On my recent visit to Kentucky, Mom and I drove around Sand Hill to take a last look at some of the places our family members had lived. The house where Aunt Lucy lived was pretty much a mess. Aunt Lena’s home was in better condition. But the home of my great grandparents, Granny and Granddaddy had burnt several years back. All that remained on this property was the barn. The front yard was empty.

As I drove around the bend, I vividly recalled the house. What it looked like on the outside and mentally walked through each room. It was a beautiful walk down memory lane.

On down the road was the home my Mom lived in for several years and then my great uncle and his family resided in that beautiful brick dwelling. Visits to Aunt Margaret and Uncle Myron’s included drinking Pepsi from the bottle. I remember that.

What I remember most however, was how terrified my sister, my cousin and I were one evening when we had been left behind at Granny’s. There was no light between the two houses and the dirt road was lined with trees. We’d set out down the lane thinking we’d be able to make it to the house…but each time we’d run back to Granny’s screaming.

Once we determined we’d never make it to Uncle Myron’s, we thought we’d call to get someone to help us. We picked up the phone and…it was a party line. Someone was having a conversation. So we waited. Tried the line again and the same folks were chatting away. We were never able to make that phone call.

I don’t remember how we got to Uncle Myron’s. Perhaps someone started wondering what was taking so long and came to get us. Maybe we grew brave through those moments and walked (ran) ourselves to Uncle Myron’s. I really don’t remember.

What I do remember is how fearful I was. There was no danger in the woods or along that road, but the longer we waited, the more we spoke of being afraid, the more our minds imagined, the more afraid I became.

I believe it can be the same way in our lives. We can really work ourselves up into frenzy by procrastinating, thinking the worst, or feeding off of other negative people.

If you have found yourself in a situation of fear, let’s look at some Scripture that just might help you.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4 – NIV)

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 – NIV)

“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)

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—is anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8 – NIV)

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 – NIV)

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18 – NIV)

As a child feeding off the fear of others, it was difficult to find courage to walk down that road. However, as an adult, I know where my courage and strength comes from. They come from God. As I enter into a fearful situation, I know that regardless of what happens God is with me and He will provide all that I need. My role is to trust in His provision.

I enjoyed my walk down memory lane last month. It has given me a new perspective on how that area of this world has shaped me to be who I am today. I’ve come to adore my ancestors. I’m especially thankful for the faithful servants of God who came before me and my Christian heritage.

Thanks for listening to my little story!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna