At this time of the year, you’re apt to run into some little ghosts and goblins as they come trick-or-treating at your door or perhaps in the community center near your home.  Of course, your job is to pretend that they are pretty scary so they laugh and play and simply have fun. 

Whether or not you appreciate the holiday called Halloween, it reminds me that in life we often have real reasons to be scared.  When we are scared, we aren’t sure how to handle that emotion. We’re not even sure we should tell anyone. In fact, more often than not, we probably think it’s best to simply pretend to be brave. After all, if I’m the dad, or the husband, or the head of the house, I have to be brave and strong. Right?

When you are first dealing with an health crisis though, there’s no reason to pretend bravery. It’s okay to be scared.  It’s okay to wonder what lies ahead. In our humanness, we simply can’t know the course of our recovery.  I don’t mind admitting to you that I was scared when I first realized the extent of the damage to my body from my strokes. 

If you’re scared about anything, no matter what steps you might be taking in life, I encourage you to remember one thing.  You’re not alone!  You don’t have to be afraid because God has your situation in His hand. He knows what you need. He knows the caregivers and the support teams and the strength you need right now. He knows your heart and He says to you, “Fear not.  I am with you!”

Let the ghosts and goblins of worry disappear right before your eyes.  Take God’s hand and He will renew your spirit and give you peace concerning every step you must take. May He bless you mightily today!

So 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