8 tips for working through fears

 
By John and Therese Boucher
Special to The CFP

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to bear down on us, many are plagued by growing fears. When will there be a vaccine? Will it be safe? Will the next administration help or hurt the sick? Will there be shortages again? Will more people lose their jobs? Should I gather with loved ones at holidays?
Some people are also experiencing bouts of depression, anger or PTSD. Some Christians find it difficult to trust in God’s presence and love, despite reassurances like, “Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows” (Luke 12: 3-7).
Remember that fear is part of an early warning system built into each human person. Like radar, it alerts us to an upcoming storm on the sea of our life and can help us survive by leading us to a way through suffering.
The problem is not fear or worry itself. The issue is seeking sound guidance, so we don’t get stuck in the kind of unproductive fear that continuously replays the problem. Such an unbalanced state is contrary to the good news of Jesus Christ, doctor, healer, and savior. We need to unlock God’s mercy.
Below are eight tips for working through fears as a follower of Jesus Christ:

1.
Take time to face and list fears at the beginning or end of the day. Jesus, I am afraid of  ____.

2.

  Tell yourself the truth.  There is help! Under each worry or fear, list two possible outcomes. Rely on the Holy Spirit for creative solutions to your problem. Sing a revised song, like “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” …   He’s got the coronavirus… in his hands.  He’s got the US election … in his hands.

3.

  Don’t be overly pious. “Pray as if everything depends on you, and work as if everything depends on God” (attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola).

4.

Vocalize root causes of your fear. Do relationships or events trigger fear and need mending? Share these fears and causes with someone you can trust (who has a sense of humor). 

5.

 Imagine one fear. Then visualize Jesus, walking toward you across the churning waters of your fears, saying, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!” (Mark 6:50). Listen for what he says next.

6.

Admit any paralyzing fears … When overwhelmed, focus on your surroundings. Describe the room you are in, what’s on a desk or a table near you. What do you see out the window? Breathe deeply and relax. Use normal resources to moderate fear: regular exercise, relaxation, proper eating, hobbies, adequate sleep, and daily personal prayer (15 to 30 minutes to start). Do not be afraid to seek professional counseling for long-term paralyzing emotions.

7.

Allow yourself to be deeply evangelized and converted — give your life explicitly to Jesus day by day. “Jesus Christ loves you. He gave his life to save you, and now he lives forever by your side to enlighten, strengthen and heal you” (Pope Francis, “The Joy of the Gospel,” 164).

8.

Pray the Scriptures daily – surrender fears to Jesus through the power of the Spirit (10-20 minutes a day). Search online for New Testament passages about fear and read them aloud, often. Then pray to the Holy Spirit:
“Come Holy Spirit, fill my heart
and kindle in me the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and I shall be created.
And You shall renew the face of the earth.
O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit,
instructed our hearts in the past,
grant that by the same Holy Spirit
I may become truly wise
and ever enjoy His consolations,
Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.”

– The Bouchers are members of the diocesan Parish Renewal and Evangelization Committee.