How did Jesus endure the terror of the crucifixion? He went first to the Father with his fears. He modeled the words of Psalm 56:3: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”
Do the same with your fears. Enter them—just don’t enter them alone. And while there, be honest. Pounding the ground is permitted. Tears are allowed.“Take this cup” Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. Give God your fears. Give God the number of the flight. Share the details of the job transfer. He has plenty of time. He also has plenty of compassion. He won’t tell you to “buck up” or “get tough.” He knows how you feel.
That’s why we punctuate our prayers as Jesus did: “Father, if you’re willing….” Was God willing? Yes and no. He didn’t take away the cross from Christ, but he took the fear. Who’s to say he won’t do the same for you?
