Turning Fear Into Faith: How I Navigated a Season of Unexpected Stress…
Life has a way of surprising us—sometimes in ways that shake us to our core. Not too long ago, my family and I found ourselves thrust into a season of high stress, uncertainty, and fear. It was one of those moments that you never see coming, and when it hits, it feels like the ground beneath you is shifting.
I know it’s been a while since my last post. I’ve had to handle life on life’s terms. I want to share my experience with you, not to dwell on the difficulty, but to encourage you. If you’ve ever faced a sudden storm—if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, anxious, or afraid—I hope my story gives you hope and some practical steps to find your footing again.
When the Unexpected Happens
In the beginning, I was shocked. I could not believe what was happening. It was as if time stood still and my mind struggled to process the reality in front of me. “Why would someone target my family with such hatred?” My thoughts raced. I allowed myself to digest the seriousness of the matter - “we are being threatened!”
But after careful thought and prayer, I realized it was important to take things seriously and not brush anything aside.
We immediately outlined the steps we needed to take and followed through, one by one. One of the very first things I did was reach out to my prayer partners. I asked them to stand with me in prayer, committing the entire situation to God. There is a special strength that comes from knowing others are lifting you up in prayer, especially when your own faith feels shaky.
My family was shaken, our sense of security shattered. A very direct message had been delivered. Was this a mistake? Wrong people? Shaken! I was every bit the praying woman I confess to be, yet this was a time that my community of support was going to be depended on in order to allow me thinking space to hear from God clearly in this moment.
Faith and Action Go Hand in Hand
As a Christian, I recognized that what we were facing was not just a physical challenge, but also a spiritual one. There was a holy anger that rose up in me—a refusal to let fear and confusion have the final say. I knew the enemy’s mission is always to steal, kill, and destroy, but I also knew that God’s power is greater.
Of course my family and I reached out to the proper authorities, taking full advantage of every tool that God has set in place for times such as this. We also sought counsel from our spiritual mentors, people who could offer wisdom and perspective that we needed in that moment. Their guidance was invaluable and reminded us that we were not alone in this battle.
Taking Practical Steps
FAITH IS NOT PASSIVE it moves us to action. Alongside our prayers, we took practical steps to protect our family and our peace of mind. I also took a break from the clients to focus on my own mental and physical health. Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do is to rest and take care of yourself. Faith is acting in accordance with the guidance given to us through the Word of God. I realized, in this moment, just how much of a Comforter, a Helper, and a Guide The Holy Spirit is for us - if we actively listen for the instructions.
Processing Emotions and Choosing Where to Focus
This season brought a whirlwind of emotions—fear, restlessness, confusion, and even anger. I had to remind myself daily that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. We placed everything at the altar of God, choosing to walk by faith and rebuke fear, even when it tried to sneak back in. The choice was challenging, but the choice was still present, and mine to decide. No matter the intensity of a challenge, we are most often given choices: 1. What to give all of our focus to and 2. Where to place our trust, in self or the precious hands of our loving Savior?
If you’re walking through your own storm right now, here are a few things that helped me, and I believe they can help you too:
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t ignore how you feel. Name your emotions and bring them to God in prayer.
2. Reach Out for Support: Don’t try to handle everything alone. Lean on trusted friends, prayer partners, or mentors. This includes seeking help from those in law enforcement or legal professionals if needed.
3. Take Practical Action: Do what you need to do to protect your well-being, whether that’s taking a break, changing your environment, or seeking professional help.
4. Prioritize Your Faith: Keep your focus on Jesus Christ. Pray, read scripture, and remind yourself of God’s promises.
5. Guard Your Attention: Don’t let fear dominate your thoughts. Choose to focus on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy.
You Are Not Alone
No matter how fierce the storm, remember that you are never alone. With faith, wise action, and the right support, you can overcome even the most unexpected challenges. Your story is still being written, and God is with you every step of the way.
If you are facing a difficult season and need someone to talk to, I invite you to book a free one-on-one assessment with me at New You Coaching Academy. Let’s walk this journey together, learning how to process, cope, and put our trust where it truly belongs.
Click above to book your free assessment now.
Stay encouraged,
Coach Onome.
