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Thursday, June 12, 2008
Many years ago (when I was a young Mom) I was in a Bible study with a woman who was very quick to tell me that I was "not as far along on my walk with the Lord" as she was. I remember when Will went through a brief but difficult biting phase. This woman told me that if I were farther along on my walk, I would hit him to extinguish the biting. (I do not believe in hitting children at all!)

Then, when I became very vulnerable and disclosed to the group about my very deep fear of flying, this woman told me that my phobia was because I wasn't far enough on my walk with the Lord. She told me that if I had more faith, I would not be afraid. I'll be honest and tell you that at that time I thought to myself, "If we are on the same path lady, I want to find a new route to the Lord!" Her comments made my blood boil. First, I thought she was completely out of line to judge me (and I still do think that). Secondly, I think that our "walks" are private and I am not racing anyone. We all go at our own pace. Third, I felt that I had strong faith. Finally, I thought that my phobia was completely psychological and not all all spiritual.

All these years later, this woman's comments have stayed with me. I am still very afraid of flying. In fact, I have not flown in 9 years! But in 3 weeks, our family will be flying to see very special friends. What is making me get on the plane? As much as I loathe to admit it, I think that woman in my Bible study was a little bit right. My faith is stronger. I have always known that it is all in God's hands but I am more comfortable with it being there now. I still have the phobia and I will be asking my doctor for medicine for the flight. But I am putting the phobia in God's hands.

I plan to write down Bible verses and other inspirational quotes on index cards to read when I get nervous.  I think the Xanax will prevent me from paging through my Bible in any organized manner so I thought the cards might be more helpful. Please leave me any of your favorite verses about fear, trust, faith, anxiety and letting go and I will copy them down for the flight. I really appreciate it. 

One other part of the story has to do with Harry and prayer.  When Diana invited us to come visit, I asked Harry to pray that I could get on the plane. One morning I was in the shower and I truly felt this sense that I could do it. I have not felt that sense of peace about flying in 10 years!!!  When Harry came home from school, he told me that he and his whole class were praying for me at the exact time I felt that sense of peace.

NOTE-- People always ask if my fear is why Dave went to get Kate in China.  The answer more complicated. I explained it in depth here .

Also, several people have asked when I might post about homeopathy and our diet (gluten, dairy and soy free). I promise I will do this post soon. I want to link to all of the supplements that we use and really have all the information at hand. I just need a big block of time to work on it. Right now, with all the kids home, that is tough.  Give me a few more weeks. When I do post it, I will label it too so if you only check once in a while you can find it on the sidebar.

58 comments:

  1. Ugh! I always hope those type of people aren't actually witnessing out in the world. Those are the same type of people that think God wants you to prosper in "this" world if you just have enough faith. Maybe she needs to study up on the use of the "tongue" in the Bible.

    I really love Psalm 139. I LOVE to read how God knows everything about me before I was born. I LOVE it that He never leaves my side and His thoughts of me outnumber the grains of sand. His hand is always there to guide us and He will never flee from our presence.

    You will be in my prayers.

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  2. Oh I just love the Pearl and the Ruby! I have been following Diana's blog for so long and think they are the cutest family. Along with your family too;) I can't wait to see all your kids together! How fun!

    Have a wonderful time and I will say an extra prayer for your journey and for you. It takes a lot to overcome our fears.

    We just discovered Lily has a HUGE fear of bugs like nothing I have ever seen. Not sure how to handle this!

    I agree, our journey with God is very personal and not a competition. That was a good story with a good lesson. I love how you always turn a negative into a positive.

    Take care!

    Lisa Watson
    watson_4@comcast.net

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  3. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.
    Prov 3:5-6
    Kim, I am terrified of flying too and haven't been able to do it since July 2001. I have been in Bible studies with the same type of person, and I usually find that the people who are most eager to point out someone's shortcomings...are people who are struggling with their own.
    I'll say a little prayer for you the day you fly out, if you remind us when that is.
    Blessings,
    jen

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  4. Kim, I know it's not a bible verse, but I've always loved this poem. He will look after you in the air.

    Footprints in the Sand

    One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

    In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, other times there were one set of footprints.

    This bothered me because I noticed
    that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from
    anguish, sorrow or defeat, I could see only one set of footprints.

    So I said to the Lord, "You promised me Lord, that if I followed you, you would walk with me always.

    But I have noticed that during
    the most trying periods of my life there have only been one set of footprints in the sand.
    Why, when I needed you most, you have not been there for me?"

    The Lord replied, "The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand, is when I carried you."
    by Mary Stevenson

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  5. Very big of you to admit that the woman was a tad right....that takes a mature Christian to do that. You will probably get lots of scriptures that will surely help you. What came to mind when I read your request was something that I learned after Luke died. My faith was shaken terribly. But after about 2 months of deep soul searching I came to one conclusion. God is sovereign. That's it. He has the right to do whatever He wills for me. And I trust Him. I really do. I know that you do too. I'll be praying.

    ~Lynn

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  6. I am so sorry you had to deal with this type of "Christian" it makes me so angry and sad.

    Fear is a very real thing and hard to overcome. I really don't like flying..a 20+ hr trip to and from China kind of cured me LOL I still can't stand bridges...the swinging kind just thinking of them make me sweat...YUCK

    This isn't a verse but was inscribed on a clock Mark's uncle with cancer had

    Fear knocked, Faith answered, No one was there.

    Thinking of you!

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  7. I think of this verse ALL the time...it is such a great reminder!
    In God have I put my trust, I will not be afraid.
    Psalm. 56:11

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  8. Not all that long ago, I bought a faith journal to help me overcome a deep rooted fear. I started to collect quotes and pictures that I kept in the journal as reminders of my path. One day, when I really needed to face my fear and decided to turn back, I found the following quote & it really stuck with me. It reminded me why I must face the fear. (And I apologize because it is not a bible verse as you asked and not meant to be political--the author--but it struck me in a profound way the day I found it and hopes it brings strength to you too!

    "You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must DO the thing you think you cannot do." Eleanor Roosevelt

    Also, I would focus on the meaning of your trip. God brings people into our lives for a reason. He has weaved the lives of you and your friend together, and it is only fitting that you are facing your fear to spend time with a special friend.

    Rebecca

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  9. Oh bless your heart...I am so sorry that you have encountered such a person! I have met a few of those in my life as well....the ones who are quick to tell me that my "faith isn't strong enough to overcome whatever it is that I am walking through".....and I always hold close a statement that Joni Erickson Tada said to people when they would suggest to her that if she just had enough faith that God would heal her from her spinal injury...from being a quadriplegic...she would tell them..."well if that is all it takes...then you must have enough faith for both of us..so you just go ahead and pray for me to be healed and that will be that. (that was not a direct quote...but that is what I took from her answer...and it has helped me in so many circumstances when I am being made to feel inferior to someone for whatever reason.) I rest in the fact that God's plans are not always ours...being sure to be grateful that HE sees the "big picture" whereas I have tunnel vision.....and that I trust Him no matter what circumstances come my way.....good, bad, or somewhere in between. He's got it all in control....wow what a comfort that is for me!

    Also...I wanted to share my "life verses" with you....Philippians 4:6-8 basically say..."Don't worry about anything but ask God for what you need with a thankful heart. And God's peace will guard your heart and your mind. Finally to think on these things: what ever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, praiseworthy.
    These verses just set my course on the right path..I think on them many times daily!
    Have a wonderful trip....and I'll be praying for you faithfully, sweet friend!

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  10. Here is one of my favorite quotes:
    "It is for us to pray not for tasks equal to our powers, but for powers equal to our tasks, to go forward with a great desire forever beating at the door of our hearts as we travel toward our distant goal." ~Helen Keller

    I believe that being close to the Lord does not spare us from fears (nor---as you know I know so well), from trials. It only helps us to overcome them. I will pray for you, and hope your journey is a dream come true! Love, Erin

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  11. I just said a prayer for you about the flying - you'll have a wonderful time with Diana's familiy, I have been following their blog since they got their referral.

    I am going to give you Psalm 46 v 10 (my verse for the year!) "Be still and know that I am God."

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  12. When I'm faced with trouble or challenges I remember:
    God is our refuge and stregth, an ever-present help in trouble~Psalms46:1
    and
    From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to a rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.~Psalms 61:1-3.

    Have a great trip! :)

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  13. So many have already put it so nicely. There are so many wonderful quotes about faith in the Bible. One of my favorites is "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalms 55:22 I am really having to hold onto scriptures daily as we wait for our LOA with Cate-each passing day with no news gets dicouraging. I find myself giving this back to God every day! I know that this will go smoothly for you!
    As for the rude little bible study lady-Do not judge, or you too will be judged! Have a great day!!

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  14. I continue to amazed that some people feel it important to share their opinions when they should just be quiet... I am pretty sure you have done some Beth Moore bible studies because she really encourages you to have scripture written on cards with you all the time. I know that will help you. I remember a really scary time in my life and God put a song in my heart I had not thought of since I was a little girl.. His Eye is on the Sparrow. I know everyone will send verses- I thought I would give you a song. Do you have an IPOD? You could listen to all your christian music while you fly... I will be praying for you!!!
    Shay

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  15. Hi Kim~

    Thank you for your candor in this post. I am glad you will have the opportunity to meet Diana and her family and I pray it will be an amazing experience.

    When Lindy came home there were times when she'd wake up with blood curdling screams in the night. I know others have encountered this on a much more serious and frequent level. However, I would sing this song to Lindy and it would calm her. After a while, she would even sing a little with me..

    I think it is safe to say everyone has fears--even GREAT leaders. I believe Jesus was afraid to die on the cross because he asked God to let this cup pass from him. This song is based on a verse where Moses was afraid. I hope it'll bring comfort and peace to you, Kim.

    Be Strong & Courageous

    Lyrics:

    Be strong and courageous and do not be afraid
    The Lord goes with you each and every day

    Chorus:
    He'll never forsake you (Be strong and courageous and do not be afraid)
    Don't be afraid (The Lord goes with you each and every day)
    He'll never forsake you (Be strong and courageous and do not be afraid)
    Don't be afraid (The Lord goes with you each and every day)

    The Lord goes before you through the trouble and strife
    And He will protect you all the days of your life

    It is from Deuteronomy 31:6-8

    "'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.' Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their forefathers to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.'"

    Another verse I like comes from Joshua 1: 9. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

    Peace and love,
    Lisa

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  16. I take Klonipin before I fly. It's great!

    I will pray that you have a safe flight! Enjoy your trip!

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  17. Kim,
    I think of you so highly, thank you for sharing about your fears. I'll be praying for you. God cares about every detail of our life. Don't put him in a box (like I'm often tempted to do), but rather let his glory shine over every part of your life. He cares about even the smallest things. May these verses bring you comfort:

    Psalms 34:4
    I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.

    Matthew 6:34
    Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

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  18. Kim -- We are soooo in the same boat. I will be flying in two weeks to San Diego and I haven't flown since 2001. I absolutely HATE flying! Maybe I need to request some medication too!

    Have fun with the Pearl and the Ruby. I have followed their family a long time too. I know you will have a blast!

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  19. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. I enjoy reading your blog.

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  20. I like the 23rd Psalm: "for thou art with me" helps a lot in situations where I feel scared. I once took a white knuckled ride through the Sierra's (6000 ft, no guardrails) reciting the Lord's Prayer over and over again. I think your walk with God is just fine, BTW, and I'm a religious professional.

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  21. Jeremiah 29:11...For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.

    This is the verse so close to my heart as it is the one I clung to when our son was sick the first few years of his life. May it be a comfort to you as your blog is a comfort to me as we wait to bring home our daughter.

    Blessings,
    Mommy

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  22. Kim, we'll be praying for you! It will be so fun when you get there you'll forget you even had to fly :) The first verse that pops into me head is "God has not given you the spirit of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind." I think it's 2 Timothy...I'll look it up and let you know a few of my other favorites. I used to recite this to myself when I was little and scared of the dark or thunder storms. Great idea on the note cards!

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  23. I have the fear of flying too! My sweet husband is from Australia though, so I really have no choice but to fly. Medication when needed is really a very good thing.
    I still will not fly away for a couples weekend and leave the children. I will however drive somewhere for a couples weekend, and I know that that is irrational!
    "I can do all things through HIM that strengthens me"

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  24. In 2004 I traveled to the Ukraine to minister in orphanages and baby homes. One of the ladies I traveled with was terrifeid of flying. These are some of the verses that we passed along to her and used in prayer.

    "For God didnot give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline."
    (2 Timothy 1:7)
    "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you...Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27)
    "And we know that in all things God works for good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28)
    "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace" (Ps. 29:11)

    *My Favorite-the whole Psalm!* "I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth..." (Psalm 121)

    I hope that these help. I will be praying while you travel for peace and comfort!

    Ashley

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  25. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27

    I will be praying for you!

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  26. It's going to be so worth it! To get to spend time with great friends. I'll be praying for you.

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  27. …and somewhere out there in Bible study land there is another woman learning to better share her faith with others and realizing she could have done better with you.

    Jesus walked...angels did the flying

    terri(daisybox)

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  28. "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

    Psalm 91:11

    I will be praying for you when you are in the air!

    Can't wait to see you tomorrow~

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  29. I have always been fearful of certain things as a child --sleeping in my room alone- my mother would always tell me Psalm 4:8, now each night with my 4 year old we pray it over him as to not have scary dreams- his fear.. He also has memorized 2 Tim. 1:7 For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and love and a sound mind. Also the Joshua 1:9 in someone elses post we have down by memory. The medication will help!!! but also have these words in your heart.
    I love your blog, have never commented and want to build you up as I am trying to teach my 4,2 and unborn boys!!

    You will have an awesome time once you get there!! THe pearl and Ruby's are to sweet too!!

    Smythe Casiano rafaelandsmythe@tampabay.rr.com

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  30. I was in a bible study that actually took a seminar together about using spanking as a "Lord's discipline". I declined and they never understood what my "problem" was. I never regretted it:) I used this verse on my blog a wile back. I am not sure if it has to do w/ flying but it definately reminds me that we are not alone. It has gotten me through some very "testing" times."The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

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  31. Kim,

    Oh... I completely understand the fear of flying. As a matter of fact, when I told my husband I wanted to adopt from China, he said he would only do it if I came with him.

    (He was thinking there was NO WAY I'd fly half-way around the world when I couldn't get on a plane for a few hours.)

    HA! He was wrong. It's a good thing he wanted another child too!

    Honestly I don't know how I did it... maybe I didn't really do it myself. I had help. (and Xanax) David called me his carry-on luggage.

    I visualized for a full year (EVERY DAY) about getting on that plane, taking off, relaxing on the plane, what I would think about, what I would do, how I would handle situation A or B, and landing. I repeated phrases in my mind. Calming verses. It helped.

    I have a good friend who loves to fly. She treats it like a vacation. She dresses up, brings nice luggage. She loves it. When I would visualize myself I would picture myself with that same attitude. I dressed up... I brought nice luggage. Fake it 'til you make it, I guess.

    Believe it or not, it worked. I did fairly well on that plane. I even enjoyed part of it! (That may have been the Xanax)

    I have my Emeili. It was worth it.

    Although I agree Faith does help with fears, remember that we were made human!! Don't be too hard on yourself for having fears!

    I will pray for peace on the plane.

    Color with the kids too... mindless and it works! You will do GREAT and have a wonderful time!! I'm thinking of you!! Casey

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  32. Everyone's given such great verses and quotes already. I'm going to have to go back and write them down for myself! :o)

    I don't think anyone has given you this one yet. I love it and it can be used in COUNTLESS circumstances! It's become one of my favorites. :o)

    Because the Lord loves YOU! :o)

    Isaiah 43:2-4

    2 "When you pass through the waters,
    I will be with you;
    and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
    When you walk through the fire,
    you will not be burned;
    the flames will not set you ablaze.
    3 For I am the LORD, your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;
    I give Egypt for your ransom,
    Cush [a] and Seba in your stead.

    4 Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
    and because I LOVE YOU..."

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  33. Hi Kim,
    Proverbs 3:5-6 came to mind, but I see someone has already posted that. I found your blog through Diana's and love to read both of them daily. I also have two biological boys and we just returned from China last September with our daughter. I love seeing all the pictures of your 3 peanuts - they are just too cute!!
    Good luck on the flight!!

    Wendy S.
    Colorado

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  34. I give you credit my friend. You are inspiring to me. To concur our fears is a scaring thing.

    Have a good weekend.

    Lea
    xo

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  35. What a great post, you are so correct in that we're each on our own journey at our own time. What a wonderful trip you will have, I've followed the Pearl and Ruby as well. When I fly I always where my St. Christopher's necklace my Dad gave me, it gives me such a sense of peace. I also recite the Lord's prayer during take off. I think you'll find the xanax is also a big help. I hope you have a great trip, thanks for sharing your fears, you're definitely not alone.

    Karen

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  36. I love to follow your blog and so admire you for being so open and honest. No scriptures from me....just prayer!

    Can't wait to hear about your trip.

    Peggy

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  37. How fun for you to go see Diana, Ruby & Ainsley. You better take an extra photo card, because you know we'll be wanting to see pictures, pictures & pictures! :-)

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  38. Thank you for the link to the China trip...Our family has been struggling with what to do about that...my 2 oldest really want to go, but I don't think my younger 2 would do well and I can not fathom being away from them for 2 weeks!...We are thinking and praying about me staying home and Mike and the older girls going. It will be really hard to do this(for me), but we have to do what is best for our whole family---I agree 100% with you on that! Each situation is different.

    Thanks!

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  39. What an appropriate post for me to read. I was never afraid to fly until last summer. We are adopting and recently switched from China to Kyrgysztan which is two trips just about as far as China! I get so nervous at times about the flying, I wonder how I will get my baby and we BOTH have to travel. I am taking in all these scriptures as well. Patricia patricstein@yahoo.com

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  40. Kim - Here are a few of my favorites:

    Isaiah 26:3
    You will keep in perfect peace
    him whose mind is steadfast,
    because he trusts in you.

    I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

    But perfect love drives out fear. 1 John 4:18

    Also - go to Biblegateway.com and search peace and fear - you will be blessed!

    Praying you through -
    Marianne

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  41. I'm sorry if someone already posted this, but I don't have time to read through all the comments. :-) Here is a verse that I hope will comfort you on the plane:

    Do not be anxious about anything. But in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philipians 4:6-7

    I will be praying for you! Safe travels.

    M.

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  42. Kim,
    I have a deep fear of flying also. On our last trip in April I took along my ipod and had downloaded some favorite uplifting spiritual songs that really helped, especially during takeoff (which is especially difficult for me). The music helped me focus on something other than the noise surrounding takeoff and did help ease my stress (along with LOTS of praying!).
    I will pray for you at your flight time (email me!). I had some MOPS moms do this for me and it really helped to know they were praying at that exact moment.
    Laura

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  43. Kim,
    I can relate to your fear of flying. The xanax will help take the edge off. My doctor perscibes it for me before a trip, and we travel a few times a year. I take it about 20 minutes before getting on the plane. Don't feel badly about it. I have a strong faith, and I get frustrated with myself for worrying about flying. I really like psalm 91. It helps me to read how we are given security under God's protection. I also keep my rosary close at hand.
    I'll be thinking of you.

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  44. Kim, I am so sorry that you had to endure those words from such a lofty person who thought she was so close to God that she totally MISSED ministry opportunities. Psalm 20:7 "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Don't trust in that plane, trust the Lord.
    Psalm 31:14 "But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God."
    Psalm 91:2 "I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
    Psalm 115:11 "You who fear him, trust in the LORD—he is their help and shield."
    You cannot go wrong with Psalms
    HAVE FUN!!!!

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  45. Kim I am just so sorry that woman got under your skin. Its so sad that others sometimes are so critical and think they have ALL the answers and are supreme. Especially on the biting issue. ugh! I never see Jesus acting so supreme. I see him washing others feet before his own.
    I will pray you have peace the day of your travels. So many have already left such wonderful verses. I will just say I love the entire 91 psalm. It brings me comfort.
    Love
    Connie

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  46. I have a few anxiety triggers as well..some small, some seem overwhelmingly huge. Some of my favorite verses during these times are Phillipians 4:13,Romans 8:28-39,Psalm 27,and Second Timothy 1:7. It's nothing to be ashamed of. Speaking of having no shame ;), I adored Kates nakey pics. Too funny. Oh, to be so young..so innocent..so carefree..so adorable naked.

    Gin =)

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  47. Kim~ my favorite two authors in the bible are John and Isaiah. John 14:27 has been quoted here several times so I wanted to give you a verse from Isaiah 41:13

    "For I am the LORD, your God,
    who takes hold of your right hand and says to you,
    Do not fear; I will help you."

    God will be holding your hand and whispering that to you as you begin your journey. I'll be praying for you all. Enjoy your trip!
    Kim and Katiebug

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  48. My sister lived in Africa for three years and the Muslims often said, "In God's Hands." To everything.

    As a devout Christian, I think of that statement a lot. It gets me through everything.

    I am in God's hands. And it is comforting to know that. Have fun on your trip.

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  49. That lady sucks!
    Anyway, I'm glad you are working thru your fear of flying - I personally have some issues with fear too - and I (with God's help) am working thru them as well.

    good idea, writing down scriptures...it'll help.
    I'll also be praying for safe travels for you, sweet friend!

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  50. When anything "worldly" makes me feel as if I am lacking in faith, I just remember that God created us and he created our world. All of our seemingly negative human traits (fear, lust, greed, doubt, mortality, etc.) were "hard wired" into our fabric by God himself!

    I think that God intends for us to face struggles. He also intends for us to FEEL lots of emotions while we are here on this earth. This is not our time to be perfect -- this is our earthly life and it would not be as rich and precious without a healthy dose of conflict.

    Kim, God has offered you an opportunity to take this first step to overcoming your fear of flying. But do not feel ashamed. Your fear is not a "flaw." This is just one of the struggles that were intended for you! You are in God's hands, but he also expects you to take an active role in this challenge. So far, I would say you are doing a GREAT job by reaching out to your friends for support!

    Good luck! Everything will be fine!

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  51. Wow - That story made my blood boil! No words that would keep me from sinning if I commented on her. :)

    What I love about God, is that He only asks for faith the size of a mustard see to walk with Him.... And, I know yours is so much bigger than that!!!! I love how God is using you here to share your journey. What a gift you have been given!!!

    We at the "Pearl and the Ruby" know that you are taking a huge step in getting on that plane. But, we also know that so many people will be lifting you up including all of us. We look forward to celebrating with you when you get here!!!!

    Blessings my friend!

    Love,
    Diana

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  52. Our preacher's wife is in Israel right now. One week before she left she was saying how afraid she was to fly. I'm sure she is as good of a Christian as any body I know. So I can't agree with this lady at all. Get some medicine and sleep through the flight! It won't make you any less Christian. : - )

    Sandra
    www.sammynmick.com

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  53. I had a tough time reading this, Kim. I can only imagine how it has bothered you. I agree with your thoughts and feel that it really is the journey...I hope you know that you have an eloquent way of putting your thoughts into words. I will look forward to the post after you fly.

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  54. I had a tough time reading this, Kim. I can only imagine how it has bothered you. I agree with your thoughts and feel that it really is the journey...I hope you know that you have an eloquent way of putting your thoughts into words. I will look forward to the post after you fly.

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  55. Hey Kim! Here's a favorite verse of mine: "When I am afraid, I will trust in You." Ps. 56:3

    The rest of the chapter is great too, but I think that about sums it up! (And it's easy to remember and meditate on.)

    Hope you have a terrific vacation and that we can get together soon.

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  56. Hi Kim,

    I've loved your blog for so long. I think it was mentioned, but I LOVE Psalm 121--the whole thing. I put it in my daughter's life book, too. In my Bible I have highlighted "He will watch over your life." I know you can look back over your life (as we all can) and see evidence of this and of His faithfulness. What a sweet, loving, sovereign God we have. He's amazing.

    Love,
    Ginny--mommy to Grace (Guangdong Province)

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  57. Wow. You have a lot of prayers coming your way. That should help a bit. Can't wait to hear about it.

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  58. Well, your story about this lady makes me quite sad......
    but Harry's precious heart, the prayers and Jesus answering is oh, so happy! I am proud of you and what a wittness it will be to your Harry of God's faithfulness.....
    I want to share with you... Psalm 91 and
    "You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You."
    "Be still, and know that I am God."
    Ok, I can't remember where they are in the Bible... but let me know if you want me to look them up for you I will...
    I will pray for you my friend....
    He is with you and you can do this!

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Thank you for your kindness.