For quite some time, starting at a young age, I dealt with a spirit of fear, and sometimes I can still hear it knocking at my door trying to get in again. The reason why it occasionally waits at my doorstep and doesn’t dwell in my house anymore is because one day I just got fed up! I was tired of fear ruling my life, making decisions that I didn’t want, and bringing on panic attacks at any moment. So, I did the only thing I knew how to do: I used the Word of God. I’ve always known it was my weapon, but I put it into high gear, looking up and memorizing as many scriptures as I could that addressed fear because I was taking back control of my thought life! Colossians 3:15 was one of the many scriptures that stood out to me:

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15 NIV)

Wait a minute. So, are you telling me that I actually have to let peace rule? That means despite the panic I feel stirring on the inside of me, I have a choice and the authority to say, “No fear. You won’t reign in me today. Peace, come in and calm the storm.” The word “let” signals to us that we have a part to play by inviting peace into our hearts.

Then, the scripture goes on to say that we have been called to peace. See, I always thought a “calling” was something purpose-driven, like a gift or talent that is used to become all that He “called” me to be. However, here, the Word is telling me that I have been “called to peace”! A special decree declared by the Lord and as a child of God I want to be obedient to this calling. It shouldn’t just be a personal goal of ours to always have peace. It is actually something that God calls us to.

But, why is it easier for us to follow the calling of fear than it is for us to follow the calling of peace? Because the call of fear is loud and urgent. It makes you feel like you don’t have any options—no way out—and fear makes you think that it’s greater than anything happening in that present moment. Well, let me debunk that lie right now. Fear is a coward because when you stand up against the bully of fear with the Word and knowledge of God, fear cannot make good on any of its promises: You’ll die if you don’t do this; something bad is going to happen to you; everyone will think you’re crazy; you are not capable of doing any of this; you’re an imposter; etc.… 

Fear’s lies only last a moment, but God’s Word will endure forever.

So, when fear tries to rock your boat, close your eyes and hold on to the wave of Colossians 3:15 and LET it wash over you. Be thankful because after that moment, the sun will be breaking through.

Original post date: 08/05/2019

Edited: 08/27/2024