There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 1 John 4:18 NIV Bible
I was afraid of everything. I was afraid of not being chosen for games and sports. If I was eventually chosen, I was afraid that I would do something wrong and prove to them that they were right in picking me toward the very end. I was afraid of not being good enough, bright enough, pretty enough, and especially thin enough!
But my fears didn't stop there. I was fearful of speaking out in group, in case I might say something someone found offensive. That kept me from drawing attention to things that really should've have addressed. I didn't speak up for those who were laughed at, even though I knew what it was like to be laughed at. I didn't stand up for those who were left out for various differences, even though I knew what it was like to be left out. I didn't welcome those who sat on the outskirts, although I knew what it felt like to stand on the sidelines while others looked like they were having fun.
The thing is, God has shown me that through all my many shortcomings, He has given me an opportunity to draw attention to those laughed at, left out, and ignored. He shows me that I need to lead by example, here and now, and with what I say to others. It's too high a price to pay to give up for voice for including others and hide behind the fear of fear!
