Fear not

No matter how strong a person seems, within his mind and heart are fears.
In this complicated world, there is a lot to be fearful about.
Some people are afraid to fail. As a result, they do not like to try new things out. This eventually hinders them from growing professionally and emotionally.
Others fear losing their wealth. Hence, they become selfish and sometimes do illegal activities to acquire more wealth.
A few individuals are scared of being hurt. Thus, they resent attachment to others. They stop themselves from falling in love for the fear of suffering from heartaches.
In schools, some learners are afraid to express their ideas. They avoid committing mistakes because they are afraid that some of their classmates and even teachers will ridicule them.
The greatest fear of most people is death. Many are not prepared if God will call on them any time.
I admit that I am afraid to die because I do not like to leave my children. The thought that no one could ever love and care for them the way I do, is the major reason of my fear of dying.
Last February, I visited a sick relative who has already passed away by this time. I was impressed by his braveness and strong faith in God. He said he was already prepared to return his life to the Creator because he had accepted Jesus as his savior. This assured him he will be in a better place after death. Though he was in severe pain, he still managed to thank the Lord for everything in his life. How I wish I could be as courageous and pious like him.
Chronic fear brings negative impacts in all areas of life. Studies show that fear weakens our physical health. It weakens our immune system and can cause cardiovascular damage, gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome and decreased fertility. It can also lead to accelerated ageing and even premature death.
Long-time fear can also affect mental health. Fear is closely associated with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression and in some cases reinforce or even give rise to mental health illness says Thompson Davis, PhD, a phobia specialist and chair of the Department of Psychology at the University of Alabama.
Fears deprive us from living our lives to the fullest. Therefore, we must conquer our fears by clinging to the promises of God. As He said in Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you. I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.”