Overcoming fear

Fear is common. On pp. 152-153 of "Boyhood and Beyond," author Bob Schultz tells about a scary experience that he had in the middle of the 1970s gas crisis:

In the middle of this shortage, I needed to drive 500 miles for a friend's wedding. Before leaving town I had to buy gas from three different stations to fill my tank. I planned to stop at every open gas station along the route. After two hours of driving, I found the first one. I drove for almost 400 miles without finding another station with gas to sell. I crossed the Golden Gate Bridge at night with my gas gauge on empty. Signs on the bridge promised a $250 fine to stalled vehicles. My stomach knotted and hurt. Driving in the darkness far from home added to my fear. I didn't know if I should keep driving until my car quit or choose a place to pull off until I could find an open station.

God spoke to my heart as I drove along. 'Don't worry; I will meet your need. And if I don't meet your need, you will still have Me.'

The reminder of His presence gave me courage. I began singing to Him. My heart overflowed with joy and peace. I drove much farther than I thought possible. When I was well outside the city, on a dark stretch of freeway, my car coughed and died. My tank was out of gas, but my heart was full of joy because of my Father's presence.

'What now?' I asked. It was time to walk. Though quite dark, the night air felt warm. Leaving the car, I proceeded up the nearby exit ramp. At the top of the hill I looked down on the lights of two gas stations! I approached and found both to be open. One gave me a can full of gas, and I walked back to my car. On my return, the attendant generously filled my tank. My mouth fell open when I heard him say, 'We are the only stations open for 250 miles in any direction!'

God's presence had given Bob the courage to keep driving until his tank was empty. God knows exactly what we need.