Article May 9, 1994 Issue

Overcoming fear of failure

Robert A. Johnson

Most of us have faced fear of failure at some time in our life. The first time I remember feeling this fear, I was in the fourth grade and had been asked to play the part of President Rooster in an operetta by the same name. What helped me the most was someone telling me that when I went out on the stage I should remember there were no big bad wolves or ferocious lions in the audience. I don't remember how the performance turned out, but I know I followed that advice and wasn't afraid.

Years later, when I'd learned something of Christian Science and had become a regular student of the Bible, I found a better way of overcoming fear than reasoning with myself about lions and wolves, or using some technique of psychology. I learned that because I am the child of God, His protecting love is with me, caring for me at all times—even in great distress and apparent failures.

The Bible teaches that God is much more than just a great power. In the book of Isaiah we read that God says, "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else" (45:22). In line with this Scripture, Christian Science teaches that God is infinite and supreme; He is the only power; there is no secondary or opposing power. Because God is Love, His power can only save and heal. It cannot harm.

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Never a failure
May 9, 1994
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