Kept Safe

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.

Proverbs 29:25

There is no way that I can confront him. I’ve been scared of him all my life.
These thoughts weighed on my heart and drained my energy as I prayerfully considered the challenge given to me moments earlier by a loved one’s healthcare provider. My entire being quaked. I treasured my beloved family member who desperately required assistance and relief. But fear battled my mind and gripped me. Would I speak up to the caregiver, on behalf of my dear one, or flee?

God, I’ve never said anything like this to him. How can I say it now? I’m so afraid that he will reject me. There, I had admitted my greatest fear.

God tenderly whispered in my spirit, “He rejected you years ago so there’s nothing to lose.”

Lord, what did you say? I think I heard you wrong.
“You heard correctly, Karen. You’ve already been rejected.” I knew God was right.

The blunt words penetrated my soul but oddly enough, peace overcame my entire being. Tightened muscles relaxed. I could breathe again.

It was extremely hard to have the necessary conversation, but I did it in God’s strength. His grace was enough in that moment. He had provided the courage for me to speak and my words were considered.

That was a pivotal point in my life as a people-pleaser. Until then I cared too much about what others thought about me, so I became passive. I avoided. I denied. All those years I’d been bound by the fear of man.

God began to free me from the snares and continues to strengthen me to face what seems impossible. The choice to trust God increases my faith. The next time will not be as difficult.

Unlike people, God has never rejected me and He never will. He will not forsake you either, my friend.

Lord, keep me mindful of Your promise to keep me safe as I trust You.
Karen Sims