A Christian Post excerpt from psychologist David Zuccolotto’s new book, Afraid and Faithful, hit home. He’s treated trauma survivors for over 35 years, from abused kids to combat vets, and he keeps hearing the same line from Christians: “If I really had faith, I wouldn’t be afraid.”
His answer is that it’s not true. Fear isn’t proof that something is wrong between you and God. Shame over the fear makes people hide it and avoid whatever triggers it, and that avoidance is what keeps trauma alive. Facing it can actually be an act of faith.
My take
In Spirit-filled churches it’s easy to walk out feeling like a failure because you still feel afraid. That’s not the gospel. David wrote, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3). Not “if.” When.
God heals in a moment sometimes. Sometimes He heals through a process, a counselor and a lot of brave little steps. Both are Him. “God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7) is a promise to walk toward, not a stick to beat yourself with.
If you’re carrying something heavy, talk to someone. Getting help isn’t a lack of faith.
God Bless, and Happy hacking!
