God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though ______ …

” Psalm 46:10

How would you fill in the blank for Psalm 46:10 as it appears above? Maybe you’re in a fearful place today. This week let’s talk about some of our fears and discover God’s way to overcome them.

Fear in Confrontation

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed.”

2 Corinthians 9:8

I’m afraid. Not of what you might expect; rather, I’m afraid of speaking correction to one of my children. Difficulties arise from time to time in family life, and I’m beginning to recognize my tremendous hesitation to speak out. I’m afraid it will make matters worse. Plus, it’s easier to just take it and let it pass. Or is it?

Yesterday was filled with challenges. One of them was a strong difference of opinion with one of my children, which led to much upset. Wanting to respond properly, I endured and mostly maintained my composure. Yet eventually I retreated outside and dissolved in tears.

Life’s pressures overwhelm at times. Just when it seems we can’t handle anymore, something else descends heavily. Wonderfully God had given me today’s Dose verse earlier in the day. Grace–whew! I needed it! Abundant, overflowing, precious grace.

Thankfully my child apologized. That doesn’t mean, however, we saw eye to eye on everything our situation entailed. Which is where my fear comes in. Wholeheartedly I long for God’s best for my child, but I frequently feel so timid or inept when it comes to speaking correction. Instead of prayerfully trusting God for the outcome and moving forward responsibly, I’m cringing and avoiding conflict.

Motherhood takes courage. In a world where many positions are rightfully honored and valued, sometimes motherhood gets left behind. Sometimes Christian mothers aren’t appreciated for their repeated march into battle for their children. Certainly I don’t see myself as an amazing mother–probably a good thing. Perhaps, though, if I start looking at myself as God’s instrument in the lives of my children, courage will swell within and flow out with positive force.

While often I’m blind to it, God continually equips me as a mom. Though my faults abound, His grace abounds all the more. I will lean on Him to provide exactly what I need in this particular circumstance. He will not fail.

Motherhood takes courage … and God will supply.

Emily