I'm Done Being Afraid

I care what you think about me. I care too much. I see you eyes staring at me down at me across the aisle, see your smirk as I get out of my car. I see your glare and sneer as I chase after my kids- I could let you control me, let what I think you are thinking to shackle me in shame and fear. Or I could ignore you, and find my inner kid, I can chase after my kid and laugh with him. My kids are only small for a little while, they'll only want to play a superhero at the store or tag at the park for so long.

I can let your negative expressions, whatever made you so cranky affect me or I can swing with my daughter. I can pretend to be driving a race car instead of a cart with my little one or splash through the puddles in the parking lot or I can let your scowl hold me fast. Afraid of what others will think.

I'm taking that power from you, no longer will you control me, no longer will I stress about what you think. I'm tired of being afraid, and I'm done. The only person I need to worry about what they think is my heavenly father. No mom sitting on the sidelines, critiquing my every move and casting judgment from her bench throne while she clings to her iPhone will make me be afraid, she won't make me ashamed because I chose to make memories with my kids.

Related Article: Kissing Fear Goodbye And Making A Splash

My worth is not measured in what others think of me, I'm not perfect but it doesn't matter. I'm here, I'm facing my fear and becoming a kid for just a moment. Because one day my kids will have to face another their own fears, and maybe another glaring sideline mom. They'll remember the fun we had and not your disproving scowl. You see mam I don't need your approval, my approval comes from God. My job is to raise these little ones the best I can, and today that means being a kid.

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10 ESV

 Today I'm leaving my fear behind and being a mom, fearlessly playing with my kids while they are in my arms because they won't be here forever. You will not control me. I'm taking back the power I gave you, to make me feel less than God made me.

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. John 14:27 NIV

 Unless otherwise noted Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™