Held Captive by Fear
By Susan Aken
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7
I was a prisoner of timidity.
Being shy and introverted, I tended to avoid attention. I was usually the one standing in the corner. I refused to attend youth group where I might have to join in a game. After college, I ran into a high school classmate I’d always liked and was crushed when he commented he didn’t remember ever hearing me speak.
Moving into the dorm as a freshman was a challenge. I started attending the Baptist Student Union noon meeting where I loved the safe and familiar environment.
But each day one of the students gave a testimony. In misery I began going straight to my room after class. My heart pounded as I imagined being asked to share my testimony and I refused to take that risk. I wanted to go but felt trapped thinking, “This is how God made me. I can’t help it.”
Praying and reading the Bible, I found 2 Timothy1: 7.
The truth hit me like a piercing light.
My fear didn’t come from God!
I realized I’d believed a lie. God created me with my reserved personality but my fear didn’t come from Him.
I turned from accepting this untruth and asked Him to help me by the power of the Holy Spirit. I went back the next day and volunteered to give my testimony. I told them this story. It had a powerful impact on them and me. I was transformed when I learned that, by depending on the Holy Spirit, I could overcome fearful timidity.
It’s a battle I’ll always face. But it’s never had the same control over me. I’m no longer a helpless captive to fear. There’s power in what we believe.
Are you enslaved by a lie? Search God’s word. Find the truth and stand on it for freedom.
Susan Akenis a homemaker, teacher, writer, and frequent contributor to Wholly Loved Ministries’ projects. She lives in Nebraska but was born and raised in Oklahoma. She and her husband have one son. Her greatest love is for the Lord Jesus Christ who has redeemed her and set her free. Susan enjoys reading, photography, spending time with family and friends, and writing. She has a heart for prayer ministry and loves her church. Visit her online at susanaken53.wordpress.com.
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