What helps me most is to think of the verse in Hebrews that talks about faith. It is a substance. It can actually be weighed then. My hopes give me substance. And when I fly above myself I find energy to act upon my hope which then gives me the evidence of the choice I have made.

Not all choices I have made were God-inspired but some have been. Some were just easy choices, some have had devastating consequences throughout my life, some have lifted me higher than I could ever have imagined, and some have given me a voice for myself that has actually helped others.

Choices are ours everyday, every minute, every second. Choices of mind, thoughts, words, deeds and other kinds. When we first make a choice it is often just like a fresh new sprig but if we nurture our choice through prayer and endurance that choice can become a “thing of beauty” if it was inspired by the Holy Spirit. If not, Romans 8:28 lets us know everything works for the best of all those who love God so we grow and learn and hopefully make better, wiser choices.

Just read last night the Scripture about God not giving us the spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind. I want to claim that verse more fully in my life to overcome everytime fear speaks up and tells me to shut up, sit down, and and don’t even try.