Respite Week Two:
Releasing Fear
For God will never give you the spirit of fear, but the Holy Spirit who gives you mighty power, love, and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7 (TPT)
This Week:
Day One: Fear Identification {This day may require a little extra time.}
​
Day Two: Fear Release
​
Day Three: Visio Oasis - Emotional Health
​
Day Four: Lectio Oasis - Mental Health
​
Day Five Musica Oasis - Spiritual Health
​
Day Six - Poetica Oasis - Physical Health
​
Day Seven - Immanuel Conversation
Hello, Lovely.
​
​Welcome to week two. Before we begin, pause and simply be present—with yourself, your emotions, and your thoughts. Let the Father’s love wash over you. You are dearly loved just as you are.
​
​This week, we’ll address fear—something we all experience. But what is fear?
​
​Fear is
{n} An unpleasant emotion caused by believing someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.
{v} To be afraid of someone or something likely to be dangerous, painful, or threatening.
{n} A feeling of anxiety about the outcome of something or someone’s safety and well-being.
{n} The likelihood of something unwelcome happening; anxiety or apprehension on someone’s behalf.
​
​As we continue our journey by exploring fear, ask the Father to reveal areas of fear in your life.
​
Let’s begin our journey toward inner peace with prayer.
​
​Dear Father,
​
​As we begin this week exploring our fears, shelter us under Your wing of protection and grace. Highlight the areas that need Your attention, and give us strength to cast our fears aside as we embrace Your peace.
​
​In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
​
​​
​
​
​
​
ingrid
Day One: Fear Identification
​
Fear is a liar—One Hundred Percent! While our experience of fear feels real, it often comes from misconceptions and imagined outcomes that may never happen. We project possible futures based on past experiences, which can be helpful in obvious dangers—like using an oven mitt for a hot pan—but harmful when applied to life's uncertainties.
​
Do you fear a diagnosis, pain, loss, heights, or shame? These fears are often attempts to predict the future based on the past. Our instincts try to protect us, but often only remind us how little control we have over life.
​
Fear is the urge to explain the unknowable by imagining worst-case scenarios. This is the opposite of faith, which invites us to trust God rather than rely on certainty and predictions. Faith means letting go and finding strength in God.
​
Prayer
Dear Father,
My fear feels real, but I know it’s often rooted in misconceptions and worries about things that may never happen. Help me see beyond my past and not project old fears onto the future. Remind me that my experience isn’t always the full truth. Teach me to rely on Your wisdom, not just my instincts, and to let go of my need for certainty. Give me strength to walk by faith, trusting that my future is safe in Your hands.
​
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Scripture
The Lord is my light and my salvation. I fear no one. The Lord protects my life. I am afraid of no one.
Psalm 27:1 (NET)
Reflection
As you meditate with the Father, ask: Where is fear in my life?
​
​
​
Day Two: Fear Release
​
​God invites us into a life of obedience filled with promise and hope, while the enemy seeks to trap us in fear-induced paralysis. Releasing fear is essential for living a fulfilling, purpose-driven life, as it often stifles our potential and blinds us to the future that awaits us. What fear do you need to release? Failure, rejection, being alone, being around others, and the unknown? The enemy exploits these fears, weaving them into our thoughts and keeping us from stepping forward in faith, leaving us stagnant. He convinces us that we “need” these fears in order to survive and not die.
​
Releasing fear is a lifelong journey. By cultivating a mindset anchored in hope and the belief in positive outcomes, we can break free from the shackles of fear. Every step we take to confront our fears not only strengthens our resolve but also brings us closer to the promise of a brighter future. What you dwell on grows. What you consume is what you will produce. Choose to consume and dwell on the things of God so that those things will develop.
​
Prayer
Dear Father,
I come before You with a humble heart, seeking to understand the profound power of Your love. Help me to remember that there is no room for fear when love is fully present. May Your perfect love cast away any fear that resides within me, for I know that fear cripples and holds us back from living fully in Your grace. Guide me to embrace a life enriched by love, one that allows me to rise above the uncertainties of life, death, and the unknown. Fill me with strength and confidence, knowing that I am wrapped in Your eternal love.
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Scripture
There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life, fear of death, fear of judgment, is one not yet fully formed in love. 1 John 4:18 (MSG)
Reflection
What exactly am I afraid of?
Why does this fear affect me so profoundly?
Are these fears grounded in reality, or are they exaggerated?
Day Three: Visio Divina Emotional Health
​
Our fears can have their roots and triggers in past experiences and traumas, untruths we believe, and even learned behaviors. Regardless of whether they are perceived as real or not, fears can significantly impact our emotional well-being. They can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as irritability, moodiness, isolation, fatigue, outbursts of anger, depression, manipulation, a desire for excessive control, and many more. How can we address these fears? The simple advice of “don’t be afraid” may seem easier said than done. Instead, let’s consider asking ourselves what lies beneath these emotions. Can we bring our anxiousness, deeply ingrained fears, and worries to our Heavenly Father, who sees us, knows us, and understands all that concerns us? He cares for and loves us, and He possesses divine strategies for our lives. Can we find solace in His presence, even in the midst of our enemies (fears)? Can we listen to His heartbeat and remain still in His presence as He calms our storms and quells our anxious hearts, providing us with His truth? He is patiently waiting for us.
​
Visio Divina (Scroll down to view the Visio Divina process located at the end of this page, or click HERE to be redirected to the Visio Divina process.)
​​
Prayer
​Dear Father,
​
I need you today. This is more than I can bear alone. I don’t want my fears and anxieties to overtake me, paralyze me, overwhelm me, or lead me toward unhealthy behaviors—hurting others and myself in the process. I long to find refuge in You, to be set free from fear, and to rest under the shelter of Your wings. Heal my soul from the wounds and lies that keep me captive. Holy Spirit, help me let go of anxiety and breathe in Your peace, Your calmness, and Your love.
​
In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
​
Scripture
…I haven’t dropped you. Don’t panic. I’m with you. There’s no need to fear for I’m your God. I’ll give you strength. I’ll help you. I’ll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you. Isaiah 41:10 (MSG)
Reflection
What triggers fear in you?
Day Four: Lectio Divina Mental Health
​
Fear is a powerful emotion that affects mental health. By understanding and releasing its source, we can improve emotional well-being and grow closer to God. Unchecked fear can cause anxiety and disrupt daily life and relationships. Using mental health strategies like mindfulness, biblical meditation, scripture reading, and worship helps shift our focus from fear to faith, building trust in God.
​
Recognizing fear as natural helps us confront it and prevents it from ruling our lives. Prioritizing mental health and spiritual growth equips us to manage fear, improve well-being, and deepen our relationship with God.
​
It’s such a wonderful gift that He hasn’t given you a Spirit of Fear, but instead, His love, power, and sound mind envelops you, so fear has no place to dwell. Soundness takes its rightful place in your mind, and your thoughts and emotions of fear are washed over with His Powerful Perfect Love, which casts out all fears. As He holds you close, you encounter His presence, and your heart, thoughts, and brain are rewired with His soundness, clarity, and truth.
​
Lectio Divina (Scroll down to view the Lectio Divina process located at the end of this page, or click HERE to be redirected to the Lectio Divina process.)
2 Timothy 1:7 (AMPC)
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.
​
Fear can paralyze us and keep us from God's plans. It affects mental, relational, and spiritual health. Proverbs 12:25 says, "An anxious heart weighs a man down." Persistent fear harms our health, but scripture encourages us: "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7). This promise aligns with neuroscience as we can retrain our minds to live by faith, not fear.
​
Prayer
Dear Father,
​
We acknowledge that fear can paralyze us, hindering our full embrace of Your plans for our lives. We seek Your strength and guidance to overcome our anxieties, knowing that “an anxious heart weighs a man down.” We recognize the impact of persistent fear on our mental health, relationships, and spiritual growth. We pray for healing and resilience, trusting in Your promise of a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. Help us to embrace this truth, renewing our minds and spirits. As we face our fears, we ask for Your wisdom to train our hearts and minds to respond with courage and faith. May the peace that surpasses all understanding fill us and guide us.
​
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Reflection
Ask the Father how to renew your mind and unpack your emotions so you can get to the root of your fears.
Day Five: Musica Divina - Spiritual Health
​
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus addressed the fear, worry, and anxiety of those around Him, not merely to bring comfort but to challenge them to understand the spiritual implications of these feelings. He taught that our emotional responses reflect our spiritual health, influenced by our hearts and values. Jesus encouraged us to view our anxiety as a reflection of what or whom we prioritize in our lives. Through His probing questions, He aimed to reveal the underlying issues that contribute to our fear and worry. His intent was not to shame those seeking Him but to invite them to trust in Him as their ultimate provider.
Jesus taught that a misguided response to emotions can hinder our spiritual journey, emphasizing the need to take them seriously. He recognized that while compassion was important, His primary goal was not alleviating physical discomfort, but highlighting the connection between our emotions and the condition of our hearts and values. It’s essential for us to heed the clues our anxiety presents. In doing so, we can better evaluate our hearts and discern our next steps. Jesus is the greatest example of how to live without fear in spiritual wholeness.
Instead of fearing fear, embrace it as a powerful signal urging us to push beyond our limitations. It's a sign that we need to step outside of our comfort zones, which is where real spiritual growth occurs. Every profound achievement began with a moment of uncertainty.
Musica Divina (Scroll down to view the Musica Divina process located at the end of this page, or click HERE to be redirected to the Musica Divina process.)
​
Fear is a Liar Zach Williams
Listen to this song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQTnREEtuNk {Lyrics located at the end of this book.)
Prayer
Dear Father,
Help me to recognize that fear is a liar. When I face doubts about my worth, strength, and beauty, remind me of Your love and grace. Please cast out all my fears and fill me with Your peace and joy. Empower me to stand firm and embrace the truth of who I am in You.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Scripture
I repeat, be strong and brave! Do not yield to fear nor be discouraged, for I am Yahweh your God, and I will be with you wherever you go! Joshua 1:9 (TPT)
Reflection
How can you overcome your fear and dispel the lies fear has insisted you believe?
Day Six: Poetica Divina - Physical Health
Recurring headaches, nausea, or muscle pain might be caused by emotions rather than a physical illness. The autonomic nervous system—responsible for regulating heart rate, breathing, and other involuntary functions—often triggers these symptoms, especially under stress. This system produces the fight-or-flight response, priming the body to protect itself from perceived danger.
When anxiety or stress activates this response, physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, shakiness, or stomach pain can occur. Doctors frequently encounter patients with real discomfort and no identifiable physical cause. In today’s world, many people experience new symptoms without realizing stress or anxiety is to blame. This can create a vicious cycle: the more you focus on the symptoms, the more anxious you become, and the worse the symptoms get. For some, this cycle can become overwhelming, making it difficult to function.
(Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/recognizing-and-easing-the-physical-symptoms-of-anxiety)
Poetica Divina (Scroll down to view the Poetica Divina process located at the end of this page, or click HERE to be redirected to the Poetica Divina process.)
​
Fear Factor by Deborah Ann Belka
Fear plugs the heart,
stops the flow of peace
it clogs up the calm
only God can release.
Fear hijacks the hope,
we need to be still
it robs the soul
of knowing God’s will.
Fear rips the faith,
right out from under us
it cripples the mind
of its eternal sureness.
Fear disables the joy,
of our salvation
it shuts down the bliss
of our future elation.
Fear stifles the peace,
of a mind that’s sound
it zaps the power
that in God we found!
Prayer
Dear Father,
Thank you that You hear me when I cry out to you. Reveal any fear that may be causing my pain and help me to release it to You.
​
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Scripture
I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4 (NKJV)
Reflection
We all have moments of fear in our life, we are human after all. Sometimes fear manifests itself with physical ailments that can further exasperate our fear. If you find yourself with physical symptoms, ask yourself if this could be tied your emotions. If you are unsure, ask the Father to reveal to you the cause.
​
​
Day Seven: Immanuel Conversation
​
Immanuel Conversation is a practice for deepening your relationship with God by pausing to reflect and listen for His gentle voice. This dialogue with Immanuel (“God with us”) encourages honest self-exploration and spiritual connection.
​
Follow these steps to open your heart to God’s voice:
​
Pause and Breathe: Take several deep breaths to create calm and clarity.
​
Express Gratitude: Share your thanks with God and invite His response.
Dear God, I am thankful for...
My beloved child, {pause and listen for God’s gentle reply}
Create a quiet space to listen to God.
​
I see you. {Reflect on what God observes in your feelings and sensations.}
​
I can hear you. {Notice the thoughts and feelings God hears within you.}
​
You are valued and understood. {Acknowledge God’s care and imagine His comforting words.}
​
I delight in you. {Consider the kindness and compassion God shares.}
​
I can help you. {Ponder how God may support you now.}
​
Review what you wrote. Pause and be still.
​
​Close with a brief prayer of gratitude.
​
Share your experience with someone you trust.
Musica Divina Lyrics
Fear Is a Liar by Zach Williams
​
When he told you you're not good enough
When he told you you're not right
When he told you you're not strong enough
To put up a good fight
When he told you you're not worthy
When he told you you're not loved
When he told you you're not beautiful
You'll never be enough
Fear, he is a liar
He will take your breath
Stop you in your steps
Fear, he is a liar
He will rob your rest
Steal your happiness
Cast your fear in the fire
'Cause fear, he is a liar
When he told you were troubled
You'll forever be alone
When he told you you should run away
You'll never find a home
When he told you you were dirty
And you should be ashamed
When he told you you could be the one
That grace could never change
Oh, fear, he is a liar
He will take your breath
Stop you in your steps
Fear, he is a liar
He will rob your rest
Steal your happiness
Cast your fear in the fire
'Cause fear, he is a liar
Let your fire fall and cast out all my fears
Let your fire fall, your love is all I feel
Let your fire fall and cast out all my fears
Let your fire fall, your love is all I feel
Let your fire fall and cast out all my fears
Let your fire fall, your love is all I feel
Oh, let your fire fall and cast out all my fears
Let your fire fall, your love is all I feel
Oh, fear, he is a liar
He will take your breath
Stop you in your steps
Fear, he is a liar
He will rob your rest
​
Steal your happiness
Cast your fear in the fire
'Cause fear, he is a liar
'Cause fear, he is a liar​
What is Visio Divina Meditation?
Visio Divina is a spiritual practice of prayerfully contemplating images—such as photographs, icons, or artwork—to connect with God. This "divine seeing" invites a unique encounter with the Father. It can be practiced alone or in groups, using art as the focus for prayer. Pairing the image with scripture deepens meditation on the biblical text.
​
Explore these steps:
View your image.
Focus on the part of the image that first draws your attention. Observe it quietly for about a minute, breathing deeply.
Then, view the whole image, noticing every detail for about a minute.
Reflect on what emotions or thoughts the image evokes.
​​End with a silent prayer and a moment of gratitude.
What is Lectio Divina Meditation?
Lectio Divina, or “Soaking in Scripture,” is a prayerful way to engage deeply with God’s Word and listen for His voice. ​Begin by reading a scripture passage, reflecting on its meaning, responding to God in prayer, and then resting in His presence. Reading is like taking in food; meditation digests it, prayer draws out its essence, and contemplation is the enjoyment that refreshes.
​
​Explore these steps:
Read. Slowly read a short Bible passage several times, seeking God’s personal message to you.
Reflect. Meditate on words or phrases that stand out, listening for God’s voice.
Respond. Let your reflection move you to respond to God in prayer. Listen and reply as in a conversation.
Rest. Be still and rest in God’s presence, letting go of distractions and allowing His love to surround you.
​​End with a silent prayer and a moment of gratitude.
​
What is Musica Divina Meditation?
Musica Divina (sacred listening), like Lectio Divina and Visio Divina, is a prayerful way to attune your heart to God. Music transcends language, evokes memories, stirs emotions, and connects us in shared experience.
​
"Music is the space between notes." French composer Claude Debussy
​
In a world filled with noise, music offers a sacred space for stillness and connection with God. Through Musica Divina, allow music and lyrics to open your spirit to God’s presence—perhaps even inspiring you, like David, to create your own worship.
​
Explore these steps:
Find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Breathe deeply, letting each exhale quiet your mind. As you settle, invite the Lord to speak to your heart.
Hear. Listen attentively to the music and lyrics. Let the sound wash over you, noticing how it moves your spirit.
Pause.
Listen again, attuned not only to the music but also to any gentle promptings or words God places on your heart.
End with a silent prayer and a moment of gratitude.
​
What is Poetica Divina Meditation?
Poetica Divina is a contemplative practice like Lectio Divina, but centers on sacred poetry instead of scripture. Poetic prayer enables deep reflection, connecting you with God through “stenagmois”—groans or sighs too deep for words (Romans 8:26-28). The Holy Spirit helps us express our deepest feelings to the Father.
​
​Whether reading or writing poetry, focus on expressing your heart in prayer, not perfection. God meets you in your deepest groanings and leads you to freedom. Poetry expresses depth with few words, inviting you to read between the lines and contemplate its deeper meaning.
​Explore these steps:
​Choose a poem that resonates with you (such as a Psalm).
Remove distractions. Find a comfortable position. Soften your gaze and take deep breaths to settle in God's presence.
Read the poem slowly, letting the words wash over you without overanalyzing.
​Pause and sit in stillness, allowing your heart to absorb what you read.
​Reflect. Reread the poem aloud and notice how the words connect with you emotionally.
​Embrace. Read a third time, asking God to highlight what He wants you to notice. Use your insights to form a prayer of response, noticing any images or scripture that come to mind. If you feel stuck, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
​End with a silent prayer and a moment of gratitude.
Our final week we will ponder Embracing Stilliness.