Overcoming Fear

A young male husky mix dog has taken up residence at my apartment complex. I think I glimpsed him about three weeks ago…something white-ish moved in the wooded area behind one of the dumpsters and I just assumed it was a cat — we have several of those running loose around here. Then, last week while I was out walking Zoe, I saw him just a few feet away as he was traveling at the tree line on the backside of the complex. He stopped and looked at me, acting as if he wanted to approach but since Zoe is afraid of larger dogs, particularly the husky breed, I didn’t encourage him. I’ve seen him several other times since then and it breaks my heart to see him out there exposed to the elements and ribs showing because he’s not getting enough food.

From a spiritual perspective, how many of us are like that skittish pup walking the fence-line, afraid to approach God and to allow Him to feed us, shelter us and keep us from harm? Instead of trusting that our Father will not hurt us, we skirt the edges of His outstretched arms which are beckoning us to come to Him. Maybe we think we’re better off on our own. Maybe we’ve been hurt by something – or someone – and our trust level is zero. Maybe we’re just not sure of what will happen if we “surrender” to that outstretched hand.

What if we overcame our fear and eagerly sought out His touch? What if we gladly accepted His nourishment and found shelter underneath the shadow of His wings? What if we took just one step of faith and allowed trust to rise again in our hearts? Let’s cast off fear and stop dancing around the peripheral edge of God’s protection and unparalleled love and mercy. The Lord is our strength and our salvation, and if you need to be reminded of that download this free printable desk calendar here, and remember to praise Him for His goodness!