“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger; anger leads to hate; hate leads to suffering. I sense much fear in you.” ~ Yoda
With the new Star Wars movie opening this week, I figure I may as well get in on the hype and address a reflection with it as a theme. Yoda, in training Luke Skywalker, did all that he could to address the issue of fear. Yoda knew that fear was a powerful motivator; but, a motivator to all that was bad rather than to all that was good. That is so very true.
Perhaps, that is why almost all the heavenly encounters between God and people or God’s messengers (the angels) and people begin with the words, “Do not be afraid” or “Fear not.” God knows that fear immediately clouds our perceptions and, therefore, our judgments. Fear cannot lead us to anything good or positive.
Physiologically, fear plays havoc on our systems. It increases our adrenaline so that we are ready for a “fight or flight” response. Adrenaline increases our heart rate, our blood pressure, the production of gastric juices, and a whole host of other things. Those things, unchecked, can be harmful to us, not helpful.
Fear is not the path any of us should take.
Why, then, do we often try to use fear to motivate ourselves or others? Why do we focus on the negative? Why do we not search for peace rather than fear?
God will give us what we need if we but ask. Our minds and hearts have to be in the right place, though, in order to do the asking. Fear will keep us from focusing as we should.
The world is a frightening place. Our future may look uncertain. Our present may be filled with doubt and uncertainty. Fear not. We do not have to face it alone. God is here. With us. Right now. Do not be afraid.
FAITH ACTION: Ask God to give you the courage to face whatever fear may be hindering you from being as close to Him as possible.