Do the “what if’s” have you paralyzed with fear – unable to move forward? It is a game many of us play when we want to make a change or do something new. If you are anything like me, we can waste a tremendous amount of time planning for each possible outcome and never begin anything.
Now, I want you to understand – I am a master planner and completely believe in being prepared for different scenarios. However, sometimes I confess it keeps me stuck when all I consider is my “what if’s” in a pessimistic “me” fashion.
Once one gets started, it is hard to stop.
Paralyzed with Fear
Previously, I had to make a difficult decision about the welfare of someone close to me. I went down a rabbit hole with my “what if’s” — one piled upon each other. My fear got a hold of me and left me paralyzed with fear and unable to move forward.
Many people tried to help by discounting every “what if” that I mentioned. Then finally, one wise friend saw my spinning plates and decided to try a different approach.
She looked at me and said, ” let’s go there.” She proceeded with attacking my worst fear. “What if this person you are trying to help, hates you forever?” “What will it mean for your friend?” “Is it something you can live with?” Quickly I realized it would mean they were well. It would say I tried everything possible instead of staying stuck in my fear.
Sometimes we need a friend willing to entertain our worst fears and go there with us instead of trying to make it all better. We need them to remind us of our God, who is trustworthy and will never leave our side.
But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3
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Our Featured Post
Today our featured post from Lesley encourages us to quiet the voice, which has us stuck. But she doesn’t leave us there. She flips the “what if’s” into a new way of thinking, which focuses on God. Please read to the end; you won’t want to miss her last question. I have it written and posted by my desk.
Now for Our Featured Post
What If…?
By Lesley Crawford
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We ladies are super good at “What if’s” aren’t we?! Like I feel I have a corner on that market! LOL These are some great reminders. Thank you! I needed this today.
Pinned & tweeted and will share to the IE Facebook.
Thanks for linking up at InstaEncouragements!
Oh, yes the “what if’s” are hard not to do. Praying you have a blessed day today. Maree
Great post Maree!
A fear faced is no longer a fear! It’s a victory!
Bless you,
Jennifer
I am going to write that quote down. I love what you said. Maree
Thanks for featuring my post, Maree! So glad you found it encouraging, and thanks for hosting the link-up!
Thank you for writing on a great topic. It was an honor to feature you. Maree
I am one who sees value in looking at the worst-case scenario, then working backwards from there. 🙂 There is no mess that God can’t handle, even if it means pulling us out altogether and taking us Home. I love Lesley’s post too. She flipped “what if” on its head for me.
Glad I am not the only one who sometimes needs to go to the worst possible outcome. I think it makes me realize I won’t be alone, and I can handle whatever comes my way as long as God is with me. Thank goodness He promises to be with us.
Lesley’s post was so well-written. Wise words from a good woman. Thanks for your story and encouragement to face our fears. God is with us always; we have nothing to fear.
I agree. Lesley wrote a fabulous post full of wisdom. Yes, God is with us. An excellent point to keep at the front of our minds. Maree
What ifs can surely paralyze me. I love how your friend walked you past yours. Great wisdom.
Debbie, You are not alone. Those pesky “what if’s” get in my way too.
I loved Lesley’s post, and don’t even like to think about all the times when fear has robbed me of opportunities to put the glory of God on display.
Michele – I always love your choice of words – “when fear has robbed me of opportunities to put the glory of God on display.” Thank you! Maree
I loved Lesley’s post and the idea of flipping the what if questions. And often, facing the what if squarely, contemplating the worst that can happen, helps alleviate anxiety, too. Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego said, “Even if” this situation doesn’t work out like I hope, God is faithful and gives His grace for every circumstance.
I love the story of Shadrach, Meshac, and Abednego. Thank you for mentioning it. I want to have that type of faith. I, too, loved how Lesley flipped the question. I hope you are having a fantastic day. Maree