The Storm Of Fear

The Storm Of Fear

God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

“The feelings of fear used to attack me in the middle of the night,” Cindy said, biting her lower lip. “But now, it’s worse.”

“Can you tell me about the first time this happened?” I asked.

“It started when I was a teenager. One night we had a bad storm that spawned a tornado. It destroyed homes in the town next to ours. Ever since, whenever a storm comes, I feel as if someone is attacking me—like they’re holding me down, and I can’t catch my breath.”

At first, Cindy thought that her feelings were a normal response to that frightening first storm. But when the feelings started happening randomly—and more often—she grew concerned.

“Now, I can be driving down the road, and I’ll have to pull over and get out of the car because I feel like I’m going to suffocate. This fear has paralyzed my life. I’ve lost two jobs and several friends because I’m afraid to leave my house.”

When God created us, he gave us a fight-or-flight response to help us avoid danger. When we’re under stress, physiological systems kick in to help save us from the threat. Whether it was a caveman confronted by a saber-toothed tiger or a modern man or woman confronting a burglar, our bodies were designed to either react or run.

In stressful situations, chemicals are released that increase our heart rate and blood pressure. Our breathing quickens, and our pupils dilate to take in as much light as possible. Blood that used to go to our digestive tract is rerouted to our muscles. As a result, we’re ready to fight or take flight.

In some cases, the system doesn’t work properly, and our bodies react even though the perceived threat is an internal one. In Cindy’s case, her system had malfunctioned, causing her to suffer from a panic disorder and agoraphobia, a fear of open spaces.

Fortunately, with proper medication and concurrent behavioral therapy, this disorder can be controlled, and a patient can return to a relatively normal life.

God did not give us a spirit of fear. If you are struggling with excessive fear, seek help. It is available.

TODAY’S RX

Fear not. The God who calms the storms and raging seas is with you and will help you live in peace.

Lord, your Word tells me not to be afraid but to trust in you with all my heart. Help me to remain faithful, knowing that you’re directing my path and showing me the way. I desire to live a life that is obedient to you.