Today we continue discussing how to use fear to our advantage. Generally speaking, the more scared you are of doing something that is of value to you, the more you should view it as a sign to “go for it.” Whether it’s creating something, finding a church, starting a business, or talking to someone, the more it matters to you, the more it probably matters to God. I’ve learned that fear is an indicator of the enemy’s resistance. I’m not suggesting that you put yourself in harm’s way, like a dangerous animal or a hazardous spill. But we can use our fear as a cue to where we need to go.

As I was preparing for a sermon several years ago, I read the Sermon on the Mount. I remember arriving at the portion of Scripture that discusses divorce. My parents were divorced, so I was afraid to speak on this topic. So I thought I’d bring in an expert to talk about marriage. Suddenly, I realized: If I’m afraid of doing it, Satan probably doesn’t want me to. And with that clue, I gave the sermon. There were multiple people who contacted me to say that my sermon changed their lives or saved their marriages. And to this day, I consider it one of the most impactful sermons I have ever given. And to think I was within a hair’s breadth of not doing it because I was afraid to take the risk.

Friend, that is why I believe it is time to see fear as a gift, even though it may seem strange. Embrace it and allow it to point you in the direction of what needs to be done next. Remember that fear is an indicator of the enemy’s resistance. But we are called to partner with the Holy Spirit and boldly move forward in life.