Thoughts on fear

The little box that fear built

by Marti Fischer

Fear, in my opinion puts us into a little box. Even though it is entirely too small for us to fit in, I think that, like a bully, fear chases after us until we jump into the little box to try and get away. The problem is, we don't fit. We try to squeeze in whatever way we can, but however hard we try, we leave an arm or a leg, or our head sticking out. 

Fear can overcome us on any ordinary day - like when we have been "had" or we feel like everything is "too big" for us, or we think we do not have what it takes to do what is called for. In the little box, fear is thrilled that an attitude of denial seeps in as we find good reasons and rationalizations for bad behavior, and justify unacceptable actions in others as well as ourselves. 

Fear deceives us; telling us we are not capable of doing more. In the little box, fear says we have no initiative, no energy, no get up and go. This is because we either cannot do the right thing right, or we have to always be 100% right, and thus, not able to show up for anything until we are perfect.  

In the little box, fear makes sure there are no perspectives except little things for little people ... like we become when in the little box.  

We left everything we need to be big on the outside. We left behind who we truly are.  You see, fear makes sure there is no room for us to be who we are in Christ. We don't even fit in the little box by ourself, much less anyone else. While in the little box, fear almost guarantees we will never be interactive and gracious.

How to escape the little box? How do we eliminate fear in our lives? 

Get out of the box and go. Step on fear - no, stamp on fear. Acton  dissipates fear. Head for the light. Be centered in Christ. Remain focused. And through the Holy Spirit, with finesse, give it your all - always willing to graciously give more from what has been given to you... Grace.