Fear of Consequences
Wednesday Self-Reflection
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Today, I invite you to spend some time in silent consideration. Imagine me sitting with you and asking the following questions. Allow the time to turn into an internal conversation with me. I think this works best as a journaling exercise.
Think back to a time when you were afraid to do what you believed was the right thing because you were afraid of the consequences. What did you think would happen? What personal insecurities did the situation trigger?
When was the last time you saw someone else afraid to do the right thing because they were afraid of the consequences? What does that tell you about where they feel insecure? If you could have said something compassionate to them during that time, what might you have said to help them through the situation?
There’s a certain wisdom in “picking your battles”. As the saying goes, “You don’t have to die on every hill.” What do you believe are the “right things”s that you are willing to do no matter the consequences? Why do you believe they are that powerful in your life? Now, ask yourself what consequences might keep you from doing them?
Peace, Bo
The Evolving Christian Faith Network
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This is an ongoing struggle for me when it comes to speaking out. If it is a direct situation impacting a person I know then I would be more likely to stand up for them, but to continually speak up about general issues on which I have no control is harder, not so much because of personal fear but because the people it would alienate need a different perspective in their lives and my speaking on every issue would only force them and me deeper into our echo chambers where my words wouldn't matter any more because the only ones left are those who already agree. It is a fine line to walk and I'm sure one I err on every day.
This hit like a silent sermon, Bo. I once hesitated to speak out in defense of someone being scapegoated—afraid it’d cost me a seat at the table. Turns out, it was the wrong table anyway.
Fear of consequences often guards the gates of our deepest truths. But sometimes, the “hill” we’re afraid to die on is the exact spot where our soul is waiting to be resurrected.
Grateful for your voice and the gentle excavation it invites.