Fear is an interesting emotion.
When Vern was a puppy, he didn’t seem to have any fears. But over time, he has developed a fear of loud noises. When it thunders, he runs back to our bedroom and hides under the bed. He is inconsolable until the storm passes.
My fear developed after I was in a serious motorboat accident at the age of twelve. The boat flipped over, leaving it unmanned and running in a circle. I just happened to be in the path of the boat and was seriously injured. Once this happened, I found myself afraid to ride in certain kinds of boats as well as crossing over long bridges.
1 John 4:18 states, “There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear.”
As I contemplate what this means for me, I think about the characteristics of our Heavenly Father. He is compassionate and wants me to experience joy and peace. So, if I focus on these qualities and particularly practice gratitude, it pushes out the thoughts of fear.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”