Silver Lining: Fear Doesn’t Get the Final Word

This year, we are celebrating six years since the birth of Re-Imagining Contentment. As I looked through my archives, I noticed that we have not spent much time talking about fear. That may be because I do not generally consider myself a fearful person. I do have a thing about cats.  I do not allow them to get too close, and I am not sure why, but they make me nervous. Still, nothing prepared me for the fear that surfaced after the car accident on Friday, June 5. My van was totaled, but by God’s grace, all of us walked away. However, the accident left me fearful about driving and anxious as a passenger.

In a moment of transparency, I rented a car through my insurance company while working through the paperwork with two different insurance companies. My insurance covered me, and the other driver admitted fault. Still, I found myself uninterested in driving or traveling very far during that time. I called my counselor and scheduled appointments to work through the fear. Please know this: it is okay to talk to Jesus and a therapist. Over the last few weeks, those sessions have been very helpful.

As I got closer to paying off the Boss, that was the name of my previous vehicle, I became even more fearful about getting back behind the wheel. I contemplated hiring a driver, using a ride share, or even asking a family member to move in with me and serve as my driver. Because I come from a loving, straight-talk kind of family, one family member told me, “Look, you have to practice what you believe and what you teach.” Another simply asked, “Do you believe the words in your Bible?” Needless to say, that changed my perspective.

The Bible tells us in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Second Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” And in John 14:27, Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Fear may slam into you unexpectedly, but you serve a Savior who reigns and keeps you through the storms of life. I have my new vehicle, and his name is Silver Lining! I am choosing to focus on the silver lining from a God who did not give me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.

There is no place for fear where God’s promises are trusted, and His presence is believed. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. We will get through this season together. Thank you for your unwavering love, prayers, and support. As we stand firm in our trust in God in 2026, let us unite in prayer for transformed hearts, healing across our land, and unshakable faith that God will guide us through every challenge we face.

Always look for the Remarkable in your life!

Min. Dr. ReShone