Have you ever been in a situation that you didn't think was a big deal, but the more people talked about it the more concerned you kept getting? It could be anything, maybe going on a trip or trying new foods. Maybe you had an adventure you were thinking of taking and at first the only emotions you had were of excitement, but then everyone told you all of the negatives and now you are afraid to leave your couch. I know that sometimes these are things we need to hear, yes, the stove is hot. But I shouldn't be afraid of it. I don't ever want to be afraid of something that cooks delicious pizza! So where is the line at? When is it ok to walk into a dark room and when is it the stupidest idea ever? Personally, I think the line is created when it goes from something my friends and family will make fun of me for and something they will hug me for. When you jump because you thought you saw something, but it ends up being your own shadow, that's funny, you are probably going to get a chuckle from the people who love you the most. When you think you see something, and it ends up being a stranger and you just aren't sure where they came from, that's scary and your family will probably hug you extra. I've noticed over the years that when it comes to loved ones, the best thing they can do sometimes is just put their arm around you. Have you ever been in a crowded place trying to find your spouse? Finally, you see them at a distance talking to someone familiar and you can't wait to walk up to them and put your arm around them in some form.
Over the last year I have had some health issues, definitely scary, but the line has changed. At first, I was afraid to even walk into the doctor's office. I ignored my health for so many years, I knew he was going to tell me something bad and that it was probably way too late to save me. Now, I always have a feeling that no matter what he says, I am going to be ok. I know that my definition of ok might be different than someone else's, but I'm not afraid. Two sets of verses keep me focused on where the real line is, Isaiah 41:10 and Psalms 63:8.
10 Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
8 I cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.
When I am afraid or feel like I am unable to move forward, I read these verses. I picture loved ones coming up to me and putting their arm around me, I see a right hand coming and supporting me, I feel that hand touching my back. I have all of the support I need to get through any troubling times. Maybe they are scary health issues or maybe it's just getting to my car in a dark parking lot. Either way that right hand is with me, and I will cling to it.