Laying Down Fear: A Warrior's Path to True Freedom

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Guest Blog by Karalee Anjewierden, Advisory Board Member and Pocket Miracles guru.

Dear Sisters in Christ,

As we celebrate freedom this month, I’ve found myself reflecting not just on the outward symbols—fireworks, parades, and flags—but on the quieter, hidden freedoms many of us are still fighting for.

For me, it's been the sacred, slow work of laying down fear.

Fear of judgment.
Fear of not measuring up.
Fear of starting something new—like a podcast.
Fear of water.
Fear of speaking my truth.
Even fear of people.

Each one has left its mark. Some I’ve started to confront. Others still keep me standing on the sidelines—watching others dive boldly into life while I wonder if I belong in the waves.

One of those fears showed up again during a recent trip to visit my daughter in Guam. She was eager to share the beauty of the island and especially wanted to take me snorkeling out in the deep water. While I’ve always enjoyed staying close to shore, I’ve avoided deeper waters for one simple reason: I never learned how to tread water.

That fear has defined so many moments of my life.

When my daughter pointed to a spot far from the beach with excitement in her eyes, my heart clenched. I told her, “I’m not a strong swimmer.” Her surprise stopped me—she hadn’t known. She didn’t realize that while others were out enjoying the adventure, I was always the one walking the shore alone, pretending I was content to collect shells.

In that moment, I realized how fear had not only held me back—it had kept me disconnected.

Separated.

Quietly caged.

But I also realized something else: God was inviting me to something more.

With trembling courage, I let her take my hand and lead me. I didn’t make it all the way, and there were bumps along the way—a coral cut, a moment stranded on a rock, tears and frustration. But the next day, we found a new way to connect. A marine observation tower let us see the reef from above and below, and we laughed and pointed out colorful fish and even sharks. We shared joy—without fear blocking the way.

It wasn’t the deep dive she had hoped for.

But it was a miracle of connection.

And it taught me something:

Freedom doesn’t always begin with a fearless leap. Sometimes it starts with naming the fear that’s kept you standing on the shore.

This summer, I’ve added swim lessons to my to-do list. I want to be free next time.

I want to participate, not spectate.

I want to live light, not bound.

Warriors, what fear is still holding you back from stepping fully into the mission God has called you to?

This week, I invite you to:

Name one fear you’re ready to lay down.
Write a prayer asking Jesus to walk with you toward freedom.

Jesus came to set the captives free—not just from sin, but from every weight that keeps us from walking in His light. That includes fear. That includes shame. That includes the old stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what we can’t do.

Freedom is a miracle. And sometimes, naming your fear is the first brave step toward it.

I’d love to hear from you:

What are you ready to lay down so you can live lighter and freer in Christ?

Leave a comment or send a message—I read every one.

With love and light,
Karalee Anjewierden
Women Warriors of Light Advisory Board

Find out more about Karalee at Pocket Miracles

Laying Down Fear: A Warrior's Path to True Freedom

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