fear
Fear-Driven?
Nov 16th
If someone asked you if you were driven by fear you’d probably say “No!?” But when you stop to consider what’s truly behind your insecurities, desire to control, and inability to fully trust God with your daily life – you’ll discover you are… Fear-Driven!
I don’t like it either, after all, the last thing I want to consider part of my life is fear. I’m an independent woman, one that likes to plan and organize (i.e. control). I’d like people to consider me a brave woman and faithful follower of Christ. However, the more I look at myself, the more I More >
An Honest Heart
Sep 16th
I tried to hold it together. I didn’t want my child to see me cry, at least not this time. I needed time to think and pray. God, didn’t I already learn this lesson? I trust you. I really do. At least I think so.I guess that’s why I’m in this place again: finding my way to trusting God with something completely outside of my control. It’s that sense of helplessness mixed with chaotic circumstances which bring me to my knees. And then there’s fear. My mind wanders down many paths as I envision every worst case scenario that could More >
What Are You Afraid Of?
Apr 15th
Fear gripped my heart. Not only did the disease strip my ability to stand and walk, but it toyed with my emotions too. As a prisoner in my home, unable to even walk to the mailbox, I became isolated and depressed.
My thoughts raced with doubt and terror:
Am I going to spend the rest of my life in horrendous pain?
Will I be in a wheelchair forever?
Will I leave my children without a mother?
Is disease and heartache all that my future holds?
For a while I didn’t even recognize myself anymore, as my thoughts didn’t reflect my faith and trust in Jesus More >
IS IT CRASHING DOWN?
Feb 7th
It’s like a gale force wind. When trouble strikes it’s never a calm day. It’s always chaotic, worrisome, and stressful. Often it brings us to our knees as we plead with God to make sense out of something unimaginable.
When I was diagnosed with a crippling autoimmune disease my life fell apart. My marriage, children, career, and relationship with God were all challenged as I attempted to cope with my limited physical abilities. Living under constant pain and stress chipped away at my fragile emotions, resulting in depression. I couldn’t enjoy even the smallest bit of happiness because I was paralyzed by fear of More >
Not Afraid
Dec 25th
I know this is short and quick, but I wanted to send a note of encouragement on Christmas Eve. Many of you have a wonderful day planned tomorrow with family and friends. But, there are a few of you who are struggling with the circumstances of life. I’m reminded of the darkest days of my illness–pain knew no holiday. I wish I could give you a hug and help you face the day. Instead, I’ll give you what I know to be true:
The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake More >
Did You Miss It?
Nov 29th
Just in case you missed my recent radio interview with host Jim Norman of Wise People Radio, here is the link:
http://normanservices.com/Radio%20Programs/101120%20Wise%20People,%20Carrie%20Cooper.mp3
I look forward to hearing your comments! With Christ’s Comfort,Carrie
AGAIN, LORD?
Oct 15th
A few weeks ago my health took a momentary downward turn—fatigue and pain reared their ugly heads again. Even though I know the disease will wax and wane, I was most surprised by the fear that accompanied it.
Didn’t I already deal with this, God? Haven’t I already faced my fears of living with a chronic illness?
I guess not, because panic and doubt wormed their way into my thoughts. What Ifs popped up repeatedly as I considered the possibility of the disease returning full force.
But, almost as suddenly as those anxious thoughts appeared, I remembered the work of Christ:
But whatever was to More >
WHY ARE WE SO AFRAID?
Aug 25th
“Am I dying,” I asked the doctor, “because my body is falling apart?”
He gently smiled and comforted me with a confident, “No.”
As my health worsened questions about the future raced in my head: Will I be like this the rest of my life? Will I ever walk again? Will Normal ever come? Will God answer my prayer?
Have you ever been overcome with fear?It’s paralyzing at times, isn’t it? Despite our best efforts to generate happy-go-lucky thoughts, sometimes life is HARD, and sweet musings never materialize.
If we’re not careful, we grow comfortable with the What Ifs and More >
