We probably all have a “monster under the bed” memory from childhood – that gripping fear that there was something lurking in the dark, just lying in wait, ready to destroy us. While we may have grown out of the belief of monsters, for most of us, fear still lurks in the dark, waiting to destroy. The fears might be different, but the effect is the same – we are paralyzed. Fear restricts us, rendering us unable to make wise decisions, unable to act on our values, and unable to live a life that matters. Our fear oppresses us, leaving us caged in what is common and comfortable.

Just like the frightened child, unable to move for fear of the monster, we must get up and confront our fear to be free of it. Elijah learns this firsthand in 1 Kings 19, when the angel of God instructs him to get up. If Elijah hadn’t followed these instructions, he would have never received the vision of the future that God had for him. We, like Elijah, have been invited to get up, face our fears, and embrace freedom so that we may live the life God has called us to.

Questions for Reflection:

• Do you have a “monster under the bed” memory from childhood?

• In what ways might fear be oppressing you, keeping you from living life to the full?

• Is there a fear in your life that feels like the monster under the bed? What might happen if you faced that fear?

• What’s one step you can take this week towards getting up, facing your fears, and finding freedom?