Challenging Irrational Fear

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Challenging Irrational Fear

Isaiah 7:4 “Be careful, keep calm and don’t be afraid.”

“Mom, I’m afraid of that dog,” said my client’s little boy. “He might get me.”

“We’ll be careful, Timmy,” his mom replied. “Walk with Joan and me.” We continued past the dog to my office.

“Good morning,” said the dog’s owner who was a friend of mine. He and his dog were playing catch with a small ball. Timmy watched cautiously.

“They’re having fun,” said Timmy as he relaxed his grip on his mom’s arm.

“Do you want to throw the ball?” asked my friend. Soon the boy joined in the fun, playing with the dog he had previously feared.

Some of our fears are legitimate. Others are irrational and rob us of the joy of living. Like my client’s son, sometimes we need to confront our fear to learn that it is illogical.

If we’re afraid of someone else’s reaction because we think we might make a mistake, sound foolish, or say something wrong, we may back off. This behavior often keeps us from enjoying others’ company. Yet when we challenge our fear, staying true to our own personality, beliefs, and thoughts, we usually find that we were safe all along.

Lord, please give me courage to face and confront my irrational fear.

Joan C. Webb