What do we do with our fear? Do we fight it, flee from it, figure out ways not to face it?

Fear is a fickle thing; it flees at random and flies back frequently. There is no life free from fear, so how are we to live with it?

We cannot control whether we are afraid; feelings just are. What we can control are our choices.

Avoiding triggers that instigate feelings of fright is a choice. Making decisions while our heads are clouded with terror is a choice. Refusing to partake of those self-care behaviors that calm the stormy seas of our minds is a choice. And facing fear is also a choice.

There is no life free from fear; there is no life free from trouble.

So how do we grow in our capacity to make constructive choices that minimize the negative impacts fear can have on ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors?

“In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” — Jesus, John 16:33

By having an individual relationship with Christ, each of us can connect deeply with Jesus, and by heeding His words, we can take courage because He has conquered all. By accepting our fears—and thereby not allowing them to influence our behaviors—we can reduce the power fear has in our lives.

We cannot control our feelings, but we can control our actions. With courage in our hearts that only a Triumphant Savior can instill within us, let’s intentionally and courageously choose to embrace that which we fear with the unshakeable knowledge that Jesus has already conquered the world.