TODAY’S SIGNATURE VERSE ••• I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
PRAISE & PRAYER PROMPT ••• I hate bugs. Especially the ones that fly and jump. All of them… I’m including the “cute” ones too—ladybugs and butterflies. They are still bugs; they just have better outfits. Having a bug near me creates panic and much to my husband’s aggravation, I turn into a tiny bit of a screamer.
My tremendous fear of bugs is a bit of a problem since I live in the South. And last night, I learned that the 17-year cicadas are coming out. Y’all, if anything is going to force me into full-fledged lockdown—it’s these monstrosities. I had one get on my neck when I was around 21 and I have never recovered. I have been a reluctant mask wearer, but the cicadas have me seriously considering a hazmat suit.
Though the Bible tells us to fear not, I’m also convinced that God understands that my faith in Him is a separate matter. After all, He said, “All winged insects that go on all fours are detestable to you” (Leviticus 11:20). Yes. Yes, they are detestable. Though God called His creation good, there are certain things He created that I don’t want touching me or near me.
We all have some kind of fear. But isn’t it interesting how some people have fears that are irrational to us? My fear of bugs is irrational to most people, but I think other people’s fear of heights can be irrational. Or fear of needles. Rabbit trail alert… why do so many people who are afraid of needles always get tattooed? My son and ex-husband are both covered in tattoos and both claim a fear of needles and blood. I don’t get it. But, I believe it. I once watched my ex-husband pass out over it.
Each of us has experiences that shape us and make us unique, including our unique fears. Despite our differences… despite our fears… Despite our personal weaknesses… God can still use us. I’m thankful that God can use me from a bug-free living room as much as He can use someone else from a bug-filled jungle. God thinks outside the box and uses us IN SPITE of our limitations or circumstances.
All He asks for is a willing, obedient heart.
God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9a) And as it says in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
So as we deal with fears—both real and irrational—let’s remember that it’s okay. We don’t have to be strong in order to be used by God. He equips the called, He doesn’t call the equipped! He will use us if we are willing to be used.
Today, as you pray, thank God that He is strong when we are weak. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you have a willing heart that doesn’t focus on your fears or limitations, but fully concentrates on God’s immeasurable strength.
SHARING ••• Please share with others! Visit www.MyGraceFullLife.com to read past blogs. ***Unless noted otherwise, all Scripture references are from the ESV translation.
