Those OTHER Fears

Fears.

A lot of times, when people refer to ‘dealing with fears’ they are talking about tangible fears. Things like..

• Being afraid of heights.
• Being afraid of the water.
• Being afraid of snakes, spiders, or bugs.
• Being afraid of flying.

But what about those OTHER fears? Those ones that we all carry within us… but don’t really talk about?

• The fear of being laughed at.
• The fear of making the wrong decision.
• The fear of not being understood.
• The fear of being rejected.
• The fear of being ugly?

There are SO many fears and insecurities that we carry with us daily, that affect our choices, or lack thereof.

We can’t even decide where to go eat dinner with a group, or what movie to see. We don’t accept friendships because we’re afraid to open up. And we never go out without that name brand shirt, or having our makeup and hair completely done.

We are afraid of ourselves.

Add these, on TOP of the natural fears that a lot of people have of heights, or flying… and you have a crippled society.

So why not try one brave thing today? One brave thing that to someone else, may come so naturally?

• Try to speak up in a group if you normally stay quiet.
• Try to invite someone over to your house and LEAVE a little dust or a dish out. 
• Try to give your opinion in a kind, gentle way.
• Try to admit you made a mistake.

And watch.

If you’re around the right kind of people, they will affirm you. They will forgive you. They will give you grace and mercy. They will listen and consider. 

They will accept.

Why?

Because they want that same kind of acceptance. They understand those same kinds of fears.

They. Are. Just. Like. You.

If we’d only allow ourselves to be human, we’d see how relatable we all really are to each other.

It’s ok to have fears. We all have them. But don’t let them cripple you. Don’t let them hold you back from enjoying life and RELAXING in who God made you to be.

Those OTHER fears? It’s time to start ruling over them…. Instead of letting them, rule over you.