Monday, June 9, 2014

WOULD YOU PRAY FOR ME?


Yup, it is me…

…standing in the need of prayer.

I feel kinda selfish asking for it.  I feel sorta vulnerable telling you why.  But a dear friend (you know who you are!) encouraged me to be honest, and so that's what I'm going to do.

Most of you know that my dad passed away in January.  What most of you don't know is that this event has triggered a debilitating bout of anxiety.

Anxiety is a terrible affliction.  And it’s a *thorn* that I have dealt with all of my life.  As long as I can remember, I have always been nervous, agitated, afraid.

I've been to the doctors and counselors, the ones who have told me about a hereditary predisposition toward the problem.  I know that there's a family history of it.  I know that my temperament lends itself to it, too.

But still, the explanations do nothing to make me feel any better when the waves of worry overwhelm me.

Fear can sometimes be a good thing.  Fear keeps you from potential danger, and fear can serve to kick in that "fight or flight" response that is necessary to survival.  But anxiety is not beneficial.

It is adrenaline on high octane.  With no tangible reason in sight.

Anxiety is debilitating.

It's like the feeling you get right after almost having a car accident.  I wake up with that feeling every morning.  I have it every night at bedtime.  And often during the day.

And boy, I've really been struggling with insomnia lately.

Lonely hours when I either can't fall asleep, or hours in the middle of the night when my thoughts keep me from falling back to sleep.

I've had some meltdowns lately.

Crying that I thought I wouldn't be able to stop.  Frantic, breathless moments when I felt like running out of the room and never coming back.  Times when I was sure that my heart would burst or my head would explode if I couldn't calm down.

Anxiety – the dreaded feeling that something terrible is going to happen soon.  An impending sense of doom that I'm just waiting for the email or phone call to tell me what I fear – not knowing exactly what it will be, but knowing that it's going to be awful.

Ever heard that phrase "waiting for the other shoe to drop"?

Well, that's how I feel.  Except I'm sure that the shoe is going to fall on me and crush me under its weight.

Sometimes I feel like a hypocrite.  I write my blog posts, and try to finish on a *faithful* and uplifting note.  And it's not a lie because I write about what I truly believe.  And, truth be told, I do feel a lot better myself as God speaks to me through the words He gives me.

But I've been terribly afraid that if any of you knew how I've been feeling lately...well, maybe you would realize that I don't feel very faith-full at all.

I don't want to disappoint anyone.

I don't want to disappoint God.

And, I've been afraid that if I came out with the truth – like I am now – well, that you'd all think less of me.

But I have dedicated myself to telling the truth, no matter how that might look.  

So, I'm being honest.  


I am struggling, dear friends.  

Struggling mightily with the fearsome enemy called FEAR.

And I could really use your prayers.

Even though I feel self-conscious asking for them.

I know that many of you are battling some heavy-duty stuff right now, and I feel slightly embarrassed asking for prayer.  I feel that my battles with anxiety seem paltry in comparison.

Sometimes I have wished that anxiety could be measured in a blood test, or seen on an x-ray.  In other words, I wish there was measurable and tangible proof that it exists.  That it really is a real condition.

But deep anxiety is real.  Trust me.  And if any of you suffer from it, or know someone who does, you know how pervasive and devastating it can be.

So yes, here I am…humbly asking for prayers.

And please know this, I appreciate it more than you'll ever know.


Now, having gotten that off my chest, I do refuse to end this post here.

For indeed, though I am in a difficult season right now, I must never give in fully to its darkness.

I cannot ask for prayers without acknowledging the full faith that I have in the One to whom you and I will be praying.

Even though I have been questioning His wisdom in the word He gave me for 2014 – JOY.

Five months in, I'm still saying to Him, "Really, Lord?"

How can He expect me to find joy in the middle of the toughest times I have had in a long time?  How can joy compete with a million other thoughts and feelings?  How can joy overcome mind-numbing fear?

I wonder, and I ask God about it all the time.

I don't really have any good answers.  Except this thought…

JOY must be something "other" than any other feeling we experience in normal life.  It must be something that supersedes the natural.  It must be something that invades my soul from the outside, rather than a feeling that bubbles up from my own efforts.

Joy may not blot out trouble or suffering.  It may not make anxiety disappear.

But it can stand above it all.

And I guess that's what I'm asking you all to pray for.  Sure, I would love the anxiety to disappear.  I ask God for that all the time.  And trust me, I'd be totally OK if He answered with a miracle of serenity!

But, if not, I am asking that you'll join me in praying for JOY to stand above what I feel.

That my panicky moments, my fearful days, my anxiety-filled nights will not steal the joy I have in knowing that even though I am rocked by life right now, I am still in the safe and secure hands of my Savior.

I am asking that the Prince of Peace will reign – even when I can hardly breathe.

This is what I pray for you, too.

Thank you for hearing my heart...





Even though I fear the storm clouds,
the SON is still shining. 



"As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.  I thirst for God, the living God.  When can I go and stand before him?  Day and night I have only tears for food, while my enemies continually taunt me, saying, 'Where is this God of yours?'  My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be...Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember you...I hear the tumult of the raging seas as your waves and surging tides sweep over me. But each day the LORD pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life.  'O God my rock,' I cry, 'Why have you forgotten me?  Why must I wander around in grief, oppressed by my enemies?'  Their taunts break my bones...Why am I discouraged?  Why is my heart so sad?  I will put my hope in God!  I will praise him again - my Savior and my God!" (From Psalm 42, NLT)

"Answer me when I call to you, O God who declares me innocent.  Free me from my troubles.  Have mercy on me and hear my prayer...In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe." 
(Psalm 4:1, 8, NLT)

"Those who are left will be the lowly and humble, for it is they who trust in the name of the LORD...They will eat and sleep in safety, and no one will make them afraid...Be glad and rejoice with all your heart...For the LORD...will disperse the armies of your enemy...At last your troubles will be over, and you will never again fear disaster...Cheer up...Don't be afraid!  For the LORD your God is living among you.  He is a mighty savior.  He will take delight in you with gladness.  With his love, he will calm all your fears."  
(From Zephaniah 3, NLT)

"I will praise the LORD at all times.  I will constantly speak his praises.  I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart...I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me.  He freed me from all my fears.  Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy...In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles.  For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. Taste and see that the LORD is good.  Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!  Fear the LORD, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need...Turn away from evil and do good.  Search for peace, and work to maintain it.  The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help...The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help.  He rescues them from all their troubles.  The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.  The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time." (From Psalm 34, NLT)

"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." (Psalm 55:22, NIV)

"Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." (1 Peter 5:7, AMP)



What is your battle today, and how can I pray for you?



***Take the above highlighted parts of the Scripture verses, put them together.  This is what you get!

Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember You.
Free me from my troubles.
Cheer up.  Don't be afraid!
With His love, He will calm all your fears.
Those who look to Him will be radiant with joy.
The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time.
He will never let the righteous be shaken.
For He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.

PRAISE THE LORD, O my soul...



Linked today with:

SHARING HIS BEAUTY, PLAYDATES WITH GOD, UNFORCED RHYTHMS, INSPIRE ME MONDAY, TELL ME  A TRUE STORY, TITUS 2 TUESDAYS, UNITE, INSPIRE ME MONDAY, TESTIMONY TUESDAY, WHOLEHEARTED WEDNESDAYS, WHIMSICAL WEDNESDAYS, LITTLE R & R WEDNESDAYS, WINSOME WEDNESDAY, WORD FILLED WEDNESDAY, THREE WORD WEDNESDAY, COFFEE FOR YOUR HEART, WORDS OF LIFE WEDNESDAYS, TELL HIS STORY, THRIVING THURSDAY, THOUGHT-PROVOKING THURSDAY, FAITH BARISTA JAM, EVERYDAY JESUS, FELLOWSHIP FRIDAYS, FAITH FILLED FRIDAY, THE FRIDAY FIVE, ESSENTIAL FRIDAYS, SPIRITUAL SUNDAYS, WHATEVER IS LOVELY, FRIENDSHIP FRIDAY, COUNTING MY BLESSINGS, RECOMMENDATION SATURDAY, STILL SATURDAY, WEEKEND BREW, SUNDAY STILLNESS, GIVE ME GRACE



BLOG = "Blessedly Leaning On God!"

64 comments:

  1. Hi Sharon, stopped and prayed as I read your posts dear. I understand about the fear of disappointed others if they knew how I felt at any given moment. But I think we also rob one another of the true of picture of what walking with Christ looks like when we only share our triumphants and not our struggles. I know I'm sure glad God took time to present a balanced view of the lives of the people of faith in the Bible.

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  2. Sharon, I have felt every emotion you've described and due to many of the same circumstances, though the anxiety and fear I felt started due to my son's autistic aggressive behaviors. I know, and am a living witness, that Jesus Christ is the answer to any and all of life's fears, anxieties, and uncertainties. He came to give life and life abundant and we know who came to kill, steal and destroy. My recommendation is to take your God given authority over any attacks from the enemy and proclaim your freedom in Christ. It works! I know! And the opinions of others do not matter. We all have had struggles and anyone who says they haven't is probably not telling the truth. I will be in prayer for you. Much love!!

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  3. Heavenly Father, Without even reading all that Sharon has shared (which we'll get back to soon) ... I read the title, "would you pray for me?" and that's enough to boldly come before You on behalf of Sharon as You know I have been doing even without her asking ... but still Sharon is burdened. We do not take this lightly, Lord when someone needs others to gather around them and lift their weary soul.
    Sharon has been through so much and I can only imagine how heavy her heart must be, yet I already know that You are her Sustainer, and the Lifter of her head and spirit. Fill her each day with Your strength and comfort. Calm her anxious thoughts and heart before Sharon thinks, feels or allows them into her spirit. Bring that calm and peace that Jesus brought to the overwhelming waves in the storm with His disciples! I ask this and so much more to fill Sharon and help her meet and move forward with You and by Your power, grace and in Your Son's precious Name, I pray ...

    {I'm adding a link to a Fetch a Prayerfor you too Sharon --- from the widget at The Lighthouse of Prayer with Prayer Central}

    The verse they chose for "anxiety" was 2 Thes. 3:3 with God is faithful. I know you know this but currently are overcome by feelings so let your firm faith hold you as you know that HE is holding you, gathering your tears and embracing you with all the love and prayer support we can give.

    I love you Sharon! Hold on!
    H.U.G.{ do you recall what my acronym of this is for 2014?}
    Blessings and prayers,
    Peggy
    P.S. I'll be back to read this in its entirety ...

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    1. Holy Spirit, Come with all Your power and might and release JOY over Sharon like never before ... fill her to the brim, where she no longer needs to ask ... so that You abundant Joy would flow overflowingly in her like a wellspring, and move away the clouds that move in and suppress the JOY and strength she has and has found in You, that rises up ... move the mountains and all the heavy clouds so that Sharon may see You and all Your glory and plan for an outpouring of JOY, peace and the reassurance that she stands firm upon the Rock, even when she hurts, is shaken or about to crumble ... release that JOY from within and send others around her to build her up and encourage her (even Marty). Thank You! Thank You for hearing Sharon and may each of us continue to pray in the name of Jesus for Sharon and one another.

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    2. Check out this excellent prayer site and under the "Connect in Prayer" you can request prayer and also search by topic as I did with "worry"

      http://www.prayers.org/viewprayer.aspx?id=104

      http://www2.prayers.org/prayer-search.html

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    3. Yep, (been in this place)

      FEAR, anxiety, worry, overwhelming sense of grief and loss, INSOMNIA, depression, discouragement, disappointed, hopeless ness, doubt, unbelief ... all and any obstacles that oppress ones' heart, mind and soul ... BE GONE in Jesus' name and FILL us with Your Love, Joy, Peace ... Lift us above this sinking feeling and stinking thoughts that we battle when we're weary and are seeming relentless, as the daily onslaught continues, spare us, O Lord and send in the rescue, for we are ever so weary and the clouds seem to loom and doom, but GREAT are You, O Lord and FAITHFUL to Your promises:

      "Now I am deeply discouraged, but I will remember You.
      Free me from my troubles.
      Cheer up. Don't be afraid!
      With His love, He will calm all your fears.
      Those who look to Him will be radiant with joy.
      The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time.
      He will never let the righteous be shaken.
      For He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.

      PRAISE THE LORD, O my soul..."~ Sharon's psalm of praise and prayer need ... PRAISE precedes the victory!

      Answer her O Lord and restore her every night and every day with an OVERCOMER'S Victory and power in You

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  4. Fear?? If there is a single person who reads this and doesn't relate, I would be shocked!! The worst fear I've had Sharon, was after my own parents died, and it felt like all I 'stood for and believed' was gone and I could hardly find it... I didn't FEEL God's presence, and I felt alone and afraid. Just like you, in my heart I knew He was there, but those were some dark days, and they didn't go away quickly. We re-establish in our own hearts just who God is, and we step toward Him in those moments, and eventually he leads us through... AS we stand our ground! That time of fear is gone, but trust me, there are always more fears lurking behind the shadows. for me, and all of us. Satan hates the truth, and the simple truth I always get back to is that God HAS us, and he is not letting go. The amount of "FEAR NOT" verses in the Bible assures me that God knows that our minds and hearts have those tendencies. Even knowing all we know about him doesn't erase those fears. I'm convinced he is using them to strengthen our understanding of how fully he is able to be our answer, in everything.

    Love you sister, praying for you as He leads you through this time, and so thankful for your honest sharing. Honesty always lets others look at their own struggles and not feel alone. As our grandkids say... you rock!!!

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  5. Of course I will pray for you dear. Bless your dear heart. I love you.

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  6. Sharon, it looks as though the prayers are already flowing for you! I prayed for you as well and will continue to do so. I have experienced fear in short bouts due to specific situations but I cannot even imagine what it would be like live with it constantly for months on end. My heart goes out to you my friend! You have God word hidden in your heart and I know that those words will give you peace that you are seeking. My words here seem so weak compared to what the other commentors have already spoken to you but just know I am praying for you.{{Hugs}} to you, my sweet friend!

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  7. Hi Dear! I'm with Sonja, I think we can all relate. Don't feel like I'd think less of you! I can relate to you! My last year of working was one big anxiety-fest. I was not sleeping well, and was also feeling like I could never do anything right. It was exhausting. I feel so bad for you... Of course you will have my prayers. And I hope that you will try another doctor who might be able to help you through this rough patch?

    God wants to see you joyful. And you want to see yourself joyful too. So I know it's going to happen. In the meantime, I speak peace over you, and wisdom to know what best would help. And I ask it in Jesus' name. Amen.
    Hugs and love,
    Ceil

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  8. Oh, sweet Sharon, don't ever apologize for asking for prayer or for needing it. I am asking God to increase your faith, and to give you JOY. The faith and JOY that only He can give. He will do this for you. Do not be discouraged. Read 1 Kings 18:21-19:18
    Praying for you, friend.

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  9. Oh dear friend, I can't tell you how my heart leaps out towards you today! How I thank you for your honesty and transparency! That can be so hard sometimes. Yet, what is brought to the light, Jesus can deal with. And so right now I pray...Dear Father, touch my friend down deep at the very core of all of this fear and anxiety. Offer her your healing balm, touch her and take away every thought that is not from you. Give her your peace...as she lays every worry down at your feet. Thank you for your new life, for the faith in your Spirit that can take away all our pain. Thank you that you are Jehovah Rapha, our healer. Thank you for your love and goodness God! We praise you! Praise you through this tunnel of darkness, through this shadow looming, through this valley of worry, until my friend Sharon feels your freedom, a new hope, and true redemption! In Jesus name, Amen.

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  10. I am praying for you right now, Sharon. And in that prayer, I'm thanking God for your courage in shining the light on your fear and anxiety! Those foreboding emotions are not who you are; they're just what you're feeling in this season, and I ask the Father to bring healing and peace to you despite them (until he removes them totally!).

    I'm so glad you chose to share this with us. So many, many of us deal with anxiety, yet still hold on to the hope that Jesus promises. He will be faithful.

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  11. I'm praying for you, sister. All of us have something and I share your same bend. This old world and everyone in it sits in the palm of our Father's hand right next to us. He either causes or allows all things. Revere Him sister, not the things He controls anyhow! Hope my words help a tad, I've done so many studies specifically searching for the exact answer you are now. You are not alone, Sharon.

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  12. I am praying for you right now Sharon. I think we all have had times when we are fearful and anxious but I have a friend who suffers from anxiety and fear, it can truly be debilitating, she will call me when she needs prayer or when she needs to hear truth (the truth of God's Word) Praying that God would give you peace and that he would remind you of truth when you are tempted to despair. Will continue to be praying.

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  13. I pray for you dear Sharon that the wind of the Holy Spirit will sweep away the fear and anxiety from your emotions and replace it with peace and "joy." I ask the angels to reveal their presence perhaps in the night hours and may you know that heaven is around you even though it is unseen. Your father is laughing and smiling as he and Jesus converse - - Wow - Heaven is a wonderful place and those in Christ who abide there, would never want to come back. Keep those positive scriptures in front of your eyes to remind you of the Love of Jesus. Thank you dear Sharon for pouring out your heart to us here at "Tell Me a Story."

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  14. Hello, I learned many years ago that all fear comes from the fear of death! So when I went through something many moons ago, I rebuked the spirit of fear often and said Jesus name so many times. Read scripture for hours... I awoke one morning and it was gone and has never hit me like that again. Email me if I can assist you or pray for you!
    Fear can be conquered and you will be an over comer... He has promised that to YOU Also listen to soft worship music!
    Blessings, Miss Roxy

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  15. ((((Sharon)))) I understand that fear and anxiety because I too suffer from it and it likes to rear its ugly head when one is the most vulnerable. I will definitely keep you in my prayers that you will find joy to stand above what you feel. I try to remember Jesus' promise of never leaving or forsaking us and always being with us and try to concentrate on that, but anxiety can be so debilitating indeed. (((Sharon)))

    betty

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  16. Sharon, bless you for putting aside pride and instead humbling yourself to ask for prayer. It is a privilege to pray for you. I know to a lesser extent how debilitating anxiety can be, and I'm asking God to either remove all of your fear – or use it to teach you his very best lessons. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

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  17. Thank you Sharon for your honesty and for asking us to pray. It is a privilege to pray for you.....and I see here that you have great faithful prayer warrior friends on the job! Add me to the mix. I agree with Sandy on taking authority in the name of Jesus over the anxiety. Whether it is genetic or not it has no authority to be in you. Your body, mind, and spirit are the temple of God. So, anxiety, I speak to you with the authority given me by Jesus and command you leave in His name. No name and no condition, disease, or condition is above His name. Spirit of fear be gone, spirit of power, love, and a sound mind fill sweet Sharon. She is faithful, she is Your child Lord. As she grieves the loss of her father, remind her of her heavenly Fathers love and protection. Of Your great love for her. The joy of The Lord is her strength! In Jesus name. Amen

    Hugs, friend...

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  18. And of course, by the lateness of this comment, you know that my email to you was written before I saw this post. (Had a meltdown of my own yesterday after my emails to you so that's where I have been. Melted. Down. Way down.)

    You know that I have prayed and do pray and will pray.

    I get it more than I can express. I wish that some others in my life did as well. I loved what you said HERE:

    "Sometimes I have wished that anxiety could be measured in a blood test, or seen on an x-ray. In other words, I wish there was measurable and tangible proof that it exists. That it really is a real condition."

    It's the same with depression.

    And just so you know, I was interrupted an hour or so ago mid-comment by a man who was ready to hit the prayer chairs. You have been lifted where two or more are gathered already this morning.

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  19. You are so brave to share this. I've been in your shoes (more closely than I will describe on this comment). I am praying for you and I am here for you if you'd like to chat through email (though I'm not sure how to get your email address, you can get mine through Floyd if you have his email).

    I wrote about my addiction to WORRY a while back, http://tcavey.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-addiction.html
    Though I left out of that post much of what really relates to you. But it might help. The death of my dad caused me to suffered from insomnia, horrible nightmares, and almost caused me to loose my family as I tried hard to push them away. I also had an extremely hard time returning to my job (RN) (I cared for my father in the weeks leading up to his death).
    My heart goes out to you. I am praying for you. Cling to God's word-Joy. He knows that's what you need and must learn through this process.
    God bless. Please contact me if you'd like.

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  20. I am repaying fervently as I type feverishly. Don't fret...take captive your thoughts dear one. Let Him care for you. Lean hard on Him. I see you as victor!

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  21. Hi Sharon, I found you site through a "linky". I will prayer(all ready have) for you. I have found that essential oils have helped me quite a bit with anxiety and just being in the dumps. I get it!

    Also, I would appreciate prayer for my marriage and for me. Thank you and I will keep you in my prayers.

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  22. Hi Sharon,

    A simple answer here - yes, I will pray for you.

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  23. Sharon, my dear friend, no one thinks less of you because you have revealed what you are truly going through. And what you have is a valid and documented condition just like any other medical disease. I will pray for you unceasing. I know EXACTLY what you are going through and it is torturous! I have been there. When the body has been physically weakened through the stresses of life, anxiety takes over as a way to keep us going but it wreaks havoc instead because there is nothing to fight or flee from. You do need a good doctor to help. In the meantime know that Faith is not a feeling! It is grounded in the spiritual change God has already worked in your life. Stay in His word and remain with him. He will accomplish His work in you and bless you with His joy.
    I am praying for you and will send you an email. I love you, Sharon, and I'm here for you.
    Janis

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  24. I prayed when I read your post yesterday but for some reason I held back on commenting until today. I guess I was processing what you said. It can be hard to admit that this journey we're on has it's ups and downs. We're human. That's why we need God so desperately. Thank you for being real and sharing the truth here, Sharon. Thank you for sharing God even in the messy middle of life. Blessings!

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  25. Sharon, thank you for being so vulnerable sharing your struggles. When I was reading your post it made me think of Matthew 11:28-30, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." I hope you find peace and joy in Christ. - Hillary

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  26. Sharon, years ago, and not so many years ago, if you had looked up "fear" in the dictionary? My picture would have been there. But I truly, truly, found deliverance from it and I will help you do the same! Only IN CHRIST JESUS of course. The problem we have is that we let the enemy, the devil, the LIAR, have control of our minds. I did it for years and years and then some more!! Once he gets a foothold? He has a party. That doesn't mean you are possessed by any means, so don't misunderstand. He tries it, accomplishes it, all the time, on everyone.

    But the wonderful thing is that the WORD of GOD is more POWERFUL than any attack of the devil! And if you have the Holy Ghost inside of you, then you have THAT POWER, that Christ IN you, to thwart these attacks!! You must take authority, in Jesus' Name, as others have said.

    Speak with boldness. Something to the effect, "I bind this spirit of fear in Jesus' name and I loose the spirit of peace in its place!" If you bind a spirit, you have to loose something in its place. The spirit world is very, very real but it cannot have power over us unless we LET IT. A spirit has to obey you and they are then bound for a period of time. You cannot bind them forever but for a time. Don't be discouraged by that! The next time he comes around you will be ready!! Get the SWORD, the WORD of God and find scriptures to pray outloud when you are afraid. The Psalms is a good place to start, chapter 46, 91, 23, 27, etc. Your favorites! Pray them outloud and claim them as your own. Pray the Word of God over you. It is powerful!! Then when you feel the fear or anxiety coming on, take authority with the Word of God and speak to the fear by name, bind it and loose the opposite in its place. Sister, it works. If it doesn't work the first time, keep quoting those scriptures and claiming them, praying them and speaking to the fear.

    I am praying these exact same things for you right when I get finished here. I am believing with you that as all of these wonderful ladies join with you that you will get the deliverance you are needing.

    I also surround myself with songs of inspiration and encouragement. Nothing like a good hymn or contemporary song to uplift!! Chris Tomlin's "Whom Shall I Fear"is a great one. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGtPMb18vVM Another faith builder is The Great I Am! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5CWGi82N7k This one will make you shout as you realize the POWER in the Name!! Listen to the entire song...it starts slow but listen to the words....amazing. And Kari Jobe's Be Still My Soul...oh my....such peace of God!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mq59iE3MhXM let His presence surround you, Sharon!! The Lord is on your side, bear patiently the cross of grief or pain. Leave to thy God to order and provide. In every change He faithful will remain. Be still thy soul, thy best, thy heavenly friend. Through thorny ways, leads to a joyful end. In You I rest, in You I've found my hope. In You I trust, You never let me go! I place my life into Your hands alone....Be still my soul!!

    There is nothing too hard for God, friend. We are believing and taking control, in Jesus' name. Email me if you need or want to. I will continue to pray and lift you up!!!
    Much love,
    nannette

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  27. Yes, fear is debilitating but you my friend have just shown so much "brave". You have also shown that you are human which is honest and imperfect but you have God who will help you with those imperfections. I am praying for you and will continue to do so. Thank you so much for being "real" and sharing your fear which I am certain will help so many. Blessings!

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  28. Hi Sharon, I am praying for you in this. I believe it is good that you bring this to other believers attention so that we can pray for you. In no way do I feel that you are a hypocrite or anything else. Each and everyone has our struggles and short comings. Yours and mine may be different, but we all struggle in different ways. God bless you

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  29. Been there. Done that. It will be my pleasure to pray for you. I cherish realness. :-)

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  30. Sharing and asking for help or prayers can often be hard. Funny I was just feeling that delima and somehow ended up here. I do know how you feel with the aniexty, I suffered for many years and somehow it has released it's hold on me and I have been able to get on with a normal life again. But I wouldn't trade the feeling and emotions and strength that it put me through which brought me closer to God and helped me grow more. By feeling all the highs and lows one can better serve God. You have shown much strenght in reaching out for prayers. So may God bless you with a calmnest that will surround you body and mind again. In God's name I pray you find peace again.

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  31. Praying for you girl. Anxiety is sound that God's voice is making when I am filled with anything but HIM--Steve Pettit. Great quote huh?

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  32. Your vulnerability is beautiful. And God honoring. And the exact OPPOSITE of selfishness. Let us pray for you, friend. Thank you for the GIFT of praying for you. And in seeing God answer our pleas on your behalf. Let us be your Aaron, holding your arms when you are weary and crying "Yes, Lord!" when you say your own prayers. I pray God would be very close and very real, so His presence all around you will be very calming. Thanks for linking with Unforced Rhythms.

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  33. Dear friend, I'm so glad you shared your heart. I am not always a true reflection of what I write, either - but, by faith I speak God's truth as I know it, whether I "feel" it or not. I'm so glad my conference recap ministered to you. Sounds like you need to get away to one, yourself. Regardless of these anxiety attacks, God is working in and through you. Keep your focus on Him and all things will find their solution. Speaking as one with a fertile and creative imagination, I am also prone to anxiety, though not on the level you are describing. I know how it can torment. Joyce Meyer's "Battlefield of the Mind" got me through my divorce some 14 years ago, in addition to Stormie Omartian's "Just Enough Light for the Step I'm On" - How I clung to them in that season of all things in my life seemingly falling apart. You know the Word - you know how to mine His Word. Remain steadfast in that. Pour yourself out and take joy in knowing that the Lord will fill you anew. Yes - the Tozer quote on the raku pottery hit me, too - but, I daresay, He will minister those words to you in a deeper place - and HOPE will rise. Those pots were beautiful, but they didn't get that way apart from the fire and the charring. I'll keep you in prayer, friend. May you know God's tender mercies and comforts as you walk through this time of grief . . . being prepared for greater things on the other side of it.
    JOY to you - (Speaking of which, I am working on a post about Joy. Something someone said this weekend sparked my thoughts to consider just what the Joy of the Lord being my strength really means.) Courage!
    Kathy

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  34. This morning I was reading about Paul's thorn and how he begged God to take it away and God revealed to him that His grace is sufficient. My heart goes out to you because my husband suffered with panic attacks in the past and I know what migraines are. Thank you for your honesty; I don't think it's a lack of faith on your part. We can't go it alone but with others help, we will be victorious in Christ. I know the power of intercession and how others' prayers for me got me through. You have mine! I'll be happy to stand in the gap for you. Please take care of yourself - grieving takes time. When my mom died at 96, I was surprised how unable I was to function well for the whole year. I remember not doing much at all.

    Love you, dear Sharon!
    Mary

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  35. Sharon, While everyone experiences fear or anxiety in life, I do think there is a distinct difference in what you describe here. I only felt this level once in my life but I do not think I will ever forget it. I can remember explaining it as feeling like the top of my head was going to explode, like I was totally going to lose it. And yes, I was describing this, in the midst of feeling this very thing, while on the phone in a panic to our pastor at that time. He immediately told me to place my hands on top of my head & repeat, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7 & yes, the King James uses sound mind & says it better than any version, in my opinion).

    A sound mind is truly what we need. And the enemy would seek to steal our minds from us any way he can.

    I cannot tell you how many times I had to resort to praying that Scripture over myself, with my hands on my head & OUT LOUD. I do know this...at some point, I found freedom. I do not know when it occurred but as time continues, I needed to pray like this less & less. And to be honest, it has been years since I have prayed this over myself. It is not an easy road.

    Praying for you today that our God would bring you His peace, His power, His love and a sound mind!
    In Christ,
    Joanne

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  36. Oh sweet Sharon, you are not alone in your fears. The Lord is always with you! I have panic attacks sometimes. They are crazy and real. I pray for the Lord's sweet embrace to wrap around you today and everyday. That you have the strength and presence of mind to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus so you won't sink. He loves you more than anyone on the planet! You will make it through this storm. I am confident in the One who will hold your hand! Amen!

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  37. Praying for your anxiety and that God will lessen the fear and give your His peace :)

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  38. I've been there too, Sharon, and appreciate your honesty and transparency. Prayers going up for you! Thanks for sharing your story at Testimony Tuesday.

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  39. Consider yourself prayed for, Sharon! I have been there too and doing the Bible Study "Calm your Anxious Heart" by Linda Dillow was a life-changer for me. Will be praying!

    Oh and thanks so much for linking up with #EverydayJesus. So glad to have you!

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  40. I'm so sorry you deal with anxiety, Shannon. Never consider it paltry to what others are experiencing. It is real and devastating in your life. Thank you for sharing so openly. Praying God will breathe joy, peace, and serenity into your hurting heart. Hugs!

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  41. Sharon, I am so glad you shared with us what you are going through and are allowing us to cover you in prayer. No shame at all in that. We do life with one another through this blogging world and I want to do life with you be praying for JOY to stand above how you are feeling. I pray for that miracle healing too. Oh sweet, friend, I will continue to pray. Much love to you. xoxo

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  42. Sharon, it is good (and very gutsy :D) of you to be real and honest with us. My mother and sister deal with this type of anxiety, as do I to a lesser degree. Being honest, low dose medication has helped us tremendously. Do I think that taking a pill in order to calm one's mind shows a lack of faith? No! It's the same as my taking a pill every day for my blood pressure and another for my U.C. When the anxiety level is such that we can barely focus on Scripture or prayer, meds do help. Just throwing that out as an option to consider. Sayin' a prayer for you and for your doctor and for your hubby. Many blessings, my friend.

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  43. Dear Sharon, I have prayed for you this morning, my friend, and will continue. We all experience times of fear but to feel that every day is something that must be, yes, terrifying. Blogland can be a beautiful place of community, where we gather as one and pray for those who are brave enough to ask.

    "Heavenly Father, if we know anything about you, we know that you understand our humanity. Help us, in our humanity, to grasp just how unlimited your power is and how endless is your love and compassion for us. No matter what tomorrow holds, be it good news or not so good, I pray that Sharon will know, beyond doubt, that she is in your faithful hands. She has nothing to fear."

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  44. Sharon, thank you for your courage to ask for help. What a privilege to pray for you and love you through this. It has only been a short while since you lost your dad after having him your whole life. Grief has a way of terrifying us. I have been exactly where you are when I lost my Son. The minute I would open my eyes and remember... that million pound weight would be there on my chest with a motor running underneath. Cry out to God, read scripture, listen to praise music, do things that you like and remember a huge community of love, support and prayers is being prayed over you. Have courage my sweet friend...God's help is on the way. Your Blogging Sisters Love You and will help see you through!

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  45. Thanks for linking and commenting at CMB. So glad to to have found you. I share a similar struggle, and stand with these other encouragers sending you support and God's love.

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  46. Praying right now for you, Sharon. That you will know the joy of the Lord in your life this day. That you will overcome fear, confident that the Lord is with you.

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  47. Oh, sweet Sharon, I am so sorry for your pain and anxiety. My heart is embracing yours and asking our God to give you peace. We all struggle with things, we're just not always brave enough to admit it. Know I'll be praying... ~Pamela

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  48. You were the link before me today. Must mean I am to pray for you again! May the joy of our God be your strength today! Blessings!

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  49. Saying a prayer that God will lead you through this storm. That you will fill His love and support surrounding you.

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  50. Hey Sharon, will definitely be praying for you. But want to share something. I used to have horrible terrible panic attacks. They were so bad, I felt like I was having a heart attack. He healed me. Took them away. And He's the same yesterday, today and forever. So what He did for me, He'll do for you, hands down, absolutely. Stay strong and sending a ton of hugs.

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  51. Sharon, thank you for sharing, I will pray for you, I have only just read this. Been having some struggles myself and anxiety does play a big part. I was having a discussion just yesterday with a friend from church who is going through a really tough time and we spoke much about joy. We also discussed how The Lord seems to be bringing many of us to, but also helping us over the same hurdles, if that makes sense. God Bless x

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  52. I have to say scriptures aloud to fight fear, worry and anxiety. One of my favorites is "I will not give in to fear or evil foreboding, but I will have a glad heart resulting in a continual feast regardless of circumstances."

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  53. Back from a different link-up just letting you know you are prayed for. Love you...hang in there!

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  54. Oh friend, I am lifting you up in prayer. God has not given you a spirit of fear, but a sound mind. I am asking Him to hold you close, to fill your heart and mind with the peace that passes all understanding, and that He will guard your mind from any thoughts/feelings of fear and anxiety. He is with you and will bring you through. Hugs!

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  55. Hi Sharon. What a blessing to witness this rally of saints as they answer the call to prayer. Know that you are covered friend. Fear is cast down, in Jesus name.

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  56. Sharon, we have your back in prayer and God has your heart. Praying for a break through with your fear. Have been there more then once and I am sure I could be there tomorrow. It is through your struggle you will dig deeper into His love for you. I hope you have someone one close to you to talk face to face about your struggle. You are a courageous wise hearted woman my blog sister.

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  57. I'm praying for you in this hard spot in life. May your faith remain strong in spite of the fear that is trying to take over your life. Jesus is the light in the tunnel you are going through and you will make it through to the opening of a life that's peaceful and not fearful. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 Blessings!

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  58. Seeing all the posts above you are surely loved and covered in prayer! I come into agreement with all the beautiful souls above that are praying! May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding flood you in Jesus name!

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  59. I love your transparency in how you shared your heart. My word last year was JOY and God lead me to choose it even though I was so melancholy. I can't explain it but Joy isn't something you can work up on its own and it is something that transcends what you are feeling. I don't think it was a word just for last year but this year too even though I have another word. Circumstances are beyond Joy but I can honestly tell you that I have Joy now. You are precious Sharon and I will pray for you!!

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  60. Praying for you, Sharon! Praying that He fill you with His peace, that you fall into His rest. He knows what's going on and why. It's not a surprise. He's got it! Sending you virtual {hugs}

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  61. Sharon,
    You are not alone in that feeling. I had a similar feelings after my mom died 10 yrs ago. I can tell you it WILL get better slowly. One thing someone told me is to think of my mom away on a fabulous trip...apart but will get re-connected one day....as we will meet again in heaven. Just keeping that truth in mind brought me so much peace. Hope it helps you. Losing a loved one often sends some (like me!) into a PTSD - like state. I felt like nothing would ever be the same again or life would always be blue. However, . I can tell you honestly that it WILL get better. Stay busy and connected with friends and family; tell them how you feel as talking helps. It sounds like you are doing this. Know that others have walked this path beside you and hard as it may seem now, things WILL get better. I found activity and being with others was a huge help to me. Let me know how you are doing! Paige

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"So [I] have been greatly encouraged in the midst of [my] troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith. It gives [me] new life to know that you are standing firm in the Lord. How [I] thank God for you!" (1 Thessalonians 3:7-9)

Thanks for your comments - it is such a joy to be sharing my journey with friends like YOU!

(NOTE: Anonymous comments will be removed. Thank you for understanding.)