When I first saw these verses in the Living Bible, they made me cringe - especially the part that says that God doesn't want me to be afraid of people, and that He wants me to enjoy being with them. For someone like me who has struggled with social anxiety all their life, these verses sounded totally unreasonable.

Years ago, I suffered from such severe anxiety that I had to undergo counseling. What I didn't realize back then was that anxiety, which is rooted in fear, has a demonic source. I was totally unaware that Satan was the Author of Fear, and that he uses it to disable and paralyze God's people. I was also ignorant of the Scripture which says, "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV) Now that I know that fear is from the devil, I resist it in the power of the Holy Spirit. As soon as it comes against me, I declare: "Fear, I resist you - in Jesus' name, you must GO!" God has given me authority in Christ to do this, and if you are a born-again child of God, then you can do the same thing.

Another thing that really helps me is to ask God to give me favor, good understanding, and high esteem in the sight of Him and others, on the basis of His Word. (Proverbs 3:4 AMP) Meditating on God's Word and promises is a powerful way to overcome fear, anxiety, and depression. Jesus says to us: "Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]" (John 14:27 AMP) Glory to God!

If you look up the definition of an "introvert," you will see a description that, in many ways, describes me: "An introvert is often thought of as a quiet, reserved, and thoughtful individual. They don't seek out special attention or social engagements, as these events can leave introverts feeling exhausted and drained." I have realized over the years that God gave me this personality because it enables me to be content spending endless hours alone at my computer, writing devotional messages and books. But I no longer allow fear to rule my life, and I often enjoy being with other people. Now that I know the truth, I am determined to live a fearless life. How about you?

Prayer: Lord, I surrender my life to You anew today, and I ask that You fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit. Teach me how to resist fear and anxiety every time they come against me, and fill me with a holy determination to live a fearless life. I thank You and praise You that peace is my inheritance in Christ!