“No fear”

I used to play a bit of golf. I really enjoyed the game, the camaraderie, and the competition, but there was one dimension of the game that terrified me: putting. That’s right. The easiest part of the game gave me the jitters. I missed so many easy putts and lost my fair share of games until I discovered a secret weapon to conquer my anxiety and nerves: I bought a sleeve of golf balls designed by Greg Norman. He is an Australian who has played a massive role in the popularity of the sport all around the world. He’s a great golfer who seemed to play with audacity and fearlessness.

Where did Greg Norman get that courage? How did he conquer the putting terrors so many amateurs like me experience? 

I found the answer on a golf course when I pulled out the first ball from the sleeve. On it was boldly stamped “No Fear.” Each time I leaned over my putter, I read and repeated the mantra that has become part of my life: “No Fear.”

The first words the terrified shepherds heard were “‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (Luke 2:10, NIV) 

friend, I’m speaking these words into your life today: “No Fear.” Please repeat these words every day this Christmas season: “No Fear.”

Paul the Apostle once told his young protégé Timothy the same thing: “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, NKJV) The world can be a scary place for young boys living in a field as well as for any of us. Receive and embrace a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Because you are His miracle, and I love you so much.