I’ve been reading The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren for the past several weeks. I’ve read the book before, but it’s such a great book that it merits re-reading. 🙂
Last night I began perusing a Chapter entitled “What Drives Your Life?” It states that there are hundreds of things that could be driving your life – but it also lists five of the “most common” driving forces.
- Guilt
- Resentment and Anger
- Fear
- Materialism
- The Need for Approval
Unfortunately, I would have to admit that my life can be driven by all of these things at certain times. But the driving force that hit me the hardest was “Fear.”
Many people are driven by fear. Their fears may be a result of a traumatic experience, unrealistic expectations, growing up in a high-control home, or even genetic predisposition. Regardless of the cause, fear-driven people often miss great opportunities because they’re afraid to venture out. Instead they play it safe, avoiding risks and trying to maintain the status quo.
Fear is a self-imposed prison that will keep you from becoming what God intends for you to be. You must move against it with the weapons of faith and love. The Bible says, ‘Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life – fear of death, fear of judgment – is one not yet fully formed in love.’
I am so often driven by fear. I let it hold me back, let it cripple me, let it keep me from taking the next step.
Sometimes I feel that the Lord wants me to do something for Him, but I’m afraid to move forward in faith. Unfortunately, I miss the blessing that comes with being obedient.
What are you afraid of today? Is it progressing with a business venture (I’m having trouble with this, myself)? Returning to school or taking an educational course? Trying a new hobby or embarking on a new adventure?
Don’t let fear hold you back. Look to God, and rely on Him to help you take those “baby steps” forward. It’s the only way to beat this driving force!
Blessings to you today. ❤
Photo Credit: David Marcu
Knees to the Earth 
Well put 🙂 I must say, fear is a pretty universal thing which often has been something key to the progression of someone’s…someone’s whatever. But it’s not something to let us down! Lovely post as ever 🙂
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Thank you, Z! That means a lot coming from you. ❤
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