiple health issues, a major,health scare of my own and then finally separated from my husband and single parenting 2 children under 4. Crazy stuff. AMD you know what?

  495. I fear being fearful… and slipping, sliding, falling into the black oblivion of hopelessness. When there is no Cross before me, where there is no hope to reach for, I can curl up inside. Fear is like a cold death. But then when Someone touches me…. that curled up, crippled, hopeless Me… with hope, it is like watching the sun rise after a sleepless night of mourning. The greatest feeling in the world is hearing the chains of fear crash to the floor as you spread your wings and fly, fly, fly towards hope….faith….life. It is good to be free. It is even better to stand in a waterfall of blood from Someone else and realize you have done nothing to deserve this freedom. That is love.

  496. Your thoughts on overcoming fear were awesome and so applicable to daily life. When I let fear drive my life, there is a sense of despair and depression. Yet when I trust the Lord and obey Him in all my ways, fear is decimated and crumbles in defeat. Thank you for your wonderful words that bring light and life into my living.

  497. I spent years, my whole life really, being afraid. And then, by 30, almost all of it cameto pass. Multiple miscarriages, my parents plane went down, my niece with multiple health issues, a major,health scare of my own and then finally separated from my husb and and single parenting 2 children under 4. Crazy stuff. And you know what? God did what He promised and gave me Grace for the moment. He was with me. Less than two years later our marriage is on the,mend, we’ve been blessed with another beautiful little girl and my parents and niece are mostly healed. Life is hard, and bad things do happen, and may not get better. But we have a God who loves and doesn’t leave. And the scary things are never as bad as I think they would be. Because we are His. And that really is enough.

  498. About three and a half years ago I was so angry at my husband because he would not let me be apart of the large financial decisions and he was making a large loan and we are near retirement age. I would ask him what would I do if something happened to him and I could not draw a large wage from our company to make the payments. I don’t think I faced that I was just feaful. In less than a year he was diagnosed with cancer and 10 months later died. I felt so bad about my anger and my lack of trust in God and amazingly I am well taken care of and have a new confidence I will be.

  499. Facing your fears with Jesus leading the way is so important. I long to be done with my fear of failure. It hinders my ability to fulfill God’s call on my life. Thank you for the powerful list and your vulnerability. Blessings.

    • Hit enter too soon. Fear is the opposite of Faith. My husband and I recently returned to our church community after a period of inactivity following my daughter’s birth, a time during which I have been emotionally and spiritually crippled with fear – will he lose his job, how will we make that loan payment, what will they say when they see the state of my house, I can never be a good enough role model for my daughter, how am I going to be a mother to a son? Etc. As we have re-dedicated our lives to learning of our Savior and walking towards his love and light, I have felt a tangible lessening of my fears, and I am profoundly grateful that He is blessing me with the faith I have asked for.

  500. So I can worship HIM.

    “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42

  501. I’m done fearing that I’ll never be just the right size or the right weight. God wants to use ME…not my jean size! He is graciously pulling me out of a 15 year long battle with poor self-image and disordered eating. He has relentlessly pursued me even to the darkest places; He never leaves. Praise Him. I’m done feeding my flesh and ready to feed my famished soul.

  502. Last night, I had trouble sleeping. My husband just got a new job, right in the nick of time as the savings have run out. We have $40 in checking and just wrote a check for $45 for school lunch on the prayer they won’t cash until payday (tomorrow). We’ve lived for almost the last year on my income. But as I tossed and turned, I finally FINALLY thought to myself: this struggle is not for you. God WILL provide, just as he has for the last year, for the last decade, for your entire life. I’m tired of living in the fear that is money. God is bigger than money. God is bigger than the troubles of this life. Fear of not having enough money (when we are trying to get rid of things by having a garage sale!) has ruled me long enough. NO MORE! Praise God, I’m free!!

    I have a friend in a similar situation and if I were to win this giveaway, I would give her this book to help inspire her in the way it has inspired me. If I don’t win, I’m planning to loan her my book just as soon as I’m done with it.

  503. This is so very timely. I am giving personal testimony at a retreat this weekend in front of 40 women. I am nervous, but I don’t feel fear because I know that I am obeying God’s call for me to do this. I’m more anxious about my ability to form words in my mouth at the correct time! 🙂 This post is beautiful and just helped me so much. Thank you, Ann.

  504. I’m done fearing other people’s opinion of my parenting. When I fear man and not God, I become a really bad mom to my littles.

  505. We’re in the midst of a LOT of change right now and I find myself making Excel spreadsheets, lists upon lists, comparing this to that, and grasping to control the situations. And my Father whispers, “Do you trust my Sovereignty? Let go. Fall. Fall into grace. You don’t control anything anyway, the only thing you’re letting go of is an illusion of control. It’s just an illusion.”

    Thanks for your post and the chance to win these beauties.

  506. .I’m a mum of 5 children and homeschooling and we are on the Mission field. My husband, a pilot, was diagnosed with Chronique Fatigue. He is not aloud to fly again till he has his medical back. I have delt with fear lately, as we didn’t know anymore what to do and where to go. But I had to learn again to Trust in the Lord, with all my heart, and do not lean on my own understanding. In all my ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct my path. What helped overcome my fear was: Communion. He took all my fears on the cross once and for all so that I could be free again.

  507. I’m done with fear because perfect love casts it out. God’s love casts it out. And fear is from the enemy-the biggest fraud I’ve ever heard of!

    I’ve faced some incredible fears this year-we’re in our early 20’s and my husband has been hospitalized 5 times in just 20 weeks because of a severe chronic illness. When fear crept in, it did not gain me life, hope, or comfort. But TRUST in the Lord’s perfect and often scandalous will is what leaves me open handed with my husband and heart.

  508. I love that you kicked fear to the curb….that’s right sister!! I am not going to fear people anymore, because FEAR is a FRAUD and everything God has for me is over the fence of fear….or I like to say through the door. Fear is a door, I just need to face it and walk through it. So, when it comes to people….I will face them head on and walk through the door and get to where I am going! Woooo hoooooo Nowhere and NO one is beyond the reach of GOD—fear is a fraud. It rhymes! I love it! Thank you for your heart and thank you for your voice found in HIM.

  509. My fears attack in that murky time when sleep almost descends and then in a flash I’m wide awake with my heart pounding fearing I don’t know what and remembering every stupid thing I’ve ever done in my life. I’m asking God to guard against the underhanded fear that strikes when I’m most vulnerable and I’m telling Satan that he can’t pull that one on me anymore, because I belong to Jesus Christ and I’m a child of the King.

  510. God asked me to walk the faith to faith journey with Him and do something insane beyond my ability to show that He is the one who works in me. I will no longer fear preaching for I am called to preach the gospel to the nations! I will no longer allow fear of being criticized because of being a 22 year old female stand in my way. God called me for His purpose!

  511. Just last week I was talking about how much I desired God to work in this area in my life. I lived a fearless life for so long–gladly challenging myself to do the things that I was afraid of–but it feels like over the last 6 yrs or so my choices have been determined by the path of least challenge. Fear has taken on an overwhelmingly large position in my thoughts as I weigh my decisions. Fear of failure, fear of embarrassment, fear of rejection. But I am slowly learning that the fear was always there, and God’s grace is at work so mercifully as he reveals the true nature of my fears. Thank you so much for this encouragement!

  512. Wow, this is perfectly timed. I am speaking at our church on Sept. 9, and am really terrified of public speaking. To the point where I took a “C” in speech in college (the average of an A for written work and an F because I wouldn’t do the speeches aloud!). That kind of terrified. Yet, occasionally I feel a nudge (ok, maybe a shove) from God to do that which I am most reluctant to do. So on September 9, I will stand, and Jesus Emanuel, God with me, will stand beside me. And I will speak the words He has put on my heart. And I will watch the fears fly ahead of me out of the room, like a flock of squaking parrots. Thank you!

  513. I realized this past week that I have been angry God wouldn’t turn my parents’ hearts toward Him. Well actually, I’ve known that for awhile. What I didn’t know is that I was afraid His love wasn’t big enough to help my parents. But this week I realized He is big enough and His love has reached them. He loves us enough to give us choices, but knew we would make the wrong ones so sent Jesus for us. It’s not that He doesn’t love my parents enough to pull them out of their legalism and sometimes fake Christianity – it’s that He loves them so much He still sends Jesus to die for them after they have chosen that.

    I choose to no longer live in the fear that God does not love me or my family enough to save us.

    • I can relate. I have gone in and out of my Christian faith because most of my family don’t share it and yet I can see so much good in them. I have been condemning my God in order to justify them. Despite my actions, God has been here all along and He is calling my family to Himself. Just recently, my sister became pregnant and she plans to move in with her boyfriend. All this would normally make me fear all the things that could go wrong, but God has been bringing me back to His Word and showing me that He is in this. My friend was even told by the Holy Spirit that my sister was pregnant before my sister even knew herself. God cares about her and her unborn child, although my sister isn’t interested in a Christian walk!

      So no matter what it seems like, God is sovereign. He is in control. And He loves us- and our families- way more than we ever could. Keep trusting Him Karissa!

      Love and prayers from New Zealand,
      Steph

  514. I have been so afraid. God keeps sustaining me, sending voice and breath and friends and hope. When will I stop being surprised at how God destroys fear? I pray again, and believe. God helps me know that I have a place, a home without fear, even among those with whom I disagree – because we do agree that we love Jesus. We are grounded in the spirit. Thank you, God, for showing me how you eradicate fear. I pray, and believe.

  515. So beautiful! So moving. So everything I needed today. 🙂 Today I’m going to choose not to allow my past, present, or future fears rule my life and my thoughts! The Lord has been working with me on this for the last week or so…it’s exciting to see posts like yours pop up just when I need to work on this area in my life! The Lord is Good! 😀

  516. I’m single and have had a fear of growing old alone, but I’m not alone. My God is always with me and I believe he is enough!

  517. Can’t say I am done with fear… but I will say ..” I am living on the wing of His perfect love that casts out all fears … “… Someone has tried repeatedly to break into a family members house while I am staying with the children of that family member …a member of that family has had her life threatened several times recently, by a young man formerly from her church.. this young man , because she broke up with him, has threatened to kill her, himself, and others…I went to the pastor with her and have been addressing the issue… but now that young teen family member is being sentimental and refuses to press charges or a restraining order against the young man… even though the youth pastor has tried to tell her that this young man is dangerous… as he has both psychological and spiritual battles. and should probably be baker acted even.. because this young woman just turned 16 the police wont do anything unless she starts the charges and other adults witness the paperwork. each night I cannot sleep well, as the house also does not have proper security measures… The police came and told us what is needed, and that caution should be taken for the coming weeks. But the mother just returned home yesterday and said she will not live in fear… so is basically ignoring some of the advise of those in authority around her… it leaves me with heartache… super concerned for this teen and now her mother and younger siblings… They recently , thankfully, ended a 17th yr history of serious, life threatening abuse, marriage, so are also going thru those adjustments. the teen assumed because she has been dating young men from her church that everything would be ok… ( her father was not a Godly head of house, nor a protector… he was the purpetrator. ) but sadly she is really confused as it is young men from her church that are bringing her down. Wow… wasn’t going to share all that… but I guess perhaps, some of you will pray for this girl and the situation… and for release from fear… by Gods abiding presence… and intervention).. my prayer with her pastor was that even tho it is difficult for a young Christian woman who started dating at 16, to stop being so trusting with young men… that is my prayer.. and that she would envelop herself with Godly girlfriends and group activities… I spent most of week taking her to youth group functions, teen church, pastoral counselling, etc… and a teen women’s Bible study. Please join me in prayer for them, and also pray for me, that the enemy would not allow fear for them as I prepare myself to leave, to take over… thanks Ladies!

    • Your story is so touching, and you are all in my prayers. Keep doing what you’re doing, keep your faith, God is with you and that family. God is our Protector, a Refuge in times of trouble.

      Love and prayers from New Zealand,
      Steph

  518. What a great word from the Lord. All great tools to help me to become a more abiding Mom. Thanks

  519. I’m SO done with fear because it was eating me alive. I struggled and strove and all God wanted was for me to BE. Be at peace, be trusting, be whole, be me, and He pulled me out of the deep hole I was in and set my feet on a rock, and caused me to stand up straight again! It is like I’m in a different country, the change is so great to my soul. And now living on the wing of His perfect love that casts out all fears is what I want all of you to know. Rest in His love, His perfect love, and love others so they can know His perfect love. Fear not for I am with you says the Lord!!

  520. I am choosing to let go of ALL fear because I’m on a divinely orchestrated journey to learn the depth, length, height, and breadth of the fullness that is set aside for me. Fear steals fullness. Fear is complete counterfeit! I’m walking away from counterfeit and pursuing a deeper level of revelation and experience on the Spirit. I’m adoring the journey!

  521. This spoke to me:

    Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying.

    I am such a Gideon. I ask God to show me what to do and when he does I ask Him to verify what He’s shown me. I have had an incredible year of guidance and I am in a place where I believe God has lead me. YET, every day I am afraid. Why is that? I don’t believe God would place me where He would not be with me. I needed this post. Thank you, Ann. This verifies what I already knew, but it’s that Gideon syndrome again….

  522. Turning 50 years brought much change into my life. I hadn’t realized how controlling I was until there were things I couldn’t affect as a parent (kids graduating and moving on with their own lives), or as a wife (my husband’s decline into aging and withdrawal, being much older than me), or as an individual (a cancer diagnosis). Suddenly the faith I thought was so strong in my life felt weak, because I realized I believed more in what I had learned/absorbed/grew comfortable with (controlled!) rather than being open to His Spirit. The cancer brought so much fear I could hardly breathe sometimes, and it showed me how weak my faith was. I still struggle with believing every moment of my life and every day is His gift to be thankful for instead of reacting to with fear and anxiety. Yet as I wake every day facing the possibility of a cancer recurrence, I thank God for using it to show me how fearful I really have been for so many years when I spent so much time and energy trying to control situations in my life.

    • Oh my Dear Dawn,

      I am praying for you. You list so many challenges here. I just entered my 60’s and I have been through many of the same situations you mention, except for the cancer diagnosis. That is major and I pray you continue to look to Jesus and find rest in Jesus.

      Hugs,
      Dawn

    • Wow, that is so hard! Where would we be without our Shelter and Refuge? Thank you for sharing, you are in my prayers.

      Christ’s Love from New Zealand,
      Steph

  523. I have always tended to be fearful. I think I’ve been the queen of mommy-fears. My biggest fear has always been that my child would get really sick with something horrible that I wouldn’t have control over. My worst fear became a reality; my sweet nine year old has an unnamed illness that is robbing him of so many things on a daily basis. His illness has changed us all but I realized a couple of months ago that the things I’ve been afraid of in the past are no longer a part of me. God has taught me to loosen my grip because I was never the one in control anyway. I believe God now when He says “fear not.”

  524. Today as I was reading my Bible I was reading in Ezra. Chapter 7 vs 28b says: …my God was on my side and I was ready to go. What more do I need to overcome fear, insecurity, or anything else that may hinder me from giving my all to Him? The God of the Universe is on my side. No fear is greater than the God of the universe. #donewithfear

  525. wow. sooo good. God wants us to be FREE from the chains of fear. i want to give HIM complete power and authority over my life…i don’t want to give that to my fear and carry the heaviness of those joy-stealers anymore.

    love this list. needing to sit at Jesus’ feet with this…to lean into Him…to seek His face.

    holding onto His promise that we can find refuge under His wing…and that His perfect love casts out fear.

  526. A few months ago, I just realized how tight a grip fear had on me. For the first time, I experienced the panic, the irrational, and sheer dread of it’s control. Ever since I can remember, I have always known fear and seen what it can do to someone completely consumed by it. I had always assumed I had escaped from it’s clutches-only to later find myself huddled in my shower crying for God to remove the chains from me. Because He tells me He sees me and hears me and is with me- I read His word and it comforts me and He tells me not to worry and that He is stronger-I have no reason not to believe Him or doubt Him.Thank you, Ann, for your words of encouragement.

  527. “Your fears do not decide your fate – your fears destroy your faith.” So very true. Fear is such a faith killer. Think of Peter (Matt. 14:22-32) – Peter WALKED ON WATER!!! WOW! How amazing was that? But what happened – he let his fear and doubt in Jesus take over – then he began to sink. His fear killed the growing faith in his heart. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.”

  528. i am done fearing because when i was stuck wandering terrified in the dark alley, i watched god pick me up out of that alley and set me back down in the light. once you’ve been rescued from the alley of fear, you don’t go back.

  529. I’ve been afraid most of my life- it sounds silly, but I’ve been afraid of the dark. Ever since someone tried to break into my house when I was 13, and another night when I saw someone try to climb in my window when I was 16, I have had to sleep with a fan on. The noise made me forget about the outside world and stop me freezing at every unidentifiable noise. However, I’ve now moved out from my Dad’s house and I live by myself. There is no high gate, no impenetrable fence that guards me from whoever might want to try break in to my house. And yet, for the first time in my life, I’m no longer afraid. I now live alone, with less security than at my dad’s house, and I’m not afraid! God has freed me from the darkness, and I am so, so grateful! He has freed me to be His, and I need Him in every moment to save me from my fears.

    Thank you Ann. Your words are beautiful.

  530. Fear of sickness has plagued me, on and off, for much of my short (21 years) life.
    Not that it has anything to be founded on–
    but it’s there.

    Since I’ve been married, in the last little-over-a-year, it’s been better. My husband helps, comforting me in a way I was never able to comfort myself.
    He’s a presence of the Lord that I think I always needed.

    And I refuse to let this fear interfere with my life.

    “Fear is of the enemy,” my mom always told me. She was right. Fear is not a creation of God. Thankfulness is.

    Thank you for this, Ann, and for the opportunity to win such a lovely gift!

  531. I am done with the fear that people might think I’m strange or socially awkward and I am learning to accept and know who I am in Him. This has been a long time coming, since I’m 34 years old, but it is such a freeing feeling.

  532. I think I have two main fears. I tend to fret that my grown children may stray from Christ, and I also fear failure and acceptance at work. I am learning to “let go” and to trust and to give thanks.

  533. Ever since my serious brush with death last fall, my relationship with fear has changed.

    I used to be petrified of snakes. I still don’t like them much, but no fear.

    Those first few months in the hospital, then at home, I seemed fearful of everything. I think the significant brain trauma was at play here.

    Now I do have fears, like for the physical safety of family members (I’m great at jumping to conclusions in a single bound or thinking up the worst possible outcome to any given scenario), some relationship insecurities, and my newly discovered phobia of heights. (Do you have any idea how much sky diving is used in television commercials? I never realized until this side of the hospital!) Overall I am surprised by the general absence of fear in my life, in every day circumstances. I even wondered if there was something wrong with me and my inability to feel “normal” fears? Was this too a result of mental damage?

    After reading these thoughts, I am struck by many reminders, such as, “perfect love cast out fear.” I have been clinging to the Lord, as never before, through these last 10 months. I feel as if His still, small Voice whispered to my heart today that I am just more closely experiencing life here on earth as He intended me to live it, without the rule of fear.

    So much more of my life is submerged in the grasp of brokenness and the results of the fall, that this seems to be a measure of grace in my life, a return to being a little closer to God’s original design in the Garden. 🙂 Thank you for pointing out these truths.

  534. I’m done fearing failure and I’m going back to school to finish my bachelor’s… in writing/communications!! (who am I kidding, I’m still scared to death) but I’m facing it! Class starts MONDAY!!

  535. I’d like to say that I am completely done with fear forever, but I know that is probably not true. I tend to worry, and I know there is no need. This is a timely post for me because I have had many things that have prompted worry of late. But I whisper the name of Jesus and I cannot feel afraid today. If I keep God at the forefront and ask for His help in all things, I have nothing to fear.

  536. Having suffered the tragic loss of our 7 year old son in an accident a little over two years ago, the enemy has done all that he could to strike us down and to believe his lies. I AM DONE!!! It is true that nothing can separate us from our One Love! And I don’t want to fear living and doing things which, like you said, keep us from REALLY living. We cannot prevent really bad stuff from happening, but we can trust in an almighty Father who loves us and has nothing but good for us! And in the end, when our life here is over, it will all be worth it to be in heaven forever with Jesus!

    Thank you for a beautiful blog post, and a beautiful and generous giveaway! 🙂

  537. Life is so heavy lately – medical tests for my son, for me, my sister breaking down mentally. I have been afraid, felt fear’s crushing presence robbing me of my breath. But life is also full of beauty – calmness during uncomfortable procedures, a Bible study on James (“consider it pure joy…), a son who turns to Jesus for help, time to rest and pray and the beauty of fall beginning. These gifts speak to me of God’s presence, His love, His care and draw me to peace and hope.

  538. I loved this post! Our God has NOT given us a Spirit of fear…and so we need to stand firm and talk back when that fear stalks. For me, it was fear stalking in the darkest part of the night….whispering that some day I would be ALONE, kids all gone off to their own lives, husband pre-deceasing me, no one but me and the middle of the night. But over the last year and a half, I have become. so. done. with listening to those lies. Now, when I do waken in the night, and the whispers start, I counter with truth. “Jesus, you are with me now. You will be with me then. You will not EVER leave me alone. Anything else is an untruth and a scare tactic of the enemy of my soul….of my thoughts, my emotions, my heart.” I thank Him for His arms around me, and fall asleep KNOWING that He is truly with me and will always be there.
    As He is with you, Ann…in your night-before-Women of Faith, on the flight to DesMoines, as you walk up to the platform to speak. How blessed those women are going to be!

  539. I began having anxiety attacks after starting a new job. I would be fine until I got home and then would second guess everything I did (in a hospital lab). The Lord is teaching me that these unfounded fears are a result of pride and a lack of trust. I am giving each day to Him and trusting him to carry me through it. Thank you for your timely post.

  540. Fear,,,fear is the enemy…truly, fear is satan’s dirty little secret weapon that hits like that bolt of lightening and ends in crashing of thunder,,,, keeping me from living …living day to day to day …the ONLY , the ONe and ONly . My Lord and Saviour!
    Prayer, FAITH!!!!Faith the total opposite of fear….Fear=Satan. FAITH =GOD!
    My weapons surround me. Prayer and His WOrd, His WOrd = His arms….Loving ….merciful and strong. Strength melting the fear….extinguishing the fear…..no fear will ever be welcome while in God’s care.

  541. “why I am done with fearing…” Everything looks so different now, through the lens of Jesus. As He teaches me through His Word, gifted Teachers, my circumstances, fellow Brothers & Sisters…I feel less fear because there is less “me”. It’s a wonderful crazy – since finally admitting that I am fallen and CANNOT do this life “myself”, that I NEED the Lord to help me – He is erasing more fear from me every day – just like He promises in Paul’s words to Timothy: more power, love, and self control! Less me + More Jesus = NO FEAR! 🙂

  542. At this very moment, I can not truthfully say I am done with fear. I can only truthfully say I want to be done with fear! I know & believe that GOD is ALL of WHO HE SAYS He is & that brings much HOPE. HOPE that one day I can kick fear to the curb. Right now I am struggling with fear for my grandchildren, which, of course, also entails fear for my children (daughter & son-in-love.) HE-perfect love-casts out all fear & I just try to HIDE in HIM.

  543. I LOVE this post!!!! I have a few fears, as I’m sure most do, but the 3 biggest ones are what hold me back from what God seems to be telling me to do. Failure and Rejection and the fear of the unknown are always tormenting me. This is a struggle for me, trying to let go, it’s like a habit now that I desperately need to change to move into His light.
    Thankyou I am printing this out and pasting into my journal!!!
    🙂

  544. abandoned by Mother, raised by an negilent, alcholic father, abused my a babysitters husband. i’ve spent more years afraid than i care to admit. i am not bound by the spirit of Fear but of power, love and self control. Thank you Jesus and Ann for a great reminder

  545. Fear is something I struggle with every day in some form, so thank you for this post. I love your list of 10 things to know about fear-very inspiring.

  546. I just came out the other end of some very difficult years, firmly grounded in the belief that God is faithful

  547. I’m tired of fearing rejection in almost every area of my life. It makes me fully exhausted to keep up ahead of the perceived rejections and notices by overdoing, overachieving. Ann, you posted a quote from Spurgeon some time ago quoting God’s Word with some minor modifications, but reminding me that He will NEVER leave me nor forsake thee. That is printed and hung right by this computer monitor. Now if I could allow my self to be still long enough to just rest in that truth.

  548. I am done fearing failure. How in the world can I get to my true God given, amazing destiny if I avoid doing anything in fear of failing.

  549. What great timing! My daughter and I are flying this weekend to Texas (to visit colleges – eek!) where there has been an outbreak of the West Nile virus. For some reason I have been feeling more fear about this trip than most. Your words helped remind me that I just need to put my faith in God. From now on, when I feel fear I am going to try to remember to spend the time thanking God for all his gifts instead.

  550. I am so done with fearing not being good enough. I was always compared to my sister growing up, and could never quite do enough to keep up. But, now I have realized that I AM good enough for my Lord, Jesus Christ! And, I will live for Him, instead of other.

  551. a timely post for me for sure. Oddly enough, tonight I’m fearing something most wives would joyfully embrace, a weekend alone with her hubby. I love my husband, and I know he loves me and is committed to me and our marriage, but we characteristically don’t have an easy one, and it’s been a bit more intense and challenging over the last several months for reasons unknown to us. As the weekend draws near, I run to that sadly familiar place of fear…fear I’ll disappoint and/or be disappointed, fear I’ll give into my flesh and fight or flee rather than pursue peace and the Peacemaker, fear that we’ll waste a lot of money and time AGAIN, frittering away a precious gift God’s given to us because of our stubborn pride that seeks to strive always and often. God is greater, though, right?! He is stronger. He is mighty to save…THIS is what I must dwell on and believe.

  552. I am done with the fear that I’m not enough. I grew up in a family where love was dangled in front of you like a carrot. Given when all was good…and just was quickly taken away. I’ve spent my life fearing that I don’t deserve to be loved. Then I found the only one who can love me unfailingly. He was always there. I just didn’t know it. God I give you all my praise!

  553. I am afraid of facing my past, of turning around and looking back, of forgiving myself. But I need to surrender to the fact that God has forgiven me and will continue to forgive me, His love doesn’t end. Thank you for telling us that today.

  554. I was just sitting here sinking into fear for my daughter’s health. She’s 15, with something that seems hard to diagnose. I am remembering right now not to fear, but to trust, and praise. God knows. He loves her more then I can ever love her. His timing is always perfect. Praise God

  555. I stopped fearing the day I started giving thanks. The record of thanks becomes a record of God’s faithfulness and goodness….when fear creeps across the thresh hold of my life, God reminds me to recount His goodness….remember His provision…breath Him in.

  556. What if you fear leaving Him, fear being fooled by false doctrine at some point in the future, to a point of being debilitating? It seems like something reasonable to fear — there is, after all, a Hell — since God promises to protect us so long as we stay true to Him.

  557. Thank you Ann for this encouragement. It is blessing my heart and I’m copying it to my journal.
    I do desire to be done with fearing and replace it with trusting God for manna for today. Your #9 hits me in this very spot – “Fear is always the flee ahead. God is I AM and His presence fills the present moment. Just. Rest. in. Him. in. This. Moment.”
    He is bigger than anything I can face today! 🙂

  558. The one thing I am done with fearing? Whether my college aged sons will continue to grow in their faith … When they are old they will not depart from it … He has written His law on their hearts and in their minds … HE’S GOT THIS!

  559. Oh, Ann. I just love Women of Faith, and I wish I could hear you speak in person! I know you will be a blessing for many, many women there.

    My fear this summer has been that I will lose my sweet husband one day in the near future. He is in a battle with late stage cancer, and I feel afraid when I think about being alone. But then I remember that I am never alone, and that when that day comes, I will not face it alone, but with my sweet Jesus holding my hand. I know where fear comes from, and I will not let it defeat me. Praise God for his never, ever ending goodness and mercy.

  560. I knew I had conquered Fear when I finally got out of a very dysfunctional marriage, church attending family, Now I am working on restoring my relationship with my Son, Amen

  561. Sometimes you just finally get tired of living by fear. Thanks for discussing it.

  562. For me, knowing that fear paralyses you, but mainly you fearing is telling God you don’t trust Him. My whole objective in this life is to do my best at being obedient to God. I fail daily, but Gods grace mercy love & forgiveness is all that’s needed to keep me trying.

  563. Fear is believing something other than the basic truth that I am held and loved by God. If I hold tight onto basic truth, fear approaches and creeps in but can’t park…it washes away in the shadows as the light of truth dissolves it

  564. Fear has held me back, but I need to let go and remember that where I am lacking is the space in which God can perform miracles.

  565. Great post! I am done with fear because I am done with holding back from what God has called me to do! I want to live for Him, fully and completely. I want to be ready to ‘go’ if He says go and not hold back. I remind myself of 2 Timothy 1:7 often, in fact, I have it written and posted in the front of my calendar. “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (fear), but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline.”

  566. I am tired of living to please people, and being afraid of what they think. I am going to live to please One… my Lord and Savior.

  567. I’ve always been afraid my whole life. Afraid the worst would happen. I’m done. I want God to hold me tight. I want him to show me the way, the way to pure Joy.

  568. I am done with fear because God wants me to think “Bible”!
    Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

  569. I will no longer fear what was done to me in my childhood. It does not define me. My God defines me and He is greater. He named me and I carry with me, even in my name the most precious gift anyone can be given…GRACE itself.

    “Hello FEAR…GRACE took your place.” -K.F.

  570. LIFE IS SHORT!!! I may as well live it to the fullest~obeying God in every little & big thing! I don’t care if I fail and I’m done caring what people think!! I am FREE to be ME and I’m only concerned about pleasing One!!! Who have I to fear? What can man do to me? If God is for me, WHO can be against me??? I’m done with fear in my life~I’m ready to live out God’s best and be blessed!

  571. i have alot of fears but i continue to trust Him, lately i have remembered that fear does not change anything for the better but only makes things worse so why fear? if i can work on just one fear by not dwelling on it and then praise instead then i feel i have made progress. i know He loves me regardless of my failures regarding fear.

  572. This post is so TIMELY for me!! I have always struggled with fear in driving in busy traffic situations. Two weeks from now I have to pick up my husband in Dallas. I tried every way to get out of it that I could think of.. but nothing worked! I feel like it is time for me to face this fear and I know the Lord will use this time to shape me. I do not want to be lead by fear!!!! Thanks Ann!

  573. By God’s grace, I am now not allowing the fact of me going back to school, at 30 years old as a single mom, to haunt me!!! I used to think, “Well, it’s too late now, and I can’t handle the workload with my son now being in school.”…. However, it has always been a dream of mine to become a registered nurse…. After working as a CNA for 5 years, I can not imagine doing anything else…. Though overcoming my “perfectionist side” is difficult in school, it feels awesome to be doing this finally…. walking through doors that God has so graciously opened for me!!!!!

  574. I lived with fear most of my life, not just fear, but full blown anxiety! Recently, my husband and I separated and God has shown me during this separation that I need Him! I need to fully rely on Him for everything! I didn’t do that before! He had to take my husband out of the picture to show me that I need Him. I have been afraid of the unknown, but I am done with that now because I know that whatever God has in store for my life is good! I am now fully obedient to Him and I trust Him with every aspect of my life, so what is there to be afraid of? I hope to some day inspire many people who are in or have been in that same situation I’m in. I’m still not giving up on my marriage, and I pray for reconciliation daily, if it’s His will 🙂

  575. I have struggled with anxiety for most of my life. In the past few months, we found out that our daughter will need to have surgery when she is 11 months old. Even though this is not considered a “big deal,” it is for this mom who has never sent any of her four babies into surgery before! When the fear has become paralyzing, I remember Jesus’ words, “Why are you terrified, you of little faith?” When I am TERRIFIED, I am filled with terror. That leaves NO room for Jesus. When I saw this post on Facebook tonight, it was perfect. I feel like I have a fence to climb, but God is always on the other side!

  576. The thing I feared most was commitment to Christian service. I took many courses of study on how to help but always choked when called upon to use the knowledge. As I aged, I was able to help people in informal settings, and I realized that God had given me the tools, but that He wanted me to help, but not be a professional. I was married and had children to raise and they all turned out to be believers and fine citizens.
    A few years ago, a friend introduced me to “the book” and I have kept a gratitude journal ever since, and have found freedom in the practice of living how I am, where I am. God is still using me in my old age to inspire faith in great-grandchildren and to participate in group studies so that I can add to the knowledge of God’s plan for me, and the enjoyment of the encompassing love of God.

  577. I no longer fear not pleasing God, or failing Him. I am more and more SURE of His love, His purposes in my life, and His power to make my destiny a reality. After nearly 40 years walking with Jesus, I am confident in His love for me. Self esteem issues have faded away as He has revealed Himself to me as my All in All.
    I am
    totally in love with Him and eager to see what great plans He still has for me on this earth as I await our wonderful reunion in glory. The days truly grow sweeter, His word truly grows richer, His love truly sinks deeper into my heart. My understanding of peoples needs and how to just love them and listen with a tender heart makes each new day and encounter with God’s divine connections and surprises. More and more I want to give Him more and more and see Him manifest more and more to more and more people that I meet. What a Savior; what a life. I couldn’t be happier–or could I? (smile)

  578. Fear of getting Alzheimer’s Disease—that was number one on my list. Watching Mom fade daily is a small grief I have named “la petite desolation” (the small grief.) I was not sleeping, not remembering important things, not patient, not absorbing the Scriptures, not setting goals, not ENGAGED with life because of fear.
    Was my lack of trust in God sin? I don’t think so. I felt as if His face was hidden behind the clouds. I drew back from fellowship—but one dear lady on an internet support group said “Honey, you have Carehimer’s Disease! Its ok, you are worn out and living in fear. I felt the same way and I know God brought me through it so I could help others.”
    From that day, I felt the clouds slowly begin to lift as God renewed my spirit and lifted me from the waves I was focused on rather than my Savior. He gave me comfort from the Word that the Holy Spirit took deep into my soul. I was fed twice, like Elijah, because the journey was too hard. Take heart, dear ones who fear, because I know our fears are many. Sometimes He allows a season of fear—in faithfulness He allows us to be afflicted (Psalm 119: 75)—then He uses our brothers and sisters at the right moment to unwrap the bindings like Lazarus’s friends. He will never forsake or forget His own.

  579. Fear is something that has held me down all my life. And as Ann says in her book, it really does make for a small life. When I am afraid to do something because I fear death or fear what people might think, I am stealing from my own joy and what the Lord has planned for me. Thank you for the encouragement and truth!

  580. I don’t generally consider myself to be fearful. Yet I avoid taking chances. I don’t want to be disappointed if I fall short. That is fear. Well, I started a new job last week~I faced fear of rejection and tried. God blessed me with allowing me the opportunity to try something out of my comfort zone. I’m overwhelmed with the task before me, yet confident that He will help me be successful. My goal is to remember #8: “It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear — and give thanks.” I resolve to give thanks so often that all those holes of insecurity are filled.

  581. I have learned to trust in the Lord, through the years, we sold our house, gave away things and moved to the country to build our two-story house with my husband and four sons. We faced hard weather, loneliness, and many more trials through the hard work. Since we homeschool, we have grown to be very close and trust each other. Now the Lord is blessing us again with a fifth child. It’s all it’s a matter of trusting His will not our eyes. How I love Him.
    Thank you for this ministry I love it, you inspire me.
    Natalia

  582. We are adopting a child internationally and this waiting is awful. Really hard. It’s a roller coaster and it is not in any single way under our control. I think I have made it more difficult because I fear that it will not happen. I believe God has called our family to this yet I fear that He won’t see it through to completion. We received news today that is discouraging (I think, but who knows?) and this blog is a gift from God. I’m going to add it to my 1,000 gifts notebook.

  583. For years I lived in fear of living. I have been divorced for 21 years and hate doing things alone and for the first time. What I have learned though is that I can fly. I don’t need to live in fear, so when things come up that cause me to fear, I ask myself, what, other than fear, is causing me to say no. If there isn’t anything then I force myself to do it.

    Jesus Christ died to give us a full and complete life. I want to live it!

  584. Thank you for this! I think God knew we would struggle with this and that’s why he addresses it so many times. He doesn’t want us to live in fear and we don’t have to!

  585. I used to be fearless and I allowed people to change that. Jesus is using Ann’s words to slowly transform me into who I used to be.

  586. This past year I have struggled to resist the fear of failed parenting. My children are small and I am just beginning the journey of impacting them. I was buying into the lie that being a good Christian will bring about good kids. But this was a suffocating performance trap! There were oh so many days when I failed miserably at being Christlike towards my kids. My fear of failing my kids and failing at training them to be godly sent me into a spiral of guilt. But praise God. Jesus has set me free from this!

    Jesus is teaching me that the outcome of their lives is in His hand and to learn to say with the psalmist, “Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, I wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of my heart.” My calling is not to be the perfect mom, but the faithful mom–to walk in His ways and wait for Him, as one who desires His glory more than anything.

    • Kendra, AMEN!! Your calling is not to be perfect… but to be free and live in abandoned love for Him and for your family…and trust Him to fill in your gaps… He’s so ABOUT that!! I loved reading your comment… 🙂

      Dana

  587. I am done fearing that God will leave me alone, with no one to love or be loved by. At the end of these crazy homeschooling teen years I reject that they will reject me for pushing them to do the things they struggle with. I choose to believe that He who called me is also equipping myself and my boys to do what He has called us to do. I am choosing to embrace everyday we have of these last few schooling years as gifts from the hand of a loving Father.

  588. My biggest fear has become being an inadequate mother. It’s terrible. I pray for the Lord’s mercy every day to rain down. Oh blood and water which gushed forth from the heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in you!

    • Elizabeth… we were never intended to be adequate mothers… It’s him that receives glory when we let go of our striving and let His completeness cover our weakness…. Grace and peace to you sis…. and rest!! 🙂

      Bless you!!
      dana

  589. It’s that moment when I close my eyes and it is He and I. And a fearless dance we do; graceful, elegant, and faster and faster. My heart is pounding and adrenaline rushing.I am lost in Him, in what we are doing, in this moment. Dancing through fields and flowers and sun-kissed hills and laughter seizes me. I laugh joy because in that moment it is all I know. He floods me with goodness and trust, and i jump in, and fear has no place, no room. And all the while in this dance, now I see, we were creating, doing, demonstrating something of freedom and trust and goodness. I find joy. He gets glory. They love Him.

  590. I realized I’m afraid of people forgetting me. People will forget me, now or later. My Father though, will never forget me. I have His promise on that, and that conquers any fears I might have. Thank you Jesus!

  591. I am done fearing that I will always struggle with using food as a refuge, an escape, and a comfort from stress/boredom. My God is bigger than my addiction to food! He is:
    1) Jehovah-Jireh: The Lord Who Provides – He sees my needs and provides for me (Gen. 22
    2) Jehovah-Rapha: The Lord Who Heals – He is the God Who makes bitter things sweet. The tree made the difference in the bitter water and Jesus’ tree (the cross) makes the difference in my life! (Exodus 15:22-26)
    3) Jehovah-Nissi: The Lord Our Banner – Father God is willing to wage war on my behalf. He desires for me to have victory in every area of sin and struggle. (Exodus 17:8-16)

  592. I am learning to fight fear. It had slowly snuck up on me and started stealing without me fully even realizing it. Thankfully, God, my Father, opened my eyes to how it had been robbing and would continue to do so if I didn’t renew my mind. I’m am thankful for His Word that is a path away from fear and into faith. Bless you girls.

  593. fear is paralyzing. it’s a prison I build around myself. it consumes so much of me if I give it that power. I become something unrecognizable even to myself. God is bigger than any fear I have. I have to choose to believe HIM over all the lies I’ve already bought. I want to take off this cape of fear I wear. It’s a suffocating blanket. This post is a perspective shifter.

  594. I am in the midst of timidly learning what it means in my life to become “less of me and more of HIM”. He is ever so gently leading me to a deeper understanding of the truth here: He calls me to a place of failure, to show His glory. Not necessarily by making it all come out roses, either. The enemy is sneaking fear of this sacrifice into my heart. I pray through this fear and trust that He will be faithful to lead me out of it. He is so good!

  595. I am choosing faith over fear, because the Lord has never left my side. He has always been my rock, and has never let me walk through this life alone. (even through all of the ups and downs.) Thankful!

  596. Fear is too much work and extra burden — much better to fall into the rest He offers and His enveloping love. (“Work” of a different kind to discipline self into that…but soul rest even still!)

  597. I’m 30 (oh that was hard to write) and I have lived essentially 29 years in solid fear. Everyone has a go to emotion, that one thing they turn to the moment life gets hot. Mine is fear. I am saved. I have a strong belief in God and what He can do in my life, but the paralyzing anxiety that occurs almost daily sometimes just knocks me down.

    Until now.

    At 30 years old, I’m finally starting to understand that I don’t have to live in fear. It’s not “just my personality”. I can release from the bondage. And I’ve been doing that. It’s began with prayer but then steps forward into conquering these very fears that have held me back for so long. Today I came across something that initially caused me panic and I didn’t run from it. Instead, I looked it dead in the face and stared right back, praying the entire time and speaking God’s truth in my mind.

    One of my biggest fears is being a lone. I’m single and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. I don’t have kids and while I would love them one day, if that isn’t God’s plan that’s okay. So lately I’ve been looking for opportunities to invest in people’s lives that I might not have the chance to if I had a family of my own. Instead of embracing the fear that I will be alone, I’m encouraging and loving people and expanding my circle.

    God is so rich in His blessings.

  598. Im choose faith over fear because for 35 years I have been fearful of what others think of me. Fear of failing at something new. Fear of finding the real me. This past year one person has awaken me in a way I never knew or can understand and that was Sara. To only to be able to thank her For her amazing words!

  599. I’m coming to realize that I get fearful quite easily. I recently began a new job teaching women in recovery about boundaries. Each day before, right up until class time, my anxiety is really high and I feel so shaky and completely unsure that I can pull it off. I’ve taught three times now and this week, with a tight chest, I just thought ‘enough’. I read that anxiety is when we anticipate a future outcome that we don’t want and then our body reacts, as it should, but this tension is the feeling of anxiety. I realized that this must mean I’m not trusting God. Yet my thing this year has been all about allowing myself to trust God – but WOW is that ever deeper and more challenging than it sounds when I talk about it. This week I decided not to be fearful or anxious that day before anymore AND the cool thing is that during a class I just up and prayed in my head for God to please give me something to say after one of the women shared her incredibly vulnerable story. And at that moment, all fear left and all of a sudden I soared…on His wings. So in the name of Jesus, no more fear!!! 😀 Thanks for letting me share. Woot!

  600. I have always been a planner. I like to know what my future holds and I want to be able to plan ahead for it. However, I am done fearing the unknown and need to remember that God is in control and wherever I end up it is because it is where He wants me. I am done fearing because He has ALWAYS provided and ALWAYS will.

  601. I know that fear is not trusting God, not having faith in him, and not knowing him. God works through faith. Fear blocks faith from existing. I know that God knows my heart though fear and all. While riding on a plane to Central America….first time on a plane, and first time out of country….I remember saying to my father I don’t think that I can do this. He looked me in the eyes and said, Do you believe in God? I said, Yes of course I do. He said, Then what is the problem? He has never been labled as a christian, but at that very moment he had more faith than me. Makes you think about what kind of example you are being if you have FEAR.

  602. My current season of life seems to create new fear around every corner. But HE IS FAITHFUL. when I turn my eyes to His word. His promises are fast and sure and bring with them an ocean of peace. Behind me fear. My God is bigger.

  603. “Fear destroys faith.” Hmm-I have found this so true. Fear is destructive, evidencing that it is the weapon the Enemy wields as he prowls around like a roaring lion seeking for something to devour. Anxious fear is destructive and never productive. Learning to see the signs of fear and running toward the cross.

  604. The other morning I didn’t wake up until 10 AM, despite having set my alarm clock to go off hours earlier. I had nothing planned for the day, had hoped for a call to substitute teach which didn’t come. But as I lay in bed for about 40 more minutes and prayed, it was like God saying to me, “Kristine, even if you do NOTHING but lay in this bed all day, you are still my precious child. You do not have to perform and be useful to be loved.” Wow…because that is my deepest fear, that I am not doing enough for God. I love his revelation to me on that bleak morning and hope to hold it close to my heart, soul, spirit, and mind.

  605. I was fearing going to the Women of Faith conference tomorrow though I really have so looked forward to hearing you speak. But over and over today God has told me “Don’t be afraid, I am with you” Thank you for speaking this message to me as well!

  606. Fear has been my biggest hurdle to conquer. Thank you for your compassionate writings on what the Father says about fear. You are an inspiration to me

  607. Hi…I have been so wrapped up in what others think of me for so long. Most recently I have been nearly paralyzed by fear of my boss…so of course my work was suffering. But I recently completed a Beth Moore study…Breaking Free….it has helped me to change my life!….if God is for me, who can be against me?…I am free….free indeed!

    • Bosses can be scary, can’t they? =]

      “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.”
      2 Timothy 1:7

  608. I’m done with fear because it’s not part of the abundant life he has planned for me. He has set us free for freedom, and I won’t have it any other way!

  609. After nearly three years of unemployment– and countless interviews during that search for something (anything!) — I recently started a new job. Thank You, Jesus! I never imagined myself in the corporate world (I taught for over 10 years), so I find myself pleasantly surprised to enjoy the work I’m doing. I am so afraid of “messing up” and being let go that I’ve been hesitant to decorate my cubicle beyond the necessary pen and paper. Tomorrow officially ends my six month probationary period. I’m letting go of my fear of rejection and unpacking the pretty desk accessories my daughter bought for me the day we found out I got the job.

  610. I am the most fearful when I try to control EVERYTHING in my life. I am learning to give up control (hence fear) because it is a very heavy load to carry 🙁 I cannot do anything about what happens in the next 6 hours while I sleep, that is God’s business and I am trying really hard to stay out of it. I am done with fears/control so I can freely live!!!

  611. Fear has a way of gripping me when I step out of my comfort zone and put the real me into the world!! To have a small group over, to speak up and out loud about my life, the good and bad of it:0) So thankful for these words today as they are much needed!!

  612. I want to choose a favorite, but these all resonate with so much wisdom. So once again, thank you for sharing, Ann. As always, I will be mulling these thoughts over as I go through my day.

  613. Tonight at Bible study I decided to be more honest with others than I normally would be… I was afraid, but I chose to share because I believe it is good for all of us, and that it is God’s will that we should be honest with each other and love each other all the more through our short comings.

  614. I’m going to quit fearing failure because I am obeying what God would have me do! It’s on God now!

  615. When it takes a whole minute to scroll to the bottom of the comments, wow. I know I am not the only one who deals with fears, sometimes bigger than I am. Do I have anything to contribute? Do my feelings matter? Is anyone listening? God, are you there? I am the one listening today. To Ann’s voice, and for your voice, Lord. Thanks for the encouragement, and the giveaway. Blessings.

  616. Fear creeps up on me and often tries to take me hostage. And then I am reminded “Be still and know that I am God” and ” Trust in the Lord with all your heart and not of your own understanding”

  617. I need to let go of my fears because they are setting an example for my daughter of what a faithless life looks like

  618. Fall brings new fears and challeges for my kids….and my heart
    feels tied to their fears and anxieties. But I will remember and remind
    myself that ; the Lord is my confidence, my personal bravery and my invincible army.
    I will trust in Him.

  619. I flip through the pages of the book I call “My Wonderful Awful God-Touched Life In Chile”, pausing on favorite pages: divine appointments with neighbors, baptizing Chilean friends, rowing my sculling boat up and down the canal until every muscle felt thoroughly aggrieved. The final chapter is so smudged by tears that I cannot quite make it out; apparently I had a hard time letting that ending happen. I was afraid, I am yet afraid, that the next book that God writes will not be as deeply good as this one.

    Settling back into stateside life, with all that pain right up in my throat, I felt as blank as a dollar store diary with a flimsy lock. So I’d lift down the weighty tome of yesterday’s life and try to extract from it life for now. I failed. God, did I leave You in Chile? How do I find You in America?

    The fear that the Author is gone, retired from writing, or that I’m forgotten, like a diary given at Christmas when I was eight. Fear that if He starts writing again, I won’t like the story.

    It takes faith to live into the new story. I say yes, with fear at my back howling, but yes.

    • Yes, one year of new diary writing in my book, after six perfectly wonderful awful God-touched years in Africa. And the new book still has so many unwritten pages, so many questions…but glimpses of God shine through and let me know that I’m not on the wrong path. Persist…

  620. I am done with fear because I want to FEAR the Lord more than people. The fear of the Lord casts out fear, because He is perfect love. The eyes of my heart are focused on one thing: Jesus. I want to please Him. I want to listen to Him. I want to obey Him and follow Him to wherever, whenever, He leads. Even if that means that I move my family and young children around the world. Even if that means I make a fool of myself day after day by trying to speak a language that I did not grow up learning. Even if that means to take time out of a fruitful ministry to rest through sickness and to trust when there are no answers. I have only one life to live – and I do not want to spend eternity regretting that I lived in fear. I want to live in FAITH!

  621. “Everything your Father has for you — is over the fence of fear.”

    Yes.

    I was afraid of being alone and unloved so I gave myself away.

    He had purity and a new start for me as a single mom… He helped me climb that high, high fence of fear of loneliness and when I’d walked with Him 3 1/2 years on the other side, free and breathing deep the love of the Only Perfect Husband… He gave me a godly man to serve Him with as one.

    I was afraid of counseling girls in the crisis pregnancy center where I volunteered, because I was stumbling and weak and learning how to walk myself and they asked hard questions I couldn’t begin to understand the original source of. So much pain. He humbled me to the dust (and what a beautiful gift that was to me) and I continually asked for help and He helped me over that fence. I walked free in knowing His Spirit always has the answers at the time they are needed and “It is written…” is always an appropriate response.

    Now, just this day, I accepted His hand over the fence of fear to begin writing a book about what He’s put on my heart. It may be a complete “failure”… but I am doing it because I fear not obeying more than I fear “failure”. I am writing for Him. The fear of the LORD is the very beginning of wisdom and knowledge.

    All for His glory.

  622. I’m done with fear standing in the way of receiving ALL that He has for me and All that He is. So wonderful to trust….

  623. I am letting go of the fear of not being able to control the pace at which my children are growing up and losing the opportunities to squeeze my babies tighter each day whispering, “this is when you stop growing up,” in their ears…instead choosing to be forever grateful that He has blessed me with each tender moment.

  624. Number one hit me hard. I fear failing, actually I fear others thinking I’m failing. But not obeying? I want that to be my fear! Over the past few months of new motherhood, learning a foreign language, and living/working in a foreign culture, I have failed and failed again…and plenty of people have known it! Thankfully, God is using this time to humble me, and so I’m starting to realize that I can’t please everyone all the time and it’s not worth trying to please everyone all the time. Obedience is a beautiful sacrifice that I can give to the God who is faithful. I want to be done with this fear so that I can serve Him for the delight of it rather than the desire for outward approval!

  625. Thank you for sharing, Ann. Today, I am facing the fear of getting to the root of my fears. I am saying yes to meeting with a prayer team and seeking deliverance from the things that plague me. I’ve been too afraid to seek this kind of prayer, so I also have a friend keeping me accountable to follow through. This battle was not meant for lone soldiers. God’s family is full of people through whom He ministers to us. I am grateful – for this post’s reminders and for God giving me the willingness and tools to seek freedom. Praise God!

  626. Fear has been a huge stumbling block for me for too long now. Not fear of trying and failing, but fear of the day to day things like financial and health concerns. When I try to put it into words, I realize how ridiculous it sounds to say, “I’m afraid that God won’t provide the rent money this month,” but that’s what it boils down to. I needed this nudge to articulate my fears, cover them with truth, and be set free from senseless worry. Thank you for sharing this message!

  627. I fear failure and as a result have not trusted to try…and missed so much.
    I’m going to try and fail and hopefully through it I will learn to trust and succeed.

  628. I am returning here tonight because I refuse to allow fear to hold me back from all God has prepared for me. If I do then I am essentially calling God a liar. I know fear will always be there trying to intimidate me, but from now on I am going to ask fear if he has met my great big loving God.

  629. Thank you for the wonderful inspiration on fear – we all face it – now I feel empowered through Christ to conquer it and leave it behind. Fear of Failing, of coming up short continue to haunt, but through God’s grace, I will strive to leave it behind!

  630. I am done with fear because there is simply no longer any need for it.

    God has me safe in the palm of His warm, strong and holy hand. No harm can befall me that does not draw me closer to Him.

  631. False evidence appearing real is what I tell myself when I feel fear, and from now on I plan to step on it’s neck to get to my destiny.

  632. Goodbye Fear. Yesterday fear gripped my heart, my mind, and my body. I opened Sarah Young’s Jesus Calling and met these words…”TRUST ME, and don’t be afraid.” Isaiah 12:2 says, “Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for YAH, the Lord, is my strenght and my song; He also has become my salvation.”

    I’ve realized that part of this whole fear thing is also somehow connected to surrendering my heart completely to Jesus. Holding nothing back. Going wherever He asks me. These two words are intertwined…fear/surrender. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

    “There is therefore now no condmenation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirtit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 8:1-2

    I AM FREE!!!

  633. Thank you so much for sharing this from the inner depth of your soul. The Lord has been showing me how I fear so deeply sometimes that I fear… fearing. Oh how deeply we rob ourselves of the joy He longs for us to skip within when we fear the unknown He holds in His hands. I lost someone I cared for very deeply because of the fear I lived in. I daily have to face scars because of that time, yet I know God is redeeming this brokeness into bounty . I am amazed as I watch Him take these ashes I kick around and turn them into such beauty. Praise to Him alone. Thank you, Ann.

  634. Ann, fear has been a part of my life since I was born, it seems. My Mother and Father were separated and divorced by the time I was a mere three months of age. My father basically abandoned me – never insisting that he be allowed to see me – nothing. Then, as a child, I was sexually abused by three different men. To say that I had trust issues is just touching the tip of the iceberg. For years and years, I struggled with being a Christian. I didn’t know HOW to relate to a Heavenly Father – I had no earthly father to base the relationship on. When I was in my early 30’s, I allowed the influence of another person to pull me away from God. After 20 long years, and after hitting rock bottom, with a little help and a lot of prayers from people that loved me, I found my way back to God and have a relationship with Him now that I never dreamed was possible. As my relationship with my Father grew… my fears dimished.

    God told me one day that I had a story to tell, to get it ready, that I would be asked to give it. So I did. And I was asked to tell it. I was scared to death before the service when I was going to share my story with my church. I sat down, took a deep breath, and prayed, “Lord, I am doing this because You asked me to. I am scared to death to get up in front of these people. I need you to calm me down so I will be able to talk.” And He did just that!

    I had never dealt with the sexual abuse – having only told maybe 5 people about it – and I was in my late 20’s, at least, when I first mentioned it to a friend. My Mother didn’t know until I was about 40 years old. By the time I was asked to speak at the church’s Women’s Conference, the sexual abuse had reared its’ ugly head and I was not able to tuck it back into the little corner of my brain like I had the rest of my life. It was time to deal with it and let that little girl, that was so afraid, to be healed. I discussed this with a couple friends of mine and they concurred that God was asking me to make this a part of my story… He wanted me to share this with the women at the Conference!! Talk about scared!! I paced the floors of the church for an hour before the conference. But when I got up to speak, God took all my fear and gave me such peace – like I had almost never felt before.

    Ann, when I fell in love with Jesus, I fell hook, line, and sinker!! And I am loving every minute of it!! The more of my fears I relinquish to Him, the more He blesses me and reveals Himself to me. I am done with fear – the devil will not win this battle because I am living in the perfect love of God and I know that, not only will He cast out fears, but He wants a better life for me than one filled with fear. Thank you for allowing me to share with you a little about myself…..

  635. Fear…I’m tired of fear…debilitating paralyzing fear. Always worried about everything and scared to even leave my house alone. I want ti let go of it and I have been battling with this so much for years and it seems like it just gets worse. I’m trying to let go of fear and just give it all to God. This has helped me and hopefully I will continue to grow in my faith and maybe someday I will be able to be free!

  636. I fear failure and disappointing others, especially those I love. I have spent most of my life trying to be perfect, yet at the same time knowing I can’t be and struggling to accept God’s grace and mercy. I have been blessed in the past 18 months or so (doesnt always feel like a blessing) to be struggling with severe depression and anxiety requing medication, therapy and most of all, reliance on Christ. Hardest time of my life so far but also probably the most fruitful.

  637. I have to complete one of the biggest task of my life in six weeks and I am absolutely paralyzed by fear. I can’t even sleep; I feel like throwing up almost every day and I am anticipating my demise already. How comforting it is to read your post, Ann. It must come from God directly to this needy soul; so soothing. Thank you. I am convicted after reading your post. How could I ever think that God’s love and care for us stop? May I get up tomorrow with renewed energy, faith, hope; may my mind and soul accept the Lord’s help and comfort. Could you all keep me in your prayers? With immense gratitude.

  638. I love making kids clothes and I draft my own patterns. For the past couple years I have had dreams of starting my own pattern company. but I haven’t done it. Not because I couldn’t. Because I am afraid of failing. I have been so afraid of failing that I haven’t even tried. To me that is failing. At least if I try and fail, I at least tried. There would be no what ifs.

  639. I am done fearing the future and what is going to happen even tomorrow. It has robbed me of living in the moment long enough! God grants peace when we rest in Him and His promises and I am ready for some peace (of mind and heart)! Thanks for your words, Ann and for hosting the giveaway =) I know you will be a double blessing for those attending WOF this weekend.

  640. My husband is deploying soon and as a mother of three, four and under, I fear being alone and on my own while raising our children. But I find solace in knowing that He will show us endless grace each and every day. The tears, struggles, grief and sadness will lead us closer to Him.

    • We thank your husband for his service and we thank YOU as well. You will also be serving our country when your husband is deployed. May the Lord cover him with his grace, may he protect him at all times. May you discover more of HIS grace.
      Blessings,
      Viviana

  641. Thank you for your reminders about fear. I have been feeling full of fear and anxiety as I mentally prepare for a new school year. I am a second grade teacher and each fall I struggle to set aside my fears and just TRUST that Jesus is going to help me with the challenges that I face. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me!

  642. “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends” hits me to the core. I have been living under fear for a long time…in various forms…frozen on the inside…not discovering the real me…because I am choosing to trust Him and receive His love anew…each moment…I am learning to claim my own life…and walk with Him in a new way. So blessed! Thank you for this kind reminder…no matter what…God is here and He loves me!

  643. I sat down at the computer and wrote each one of those truths out. My fears cage me and I want, now more than ever, to live the fullness and abundance that obedience to God brings. Nothing special in my life. No great incident or occasion. Just days puntuated by cold, gut grabbing, joy steeling, peace shattering fear. Oh, Little Faith! I would step out of the boat and walk with him… and I hate getting wet! I’ll go anyway… each morning when I get out of bed.

  644. When Jesus says, “Do not fear,” it’s an act of obedience on my part to deny the fear. I am a worker in Ethiopia, and to give in to fear would be to go home. So, in simple obedience to my Lord, I will not fear.

  645. I am done with fearing what people think of me because it’s not what they think that matters.

  646. I am done with fear because fear is the absence of faith. We so often fear what we cannot see, the myriad of things we cannot control, but faith is the evidence of things not seen. If I don’t cling in faith and trust to the promises of God for me, I will fade under the weight of what-ifs and worries. My God is all-powerful and all-knowing, and I can rest in His good plans for me.

  647. Beautiful post! Thank you Ann! Failure… that’s my fear…failing to be the perfect wife, failing to be the perfect mother, failing to be the perfect friend, failing to follow God the way I should. By by His Stripes I am healed and by His Wounds I am made perfect! When the enemy places doubt and fear in my mind I lean on God’s everlasting strength!

  648. Job 42:2 and 2 Chron 20:12
    Because even when I don’t have a clue about what’s going on – when I’m living at the corner of Nuts and Crazy, or Peace and Patience – He still knows exactly what is coming next.

    Twila Paris sang a song years ago – “faster now than ever, I run to You” – oh, that I could be a sprinter, Usain Bolt’s legs and Oscar Pistorius’ heart!

  649. Earlier this week, I am ashamed to confess, I woke up with the words on my lips, “God doesn’t answer prayers.” Eight months since I’ve seen my husband. Eight months I’ve been waiting, praying, begging, to sell this house so we could move and have our family whole again. Eight silent months of nothing.

    Later that very same day, the house we dared not dream ourselves possible of having, was listed for sale. And I do dare believe my God can do this.

    His timing is always perfect. He never fails us. Even if this is not the house He wants for us, I trust He will lead us to where He needs us to be, and soon. Forgive me my doubts, Abba.

    I will not fear.

  650. I am done with fear because I know my Father loves me. He has the best in mind for me. My Abba walks with me and in me. I hate and dread being disappointed by leaders (long story) but I am not afraid of that anymore because I know for every disappointment my Father is giving me the opportunity to look at Him the One who will never disappoint. I love today’s blog. It is just what I needed.

  651. Today as you have done Ann, I’m casting my fear to the curb. I’m choosing Eucharisteo instead. My Mom has been moved to the Hosparus facility and she has her bags packed for her new heavenly home. She is more than ready to go. She is tired and worn out and does not want to fight anymore. My Daddy gave me the opportunity to speak with her on the phone last night after two days of being in coherent , he woke her up to talk with her children and family. My prayer is that he will give me the opportunity to see her on Saturday. I can’t get there until then. Life will certainly be different without my mamma. She wants more than anything to see her unborn granddaughter but I believe he will take her home before then. I have 6 weeks to go. But I believe some how someway he will give her a peek from heaven. Ann, thank you for your words this morning, God knew I needed to hear this and choose Eucharisteo instead of fear. Continuing in this amazing refrain of giving thanks with you and all the other brothers and sisters who take this joy dare daily. Love to you all ~ Lori

  652. I once read a quote that said, “No wonder God has so few friends considering how he treats those he does have”. That has been stuck in my head for at least 35 years because that’s how long it been since I was saved. It was in a book about trusting and it brought up how Corrie Ten Boom trusted God completely while her entire family was dying in the gas chamber. They were a devout Christian family hiding Jews from the Nazis. I’ve know since then it takes something very special to give you her faith that all would be ok. I came up in a household full of fear as my father abused us and sexually abused us girls. I guess the truth is that I have not conquered fear. It’s like forgivng. I lay it down but as I walk away I turn and pick it back up. Those days are on my mind very strong right now as I got a call from my btother to tell me our baby sister died in the night. This baby is/was 12 years younger than me with me being the oldest at 67. From your perspective that might not seem young but to me it is way too young. My btother did not know for sure what happened as she has very poor heath. I’m worried that she may have taken her own life since she had attempted that a week ago. She was dying anyway of a sesease call Sarcoidosis. It had moved from her lungs and into her brain making lesions that were causing her to have seizures several times a day. She had been in a nursing home for about a month but they wouldn’t keep her after the suicide attempt. She was staying with another sister. I’ve always believed that the abuse was worse for her and she has had a sad life because of it. She never married or had children. She was too mentally ill to sustain any kind of a normal relationship. I’m sorry to be rambling. I love your blog and came on here to find something. I’m afraid that she is not in heaven but I just can’t think that God would punish her when her whole life has been punishing. If He won’t send more than we can bear someone sent her an awful lot from the day she was born. Another long story I won’t tell now. Thanks for doing this beautiful blog.

  653. I catch myself fearing the future, I am looking to God, He is always Faithful, He will never leave us.

  654. My worst fear is fear of pain, and not the physical kind. God has been taking me through a stage of life where He wants me accept life as He gives it, which often means pain, and to learn to live with constant pain looking to Him to be my joy. I think I am on the brink of discovering that, when God’s presence truly becomes my only desire, painful situations don’t hurt anymore. Therefore, my life doesn’t have to be a reaction to the fear of pain. But it can be a wonderful melody of joy in the midst of life that once used to hurt.

  655. I struggle with fear and have done so all of my life, since I was a very small child. I fight the constant self condemnation that I feel and try to not go on “feelings”. It is very hard, when you feel alone. Sometimes church is the loneliest place on earth. God has been pruning my life since the day I got saved 3 yrs ago and I don’t know Him well enough yet to be able to overcome, yet I also know in my heart that He has already given me everything I need to do so, so the fault lies with me, which in turn brings more guilt and fear and condemnation. I have been praying that God would send me one true friend, one who would be Godly and can walk with me, yet I know in Christ I already have that, so I wait and fight the fear and pray I don’t lose the battle.

  656. My daughter has high-functioning autism, and sometimes her fears overwhelm. I try to teach trust in God … as God is teaching me … May I truly learn to “cast my care on Him!” Fear paralyzes; in Him, there is freedom!

  657. I am going to stop fearing about the fact that we lost our promised son in Haiti. And startbelieving that God is bigger then government and scams.

  658. I am a single mother of 3 children, I recently moved in with my parents to care for them. I also am physically challenged and have mobility issues at this time. I am unemployed since May 2011. Many challenges have been given to me all at once and I done with being fearing of not doing a good enough job caring for others. God gives me the tools I need to succed and He is with me every step of the way. I am done fearing things out of my control, I am putting my trust in the Lord because I know He has great plans for me!!!

  659. Fear is in the past, yet it sometimes raises its ugly head. I keep reminding myself that God is faithful and there is no place for fear.

  660. I am done with fearing not finding that perfect job, because I have found that God wants to use me wherever I am and show his love through me in any job that he gives me. And, in reality, there is no “perfect job”. I have been thinking that maybe somewhere out there, there is some place that I could use my gifts, training, abilities, and experience. But recently, after a long and exhaustive search, I have relearned that F.E.A.R. stands for False Evidence Appearing Real, that most things are not as they seem. God can be trusted; he is authentic. He is SO MUCH BIGGER than I can fathom.

  661. I had asked God to deliver me from the debt I was in and I did become debt-free only to fall back in the same mess. Now I live in fear of being found out and losing everything dear to me, but after reading this today, I will trust God to help me and deliver me from this fear that I know is not from Him.

  662. Being content with my position in life has been a challenge……when God is with me, I have NO FEAR. Thank you, Lord.

  663. I’m done with fearing man. As a pastor’s wife this can be really challenging – worrying how others perceive me, wrestling with expectations people have of me – I need to focus on fearing God and being true to the woman He has called me to be even if that means disappointing people.

  664. When I am trapped in the lies on the enemy I constantly remind myself that this is not “Plan B” to God. He knew it, He has gone before me. The end of the story is already been written and He is victorious. I will rest in Him until the end is accomplished! Thank you.

  665. “Fear will leave you hiding in the dark”–Jason Gray.

    I’m tired of hiding. I agree with what a few have said, fear is exhausting. My biggest fear has always been of what others think of me, which has kept me from sharing His truths with so many people I love.

    5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.

    I am determined to do that which I know I cannot. Not in my own strength, but in God’s alone.

  666. Fear keeps me from being the wife that the Lord has in mind for my husband…. fear of failure, rejection. Fear of it working, fear of my husband repeating his sins…. I am done with fear. I want to live in the peace of God’s will and perfect plan.

  667. I love how He keeps giving me reasons to keep trusting Him because I wake up feeling like someone is standing on my chest. His Perfect Love casts out fear and I am able to fall back to sleep when I meditate on His Words… His promises.

  668. I am leaving behind the “hissing” notion that I need to leave the important stuff to others because I am not as capable not as gifted…and maybe I will embarrass the Almighty and me. He is opening my hands and my heart to serve because I can see that my thoughts were only a lie laced with fear. Yes, I read 1000 Gifts and He spoke to me so sweetly and intimately in those pages. I won’t soon forget how He changed some deep things in me. So, yeah, I’m turning my back on the hissing lies that strike with fear, by His grace. There!

  669. Ann,
    I am a father and perhaps your blog is not the site for me to look forward to read very regularly. But I do. The Lord Jesus uses you to talk to my life again and again. Your writing style is so refreshing and encouraging. You show us Christianity in action thru your humanity in your home and personal life.
    This article was not exception. I have been experiencing fears of traveling back to my native land in September where crime is getting worse and worse and your words “6. Travel in the direction of your fears — to let God direct your life.” help me very much. I have a wife and 3 kids that will be waiting for me to come back to them. Please whisper a prayer for me. I want to be used to God to continue to share the good news with my relatives.
    Thanks God for your ministry. God bless you along with the Farmer and your precious children.
    Johnny

  670. I have ben battling fear my whole life and feeling very alone in the battle. Thank you all for being here! Some of these perspectives are just what I needed.

  671. Im terminally ill my son a well known model had a breakdown and in hospital after two weeks he managed to get out … I have not seen him for 7months.. I’m drowning in fear questioning my faith. All my family r divided and yes I know Satan is at work but I can’t keep remembering when I’m drowning as I’m too busy trying to rescue myself my friends also my daughter as the police came to take her fiancé away as he was hitting her. I will do anything to c my kids happy even at my own cost. Thanks for reading bless you :((,,,,

    • Leina – I know the bible says we will not be faced with a trial that we can’t bear. Sometimes this is difficult to believe. But all things are possible with God. May I add you and your family to our prayer list? If you reply to me at tmc@tft.com I will direct you to a good christian fellowship for support. God Bless

  672. I’m not quite done with fear but I’m on my way through counseling with my Pastor and most of all, through the Mighty God I Serve. I will be fully healed and free of FEAR for the rest of my life. Praise GOD!

  673. Fear has been ingrained in my life….my Mom was abused and I absorbed her fear of anger……have been in the process of allowing God to heal me. Thank God for His grace and faithfullness!

  674. I am a mother of two special needs blessings and a survivor of abuse, both domestic and childhood. I am ready to lift my face to the light of God’s truth and let go of so many fears that keep me behind closed doors, not answering the phone, or picking my head up to make eye contact with anyone God brings my way. Fear has crippeled me long enough…with God’s Grace….I will hold that little 4 yr old girl’s hand, and together we will walk from the shadows of fear into the light of God’s Grace….

  675. I’m done with fear because I’m done being held back.
    I know God is calling me to do things, things I can not do…alone that is…but HE is with me. And as He is the one calling me to do these things He will make a way, give me the words to speak and all that goes with it.
    So here’s to no fear and to moving forward with His call!

  676. For much of my life I have struggled with fear. I feared just about everything, including but not limited to abandonment, the safety of my children, finances…If I temporarily managed to extinguish the “worry of the moment,” another worry would rush in to take its place. I never realized it before, but worry had become an idol. And in making it such I didn’t truly understand who God is and what only He can do. I pleaded with God to take it from me. He answered my prayer, just not in the way I necessarily liked (isn’t that usually how He works?). In the past year, I have been forced to face every fear I had as my once comfortable life was stripped from me in a matter of months. Never had I more reason to fear then during this time in my life. But, I now see this as a disguised blessing. I have learned what it means to walk with Jesus through the fire and to make Him the center of my life, and by doing this fear dissipates. I have learned to “exchange my worry for prayer, knowing that God is always there.” Now, when a worry comes I immediately take it to the Lord in prayer. With His perfect love He drives out the fear! What an amazing gift He gives us!

  677. Fear has been part of my life wondering at times financially if we will lose our house. Then I have to remind myself Jesus knows my fear and that he will take care of us.

  678. What a timely post for me! For reasons unknown, I’ve been having panic attacks lately and this post reminded me that I have no reason to fear because I am assured 365 times in the Bible that I don’t have to be afraid. Thank you!!

  679. Ps I fear i will never c my son again I fear my daughter is sad and alone and I fear my own death which is just around the corner I fear I still can’t trust my hubby as he lies to me and emotionally attacks me in ways I can’t vent here. I have read all yr strong faith overcomes I’m not here to win anything just in hope I may. Get a couple of prayers. Sorry.

  680. This message comes to me at the perfect time – where I’ve been tempted to fear a number of things. Thanks for pointing me to Jesus!

  681. Yesterday my mom was diagnosed with cancer. My dad is currently battling stage 4 melanoma. I struggle to hold onto trust, to not be overwhelmed with fear, to live in the moment of I Am.

  682. I like the phrase “everything the Father has for me is over the fence of fear.” Amen. I know I have in the past, present and I am sure in the future had to reach beyond so many fears( failure, doubts, ridicule etc..) in faith to receive the blessings of God in my life! With God all things are possible!

  683. Living with the fear of failing has crippled my life. I have failed so many times in my adult life that I just don’t want to add another chalk mark on the wall of failure. I like what you said, “Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying.” Ouch! My focus has been too much on the fear of failing and not so much on my desire to obey God. Thanks for helping me refocus my way of thinking!

  684. I John 4:18
    “There is no fear in love, But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who hears is not made perfect in love” (NIV).

    I have a fear of driving; I’m such a timid driver! Especially in snow and ice, that must be my worst nightmare and I avoid it at all costs!

    But the scripture found in I John 4:18 offers much to consider. Associated with the fear of driving is the fear of getting into an accident or dying. The words of the passage speak of the fear of punishment. Perhaps if one had a perfect peace about their relationship with God, then the fear of death would not be frightening. A greater confidence and peace could be felt in “scary” or frightening situations because ultimately you would know that you belong to God and that is not frightening.

    I believe that all to be true, but honest, I still don’t like driving in the snow!

  685. I have always feared the loss of a child. Even with seven children, each one is so precious that the thought of seeing one of them go Home before me has haunted me. Through a very difficult year medically, we watched our oldest son fade before our eyes, slowly letting go of this life. Oddly enough, through that horrible experience, I felt God’s presence more keenly than ever before, and where God is present, there can be no fear. God worked a miracle in my heart and brought me to a place of peace and acceptance of His will. We were in the process of preparing funeral plans when God also chose to work a miracle in my son’s life, and he made a complete recovery in spite of doctors’ expectations. Once you have walked through a valley with God, that experience casts out fear because He promises NEVER to leave or forsake us. I thank God for the trials and valleys that reveal Him to us in ways we would never experience otherwise!

  686. I so needed this. I am dealing with the fear right now that I am going to spend the rest of my life alone. After the end recently of a long term relationship I wonder if Mr Right really does exist. This had reminded me that He does and it is in the form of my Heavenly Father and that I can rest in his love and assurance that I will NEVER be alone. Thank you for your gift of words.

  687. Beautiful! I agree, fear seems to stop people from living, which is why I am done with fear! Thanks so much! I’d love to win the giveaway!

  688. I’ve always been a worrier. My biggest fear has always been that I will lose someone I love dearly tragically (fire, drowning, car accident, etc). I know God can take care of my family, but how can I be certain he will when good people die tragically every day? I can’t be certain, but I sure do pray for safety every day!

  689. I choose to let go of my many fears. I’ve learnt the a miracle is a shift in perception from fear to love (which is God!). So i’m expecting a miracle from above ;)!

  690. Today I choose to leave my fear of failing as a homeschool mom to six. I leave it at the feet of my good God. It has robbed all of us of the peace and joy that are freely and readily available. This day I choose to believe in Him who holds all things together. Thank you for this truth!

  691. I’ve been struggling for 7 months with the fear of leaving a small income job & trusting my Lord for a new & better thing. I gave notice finally, on Monday this week. Today’s Friday & the fear is increasing because of no income after August 31, pending. Perhaps the fear has increased because I can still turn back if I do so by next week. You’re devotional on fear today brought tears to my eyes & hope to my heart, as well as understanding of my fears. Thank you so very much.

  692. 5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.
    sometimes we’re proving that to ourselves and others won’t even know because to them it wasn’t something hard while to us it can be the hardest thing in the world

    This song has been running through my head:

    Higher than the mountains that I face
    Stronger than the power of the grave
    Constant through the trial and the change
    One thing remains

    Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me

    On and one and on and on it goes
    It overwhelms and satisfies my soul
    And I never ever have to be afraid

  693. Oh so often- every moment of every day I fear of being a good wife, a good mom, a good daughter, a good daughter-in-law, and no matter how it seems I try- I always hear I fail, constantly rejected, and alone. But I do need to declare victory- i need to so badly and not let the enemy win, God wants us to be victorius with Him, he is within me, a stronghold i will try and remember today.

  694. Thank You, Father, for sharing this insight through (in)courage. Our misconception of Fear is what stops us in your pathways (Will for each one of us). Lord, I pray you send us strength and protection for everyone here who strives to follow Jesus and Glorify You in all ways we do, through thick and thin, attempting self-control to ignore satan’s lies of feeding fear in each one of us daily. Bless our enemies, may they know Jesus so they join the Body of Christ! In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

  695. So convicting – ” Your fears don’t decide your fate — your fears destroy your faith”
    Praying for the faith to overcome my fears and be all God has made me to be. Your writings bless me Ann, thank you.

  696. I lost my house. I have taken a 6 dollar pay cut job but i know there is no fear because he. Is always there no fear

  697. Having a fear means not trusting God to take care of us. I rely on God for all I am, all in my life, and all that I have. I trust in God, therefore I do not fear.

  698. it’s true – fear destroys life! Time to start acting thankful for my life and truly living it!
    thank you Ann xo

  699. My greatest fear has always been for my children and their salvation. I have 3 children. And none of them are following the Lord: one says he is gay but a Christian, one says he just doesn’t want to go to church and not sure what he believes, and my daughter is running after everything but God. I have, over the past 2 years, been so worried for them that I stay in bed for weeks. Today, I am done fearing for them. I will trust in God because He is good, and knows what’s best. I cannot add anything to my life or theirs by fearing. God says nothing is impossible with Him, so I trust Him. I will praise Him no matter what because He is worthy!

  700. it’s true – fear destroys life! Time to start acting thankful for my life and truly living it!
    Thank you Ann xo

  701. So many wonderfully brave people posting here! My prayers go out to you and your loved ones.

    I am done with fear because, as much as I try to keep my fears hidden from my family, I am finding as my children grow, they have some of the same fears. It breaks my heart how their fears are holding them back from living life the way God intended.

    Thank you, for posting this message with such perfect timing. It is such a blessing to read so much encouragement in the comments! God’s blessings to everyone!

  702. I have feared that I’m not fully accepted and loved by God as my Father because I have viewed Him through the lens of the strained relationship with my earthly father. I am learning, though, that His perfect LOVE casts out all fear…even the fears of trying to reconcile with a fallible earthly dad. When I look full in His wonderful face, and receive His grace and love with thanksgiving, my fears melt away!

  703. I am done living in fear because my Gracious Father has shown me His faithfulness. My natural tendency is to fret over everything. He has always provided for me, and shown numerous proofs of His Love for me. Though my faith is small and weak, my Father is tremendously gracious and loving towards me. Why should I only trust Him for my salvation, yet allow myself to fret over small details?

  704. From past sorrows, disappointments, and heart aches, I’ve let fear poison my mind and heart. I try to have faith, but my over arching perspective and attitude is me waiting for the other shoe to drop. I hesitate to hope for good things, fearful of great disappointment or failure. I don’t want to have that outlook anymore! I want to fully trust and rest in God’s love again.

  705. Faith is the opposite of fear. “Trust in the LOrd with all your heart rely not on your own itekllegence” Proverbs3:5-6

  706. I learned many years ago this quote, but don’t know where I got it.
    FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. So if that is true, then go to the word of God and remembering what is TRUE instead of what is False is so powerful! I use this a lot when I am fearful. I look at it this way. What is true about it and what is false and then remember God’s promises in His beautiful word. Some of my favorites.

    “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” _ John 14:27

    “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

    Be blessed my sisters & brother in Christ and tell FEAR you are believing GOD!!

  707. I am done living in fear. I fear most that what satan whispers in my ear all day long…that they just might be true. Maybe I am who satan says I am and not who God says I am. So I live a life paralyzed, certainly not the abundant one HE desires for me. I am ready to stop listening to the loud lying voices, and start listening to the still, quiet voice of my Deliverer!

  708. I’m not done with fear. I wish I was. I still fear that I’m not good enough, that I’m too sinful. I know I am not as loving and kind to someone right now as I should be – this person is causing me a lot of hurt, but I’m really trying to love them despite all that. But I know I’m not doing too well. So no, I’ve not conquered fear just yet.

  709. I was encouraged reading this today because fear has occupied so much of my time and can make me feel powerless instead of trusting in God. So I wrote an acrostic about fear–
    Faithless
    Erroneous
    Anxious
    Righteous-less

    None of these terms are pleasing to God and I am done with them! He has all things in control and I will trust, instead of fear, knowing that if something doesn’t work out my way, then His way is better!
    How timely this message was as I am facing a ‘fearful’ issue right now. Thank you for reminding us that God has us covered 365 days! <3

  710. Fear is in all of us and is an amazing part of our being, that feeling we get when we are in the midst of something that can harm us and we get that feeling to stop or move away from what can put us into danger (i.e. stepping out into a busy street, escaping a burning building). It’s when we fear everything and keep fear from allowing us to be all that God wants us to be that it becomes a disability. I like your reminder that the Bible mentions “Do not be afraid” 365 times, once for every day. And I love the promise that He is with us always. We are always going to have dark valleys in this life, and sometimes we can’t bypass them, but knowing He will be there with us makes all the difference. I try to remember that in my journey of life.

  711. When I am afraid, I try to be still, close my eyes and imagine that I am being held
    and cradled in God’s arms like a baby. The calm that comes over me is His gift
    for trusting and believing. I have found that I need to go through my fears and face them head-on, because trying to get up, over or around them never works for me. When I go to the places that scare me and ask for God’s help, He never refuses me.

    Thanks to each and everyone of you, reading your posts has
    been inspiring and oh so helpful.

  712. I am always so encouraged by your posts…and I truly needed this one! I have been struggling with being afraid to share my faith with someone. I pray for boldness but I’ve still held back. I know God did not give me a spirit of timidity and fear, but of power and love, so thank you for the reminder that fear is a fraud and a lack of obedience on my part.

    Also, thank you for the bonus! God knew I needed 11, not 10! (there are two 5’s… probably from automatic numbering)

  713. 6. Travel in the direction of your fears — to let God direct your life.

    I especially liked this message. I’ve dealt with fear and controlling my fears all of my life. When i entered my 30s, i feel like i stopped being so obsessed with things going my way and I started letting GOD guide my life. Now I trust that everything happens just as God planned it to happen. I had never thought about this quote though, traveling in the direction of your fears, so that God could direct you. This is very true! Most of the time we miss out on opportunitites that God puts in our path, because of fear. Because we think we are not worthy, but if God puts it in your life, its because you deserve it! Thank you for continuing to inspire us and to keep the word of God first in our lives.

  714. Beautiful promises! He will never leave me nor forsake me or you. Thankful for His help confronting my fears.

  715. I love your #5 and 6! The Lord has been working on my heart that this is a pivotal year in my battle for trust and against fear. Your points here showed me that I have indeed allowed fear to keep me from certain steps necessary to love 2 specific people in my life. May the Lord grant us all courage to lean into the fear knowing He is on the other side.

  716. Thanks so much for the 10 Things to Know about Fear. I just had to share this with my close friend, and to stay reminded, I have posted it up at work. I’m kinda at a cross roads in life and she’s been telling some of these same things!
    I’m new to the blog/website and it has already been a blessing to me.
    Thanks!
    -Jacque

  717. It’s has taken me a looong time to be done with fear, but this year God has shown me that I truly have nothing to fear because He always, always, ALWAYS has my back. Living with that realization makes life so much more enjoyable! 🙂

  718. I often fear letting others know me. But God knows me fully and by His grace has redeemed me. Because of Him, I can let others know me.

  719. I’ve had panic attacks ever since I was 9 years old. It wasn’t until I was 34 that I found out that they were panic attacks and I wasn’t just “going crazy”. My whole life is affected by the fear of another panic attack, where I go, what I do. (or where I don’t go and what I don’t do) It got to the point of thoughts of suicide. I didn’t want to live if that was the way life was going to be for me. I finally spent two weeks in a psychiatric wing of a hospital and did several years of therapy to find out why I was having the panic attacks. I still live with the fear of having another one though. I’m so tired of it! I would love to be without fear. Prayer and talking problems out with my husband really help! I wouldn’t be here without God!

  720. For the past few years of going through homelessness, job losses, miscarriages, and family abandonment, I have griped fear rather that Jesus. Thank you for your inspiration.
    I know if I keep focused on Jesus I can be more of the wife and mom He plans for me to be. I struggle, but I want to choose joy over fear. I want to raise my children to know that they can cling to Jesus and He loves them no matter what the worldly circumstances seem to say.

  721. Fear has completely paralyzed me, to the point where despair was creeping in and filling everything with darkness. But I printed out your list of ten and have posted it on my desk as a constant reminder that I have nothing to be afraid of if I trust in God. Thank you for your timely and faith-filled post. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

  722. My husband is very ill with mental illness and it is mostly untreated. As a result, our relationship and our family is very strained. He is suicidal often and talks of taking his own life. I have spent years vascillating between planning our future and planning a funeral and it makes me very afraid. I have decided that I will no longer plan for a funeral. I will live today, prepare for tomorrow and leave the rest to God. Thank you for the reminder that we are not supposed to be afraid. We have God.

  723. Love, love, love this list. Number 7 is a particular favorite. For God did NOT give us a spirit of fear. Fear robs us of so much. Thank you for the reminder.

  724. What a thought-provoking post. Ann I am always blessed by your writings I have sat in church for most of my life. I have read my Bible but I have lived most of my life in fear, listening to satan’s lies, living in his bondage. I am just realizing that God has been working on my heart that having knowledge about Him is surely not the same as living out and applying what I know about Him, being obedient to what His word says. And, he certainly doesn’t say fear Him in the sense of being afraid. He wants me to trust Him, love, have peace, joy, an abundant life in Him. I have allowed satan to rob me of so much by my unbelief. I am tired of being weary and searching when God says rest in Him and learn to trust that He is right with me even when I might not feel it. Faith is not a feeling and I am taking the steps right now to STOP believing satan’s lies that Christ is not with me.

    I will print out your 10 Things to Know About Fear and continue looking up scriptures on Fear and take action against unbelief. Satan is such a destroyer of our peace and joy. He knows he can’t take our salvation so he goes after our sanctification. No more! I’m tired and weary of the bondage.

    Sweet Blessings to you.

  725. My 8 year old daughter just asked me this week what I fear the most. I told her “something happening to you, your brothers, or Daddy – severe illness, injury, death”. I went on to remind her (and myself) that all of us trust Christ, that even if something happened and we were separated for now, this lifetime, we would see each other again someday. I still feel that fear occasionally. I love my family, but I know God loves them and me infinitely more. He will be there no matter what comes. It also is a comfort when friends my age are battling cancer, and hope seems so very far away.

  726. I don’t think we can truly experience the fullness of all that God has for us until we are ready to let go of the fear. I find encouragement in the verse that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7)!

  727. I never really started fearing things until I really started to understand Love. Understood what it meant to love my parents, my siblings, my husband,my children. Then I experienced loss and unfortunate circumstances. I then understood what it meant to loose the things I loved. Fear set in..life was like walking on eggshells. When I understood that I was putting these things before my love and trust of Christ things seemed to take on a different view. I still struggle and slide backwards but when I do I reach out to scripture to help me set my heart back on the Lord.

  728. Fear cripples and undermines all that God truly wants for us and too often prevents me from being the woman of God that I want to be. But experience has shown me over and over that God Is Enough and Always provides for me. To God be the glory.

  729. I will not fear for our God is BIGGER than any fear that Satan can throw at us. I will only fear God, for I want to obey and please Him. I pray daily that God will step in and intervene in any areas of my life that I fear. I will trust Him for He has shown me so many times that He is the Great I Am!

  730. After my mother’s suicide in 2006, I struggled with fear and panic attacks especially surrounding storms. I was paralyzed. I couldn’t move forward and I didn’t want to move back.
    I started finding verses in the Bible on fear. My favorite is: 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

    I started confessing these verse each time I felt a spirit of fear creeping into my life. Day in and day out. As I did this I realized I was memorizing Scripture. So I started intentionally memorizing Scripture, chapters and books.

    This has helped me overcome the fear that paralyzed me. The Word!
    What a beautiful contest I’ve wanted the Redeemed purse for so long. Just not in budget.

    Thanks
    M. Waters

  731. Dear Ann,

    Thank you for sharing! Fear can be so paralyzing! This one hit me the most:

    “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living. ”

    Yeppers.

    And. I. want. to. LIVE.

    love,
    – nina ruth 🙂

  732. Dear Ann,

    Thank you for sharing! Fear can be so paralyzing! This one hit me the most:

    “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living. ”

    Yeppers.

    And. I. want. to. LIVE.

    love,
    – nina ruth 🙂

  733. As a little girl, I remember lifting my arms up to my daddy, wanting to be held, but often told ‘no’ and denied. There was always an intense air of abuse in our home – to the point I was afraid to even breathe. This fear cultivated into perfectionism in every area of my adult life. I tried to be the perfect wife, the perfect mom, the perfect friend, the perfect everything… I found myself holding my breath more often than not. While laying in the hospital after my second stress-induced heart attack, His quiet, still voice spoke to me, “let go of all you know and cling to something better.” I took a deep breath and slowly whispered His Name, J..e..s..u..s, and felt all the fear and stress drain from my body. Each morning, I now lift my arms in worship, to take hold of the One who bore all of my hurts, all of my fears, all of my perfect-me-isms – and through His perfect love – set me free! I am never denied, but held close in His presence.

    “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

  734. Thank you Ann for your Spirit-swept words that encourage our hearts to steadily move forward rather than slink back in fear! Sweet blessings on you!

  735. I have struggled with fear for years over one thing or another. Fourteen years ago, when I found out I was finally pregnant with my first chld, a new and more powerfu fear came over me. It was the fear of losing the precious gift that God had finally saw fit to give me & the fear that I would not be a ‘good enough’ mom. After being told repeatedly that I would never have another child, God once again saw fit four years ago to bless me with an amazing little boy. Once again fear grips my heart every time I think of losing either one of them.
    After reading this article, I feel like perhaps its time to REALLY focus on letting go of the fear and letting God take control. I mean, who is the better protector of my precious children? Me or God? I can say this with great ease…but the fact is that because of my past, I am a person who very much needs to feel that I am in control of everything that touches my life. So will try to follow these guidelines one baby step at a time and pray that each day will bring less and less fear.
    Thank you for posting these 10 things for all to read.

  736. Ann, I think every woman on earth should read your wonderful book! You have an amazing gift. I’m struggling with fear of treating myself well. I am trying to get a little more balance in doing for others vs. doing for me. I fear looking self-indulgent or selfish. Trying real hard to get over that after 35 years of selflessly giving of myself in marriage and parenthood and every other arena.

  737. Hi, I absolutely love the items you offer for sale here. It provides a way for people to make a Christian statement without opening their mouths unless inspired to do so. And they’re pretty!
    God bless you all,
    Kimberly

  738. I am walking right now in God’s direction in believing that a friendship will be restored. Satan keeps telling me that it will never happen and it’s beyond restoration; but, I know that I serve a living God who can restore anyone back to Him. I am walking in what seems to be opposition of many who have given up on this person and who speak vile stuff against him; but, I know what God has placed within my heart and that is to still keep praying and believing for him. So, at times FEAR will creep in and tell me that you are crazy for still praying for this person and you just need to give up on him (just like everyone else). When that happens, I have to remind myself that GOD did not and will not give up on me. I guess where “fear” can at times have a control is that I am a people pleaser. So, I believe God is showing me that through opposition of others am I truly going to go where He leads me and not “fear” what others think of me. It is a rough road but God knows what lies ahead for everyone, and the others do not. So, it is on this road of praying and believing my friend that I do face the “fear” that I don’t have the approval of everyone; but, God is showing me I don’t need everyone’s approval, I need His direction and His leading in my life. I think of Noah, people thought this guy was nuts to build an ark because it was going to rain BUT God knew what was ahead and Noah believed God and walked in faith to believe what His God spoke was truth and was going to happen. It is not easy going against what seems to be the “current/flow” of life and putting yourself out there to believe for someone that others give up on. But, I know that my God sees something beautiful in us all and if He sees it, than who am I too fear what others think and not pray for my friend! Thanks for sharing this post — love it!

  739. For many years I lived with fear, with an alcoholic/addict husband; watching my 2 daughters turn to drugs in their teen years, raising my oldest grandchildren, fearful of saying the wrong things..being the peace keeper, not a peacemaker. I did not trust any of my decisions, because nothing else I tried worked, they still used and the cycle kept going. I prayed, seemingly to no avail….. ah but God… My oldest has been 2+ years clean and is still learning, my younger daughter is not there yet and my husband died. God has been faithful in these things… so I continue to try to leave all fear at His feet. I hate how it creeps in, so almost daily I have to choose to trust, not fear. I am glad it is ok that it is a process and He continues to work in me. How good is our God!!

  740. Ann, Thank you so much for posting these 10 things. God so knew I needed to read this. God is bigger and He is going to take away ALL my fears, because He is the almighty. Thank you again, and God Bless

  741. I don’t have powerful stories like others. However, I am a college student at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. With college bring all sorts of anxieties and fears. I have dealt with both anxiety and fear for as long as I could remember. Today, even though I am not 100 percent there, I am learning to lean on God because through God I can do anything! I am letting go of fear to be able to better serve God. God knows what is best for me. If God is for us then who can be against us??

  742. As a newly married college student, fear can plague me if I let it take over! Fears regarding finances, being a wife, my studies, the unknown future, etc. I’m choosing to bring my daily fears and worries to the Lord, knowing that only He can fill me with sweet peace in my soul. I am choosing to live for God and not live for fear. Living for fear accomplishes nothing, while living for God will change lives – my own life and hopefully the lives of others around me!

  743. why i’m done w/ ‘fear’? it’s a thief and we’re called to bring captive to Christ, every thought that would raise itself up against the knowledge of God… refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), {2 Corinthians 10:4-6 Amplified }

    affirm the truth that God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control… {2 Timothy 1:6-8 Amp }

    and to know God will guard and keep in perfect and constant peace those whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because they commit themself to You, lean on You, and hope confidently in You…{ Isaiah 26:3 Amplified}

  744. I’d like to share two expresssions about fear – admittedly not from myself: one read on a shirt somewhere, the other from the church pastor – which have guided me:

    Face your fears and live your dreams!

    FEAR = False Evidence Appearing Real

    Hope it will in/encourage others. 🙂

  745. I LOVE the Lord’s timing. This morning was spent dialoging with God on this issue of fear as I a face down a fearful situation. . .and then Heprovides this place of encouragement and stories of overcoming and living in trust and TRUTH. Thank you, Father God! There is none like You with your extravagant, abundant, overflowing love.

    God is working fear out of me and gave me the verse below to hold onto in this season. . .I hope it will encourage others as much as it has me:
    2 Tim 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

  746. Ann,

    We live out of the country and fear could be a reality for me every single day as we hear of the violence in the country where we live, BUT I know WHO is in control and WHO holds my family in the palm of HIS hand! I thank you for your wonderful words of encouragement and the gift line is beautiful, may it be an inspiration to women around the world. Thank you for your ministry, it’s a wonderful reminder!

  747. thank you for the list of 10… It has reminded me how I have been living with Jesus. For the past year I have watched my husband be overtaken by A.L.S. a degenerative disease. It is with God that we live in each day. Although there are fear creating realizations about the future it is Jesus that keeps us LIVING in today. We believe when Jesus brings you to it HE will bring you through it. As a wife, now caregiver there are many thoughts that creep into my head it is only the words of Jesus, the love of Jesus and all that he provides each day that keep me from falling into the pit of fear. When I see my husband becoming more helpless and dependent, I feel helpless and can ONLY depend on JESUS for comfort. Comfort for him and for myself and for our children and all that are in my husband’s life.
    Thank you for the opportunity to share this.
    With much love…. Louise

  748. I’ve decided to choose FREEDOM over FEAR. I am a slave to that which I fear. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) I choose to fear the LORD and be a slave to HIM all the days of my life rather than remaining in slavery to every little thing that I tend to fear – typically, fear of man. I [used to] be so afraid of and consumed by the thoughts and opinions of others toward me. I made myself sick in choosing to please PEOPLE rather than resting in the assurance that God is pleased with me, and that is truly all that I need. This summer I helped lead a two month long mission trip to Panama with a large group of high schoolers. I had to overcome fear in all directions to get my thoughts refocused on Jesus. My confidence is found in HIM and I have no reason to fear! Since then, I decided that for the rest of my life I want to continue doing things that scare me. I have a deep passion in my heart for writing and speaking and ministering to women that I know is from the Lord… I won’t let fear hold me back! “Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying.” May this be true of me!

  749. I’ve realized that because of Jesus, I have nothing to prove, nothing to lose, and everything to bring Him glory.

  750. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    My mother passed away last month after a long illness. My father asked me to do the eulogy for her. Without thinking my mouth answered yes. My ears were saying to my brain ” hey girl what just happened here” ” you cannot do this, you will cry, you will forget what the message is, etc. My Lord wanted to use me that day to bring my mom, a loyal servant of His, home with the great respect she so deserved. I did as He asked. I gave my moms eulogy. Although my family, friends, and coworkers tell me I did a great job – I know it was never me. All my thanks goes to God!

  751. I’m done with fear because as someone once told me,

    “The will of God will never take you where the grace of God will not protect you.”

    We have a mighty God who goes to battle for us with every breath we take, every trial we face, in every moment of every day. What is there to fear when you thoroughly believe this deep in your bones?

  752. My fear is like my Faith – at times soaring and at other times not where it should be. I know GOD, HE is my Father but at times I don’t trust him or rather I don’t put all my trust in Him. The same with fear – at times I know I should be afraid or have fear but until I remember to have Faith in the Father and give HIM my fear, fear overrides me.

    I Thank GOD for the life lessons He gives me to learn, to grow to make me a better servant. And for his Grace and Mercy to forgive me when I falter, when I don’t have the faith I know I should have…

  753. at times I know I should NOT be afraid or have fear but until I remember to have Faith in the Father and give HIM my fear, fear overrides me.

    see post 883 –

  754. So done with fear…….my prayer is to drift into a peaceful slumber with my heavenly Father in my thoughts, mind, spirit and wake to the new day the same way…..greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world….. He is always here thru all the good and the stormy chaos. When you are at the end of your rope and far from home …..the Shepard seeks you and comforts and ever so loves you….I am blessed thru heartache and pain……struggles and strife… He is not done with me yet and I thirst for a richer drink from the cleansing waters….. daily scripture, devotions, praise music, Godly friends, and unexpected blessings enrich and remind me …fear not for I am with you…..

  755. As one who has planned for 5 months to be with the many this weekend and is reading your book for the 5th time–I’m full of joy at the prospect of hearing you speak at Women of Faith–perhaps meeting you. God has used you before you ever speak a word. I welcome you with love. This week when I picked up “One thousand gifts” at 2 am–“Remembering with thanks is what causes us to trust…”. A lesson I continue to struggle with but I do choose trust over fear. Grace and peace. Mary

  756. Praying and praying with others..the only way to find peace ..thanks Ann for encouraging me daily..blessings as you continue to do His will..

  757. I love this promise from God’s Word……”For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs”.
    Zephaniah 3:17 NLT

  758. Wow. This hits straight home. My fears have kept me stagnant in my spiritual growth. Recently, my husband and I have seen our middle child’s fears keep him from achieving what is His plan for our son. I have to conquer my fear in order to help my son conquer his. It’s time to lay it all over and show my son that God is bigger than our fears. 🙂

  759. God through His infinite GRACE showed me that all my fears were based on ME having control of mylife. I was afraid of every sound in the night, being a passenger when someone else was driving, afraid my children would grow up like their family members that were abusive. Where I lived, where I worked, having people in authority over me, having to lead, driving in the rain…and this is just the very tip of the iceberg! I had pushed God so far away and Satan took up the space….But God kept calling me to return to Him…I fully surrendered my life into his loving hands and I am 100% fear free! I have such freedom I’ve never known before! Peace that truly does fly in the face of what the world believes…without God. Every day, every moment I live I give praise to God for helping me to let go, let God, and to really LIVE! I praise you Lord and give You all the glory!

  760. My beloved (husband of fifty years) Pat suffered a massive stroke 6 1/2 years ago. Add in heart attacks, seizures, osteoarthritis, swallowing problems, emphysema, residual pain & the list goes on. God has blessed us, Pat is still at home with me. I am disabled & cannot do all I would like to do to care for him. Two months ago Pat’s health failed, I gave it all to God, we now have a caregiver 5 days a week, a visiting nurse once a week, many Dr’s visits and tests. The VFW lent us a hospital bed and a wheelchair. Inter-Link is working to get us wheelchair ramps. Friends and neighbors are here for us. Every day is a blessing. If I fear the future, I will have missed out on each precious moment we still have together. Each morning (or night or at 2AM) whenever I have a minute, I thank God for all he has done & ask him to hold Pat safe in the hollow of His hand & to give me the serenity I need to keep smiling for Pat which keeps him going & trying to get well. If I live in fear I cannot smile & all hope is gone. Fear destroys. Faith heals. God is good.

  761. When Peter stepped out of the boat, eyes on Jesus, he stepped out in faith. And he walked right on the water. The Bible doesn’t say how far he got before the waves and wind got his attention, but I imagine he was out of reach of the boat and not to Jesus yet, and it was fear of his circumstances that splashed him in the face, tore his focus from Jesus faith walking to what was I thinking fear. Fear hits me like that. A fearful thought raises up to turn my attention from My All Powerful, Unfathomablly Loving, Forever Faithful God. When i am attacked by that first fear filled thought- I remember Peter on the waves and bow even when he bagan to sink all he had to do was cry out for help and immediately Jesus grabbed him and then walked with him back to the boat. I’ve lived into this walking on water story countless times over the years and then a couple of years ago, I discovered the perfect scripture passage to help keep me walking on the water: “give your ENTIRE attention to what GOD is doing Right Now and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow.(or in the next moment) God WILL help you deal with WHATEVER hard things come up when the time comes. Matthew 6:34 (The Message)

  762. Hi Ann,
    Thanks for this article and your wonderfully encouraging blog. I homeschool, too, and am so inspired! I’ve battled fear on and off all my life, especially at night when everyone is in bed and i can’t sleep. Since i read your book One Thousand Gifts I pray to God THANKING Him for the many gifts He gave me that day, instead of giving in to my fearful thoughts. God richly bless you Ann as you continue to bless your Farmer, children, and church, and write and speak for the glory of the Lord!

  763. Great words of wisdom! I know I’ll need to put these around the house as a reminder to always seek truth and not listen to the lies of fear.

  764. Thank you for this list – very helpful. I think my favourite one is: “It’s impossible to simultaneously feel fear — and give thanks.” I heard that many years ago but had forgotten – and it is definitely something I need to hold in my heart. My greatest fears in life were: 1. as a child, that my parents would die, and 2. as a teen, that I would never get married. Then at 25, I married my wonderful husband, almost 6 years ago and our cup overflows with good things. 🙂 My third greatest fear was that I wouldn’t be able to have children, and as of yet, we have not been blessed with any (in 3 years of trying). We are both from large families (9 & 5) and wanted a large family ourselves. Sometimes the disappointment and… shame feels overwhelming and I fear this is my lot forever. But when I thank my all-loving, all knowing Heavenly Father for this season in my life, I find renewed joy and strength. 🙂 Thank you for the reminder.

  765. It seems that fear has been that annoying and yet sometimes welcomed companion in my life off and on over the years. He changes his disguises to surprise me just when I think I have shaken him off. One amazing thing here is really to remember that I am not alone. That we all battle him…ugly Fear. And somehow for me…THAT knowledge…takes the weight off of it. I AM NOT ALONE….because of Jesus and fabulous women like you!

  766. I am a Drug Counselor at a Methadone clinic in the Chicago land area. I see slavery to heroin and cocaine, I see poverty, hopelessness, newborn babies born brain damaged and deaf, suffering from withdrawals. Mother’s who say they hate their children. Yes, hate.

    I see black eyes and hear about childhood trauma and sexual abuse so prevalent you’d think it was the norm. I see homelessness and prostitution and arms full of track marks. I see the broken people. And people younger than me who have survived ALL of this.

    I’m only 25.

    I don’t fully see what you’re doing, but I trust You are there. I’m only able to show up everyday because You give the Grace to do it. If I offer any charity, compassion, hope to my clients its You loving them through me. I take no credit for the good, and all that I ask is that you use me, no matter the cost. Use me for Your purposes. Amen.

  767. My fears keep me immobile. I am going thru treatment & i am at stage 4 of cirrosis of liver, last stage before a liver transplant. So for me not to think, I sleep an pray. I know I need to pray more on trusting an thanking Jesus. Sleeping an giving up is so much easier. I need to stop this self pity party. I pray for strength.

  768. Fear…yes, fear can paralyze, and only Jesus can set us free. It is still difficult and I still struggle. I had written a couple of posts on my blog during some trials, and here is a quote that struck my heart; “The remarkable thing about fearing God is that when you fear God you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God you fear everything else.” Blessed is everyone that feareth the Lord the writer of Hebrews tells us. A friend I had asked for prayer from had sent a quote she had heard, “There may be many reasons to say no, but don’t let fear be one of them.”
    I give Eucharisteo for you, and pray for you and your family Ann.
    Always Experiencing Him,
    Jody

  769. Fear cripples. Love heals.
    Fear burdens. Love sets free.
    Fear steals. Love gives.
    Fear is of myself. Love is of God!

  770. The fear I’ve given over to God is one of trying to plan what the future holds. My life was almost idyllic to some: good marriage, two kids, little farm, great career, etc… until a year and a half ago when I was thrown a curveball … since then I’ve been on a road to re-discovery- who I am in God’s eyes and how this is all that really matters… now priorities have shifted and things that mattered so much before, don’t even register for me- my pecking order is back in line and although things are not always easy, I feel more at peace than I have in years.

    The fear I am working on giving up to God now, is the want of another child- we aren’t sure this will ever happen now, and rather than worrying about it, I’m praying and trying to let go of the fear… read this in a book the other day and it really speaks to me “Courage is fear on its knees”… so I am trying to be courageous by praying away my fears, and letting God write my story, not me.

  771. Oh Ann…fear has crippled me most of my life. I didnt even feel I could give enough to be worthy to be a sponsor, until your heart inspiring trip to Haiti. Your Christ walking gave me enough power to fight off the enemy and let in the sweet. Im going to keep rereading about this fear and hopefully start building my armor. I know I need to fight off and uproot something living in me for far too long. Thanks, Ann.

  772. Although I still definitely struggle with fear…fear of what others think….fear of a future alone…fear of failure or not following God’s will….I am constantly reminded of God’s power, perfect planning abilities, and perfect forgiveness!

    God created me uniquely as I am…He has a plan for my life & is there to guide me every step of the way…He provides in all circumstances and makes all things work together for good….Oh & his forgiveness is unfathomable…no matter what we do His love is always there at the same level… How blessed we are to have Him as our creator and author of our lives! 🙂

  773. Thanks for posting this!
    I’ve been very afraid to many things especially to the unknown while I grew up but His Word has taught me that He has overcome! Now, I can tell that I have nothing to fear because my life is hidden in Him. I have seen God working in my life over and over again. There is no doubt He is my mighty God and Father!

  774. Thank you for posting this! For me I stuggle with worrying about the future. I know the Lord can take care of me but I find myself being afraid that He won’t. I also worry sometimes about how my children will turn out. I know worrying won’t change it but it can be so hard at times.

  775. “A word fitly spoken…”
    Thank you for sharing such important and timely truths. The one about what God wants for you is over the fence of fear, is something I believe He has been impressing upon me for a while now. Yeah, God’s good!

  776. I am so done with fear because God is BIGGER than the enemy of my soul. The enemy puts the fear in our hearts to lie to us that God is not our everything – but He is!! I try take every thought captive to Christ, and He always dispels any fear that I may have. Thank you for these truths and thank you for the opportunity to win these great prizes.
    God bless you richly,
    Susan G.

  777. Fear of blogging yet wanting to share God’s word. You have done it so well Ann…what a blessing! I hope to go forth with His Grace, someday.

  778. I fear paying the bills every month. It always seems as if there is never enough, and I am not great at budgeting. However, I am going to believe that God will help me overcome –and conquer!

  779. After my Mother died many years ago, I remember being afraid of the dark and wanting the door ajar. That fear having left me as life goes on, I’m not a stranger to fear itself. The fears have matured with me, finding fertile soil in the things I hold dear.
    God can help me tame those fears and move toward a more active future with a renewed faith and confidence and reverence for a very powerful & loving God.

  780. Thanks for your list of 10 things You’ve got to Know About Fear!! I have had to come to the realization in several different ways in the past 5 years. My father passed away, then a law suit again our Mom by our brothers, then difficulty in our church which placed me in a Sunday School class of young married women to teach. This was covered by the Grace of God in my life so that I could learn from each step along the journey and God has given me a peace so that fear could not reign in my life. All of these things going on in my life at one time should have been enough to bury me but they have just increased my faith to be able to realize that God is with us in the good times and in what we consider the ‘bad times’. Thank you Jesus for sustaining your children and bringing us through the fiery trials!!

  781. I have always dealt with fear even as a child. I have just in the last few years of my life realized that fear stops me from truly living in Christ. I have had struggles throughout life but most recently with 3 miscarriages in a year time period , I’m reminded again and again fear doesn’t keep bad things away only the good . Only faith and thanksgiving in Christ helps us survive in a fallen world.

  782. I am done fearing because I know I am a daughter of God — a member of His Kingdom! There is nothing to fear because I am forever with Him.

  783. I have been afraid all my life, mostly about my future and my kids future. I’m learning to let go of that fear and let God have complete control and it’s not easy. Fear has controlled my life and my decisions and I’m learning to completely rely on God and it’s one step at a time. The more I walk with the Lord the more he shows me and loves me and comforts me! We serve a mighty God and I will never give up on him cause he never gives up on me…

  784. If I find myself fearful and anxious, I pray and begin to thank God for all the ways he has blessed me. Then my fear begins to slowly give way to faith. That is when he shows me who I can pray for and help because I have gotten my eyes off my situation and on him.

  785. Fear shaped my moments, my days, my life, stalking me like a voracious vampire, satisfied only when every last breath and drop of blood had sucked me dry. BUT GOD, my Abba~
    Papa broke through one day when I was almost fifteen, a miraculous severe mercy, and now “The Sovereign Lord is my Strength; HE makes my feet like the feet of a deer, HE enables me to tread on the heights”!!!!!! His truth has set me free, and His love has banished my fears! HE alone is worthy of my adoration.

  786. The Lord gave me this verse:For the Lord did not give me a spirit of fear but of power and love and of a sound mind. I have held onto this for years and God is faithful who does His perfect work in us.

  787. Fear can keep us from doing so many things, especially being obedient to the Lord. I pray that all of us including myself have faith that if God is telling us to do something, he will give us all we need in order to accomplish it. No fear!

  788. When I realized that fear of failure was holding me back, I began to comprehend that only a Godly mentor would keep me accountable. She calls, comes over to my house, sends emails, to remind and encourage me that God is in control and He’s holding me. I love that line, “All fear is but the notion that God’s love ends.” Sums it up perfect!

  789. One of my biggest fears has been that I’m all “wrong”, but something I’m learning recently is that God CREATED me the way I am for a reason! Instead of being afraid I’m always going to be wrong for everything, I’m learning to embrace myself. It’s given me so much more confidence in parenting and interacting with people. 🙂

  790. The first one gets me! “Don’t fear failing – fear not obeying”
    My husband and I recently completed our foster care/adoption class and are obtaining our license. We have 3 girls, ages 9, 7 & 3. I feel God’s Holy Spirit directing our lives, yet so often fear all kinds of unknowns, how will it affect our children, will we have enough time to invest in each one, I’m not a good enough mother as it is, can we love like Christ when most days can barely keep my head above water as is,….etc.
    But I’m choosing to look fear in the face and say my God is bigger, He is trustworthy…I am not a good enough wife or mother, but His grace is sufficient!

  791. This quote speaks to me, Ann. It gives me permission to make mistakes and not keep having “jerkers” as I try to fall asleep at night about my mistakes of today, days in the past and days that haven’t even seen the sun rise.
    “5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints”

  792. Are we born with fear or is it a conditioned response to our surroundings? As babies we fully trust our caregivers, not because they are capable, but because we know of no other way of being. Somewhere along life’s journey we learn to fear; pain, heartache, another and the unknown. We start to question trust in light of what we experience or see in another. As the years roll by, if not guarded the trust we are born with will be tarnished, forgottened or abandoned. For the child of God, trust should permeate every breath we take. OUR God, OUR Father is the ultimate caregiver, who never lets us slip out of HIS heart, HIS vision or HIS loving care. Nothing ever catches HIM by surprise or is beyond HIS power. So when I am faced with a perceived fear. I can choose to let it shadow HIS love for me or run directly into HIS arms. Trusting the trustworthy.

  793. I think if it were not for the Grace of the Lord, I would be afraid to leave my house or speak to anyone. It takes a huge amount of grace for me to have the courage to even go to the doctor sometimes. But the Lord is good, and I can trust him completely. I love that with the Lord I don’t have to be afraid.

  794. I’m done because I’m tired of days and weeks passing feeling like life – real life – is JUST beyond that next hurdle I can’t seem to cross. I’m done living slump to slump. I’m trading in the predictable – my instability, for the stable – the only unchanging thing, Christ. Maybe if I write it, my way of screaming it out loud in this moment, I will have the courage to believe it?

  795. What an encouragement this has been to me!! I have spent years in fear and I’ve finally packed it all away and decided to remember what it was like to walk by Faith and Trust in my God who has proven time and again that He IS FAITHFUL AND TRUE. I am a 34 year old mama of 3 and wife of a wonderful husband who is going BACK to school after 15 years to get a teaching degree. I started but didn’t finish, but the Lord has given me a second chance and I’m taking it. I keep saying “I can’t do this!” but He keeps saying “But I can!! and I WANT to! step out in obedience and I’ll do the rest.” So here I am….steping out. 🙂

  796. “…why you are done with fearing that thing that’s been stalking you because your God is bigger –”

    My greatest fear is failure….in so many areas of my life…and it holds me back from doing all I know I should be doing….and from living a life fully surrendered to Christ…

    As my heart is overwhelmed…He leads me to that Rock that is higher than I….and my soul accepts…that His grace is more than enough….

    • praying with you sister! I wrote the post below yours, and once it was posted I saw that we struggle with the same thing. Yes, let’s surrender! May His grace be all that we need…

  797. I’m DONE with the fear (a fear I didn’t know I had) of not getting everything done. As a mother to two daughters, a 3-year-old and a 2-month old, I’m just not getting things done like I used to…I MAYBE accomplish the basic necessities for all of us for the day! But instead of being stressed the entire day and calling myself names of failure for all the things I am NOT getting done, I am ready to ABIDE in Christ, WAIT on Him, and GIVE THANKS for the present moment, every moment. Maybe the house is a wreck, maybe the plants outside are wilting in the summer sun, but I have two little girls who smile every.time.they.see.me and the oldest who loves it when I sit and read to her, and the youngest needing me very much all the time… I AM BLESSED. And that is enough. No more fearing imperfections, messy house, projects undone for now. I want to REST in Him. I’m so very tired, and I don’t want fear of failure to take away these moments I have.right.now.

  798. I am 46 and a lung cancer survivor. I never feared getting cancer, yet one day the doctors told me I had it despite having never smoked and no one having cancer in my family. I had feared many other things in life, but never thought to fear getting cancer. The doctor almost cried telling me because I have three daughters and am a homeschooling mom. In that peace that passes all understanding, I heard the whisper in my soul that says “Jesus loves me, this I know..” That was it. I went through multiple surgeries and now have life long pain issues, but No Fear! I don’t know what to fear because I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but I know that my Jesus told us “Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” I plan on enjoying the life my King has given me today- troubles, pain, joy, laughter,etc., – everything but fear!

  799. I lost my job this morning. Obviously, God has something else in mind for me. I have no one else’s paycheck to rely on. I so badly want to honestly say I am through with fear and mean it. Please say a prayer for me.

  800. I am done with fearing the things that hold me back, because I have seen when I do press through, with the grace of God, He is always there, and although it doesn’t always end up ‘perfect’ or even ‘ok’, He makes up all the difference. And I walk through this fear because there is no getting around it, and the only way is through. And God’s is there – holding me in His hands every step of the way.
    Breathe, remember, repeat! (I say to myself) 🙂
    And next time fear creeps up – because it will – I will lift up my eyes – to where my help comes from and walk.

  801. Over the years – Through the power of the Holy Spirit I have overcome many fears. But, one I have held onto these past few years is teaching my children to drive. I have said, ” I have overcome many things in this life but this one I am not going to do, someone else can teach them to drive.” Well, I now have 3 adult children and only 1 of the 3 drive… So, I am done with fear in this area and I am going to trust in the only one who overcame all on my behalf, to help me be an overcomer in this area too!!

  802. My husband and I will become first time parents to twins in October…talk about being stalked by fear;) But I came across this this morning as I was reading “The Shaping of a Christian Family” by Elisabeth Elliot…. “There has been no preparation that seems nearly adequate for this cataclysmic upheaval of their lives….A boy and a girl became husband and wife, and suddenly they are father and mother, overnight as it were, without anything to ready them for this awesome task of fashioning the destiny of a soul. The awareness of the inadequacy frightens the life out of many… However, the one who fashioned the child(ren) and gave him to these two people is ready to give the wisdom they know they lack, if they only ask.”
    I have to say this encouragement helped me to cast off all the fears that have been swarming around in my head lately! He has promised that His grace is sufficient in all things and especially when we call on His wisdom and not that of ourselves all things will work together for good! I will come back to this often I am sure as the unknowns continue to come in my life, but I will be reminded that fear has no place where grace abounds!

  803. We become like that which we focus on. I’m tired of living afraid and focusing on fear and acting fearful. I want to focus on God and His word and leave fear behind. Thank you.

  804. I hate fear. I hate it that I fear for my children, even though they are grown. Why is it so hard to release it all? I think because a parent’s greatest fear is loosing a child. I think a parent can face almost anything but loss of a child and/or some demented predator kidnapping them. One of my sons was kidnapped when he was two years old right from my front door. I had gone inside for a minute to get him a drink to have with his lunch outside and he was gone! I can’t even tell you how that felt. But God came swiftly to the rescue. A woman (her name is Stephanie) who I had not seen since we shared the maternity ward room together came by and when she found out why I was hysterical searching the neighborhood, she asked me what David (my son) was wearing. I told her and she said she saw him! I got into her car and she SPED down the road. A little old man found David on the side of the road and was trying to stop cars to get a ride to the police station. Stephanie said that was NOT the man she saw David with. God must have sent an angel to scare the living daylights out of the kidnapper. The car came to a screeching halt as I bolted out and grabbed David. The old man told us how he found David. David is now going to celebrate his 38th birthday on the 30th. I live with him, his fiance and my granddaughter. I never went inside for so much as a microsecond after that.

  805. I haved feared things most of my life. It is the way i survived. It has been a long journey and I look forward to being free. I know I am spiritually free already 🙂 Sometimes we hold onto a lie way beyond the cross that set us free. Thanks for the reminder of God’s word!

  806. God’s love is everywhere with us always. I am done with fear, of worry that my family has difficulties; at those times I must remember that God helps us. We must all pray in good times and when the devil makes it hard for us. Trust in God and a little prayer help when you don’t know what to do or say to a relative or friend who needs a kind word to help them remember God. His grace helps us overcome all fears. He will raise you up on eagles wings and hold you in the palm of His Hand.

  807. I fear lots of things… I know that I have issues with my lack of faith. Unfortunately, I have kept most of my fears bottled up. And now that I am seeing that my son has an irrational undeniable fear of storms that shuts out any logic whatsoever, I know that I too have allowed fear to paralyze me over and over. I want to help him so badly, but I must help myself first!

  808. Thanks for the list as makes for good reminders. For many years many fears kept my life in darkness but thanks to God’s grace and peace I can know rest in His light.

  809. I used to be very fearful when I was growing up, even after I became a Christian. I even worried when things were going “too well”because I just knew something bad was about to happen. One day, when I was in my twenties, I was reading a devotional about God’s love. It was one of those “ah-ha!” moments for me when I finally realized that God really did want only the very best for me. Even when bad things happen, God is always in control! There is a reason he causes things to happen that we may think are the worst thing that could possibly happen! But He knows my whole life story and he weaves every moment for my good! What an awesome, amazing, incredible God we serve!

  810. Has anyone really read up on fear, not just it’s insidious ways it sneaks into our lives, but the truth of the matter that in the Bible it is written 365 times Do NOT fear. That is one do not fear scripture for each and every day of the year. I think if God made it known that many times, perhaps it is now time to start knowing those scriptures, saying them out loud, meaning them, and resisting the urge to give in to the fear again. It may take a long time, it may take just once, but understand, that the Word of the Lord stands forever…which means we are never outside of the power of NOT fearing. There IS a way out of fear, and that is standing on the word of God and its meaning for our life, for our situation, for our perfect love that Christ gives us. I hope you can all believe that if we are told to not fear in the Bible for each day of our lives, then we can be a joy to others who may need that pick me up that you confessed in your prayer life that day! And the biggest change will be when youf ind yourself not fearing anything, but trusting by faith that God has taken care of the minutest details of our lives, and so we need not fear anything that might assail us. Study up and realize that we have a great BIG God, and the devil is a very small devil. GREAT BIG GOD, very small devil. Remember this: perfect love (Jesus) casts out fear, for fear hath torment. He who fears is not complete in love. (1 John)

  811. Why do I continue to fear when I want to be done with it, and yet, God says, “Fear not…” many, many times throughout the Bible. Sometimes, I have been done with it, but when it returns tells me I haven’t yet completely turned things over to the Lord.

  812. not original with me and maybe not complete but a quote I remember “I hate that I pay more attention to my fears than to my God.”
    or maybe ” I hate that I believe my fears more than I believe my God.”

    I think that sometimes I am afraid He will want me to stretch much farther than I am willing to stretch, that there is some ‘greater purpose’ that I am not on board with and may never know about that requires me to hurt now for joy later.
    This is likely another lie and I have joy available to me now and at any time… that is my prayer.

  813. I guess I’m not the average person because I don’t fear public speaking and I don’t fear death, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t fear. We are all gifted in different ways, and due to our different gifts, we also have corresponding different weaknesses. And while I am gifted in public speaking and creative and have musical and writing abilities, I cannot keep the house clean no matter how hard I try. So my fears are pride-related…that unexpected knock at the door when the house is a mess and I’m ashamed of it, or what people think of the weeds in the gardens and flowerbeds when I’ve been spending my spare time at the piano practicing for a performance, or of not having taught enough, done enough, said enough, been enough as a parent before a child graduates from high school and leaves home. What are all of those things that I’ve missed along the way? Needing God’s grace to be enough when I’m not; Needing to believe my friends who say they’re coming to see me, not my house, Needing to relax and enjoy this senior year with my daughter. Thank you, Ann, for the prayer for a daughter. Can you make it “printable”? Thank you, too, Ann, for your sharing from your heart, and thank you for introducing me to ScriptureTyper, where I am hiding God’s word away in my heart, believing that it’s the best thing that I can do for my self/my family/my friends…helping me to become more like Christ.

    • PS to Ann Voskamp: The photos of your house are always very inspiring to me. I love to see how you decorate and how beautifully simple everything is! Now I’m going to go clean one area before my husband gets home and put a bouquet on the table because it’s his birthday!! Thank you!!

        • Thank you, Julia for the encouragement. That knock at the door came today, and it was my pastor’s wife. I swallowed hard and invited her in and didn’t apologize for the mess, and I’ll try harder for the next time she (or anyone else) comes. I keep telling myself that it will be better the next time!!! Hope springs eternal. But where would I be without hope? In a place of despair or in a place of acceptance? I showed her the beanbags that I made for my classes at school and the scarves that I’m hemming, and that neat gadget that rolls the fabric into the tiniest of hems for hankies and scarves, a presser foot that came with an old Singer sewing machine many years ago, and other fun things, but I’m still left with this feeling of inadequacy, of inferiority, of incompleteness, of imperfection–no, much lower than imperfection, and disappointment in myself; feelings of pain and embarrassment. I reach out toward the things that I can do well, choke back the pride, stifle the tears, and go on with my day, which means out the door and to my job and the paycheck that I bring home. And I pray for strength for progress tonight and wisdom and peace and always GRACE….more GRACE!!!

  814. Fear is suffocating and blinding. It’s the antithesis of joy and gratitude. I can not live and breathe and walk in fear at the same time. And, of course, Jesus’ perfect love casts out fear. Of whom or what shall I be afraid?

  815. I’m asking God to show me how i’m controlled by my fears-I want to let go-I think i’m most afraid of my family not just loving me for who I am and who I and they think i’m sopposed to be.
    I’m going to let go of that and re-read this article with that in mind.

  816. I tend to be overcome with fear when I need to go for an annual mammogram or a loved one has to fly somewhere, the unknowns. Its so easy to fear first. Why? But I take myself back to the Lord, asking Him to forgive me for the fears and I cling to, and remember what He says in His word till He calms me. I was pleasantly surprised to read that the Bible says “do not fear” 365 times. You are right, Ann, once for each day. I read “Hinds Feet On High Places” last summer by Hannah Hurnard. It is a classic and I had meant to read it for years. I thot the character Much Afraid was surely about me. In this book, Much Afraid has just to call out for the Shepherd and He is there to help. That’s what chases away the fears best, calling out to the Savior for help, He is only a prayer away. I am determined to pray and trust first not fear. Thanks for the ten things about fear. By the way, Much Afraid was eventually changed into Grace and Glory by the Shepherd.

  817. Trying to give up future fears and rest [in HIM] in the now… because when the future gets here it will become now and I’ll have practice resting. 🙂

  818. Why am I done with fear??? Because I have perfect love ( for my adopted20 yo son) in me, thru Christ. We recently had to ask him to leave our home for his contined inability to obey house rules and involvement with the law. Hardest thing we have ever done…but we are confident( mostly 😉 that God has this!! He loves him more. Fully. +Completely.+ Promised. Why would I invite fear in that equation? we are getting out of the way and watchingandwaitingfor God to do His thing,with perfect love, which has cast out all fear!

  819. I did not realize how much fear was a part of my life until this post and my first thought was “I need to respond” and then I felt fear about even responding. However, that is not my greatest fear; my greatest fear is that I am not Good Enough. I always feel that is more that I could have done / could do, especially when it comes to my children.

    I have come to the conclusion over the last couple of months especially, that God does not Create anything that is not good enough. I hand my fear to him and know that as I take a step forward that his strength and goodness will keep me in the right direction even with the bumps.

  820. Fear has consumed me for most of my life—fear of falling off my bike as a child. Fear of doing or saying the wrong thing in front of my classmates. Fear of what others thought of me as I roamed the halls of my high school. Fear that I would graduate from college, a failure with no job in this dying economy and nothing to show for my four years of hard work.
    I now face new fears as a young adult, living on my own. One of my biggest fears is the fear of the unknown—will I meet the man God has chosen for me? Will I ever save up enough money for very own house in the country? Will I have children one day? The list is endless, never ending.

    Nowadays, when a fear creeps into my daydreamy head, I push it away and dwell on Scripture. 1 John 4:17-18 says, “God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day—our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love” (MSG). Fear IS crippling, and living in fear creates boundaries and doesn’t allow for love to consume me. If I would only “take up permanent residence in a life of love,” and live without fear, I will be free of worry and self-doubt and many other negative feelings that consume me when I’m afraid.

    I know that I cannot remain fearless without His help.
    I have to ask it. I have to believe it. And most importantly, I have to receive it. I’m practicing that, and asking big things of my big God.

    Thank you for all you do Ann, and thank you for your words. They lift up spirit and heart and head, making eyes see the joy in every day.

  821. The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:8 that our “adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” When fearful thoughts concerning my marriage or my children cause me to actually cower and hide out in a corner of my room, it is as if there was a hungry lion prowling around me willing to pounce if he could. I will never forget the day that I was in that position and I got angry with myself, stood up and told him to get lost. I won’t be backed into a corner again like that. The devil lies and makes all kinds of threats causing us to think and feel as if he has control. But NOTHING can happen to me unless it first passes through God’s hands for my GOOD and HIS GLORY!

  822. Fear has kept me from serving in the church. I thought was not good enough or that I would fail. I am done with fear! Through the many promises in the Bible I have found new confidence in Him and I now volunteer at church and doing it unto the Lord. This is opening new doors and new friendships for me and getting me out of my comfort zone. Psalm 27:1 ~ God is my light and salvation; whom shall I fear? God is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

  823. Even this morning I was afraid that I will not be able to complete the tasks that lie ahead of me as director of our local Pregnancy Resource Center, that I can’t keep up with the many details of the checklist for our medical conversion, that I won’t know how to love my family through this season of busyness, that if I step aside our needs might not be met. Thank you for the reminder that God is on the other side of the fence of fear. He is bigger. He is unbounded. He is only and always good.

  824. I’ve kicked (or keep kicking because I am miserably human and fear keeps creeping, daily) fear to the curb because when I fear am I fully trusting God? He is soverign…
    His love,
    Heidi

  825. Fear of letting go of what I know is gone, fear of turning round and looking ahead because of what being alone is all about, fear of unending pain, and is this how it will always be……I am shaking it off. I can do this. I can. Just fixing my gaze on my Lord…..

  826. So often I have feared what others have thought of me. I have lived so much of my life “doing” and “being” who and what others expect of me. Fear is debilitating and suffocating, and I am learning all the more that “to fear is to take your eyes off Jesus”. Fear is unbelief. My prayer daily is that the Lord would help my unbelief and that I would remember God’s providence in my life and all around me. Over the last few years, as I have really grasped the gospel and it’s fullness, I know that I do not want to live my life in fear! Because of Jesus’ work in my life, I don’t have to fear what others think of me. The only thing that matters is what God thinks of me because of Christ. I am completely HIS, completely LOVED, completely FORGIVEN and completely FREE from having to fear! Rejoicing greatly!

  827. For me everyday seems so dark and full of traps, beside that I am lonely and don’t have nobody to express my pain, even thought I have my parents is impossible to talk with them but at least I know that even if my life will never be happy I know that with God everything will be fine and he is who give me the warm of not giving up and that if there is a 1% of success I am in the front line to fight and not see the fear as a obsticle but just another opponent that dosen’t cost a thing, because I want to find the person I love, even if he if faraway and don’t know anything about him, my fear desapear by knowing that God will not let my flame to died!

  828. Thank you for this list – I am going to print it and post it, and give one to my 9-year-old son! He has so many fears, and I have trouble answering them all. Some nights get pretty long. I’m trying to stop being fearful myself, especially that I won’t have enough. But God always provides, doesn’t He? He always has so far.

  829. Looking back on my life, I realize that fear has often been a driving force in my life, like an unwelcome guest that just won’t leave. But after nearly having a breakdown due to “generalized anxiety” I realized that I had to reevaluate if I was truly living a life of faith or a life of fear. I believe that God was transitioning me to relinquish the facade of “being in control” that I had clung to for dear life to a place where I could put my trust in the only God that knows the beginning from the end and is able work all things together for my good! I decided that the underlying fears that had tried to influence my life since childhood had to go! I was divorcing fear! It has been a tough process but God has continually proven himself faithful to help me overcome and conquer fear through faith in Him! And I am so thankful!

  830. I’m done fearing the future, without a teaching job, as God is in control of all things and He will meet all of my needs in Christ Jesus. Thank you Ann for your words that are always so powerful and touch right to the soul. May God richly bless you as you continue to lean on Him, listen and share His words with us.

  831. Fear use to be a constant comanion, but now I am learning that things comes in God’s time. My guy has Mantle Cell Lymophoma –which never goes aways- and went through Chemo in 2006 and at that time I did not know from day to day what would happen. But God has allowed him some bonus time — we know it will return (someday) but we trust that it will be a long ways down the line. Now we trust Him daily to get us to the hospital and the doctor as our car really needs to be replaced.

  832. A few years ago, my husband and I both faced our biggest fear together, namely “loss”. And in our own way, we each dealt with this fear – head on. He lost his job after 15+ years, his dad passed away, and we lost our baby boy at 22 weeks gestation – all within a short period of time.

    Since then, we’ve been reminded countless times that God does “supply all our needs” & that what we think are needs are often “wants”. We need not fear the shifting of life’s sands or the uncertainty of what may or may not come into our reality.

    So at those moments when we experience the very real threat of fear, we can call upon Him and know that in this fallen world in which we live, that He is with us; that He has conquered fear for all of us!

  833. Afraid of letting God take control…. I think I still struggle with that. Afraid of little things, but I know God can handle them. Funny, because one of the first verses I memorized as a child was 2Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and love, and sound mind.” Thanks for reminding us that God is always in control.

  834. I am SO printing this list! Thank you for the encouragement!

    After a 2011 filled with anxiety attacks, 2012 was the year I decided I was DONE! I’m grateful to say that, on a scale of 1-10, this year my fear and anxiety has been a 2 or 3, whereas last year it was an 11 or 12! (Praying and working to get it to a zero in 2013!) It sapped my energy and my joy; it occupied my thoughts during most of my waking hours; it stole me away from the Lord, my husband, and my children. Jesus came to give me abundant life, I don’t want to let fear steal that from me!

  835. Out of fear comes frustration. There is alot of fear and frustration and anger in our house. We have been taking care of my mother-in-law who has dementia. She has been gripped with fear and anger for many, many years. I truly think that it can spread rapidly. I find myself fearful that something will happen to my kids, my husband or myself, just like her. I want to lay it all down, but don’t know where to start. Thank you for your post today.

  836. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail.
    Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.
    WOW! This is exactly what I needed to hear!

  837. Fear has been such a large part of my existence. Growing up in an abusive home, I never knew life outside of my little ball of anxiety.

    Honestly, I’m done fearing fear (as weird as that seems). It comes in waves, and it always comes to steal and kill. When life is going well, fear even visits us on the mountiantop with questions that start with “What if”. If anxiety, a symptom of fear, is not present then we tend to feel like something is missing from our lives. Fear is a ruthless cycle that steals our joy and kills our hope. It is also highly addictive. It is one of those things that the enemy put into place to keep God out.

    Thankfully, God’s medicine for fear is the Holy Spirit, our comfort. I’m so thankful that I don’t have to live my life in such a way anymore. Praise Jesus! 🙂

  838. I think I use fear as an excuse to not obey, where it should be the opposite; I should fear not obeying.

    Thanks Ann for your insight, been praying for you in Iowa,
    Carrie

  839. I used to have awful nightmares of a man chasing me with a gun, who was going to kill me and also nightmares of falling into a creek and snakes would keep me from crawling out onto the banks. Nearly every night from as early as I can remember until my early thirties, I had these dreams. Long story short: When I truly gave my heart to Jesus, He rescued me from the evil one. I don’t have those dreams anymore! The devil was after me, but JESUS defeated him in my life when I gave my life to Jesus. He is my Rock and my Hiding Place, my Refuge and Strong Tower. He holds me in the palm of His hand. He causes all things to work for good in my life. I have nothing to fear because I am wholly loved and held. I have peace, I am full of love and joy overflows in my life! He is soooooooooo wonderful!

  840. Thank you for this .. and for everybody who is sharing. Sadly to say, I don’t think I could say that I am done with fear … I am in the midst of a rocky marriage – so I don’t know where the Lord is going to take me in this journey and how my marriage is going to be. One thing I know for sure, I have to keep on holding on to God’s promises through His words – His faithfulness that comes through little things. Holding on to the one thing that I know – God is God and He is strong even when I am weak and ready to give up.

    • Grace, I was in a similar situation about 4 years ago. My husband and I, who are both Christians, split up and we were headed for divorce. But GOD worked on both of us and I started praying for GOD to show me the TRUTH and show me what I should do. Short story, GOD did show me the TRUTH about lies I believed and HE brought us back together. HE has made changes in me and my husband and our marriage is very strong, in CHRIST, today. I pray often for married couples and I encourage all married couples to pray for GOD to help them see the truth, change any wrong attitudes they have, help them be a better spouse, pray for their spouse to do the same, and encourage each other by looking for something good to complement them on. I will be praying for you and your husband-please pray for me and mine. JESUS LOVES YOU and so do I!

      • Thank you Saundra for your encouragement. I want to believe so hard that God will help both of us to see the truth. Right now I can only see darkness – there is still the voice of truth, but it’s so hard to focus on it where all that I see is darkness and pain. Hard to believe that there is such a better place than to walk away .. I don’t believe in divorce but it takes 2 to make changes in marriage for a better, 2 people who believe and 2 people who are committed to do all, no matter how hard it is. Will pray for your marriage and mine.

  841. Fear seems to be one of the enemy’s most successful weapons against God’s daughters. I feared some kind of rejection from my husband if I truely lived fully into my relationship with Christ. I feared he might call for the men in the little white coats. I was delivered of that fear finally, just recently! I hate how many years the enemy stole from me. I am so humbly grateful for God’s persistant and relentless grace and patience.

  842. I’m done because I’m tired of not doing what it is God wants me to do. It’s time to be the person he has called me to be.

  843. thank you for this beautiful reminder. fear takes our joy from us yet it’s so hard to resist!

  844. I John 4:8
    How aware are we of what a Father’ s great love for His daughters truly means?

    Satan came to steal our security in what Christ accomplished for us, his redeemed.
    The enemy is the corrupter of all truth. (deceiver!) The wicked one who came to destroy the hope of the children of the Living God.
    But, we are Free! Our Rescuer saves us! (All is Grace because of Christ Alone.)
    Jesus saves us who are crushed in spirit. We rush to Him and know His arms are WIDE open and there to embrace and comfort us. His Holy Word needs to be hidden deep in our souls to be able to cast out the fear of the world, and the lies from the evil one.

    **LOVE His Promise: Yes, we are God’s Redeemed, Accepted, Chosen (ones), The very Expression of His Love. **
    Thank you Incourage! Godspeed, dear Ann. Always His mouthpiece for all us your spiritual daughters and sisters.

  845. I am finished fearing what other people think of me and I’m embracing what God says about me! I am ready to jump from my comfort zone into the future God has created for me!

  846. I am a work in progress in relation to being done with fear, but I want to be done with fear because I want to glorify Him in ministry. Oswald Chambers wrote, “Before God’s message can liberate other people, His liberation must first be real in you.”
    Psalm 50:15 is precious to me: “Call upon Me in the day of trouble. I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.”

  847. You are so blessed with a special gift of expression through words! Thank you for sharing!

    I’m done with fear….because my Savior lives!!

  848. Fear and Faith cannot live in the same space. Kick “fear” out the door and make room for growing faith.

  849. I am 47 years old and I am working on my Masters to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. Today I was walking and pouring out my heart to GOD and asking HIM what is wrong with me. The thought of letting the fear of failure bring me down this week, and other times throughout my education, is what came to my mind. I asked GOD, “What do I need to do? The old song trust and obey came to my mind then I came in and opened the email from DAYSPRING and saw, “10 Things to Know about Fear” As I read the first one, “1. Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying,” the tears flowed and I PRAISED GOD for HIS FAITHFULNESS, CARE, CONCERN, and LOVE. I continued on to read the rest of the list and I knew exactly what I need to do. TRUST GOD and OBEY HIM and pray for all the ones that have shared their hearts on here. So, I am done with fear and I am living on THE WING of HIS PERFECT LOVE that casts out ALL fears!!! Whoever dwells in THE SHELTER of the MOST HIGH will rest in THE SHADOW of THE ALMIGHTY. I will say of THE LORD, “HE is my REFUGE and my FORTRESS, MY GOD, in whom I trust.” Surely HE will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. HE will cover you with HIS FEATHERS, and under HIS WINGS you will find refuge; HIS FAITHFULNESS will be your SHIELD and RAMPART. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. PSALM 91: 1-6 PRAISE JESUS!!!!!!!

  850. Wow. I conquered a major fear this year with God beside me every step of the way and it feels so good to know I can do anything with His help.

  851. Wow, #7 “Fear doesn’t stop the really bad things as much as it stops you from really living.” I felt this clear in my gut like when you get the wind knocked out of you. I couldn’t even force my eyes to keep reading for a few seconds or minutes maybe. I am struggling with fear in a very real way…homeschooling mom of 6 who together with her husband is planning on picking up the family and moving clear across the country for work, for family, for the sun that feeds my soul in the depths of winter while leaving different work and different family in our wake. Fear burdens me every.single.day, several times a day. This entire entry spoke to my heart today, but #7 keeps calling my name, calling my heart. I know I need to trust where He is leading, trust where He is calling. Thank you for reminding me of that today.

  852. Right now, any moment a beloved family could be homeless. Two very good friends have adult children in prison, one of the friends struglles with pain daily. Another friend is in a fearsome desrtructive marital relationship and her oldest son has been badly burned. She doesn’t have money to go and be at his side. Another, a prayer partner, has multiple adult child problematic situations, seemingly unsolvable problems. And I could go on. All are belivers who love the Lord and are seeking to obey Him, suffering from wong choices in the past, uncertain about the future and old age. We pray together and lokk to the Lord as we see our nation’s problems, the world’s problems, knowing Jesus presence is the most precious of gifts and that He promised to never leave or forsake us and that wherever two or more are gathered in His name He comes and dines with us. Fear wants to claim us, but Jesus guards our hearts. Its awesome to have sisters in Christ who love one another, pray for one another, and then see the miracles that deliver us. “Many are the tribulations of righteous, but the Lord delivers them out of them all. ” ALL.

  853. I have been struggling for several months with the decision about where my sweet girl would attend kindergarten. I would tell God and friends that I knew He would be present and working no matter where she was but my mama’s heart was having a hard time letting go of the fear and guilt over what-ifs. I prayed and friends prayed for me as well. I had to constantly battle condemning thoughts for the decision we made but I continued to believe God and trust His faithfulness. Meet the teacher was last night and I am happy to say God gave my girl a teacher she is crazy about!

  854. For years, I was plagued by the fear of something terrible happening to my children, my husband or other loved ones. I lost sleep at night, my blood pressure would rise, my heart would race… I lived in fear as my mother, aunts, grandmother and great grandmother had. Two and a half years ago, the Lord decided to bless my life with a son with a rare genetic disorder. I remember telling God that as long as it wasn’t life-threatening, I would be ok. Well, He had other plans. The genetecist told us he had Miller-Dieker Syndrome and would have seizures, function no further than 3 month old, need a feeding tube and probably only live up to a year. The doctor was right about everything except his life span. Only the Creator knows how long our life will be graced by our precious Jaron Matthew! But God healed me from my fear because I was faced with the very real possibility of losing my son so soon. I now walk in peace daily, beyond what anyone could imagine, because I know my Jesus walks with me and some days He even carries me. I just found a verse in Isaiah, while I spent a few days in the hospital with Jaron on oxygen for a lung infection. Isaiah 40:11 “He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather His lambs in His arms, and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep” Oh, how I love that Jesus cares for all His children, carries them in His arms, and leads the mama’s gently!

  855. I suffered through over 30 years of clinical depression and anorexia nervosa. I saw psychologists, psychiatrists. I tried every medication on the market. I had over 30 ECT’s (electroconvulsive shock treatments). I lost some of my long term memory because of this. One night while sitting in our church awaiting the service to start I finally got up enough nerve to ask God to change me. Not to change my circumstances, but to change me. And I added to that while shivering in the pew, “God, even if it hurts.” I had a huge fear of more pain. Once I released this into God’s care things changed. My fears started leaving, my doctor found a combination of medications that worked, I found a job I could grow in. Now I have another job in the same field and I love it. But what I love more is that I know that if I can give up these fears of God hurting me or someone else hurting me, I can truly live free!

  856. When it comes to fear, I am a work in progress…..God continues to provide His grace and courage like manna– new every day. I relate to your story in so many ways….especially how you, too, have dealt with anxiety and panic attacks. (I often re-visit your post with the picture of spilled coffee on khaki pants!) And now, as you blog about your travels and speaking engagements….I have hope that, one day,in His timing, I will be able to fully spread my faith wings and send fear flying!
    Your book and your blog are a daily blessing! Thank you for the sacrifices you make to help us experience the holy! Eucharisteo!

  857. Fear had a grip on me before, but God’s strong hand of Grace has released me victoriously! Thank you!

  858. I have felt the presence of God and come to realize how fear dishonors that. “Perfect love casts out fear”. *I* love God imperfectly but HE loves me perfectly enough for both of us. I just need remember that. (Sometimes easier said than done but only because i am a work in progress).

  859. I am tired of letting fear drain me of emotion and sometimes physical strength! Leaning on Jesus and trusting Him!!!

  860. So many things to be fearful about … but so many promises in the Bible that God is for us, so it doesn’t matter who/what is against us! I want to cast aside fear and write my book.

  861. I think it all comes down to whether or not we BELEIVE CHIRST. We often say that we believe IN Christ, but do we BELIEVE HIM? Do we believe that he truly died for us to redeem us from our sins when we truly repent or do we stand out in the pouring, God sent rain with our umbrella’s and a watering can watering our garden and telling Him that we can handle it and then cry out to Him and ask why we are still living in fear, sadness or whatever the flood may be for the day? I am so very thankful for the atonement of my Savior, Jesus Christ. Learning to trust and listen and let go.

  862. wow…*love* your message! i have lived my whole life ruled by fear and have only begun to break free from it’s clutches in the last decade. i am finally at a point in my life where i am learning to refuse to be ruled by fear…gasp! it’s a choice?? 😉

    one of my goals this year is actually to refuse to allow my decisions and actions to be motivated by fear, and i have wonderful friends and family whom i have given permission to hold me accountable if i slip back into this. it has been an *amazing* year so far!!! ^_^

    thank you for your honesty and your wonderful words of encouragement, as well as the opportunity to win some beautiful products!! <3

  863. I have discovered that my God is far bigger than my fear. God funds what he favors and we were able to adopt the most precious child from China. When you step out past your fear and follow the call everything gets put into it’s place. Fear not!!

  864. When my daughter was diagnosed with Rett syndrome the doctors warned us that she had a severe case. These words wrapped around my heart and for a long time my life was full of fear. Then one day that fear nearly came true as we sat there in the hospital doctors were preparing us for goodbye I heard God say
    ” do not be afraid I walk along side you”

    The peace that entered my heart that moment was wonderful.

    I prayed there and then that if my daughter survived I wouldn’t fear death I would cherish life.

    We were blessed with 5 more years with our beautiful daughter and even when she died I didn’t fear death as I knew she was safe in the arms of our saviour.

  865. I’m done with fear because I know my God is sovereign and I can rely on Him and Trust Him.

  866. Can I still enter even if I’m not done with fear? I want to be and I do know that God is bigger than my fears. But I know that they will sidle up to me and make themselves at home when I’m not paying attention. I trust God and I know that He will help me as often as I need it. Which is pretty much always. I’m so thankful He is up to the task of helping this feeble child of His.

  867. When my daughter was diagnosed with Rett syndrome the doctors warned us that she had a severe case. These words wrapped around my heart and for a long time my life was full of fear. Then one day that fear nearly came true as we sat there in the hospital doctors were preparing us for goodbye I heard God say
    ” do not be afraid I walk along side you”

    The peace that entered my heart that moment was wonderful.

    I prayed there and then that if my daughter survived I wouldn’t fear death I would cherish life.

    We were blessed with 5 more years with our beautiful daughter and even when she died I didn’t fear death as I knew she was safe in the arms of our saviour.

  868. Loved your book! I like #3 above, thanks for reminding me that God’s love doesn’t end.

  869. FEAR comes across as said…False Evidence Appearing Real. Great mind games that cause us to lose or not focus on the LORD. Instead, REST in HIS GRACE…(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense) and let Him carry the fear away! God is BIGGER and BIGGEST!
    Trust Him! Great lessons for daily living and walking with the Lord who loves to hold our hands and lift us up!

  870. I just realized that the 10 Things to Know about Fear actaull y has 11-there are 2 number 5’s.
    5. We must do that which we know we cannot — to prove that it’s our God who cannot fail. Our God appoints those who will disappoint — to point to a God who never disappoints.
    5. Everything your Father has for you — is over the fence of fear.
    By the way, Ann, is it okay to share this list with others?

  871. Fear has stolen from me too long. I have been making choices daily to believe God and proclaiming and confessing His continual goodness over me. It has been freeing!

  872. God is bigger than all my fears. Sometimes I insist on holding on to those fears, even though I know there is nothing too big for Him to handle. He is able, especially when I am not. The old blessing I learned as a child, taught my children, and now my grandgirl “God is great, God is good… still applies!

  873. Hello,
    I am done with fear stealing every ounce of joy from my life! The “what ifs” are inconsequential with a God as big as ours. Perfect love casts out all fear!!! It is basically a trust issue. Do I believe God’s Word which tells me that I am safe within his wings and that I am in the palm of his hand? Absolutely nothing can happen to me with it not first carefully planned out by my Father!! He does indeed work all things for our good! He provides for every situation that we face. Do I trust Him enough to let go? I am tired of the struggle of holding on! I am ready to fly!!!!

  874. DONE with fear! Thank you for sharing this list Ann.
    I so look forward to your knowledge that is full of God’s grace and guidance,
    thank you for following so closely!

  875. Hello!
    What I’ve learned about fear….Well I’ve just feared with things in my life and the past month or so I’ve learned to give it all to God because He knows better than I do and I should be trusting Him and not fearing everything else. Fear just steals joy so you spend more time fearing than being happy.
    Thank you!
    -Mary

  876. This past year has been the realization of so many of my nightmares…I was in an intense car accident in March; my sweet grandmother passed away suddenly and unexpectedly from a stroke in May; some of my dearest friends gave birth to a baby with a heart defect a week later; friends with whom I grew up and shared my childhood lost their 8 month old son to an infection, their third child to have lost; and my husband has been battling health problems all summer for which the doctors can find no explanation. The result? A whole lot of pain and tears and how on earth can this be happening…but also an indescribable assurance of God’s faithfulness. Through it all, even when life’s seemed an earthquake and I don’t have to look far for the crumbling mountains, He has taught my heart to be still, and know that He is God (Psalm 46). He is God. The kind of God who is constant, constant, constant. Steadfast. My heart, while not quite yet “cured” of fear, has learned the truth of Romans 8…truly, what can separate us from the God we serve, a God who speaks a word and oceans obey? Who knew that such sadness, such realized dread, could actually bring freedom? Freedom to give thanks for today, and trust tomorrow, because my Lord, my Jehovah-Jireh, is there. Amazing grace, indeed. “Bless the Lord, O my soul! The sun comes up, it’s a new day dawning, it’s time to sing Your song again, whatever may pass and whatever lies before me…let me be singing when the evening comes.” (Matt Redman, 2012) “Be still my soul, the wind and waves still know His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.” (Katharina Von Schlegel, 1752)

  877. God is greater than my fears. I no longer bow to the faces of men. I stand for Truth and no longer am wishy washy. Its been a development over the years and I am very grateful for God’s hand f blessing in my life. He loves me and thats what matters. As I seek Him I find Him. As I delight in Him He gives me the desires of my heart. As I focus on Him I have peace. He lives in me so Wisdom Himself lives in me. I tap into that each moment of the day and so I am wise too. He has changed my life and I am grateful. I love Him. I love His word.

  878. Sometime back I was reading to my children the King Solomon story in 2 Chronicles chapter 6 and discovered a startling moment in time. We found King Solomon on his knees praying asking God to bless the new temple and the Bible says he asks to be “kept” as his father King David had been “kept”. The word “kept” in Hebrew is SHAMAR, which means “to hedge about (as with thorns), to guard, to protect.” King Solomon, wisest among the wise, was asking to be hedged in, protected. That thought thumped my heart the remainder of the day and I have since begun asking for that same hedge, especially when it comes to the fears of a mother and all her “what ifs”. We are reading Job now, and find the word “hedge” being used around Job, and what a perfect person to be “kept”. There are days I forget or let my pride go before me and think I don’t need to ask for the hedge that day. Those are the days I fall the hardest. But, falling is where I find myself on my knees. And there I ask to be “kept”. Kept in God’s grace.

  879. Living with a chronic illness can be scary because, no matter what I do to be healthy, ultimately, my health is not in my control, but God’s. Giving up control and accepting whatever God allows, in my sickness and health, is freeing! I just try to know God more, and focus everyday on where I can see His love, and how I can practically be the hands and feet of God to my coworkers, my friends/family, my son, my spouse. Focusing on love leaves little time/room for fear, and helps me to understand how perfect love really does cast out fear…

  880. I had never before experienced an anxiety attack. Never before felt what it was like to have difficulty breathing because of the fear of possible trauma. That was before my husband’s sudden death. That was over two years ago. But I find that I will randomly fear that one of my boys might die in some strange accident while they are simply enjoying the life of being little boys…climbing trees, swimming, walking to the creek.

    I was reading chapter 8 in 1000 Gifts just as I was asking the Lord this question and then the Lord led me to this posting on fear. It is not coincidence. This will be long, but I can’t help but post what the Lord showed me today. Ann says on page 148 of 1000 Gifts “This is the trust I lack: to know that if disaster strikes, He carries me even there.” But these words frustrate me. I have lived through the trauma of my husband’s death and the circumstances surrounding it. I know the Lord was the one Who gave me the strength to wake up and live each and every day in those dark and painful months after Ken’s death. I know it was He, because otherwise I would have died from the pain or at least gone insane. So what is my fear in facing trauma?

    Ann shed so much light: “Trauma’s storm can mask the Christ and feelings can lie. I draw all the hurting voices close and I touch their scars with a whisper: sometimes we don’t fully see that in Christ, because of Christ, through Christ, He does give all things good- until we have perspective of years. In time dust settles. In memory, ages, God emerges. Then when we look back we see God’s back. Wasn’t this His way with Moses? ‘When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back’ – Exodus 33:22-23 Is that it? When it gets dark, its only because God has tucked me in a cleft of the rock and covered me, protected, with His hand? In the pitch, I feel like I’m falling, sense the bridge giving way, God long absent. In the dark, the bridge and my world shakes, cracking dreams. But maybe this is the true reality: It is in the dark that God is passing by, The bridge and our lives shake not because God has abandoned us, but the exact opposite: God is passing by. God is in the tremors. Dark is the holiest ground, the glory passing by. In the blackest, God is the closest at work forging His perfect and right will. Though it is black and we can’t see and our world seems to be free-falling and we feel utterly alone, Christ is most present to us, I-beam supporting in earthquake. Then He will remove His hand. Then we will look back and see His back. “ 1000 Gifts pgs 156-157

    My fear still was that God won’t carry me if disaster were to strike again. Because even though my mind knew God’s promise to never leave me or forsake me, I couldn’t FEEL His presence during those months. I remember crying out, pleading to the Lord to give me something to know He was there. But I don’t know if it was possible in those months to feel Him because the signs were everywhere that he was indeed caring for me and carrying me. I realized today that I didn’t believe in my heart that He was with me. I felt like He was disappointed and angry with me and that He has surely left me. So my fear was not in fact that I might lose one of my boys, because I know full well He could take one of them at any time, but that I might lose Him. That He might be angry with me again and leave me. But today I realize He never did leave me and I can’t trust in or live by my feelings. WOW! WOW! WOW! Ann summed it all up and today I walk in a little more freedom. My heart beats with gratitude!!! Thank you Ann and thank you Jesus!

  881. Fear, my ever-present silent companion since my early childhood. Always at the ready to jump into situations and end in control. After my son’s almost tragic car accident 11 months ago, the Lord taught me that beyond the fear, there is Him. Ready to hold me, to comfort, to walk through the valley of shadows with me, and to conquer! Fear controls when it learns all the possibilities an action can bring … God, our Lord, Father and friend is truly bigger than Fear; nothing separates me from my Jesus. Having lived through one of my worse fears and be on the other side of it, being able to give hope and joy to so many is only God’s doing. He is with me whenever I go. “For He has not given me a (conquering) spirit of fear, but of joy, love and a sound mind”

  882. I am done with the fear of all things – fear that I am not a good enough mother, fear of what others think of me, fear that I will screw something up. I am going to stare the fear in the face and proclaim “My God is bigger than you. I am blessed, I am wonderfully and powerfully made in his image.”

  883. […] Most would say after all that I have been through in the last year why would you fear.  But with every step in life there is the temptation to fear.  I was delighted to find a wonderful post on this topic.  You can find it at https://aws.incourage.me/2012/08/10-things-youve-got-to-know-about-fear-giveaway.html […]

  884. This world, more specifically people, have given me plenty reason to fear. Watch the news lately? Read your local paper. Walk down the street of your hometown and someone yells out something that makes you feel unprotected. Fear gives way to anxiety and then to anger. Then want of isolation from the world – home becomes my safe haven when the garage door closes behind me I feel like I have shut the world out until night time falls and I awake in the still hours of the morning certain someone is in the house to hurt me. This drives me to my Father. I have said, if anxiety and fear is what it takes for me to search out God then bring it on. I know who is the commander of God’s army and he has told me through the story of Jehoshaphat that the battle belongs to Him yet I am to show up, position myself, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord who is with us. We have no power against the great multitude who have come against us, nor do I know what to do, but my eyes are upon Him. Please read 2 Chronicles 29:12-17. God does bless.

  885. I have been dealing with the fear of my upcoming 7th birth of our precious baby. Thank you for the sweet reminders and they have really helped me see what Glorious God we have.

  886. I am done fearing the unknown related to my husband’s job. He has had two shoulder surgeries in two years, and is getting ready to return to work again… His job is saying that if he’s not 100%, they won’t take him back. This means possible Vocational Rehabilitation (English: job training…usually free). Maybe, just maybe, that’s exactly what he (we) needs right now… Only time (and GOD) will tell!

  887. Biggest fear – really & truely – starting therapy for HepC by using 2 different types of drugs and 1 injection and knowing/reading the horrible side affects, but being told I don’t have a choice, I can’t think about, I must start the “triple therapy” as soon as possible, or my life will come to a end. So, here I am 1 week behind me (they call it the Mack Truck Weed) with 47 weeks to go with the most excrutiating pain, burn, nausea, rash, itching one could never imagine. Yes, I was fearful, prayful, crying out – God is with me – he will see me through this. So, I’ve past the 1 week with the Mack Truck, with God right beside me. My friend, Joanna, she’s more then a friend she’s my sister – she gave me the low down that I’ve been on the Mack Truck, next week it’ll be the U-Haul trailer, then the camper, the van, the SUV, the car, etc… Yes, with God, with faith – each vehicle that runs me down will get smaller & smaller. The fear will be lighter. My love for God – FOREVER STRONG!

  888. I am so done with fear. Satan has used it to get me good recently and I have decided that is it…I am going squash everything he tries to throw at me (it has been a lot lately) and I am going to only rely on God’s love and grace to cast out fear.

  889. Ann,

    I am challenged to walk in faith and not in fear…over and over I am blessed and consoled because God “cannot lie”…Titus 1:2. Experiencing the Truth that perfect love casts out fear, helps me in my relationships and helps get rid of fear of man that can be so crippling. God wants me to live above that! I praise and thank him for his provisions in Jesus!

  890. Fear paralyzes me, which is exactly what Satan wants. Paralyzed, I can’t move beyond myself and the terror I feel to bless God and the people around me. Since reading One Thousand Gifts, I am learning to shift my focus from the fears to God’s grace gifts all around me. And when I say “Thank You” and speak His name, the fears do flee!

  891. I have struggled with constant fear for most of my life. Fear of what tomorrow holds, fear of how I will be accepted, fear of failure. I have seen that fear can really tear you down and make life is a miserable mess. I don’t want to live a life of misery, so with God’s grace I choose to overcome my fears!

  892. Fear has been in front of me, has followed me. Fear has held me captive and strangles me. Fear is my enemy. Trusting in God’s promises! Day by Day. Moment by Moment.

  893. Wow, Ann! You hit where I’ve lived most of my 47 yrs.. I have tried to over come this with scripture memory but yet it still haunts. I am constantly reminding my self . God is bigger! Fear God, not man! Still striving and am so thankful my Heavenly Father is with me helping me all the way!

  894. Thank you for the encouragement. As a weak vessel and mother of little ones, many things make me feel fear at the most unhelpful moments!! I know it is only the Word, richly dwelling in my heart and mind that can transform and renew. Thank you for reinforcing what I know to be true and reminding me that I am not alone in this walk!

  895. It still suprises to see so many comments here – I guess we’re all pretty good at putting on masks to hide our fear. Two friends and I started a MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) group this year and it’s been such a struggle – stress on friendships, fear of it not succeeding… It’s hardly a life and death issue, but it’s been such a challenge for me since I don’t feel comfortable at all with the role of “leader”. I know that if God called me to this, I don’t need to worry or try to do it all in my own strength. Just need a reminder – thanks!

  896. I grew up in a fearful home. I was afraid to try so many things from the fear of getting hurt, and the constant worry from my family. Now, fast forward to me being a mother… many years were wasted by me being so fearful of our girls playing outside because there COULD BE venomous snakes or spiders, etc. Then one day I realized that the venom was already there and it was trying to consume, through the invisible package of fear. One thing that has always made a great impression on me relating to the truth about FEAR is this: False Evidence Appearing Real. Satan you are exposed!

    My hope & prayer is that our girls will be raised to rely & stand upon their faith in our Lord- which is the absence of fear. What do we have to fear anyway? We are over-comers with our God who loves us- never leaving us or forsaking us.

  897. the only thing to stop me from taking a chance is fear, so I’d rather take the chance and live with the grace of Him

  898. I am living number 6 right now-“Travel in the direction of your fears — to let God direct your life” Saying goodbye to our home seeking adventure upon the waters. Am I afraid? Oh YES! I am a fraidy cat–always have been. My timid personality says to stay safe, stay in your warm house that is the wise thing to do; but why did I write “I want to go sailing with my family” in my journal back in 2003? That’s a crazy thing to write for a mom of a 1 year old, 3 year old, 7 year old and an 8 year old. But wait it was just something I jotted down in a book that no one reads it was just a wild random dream that came from nowhere. Was it random? God placed this seed dream and it has grown and grown and finally we are ready to obey. He put together this shy timid girl with this brave adventurous boy for His purpose and together with our heavenly Father leading us day by day we will take our family on an adventure learning exploring and creating on “Growing Together” Overcoming fear with obeying– He is my strength. I fear everything I am afraid to press the submit button. Give me courage Jesus

  899. We I first met Jesus, 22 years ago, I was full of fears of all kinds. As I have gotten to know Jesus better and my trust in my Daddy has grown, He has healed me and freed me from alot of my fear….He graciously and gently goes deeper and deeper bringing me more peace, love, and trust in HIM. His perfect love is truly removing fear in my heart and mind, layer by layer by layer. Father, I am trusting You to complete the work You have be doing in me. Thank You for Your perfect love and Your truth and Your grace that is freeing me:):)

  900. I’ve learned this quite simply: Fear debilitates. Fear stops our progression in our lives, in our faith. Releasing fear frees my heart and mind. God has this. I am safe. I know he’ll take care of my needs. I’m deep sixing and tossing the fear

  901. I no longer fear for my future, the unknown, because I know that if I have God as my number one priority he will guide my life and settle everything in its place.

  902. I no longer fear for my future and the unknown because I know that if I have God as my number one priority he will guide my life and settle everything in its place.

  903. With my experiences and being chronically ill (stay-at-home mom now being on disability), I have to really practice my faith by taking COURAGE. True, fear paralyzes & destroys. I can attest to that, too. Overcoming fear definitely gives me the sense of victory, God’s loving presence, peace, boldness and productiveness. My battles are always with the Lord, I should always keep that in mind. Anything is possible through Him and He does not ever abandons. Praise Him!

  904. I want to be done with fear because it drains me of energy and life. It wastes time.

    I’m currently reading “Forbidden” by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee – it begins with a world in which the only remaining human emotion is fear. A boy is caught up in bringing back the other human emotions to the world. What a dull life to live only in fear!

  905. Dear Ann, firstly i thank God for using you as a channel of hope and courage for thousands of people. And thank you for conveying His messages love messages to all of us…. right now i think overcoming fear is a perpetual process, which i battle every time i face uncertainty, but its His words of love that cheer me up, and bring tears to my eyes, though pressed from every side with troubles, though perplexed about the future yet not driven to despair (2 corth4: 8), i rely on His word which says- I am He who comforts you, but you forget the Lord your Maker who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth and you LIVE IN CONSTANT TERROR ……. For I am the Lord YOUR GOD, ALMIGHTY IS HIS NAME, and I have covered you in the shadow of MY wings- (Isaiah 51:16). I was terrorized one day, having to face a national examination and God spoke to me so very directly (through Isaiah 51:16) during my morning prayer time and i found no words to thank Him, for the ABUNDANCE of His grace, and for having answered my deepest fears.

    Yes His word is filled with His assurances, promises, and blessings, we just need to take our eyes off us and stay focused on Him to be fearless…..

  906. I’ve had many fears in my life and deal with many in my heart present day…but the more I saturate my mind with His word, the more I understand that fear is a form of deception, a lie. Fear is a tactic of the enemy to kill, steal, and destroy. Jesus says His words are life. His words tell us “Do NOT fear!” So that is reason enough to push through the fear, no listen to it, act on the truth. TRUST. I’m making my choice today!

  907. Why am I done fearing? Why am I committed to stop fearing? Because of the greater pain and frustration that fear causes by maiming my full identity in Christ.

  908. Life sure does throw some curve balls, and fear is a response from me…. and then someone once said: “We may be surprised by events but God is never taken by surprise” and that has been an encouraging truth! When the breath is knocked out of me – God still breathes His life giving hope into my soul – and I can continue.

  909. I just moved to a new city to be near my boyfriend and take a new teaching job. I don’t have friends or a community here and I am doubting he will provide for me (financially, socially, spiritually, professionally, relationally, etc…) This post has reminded me that I need not fear and I must trust in His faithfulness. Thank you, Ann!

  910. I just moved to a new city to be near my boyfriend and take a new teaching job. I don’t have friends or a community here and I am doubting he will provide for me (financially, socially, spiritually, professionally, relationally, etc…) My boyfriend and I are discerning when to be engaged and are praying for mentors in this process. My boufur This post has reminded me that I need not fear and I must trust in His faithfulness. Thank you, Ann!

  911. I just moved to a new city to be near my boyfriend and take a new teaching job. I don’t have friends or a community here and I am doubting he will provide for me (financially, socially, spiritually, professionally, relationally, etc…) My boyfriend and I are discerning when to be engaged and are praying for mentors in this process

    This post has reminded me that I need not fear and I must trust in His faithfulness. Thank you, Ann!

  912. My fears have to do with my past. He’s been working with me all summer to get rid of that.
    Redeemed.
    And if I want to call myself His follower, I have to believe that.
    Thanks, Anne.

  913. My fears are fears of failure and of not being enough. As I grow closer to my God, I find myself shedding those fears because He has made me to be more than a conquerer and has given me more than enough to be enough.

  914. Through His word I am reminded the it is Christ who lives in me–without remembering that it is easy to slip into fears of many kinds and levels. Some days it seems I fear life itself. I am reading your book now and already deeply touched by the eucharisteo and how it is so entrenched in Jesus and who He is and what He has done. Reminded of the the choice on my behalf made by my Savior. Praying for truth to be revealed to all and courage to open up completely and see the grace in every moment.

  915. I just turned 51 and I’m just tired of the fear keeping me from doing what God wants. God’s perfect love casts out fear. I need His love.

  916. For the past two years I’ve struggled with chronic muscular weakness and fatigue. It came suddenly and no doctors has been able to find a medical reason for why it may have happened.

    In he beginning I lived in a constant state of fear. Just the sight of a staircase would sent a shot of terror through me. Yet even when I was wracked with doubt and far from God, He guided my life to people who could help me while sending gentle reminders of His presence.

    I used to fear that I would never be well again. But I believe that God allowed this to happen so that I would draw close to Him again. Realizing God’s role in my life has allowed me to let go of that fear.

  917. For the past two years I’ve struggled with chronic muscular weakness and fatigue. In the beginning I lived in a constant state of fear. Just the sight of a staircase would sent a shot of terror through me. Yet even when I was wracked with doubt and far from God, He guided my life to people who could help me while sending gentle reminders of His presence. I used to fear that I would never be well again. But I believe that God allowed this to happen so that I would draw close to Him again. Realizing God’s role in my life has allowed me to let go of that fear.

  918. I love #3. Because its so true! If I fully understood God’s love, I would fear nothing. And that is something that I want to work towards. Because fear is so lame. It eats up good thoughts and replaces them with doubt and anxiety. No more of that. Time to forget fear and remind myself of His love everyday.

  919. What a wonderful reminder to keep our hearts turned to Jesus and not our circumstances or the things that cause us fear. I have had to work through some different issues of fear but God’s word is so sweet – Psalm 34:4,5 says, “I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me, freeing me from all my fears. Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.” As I pursue Jesus and cry out to Him I have experienced freedom from fear. He is so gracious, so full of love toward us.
    With a thankful heart to the One who knows us and loves us deeply…

  920. I once read a church sign that changed my life…seriously. If you’ve had much experience with church signs, you know this is quite an accomplishment! The sign said:

    Worry is the misuse of imagination.

    I believe the same applies to fear. Many of my fears are unfounded and lead to more worry, paralize me, and steal minutes, many times hours of my day. Fears of what COULD be…not what is reality. It’s so difficult for me to cling to the idea that God has plans for me. Plans to prosper me and not to harm me. Plans for hope and a future. (Jer. 29:11) That God redeems ALL of life, even the hard, heartbreaking parts.

  921. My greatest fear is failure……not being good enough as a wife, mother, employee, Christian.

  922. I am so tired of being fearful. I’m thankful for God showing me recently that the enemy uses fear to keep me from blessings that God has for me. When I am afraid I know now that I have to push through the fear b/c there’s blessing on the other side of the door…and I don’t want to miss any blessings God has for me…I’ve let the enemy keep me from too many for too long!

  923. This is awesome! Thank you! I’ve lived with fear and anxiety my whole life. I came to the Lord 3 1/2 years ago. I’ve learned to lean on Him and His word. I’ve been asked by my friend who was just ordained as a Pastor to help lead a support group on this very subject at our Church. Of course it is totally out of my comfort zone but that is too bad! God is calling me to do this and I’m so excited!! A Christ based study on learning to trust Him and His word. I know I will be using quotes from here 🙂 Thank you Ann!!

  924. Well Our God is big and great and grand and can do anything and everything
    And if me little ole’ me is AFRAID
    and I let FEAR get in the way of what Our big great wonderful God can do
    How can he use me?

    So I bow down, yet grab hold to the only thing that really matters
    to HIM that CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS
    and allow HIM to MOVE ME

  925. My biggest fear is of the future. I waste my time worrying and planning, and I forget to enjoy God’s gifts for me today.

    Thanks for a brilliant post Ann, and thanks to everyone who has posted. It’s good to know that I’m not alone in being fearful, but also that God can change fearful hearts.

  926. My fear throughout a large part of my life,especially in my growing up years,had to do with family members who had alcohol and drug problems.Thankful that I am now safe and secure in Jesus arms,not having to live in this cycle of destruction,violence,fear.Not a good world to live in.Thankful for our loving God who saw us through as a family some very difficult,emotional,times.God is awesome and He deserves the highest praise.

  927. The fear that I experienced first hand had to do with my family members who had alcohol and drug problems.This was a large part of my life.There was destruction,violence,fear.Thankful today to be safe and secure in God’s loving arms.God saw us through.Thank you Lord.Can never thank you enough.

  928. I’m always working on this – with myself, my child. I’m done with it and continue to lay it down over and over and over. Trusting God is the only thing that can’t be scary. Meaning, I have to make it fearless.

  929. Don’t fear failing. Fear not obeying.
    I love this. God has recently called me to fast for my mom and stepdad. I began with a fear of failing. In fact, I have only made it till dinnertime two of the 3 days. However, the blessings have been rich and I have to keep obeying! Every Monday until they are out of the desert. LOVE your collection and your words. Thanks for sharing!

  930. Through the grace of God I will be moving back to my dear family after spending seven years being seven hundred miles away. I refuse to fear the unknown, the struggle for work, and the difficulty of raising my son alone — instead, I choose the joy of the LORD which is my strength, and look forward to counting eucharisteo, blessings, gifts in a new place!

  931. F …… false
    E ……evidence
    A ……appearing
    R ……real

    John 14:27
    Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

  932. I’m thanking you, first, for receiving my book “7” by Jen Hatmaker. I’m thrilled with the gift the Incourage blog sent to me. However, reading today’s message on “fear,” it remainded me that three years ago I thought on writing a book entitled “Three F’s: Fear, Frustrated, Fake.” Today, I would replace its title by: “Faith, Feeble, Foward.”

    I outlived a foreclosure forced for family issues that denied me a chance to be the decision maker after my husband’s opened heart surgery. I battled Paul’s feeble heart and fragile health condition. I fought a financial melted situation, and, finally, I delivered back to God the life of my dear mate. Paul went with the Lord on Feb. 11, 2012. He was not a perfect man, but he gave me the sweetness of his soul.

    Life continues on, and I’m now living between tears and twisted by new factors. No income, a violent daughter who I must do something about before no remedy can be applied, and an eight-year-old grandson to ask in court for guardianship.

    Thanks to a friend who took me to Unlimited Blessings meeting, I became a Day Springs user and follower of its blogs Meet Me in the Meadow and Incourage. May the Lord make this day a blessed one to me and to Christina.

  933. Fear has been a giant this past month as I moved my youngest from homeschooling to middle school, including being on the football team. And since it was basically a financial decision, it has also meant my going to work for the first time in 25 years. God’s grace abounds and we are all adjusting slowly but surely. All glory to Jesus. Prayers appreciated. Thank you, Ann, for your tremendous encouragement.

  934. You have no idea how this applies to me today. Fear has taken my faith and destroyed it. I hope I can get it back.

  935. Thank u so much for sharing. U have blessed me so much! One of my biggest fears is of what others think of me. Just realizing it is a step in the right direction and I want to be done with it and cry out to Father who is the only One that matters.

  936. You are an inspiration. Thanks for sharing. Fear sucks the life right out of you. Thanks for reminding me.

  937. It’s wonderful to know we don’t need to live with fear. “So encourage each other and build each other up just as you are already doing.” I Thess 5:11
    Thanks for building us up.

  938. My hubby and I decided to tie my tubes b/c we were afraid of another sick newborn and medical bills that we couldn’t pay. BUT The GOOD Lord showed us HIS Goodness and I had a tubal reversal ( major surgery where I said over and over, ” When I am afraid, I will trust You) and now, we are expecting our fourth little blessing, arriving this Spring! Praise You, Father!!

  939. I believe that fear does not exist it is created by oneself. fear is a demon which is created by the individual, by the media and many other sources. The more you are exposed to happenings in others lives and the more you acknowledge your fear the larger it gets and overwhelms you, you become addicted to it and cannot live without the fear being a part of your life!! If you concentrate and develop the spiritual aspect and acknowledge God honestly in your life there will be no space for fear ever!

    Thank you for having this platform on fear , I could read up and know others thoughts and speak up about mine too.

  940. I know that I should not fear because everything is in his hands and love casts out all fears “…perfect love drives out fear…” 1 John 4:18. This is why I pray to God that what we know , which is to not fear, may enter deep in our hearts and that we may act upon it.

  941. Fear of failure…it has been my “friend” for years (way too long and no true friend!) and has influenced my life often…I do “nothing” (afraid to try new things, stay safe, comfortable, conservative) so that I cannot fail…all lies from Satan…Lord, come into my heart, mind, soul, body and through Your Strength Lord may I release this fear to you…may I step out in courage towards the plans you have for me! Thank you Lord!

  942. When ever I become fearful (panicky, worried, etc.) I just say to myself, “He has not given us a spirit of fear (that’s what it is, a negative spirit….a thing to torment us), but of Power and of Love & of a sound mind.” 1 Timothy 1:7 Put that “thing”away from you….cast it out with God’s Word! Praying for all of you who have many spirits of fear tormenting you…to God be the glory!

  943. Afraid, so afraid of the dance He has put in my soul. Having always hated my body’s appearance, growing up hearing only that it was never good enough, how can I imagine that my Lord created such a thing as dance, and wants me to dance for Him, especially in front of others someday? But still He does not let the passion die. Still my nerves vibrate, even threaten to explode when the music starts. I must move, somehow, someday, for Him, no matter what Michals may scorn.

  944. I am working on being done with fear but I know that I am covered with Christ’s blood and my sins are no longer counted against me. I also am done with fear as I strive to be a good example for my two little boys.

  945. Don’t let FEAR (the devil) stand in your way of what God ( your SAVIOR!) has for you!!

    Pray that God gives you wisdom to overcome what has been hindering you from receiving what has has been so waiting to give to you!

  946. I am done with fear, because so much time is wasted. I need to be here every moment with my family.

  947. oh my, the list could go on and on. I’ve already stepped out in faith away from the job that grabbed joy, volunteer with students, who’s pain I could never know, sought the opportunity to trust a church again (still working on this), and beginning to trust God’s plan as a wife…and ultimately more. The fear I have is the person whom God made me. Believing in those desires of being something I think I could never be, because, “I’m not talented”, “I need to get a REAL job”, “Maybe I’m confused by God’s will and have it wrong”…I could go on and on. I live in a place of worry of what others think, a stay-at-home “wife” currently seeking God’s direction in this “boat” of life…is it time to sail on, hold on, or get out in faith? I’m thinking I held on for so many years, my comfort level is so large its hard to get away. One sinking step at a time to keep me seeking the faith to trust.

  948. I choose faith over fear TODAY! This life is too short to live it in fear. I read to the end of ‘the Book’ and GOD WINS – WE WIN IN HIM! Isn’t that amazing?

  949. I’ve lived in a few places (and currently) where safety is not insured. What has helped me move past fear is knowing that people can kill my body, but no one can take my Life.

  950. Fear was around me, when my husband did not had much work, afraid to have no food on the table, and no money to pay the bills. But God came to me, showing me how blessed I was with Himself taking care of us. When I accepted his grace and blessing I did not fear anymore. Matthew 28:18 Jesus has been given all the power in heaven and on earth.

  951. Ann,

    I heard your powerful message. I attended the WOF conference in Des Moines and it was powerfully refreshing and perfectly executed. God was with you, as He is now. Always. Hugs to you!

  952. I am just going to do whatever he asks even though I am crazy afraid I can’t. One step at a time. I will publish, I will stand and speak…even though I would rather write and never open my mouth in front of anyone. Even today as I spoke with a publishing consultant. I told him…not. that. I write. Write. But I will speak. because His love is too amazing. I know my voice will crack, and my throat will close. I know all of my deep thoughts will abandon me, and I will be speechless- BUT He will speak for me. And I will trust in Him. His voice. When that day comes. Thank you. In His Grace, Dawn

  953. I have lived in fear for so long that recently when I finally realized my fears, I was shocked! Now I am choosing to face them daily with the reassurance that fearing means not trusting God and I can trust my heavenly Father!

  954. I stumbled across your website by chance one might say but we both know that with God that it is all in his plan and certainly not by a simple chance. I have struggled my whole life with these four common letters – FEAR. My prayer recently has been for God to restore me where he intended for me to be and I chose to go another path. I love my family dearly but I find myself shutting them out because I am so consumed with fear of what is going on around me. I am hoping through our fellowship I can learn from you how to make that happen. God has made you a tool for women like me who agonize over daily routines and those unexpected events that rear their ugly head when we need them least. Thank you for listening to God’s still small voice. May God continually bless you so that you can bless others.

  955. I have always feared what others think of me. It is especially bad as a mommy of young children. I need not worry about others and continue to worry about how God wants us to parent. Ann, I so wish I could have seen you speak at WOF. I was at WOF east coast the SAME day you were teaching on the west coast. Oh, how I long to hear you in person and meet you some day! Thanks for always being a blessing in my life!

  956. Fear means false evidence appearing real that is what the devil does to me but my strong tower is the Lord and I run to Him For His evidence is REAL MY SINS ARE GONE MY FEAR IS A LIE FROM HELL FOR I AM WASHED IN MY SAVIORS BLOOD!!Thank you Jesus

  957. I am one of your older followers with grown children, grandchildren and even 5 great grandchildren, all born in the last 3 years. When my 3 children were small my greatest fear was that something would happen to one of them. I knew that I would not survive, that I would lose my own life if that ever happened. My oldest son died of natural causes in 2002. We were so shocked and grief stricken that I surely thought I would die, but my God kept his promise and carried me through. In 2007 our youngest son was hit by a drunk driver and was killed on impact. Again, my heart was so broken that I thought surely I could not survive one of my earlier life’s greatest fears. Again, God and his comfort brought us through the valley of death. We , my husband and I and unending comfort. He has given me the ability to share this with others who have lost children., thank God that no fearsome event can ever separate us from God’s love and caring

  958. The Joy of the Lord is my strength. I have been through many challenges in my life, the biggest being my husband, Jerry, moving to Heaven to be with His Lord, 5 years ago. The Lord has been so faithful in caring for me, sending me people to help in whatever way I needed and blessing me with reaching out to others through GriefShare, a program to help others in dealing with their grief issues and finding healing. I know He is always there for me and has never let me down.

  959. I’m blessed to hear so many hearts, stories, and testimonies! God has been good to all of us!

    It’s funny you mention the subject of fear because that’s the very one that God’s been helping me with. This year I recently went through an excruciating experience with a an engagement break! I’ve been through pain of losing my mother who I saw suffer great measures for years and a very close friend also went to be with the Lord, then I went through a church break. I can honestly say I’m thankful for each trial because they have brought me so intimately close to my sweet Savior! Through all the trials the broken engagement was the feather that broke the donkeys back! I lost my joy and even my desire to live then I cried out to Father and he heard me and restored my plea! He put a smile back on my face even in the midst of an aching broken heart. Now, The man came back into my life and wants to mend and start up again. I told him I’d pray about it. I was there praying and God impressed upon me “life words”! Perfect love casts out all fear! I was afraid of getting hurt again so I teetered!! I love him but if hurt comes again I can’t then God detoured me back to his love for me! His perfect love was to die if he got hurt or not! I reply and say “Yes Lord! I want that perfect love to flow through every vein in me!” Now I’m going to walk in faith n be vulnerable if I may that Gods perfect love will be a beam that leads others to himself through me! My sisters n brothers you can pray for me on this journey of the unknown ahead!

  960. Can I clarify real quick. I want it to be known that the man I speak of is a gentleman and God fearing! He desires to treat me like a package that has wrapped all around it “Fragile” (as he told me once). My fear is not because there’s something wrong with the man it’s really because I’m afraid of opening my heart back up and getting hurt again. I pray God’s will be done with him and I as we both desire his perfect will. ..come what may!

    Regardless all is GRACE!

  961. I read in a wise book recently that “Worry is a prayer for something that we don’t want to happen.” How true! Why am I sending up prayers for the things I DONT want? Ridiculous right? So now I try to send up prayers for things that Gods word says and that I WANT to manifest in my life.

  962. Hi there again. Just wanted you all to know! …God is sooooo good to me! I’m engaged!!!! God answered my prayers!!!!!!!! “Never ever give up!” Is what my motto will always be! Remember the unjust judge n the widow. The man came for a visit on my birthday and we are mended (mending) a complete miracle!!!!!!!!!! Our situation was near to impossible but God made a way when there was no way! ..He works in ways we cannot see, He will make a way ..He will make a way!