Fear is a universal human experience—an emotional, physical, and cognitive response to a threatening situation, whether real or imagined (Baptist, 2020). Often, our default response to fear is avoidance; we tend to run from it rather than face it. However, fear can also be a messenger, "trying to tell us something" (Gruen, 1994). To understand the message within fear, we must be willing to engage with it. One insight fear may offer is a revelation of our false or unrealistic outlook on life, often rooted in an ideal of perfection (Gruen, 1994). For example, fear of public speaking or performing certain tasks may stem from the fear of making mistakes or embarrassing ourselves. In such cases, "fear always points to exaggerated expectations" (Gruen, 1994).
Reflecting more deeply on fear can reveal that, at its core, fear often involves an element of pride. We may believe we are beyond human limitations and weaknesses, thus beyond mistakes. Engaging in dialogue with our fear can lead us to humility, reminding us that we are allowed to make mistakes, that it’s okay to be imperfect, and that we don’t have to excel at everything.
Embracing and interacting with our fear can help us uncover our flawed perspectives on life and our deep-seated need for perfection and universal approval.
Notes
Baptist, J. (2020, June 28). Fear: An invitation to know oneself.
Gruen, A. (1999). Heaven begins within you. A Crossroad Book (pp. 84-85).
Yes, anyone who needs to be free, needs to address one's fears
ReplyDeleteWhen I face my fears. It seems to strengthen my trust in our Lord Jesus Christ 🙏 Nice topic.
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