What’s Better Than Achieving A Dream?

I recently attended a writers conference. And along with many others, I brought my hopes and dreams of publication with me.

Unfortunately, the fear of not achieving my goals also hitched a ride. At times, I didn’t notice it. Other moments, it simmered in my spirit. Or worse, loomed large.

To combat any fear, I have to admit it and turn it over to God. I must consciously remind myself that God has always taken care of me. And His plan is always better than anything I can concoct or try to make happen.

But my part doesn’t end at turning the fear over to God. If I “coast” and think I’ve done my part, it’s easy to begin dwelling on the situation. And the negative emotions grip me again.

Among other actions I need to take, I’ve found that I must also reach out and help others.

At the conference, I did my best to encourage everyone.

Some people reacted positively to my encouragement. Their faces brightened and their smiles widened. And in turn, many of them encouraged me as well.

But a few people I tried to encourage couldn’t come out of their negative mindset and worry to take in the positive words.

I’ve certainly been in that type of emotional storm before. The expectation of how I want life events to unfold almost always puts me in worry, fear, and dread.

Thankfully, I know I don’t have the power to remove their fears any more than I can remove my own.

The most helpful thing I can do is pray for them. And pray for myself, too.

I know I can ask God for the things I want, and pray that they happen a specific way.

Yes, becoming a novelist who sells millions of copies of every book I write is certainly a prayer I can pray. And I can ask that all my writer friends become well-read, wealthy authors, too.

And I know that whatever happens will be what God has already planned.

But God’s “better” fulfilled much more important dreams:

— Peace because God removed my fears
— Joy at having done my best to help others
— Comfort and feeling valued because people cared enough to encourage and pray for me

My dreams of publication are still there. But they pale in comparison to what God really provided.

What helps you let go of fear to receive God’s “better”?

What's Better Than Achieving A Dream? – What helps you let go of fear to receive God's "better"? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.