Why We Fear

     Fear is real and it can be paralyzing. It warns us of danger and often comes from the unknown, bad experiences, or what others tell us. It can make us doubt ourselves, feel anxious, and hold back from opportunities.  

     Most of us try to avoid thinking about our fears.  We think that by squelching distressing thoughts that we have control over them. But they tend to show up anyway- through dreams, stress, and even long-established patterns.  But fear isn’t all bad. 

     When I worked the From Fear to Faith program, one of the suggestions in the book was to write a letter to fear.  I started by thanking fear for protecting me and keeping me safe from harm.  However, the next part of my letter, I told fear just how crafty it was and how it had caused me sleepless nights, worry and anxiety.  I realized that it tends to show up when my thoughts focus on the “unknown”.  So, how do we work through those thoughts?

     Faith is the key to overcoming fear. It helps us see challenges as chances to grow instead of things to avoid. Faith means believing in something bigger than our fears—whether it’s in God, a higher purpose, or our own strength. Faith gives us hope and reminds us that even when things feel uncertain, we are not alone.

     To move from fear to faith, we need to recognize that fear isn’t always real, replace negative thoughts with positive ones, trust that things will work out, take small brave steps, and accept that we can’t control everything. The more we practice faith, the easier it becomes to face our fears.

     Overcoming fear doesn’t happen overnight, but with faith, we can push past our doubts. When we believe in ourselves and in something greater, we step into new opportunities with confidence. Fear may still be there, but faith gives us the strength to move forward with courage and embrace life’s possibilities.