Overcoming the Weapon of Fear – by Paige Snedeker

You’re in for a blessing as Paige Snedeker guest posts today about overcoming the weapon of fear.

If you’ve not read my interview with Paige, allow me to briefly introduce her to you. She is a talented illustrator and author. She’s written and illustrated two of her own picture books. Plus, she’s illustrated a book for Michelle Medlock Adams, titled I Love You the Mostest. Paige is kindly donating a copy of this picture book as a giveaway to one of you readers. Yay! We love giveaways here–especially books.

Writing or illustrating a children’s book is no easy feat. For Paige, the challenges have been extraordinarily great. She has a rare neurodegenerative disease she has dealt with for over twenty years. She and her brother, Tyson, have Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency (RTD) Type 2. Tyson’s twin brother passed away when Paige was nine years old. He also had RTD. Now, Paige and her family help raise awareness about RTD.

Paige is a warrior. She speaks from experience about overcoming fear.

Overcoming the Weapon of Fear

By Paige Snedeker

Life has been insane since the coronavirus hit back in March. The pandemic totally messed up my goals for the year. I had to postpone my plans to attend a writers’ conference in May. My hope to add more people to my nonprofit organization’s team was delayed. My secretary had to stop coming to work with me. I was without my writing hands.

For those of you who don’t know me, I am deaf, legally blind, in a wheelchair, and dependent on breathing assistance. This means the risk of getting the coronavirus was much higher and more dangerous. The world was in turmoil. Many people were dying. With all that was going on, I was forced to be isolated from almost everyone. My family didn’t know how to manage this unknown situation at first.

For three months, my life was at a standstill.

Before the Virus

Before the virus struck, I was doing incredibly well building my book. I was constantly writing with more confidence. After years of struggling, I finally felt more driven and motivated.

Writing had always been a battle for me. Getting the words down is a struggle since I need someone to type the words for me. However, I challenge myself to put forth my innermost fears through my work.

Then, the pandemic happened.

Fear of Failure

While I was away from writing, I felt like a failure. All that I had worked so hard for came to a halt. What was I to do? There was nothing I could do really. I had to wait, be patient, and keep trusting in the Lord.

One thing I have learned throughout my unique life is I can’t allow fear to overpower me and win. I can’t live my life in fear. With each trial, I must remember to stand up to my fears.

The Greatest Strength Wins

After dealing with each obstacle, I felt my mental strength grow stronger and stronger. In the midst of my weakness, I found the Source of true strength. The greatest strength I have ever found has come through Jesus Christ.

My reader, if you are struggling with drastic changes in your life, remember to never let your fear overpower you. You know where fear comes from. The devil. Fear is a very powerful weapon. We need to turn the weapon away from us and toward the enemy. Have the courage to beat the Prince of Fear. Allow the power of the Holy Spirit to flow within you, strengthening your mind, soul, and spirit. Once you overpower fear, you will win.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

More Encouragement & a Giveaway

Paige, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. You’re always an inspiration. Readers you can find more encouragement from Paige on her website and her Facebook Page.

Website: https://thepaigeproject.org/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ThePaigeProject/

As I mentioned earlier, Paige is eager to give one of you readers a free copy of the children’s book, I Love You the Mostest. It’s written by award-winning author, Michelle Medlock Adams. This picture book explores the special bond between a daughter and her daddy as they spend time together at the county fair. Paige used a technique called ‘mouthpainting,’ using stencils, textured paper, and collages to illustrate this special book.

How to Enter the Giveaway

You can get your name in the drawing for this book up to 3 times by doing any of the following:

1. Leave a comment below. (= 1 entry)
2. Visit Paige’s website and watch the 49-second video “Meet Paige.” (= 1 entry)
3. Visit Paige’s Facebook page and mention you read her article here. (= 1 entry)

*If you visit Paige’s website or Facebook page, mention that in your comment.

For each avenue you choose to participate in from the list above, you will have your name entered in the drawing for the free children’s book.

The winning name will be randomly drawn from the entries on Sept. 25, 2020.

WE HAVE A WINNER! Congratulations to Barbara L. of Georgia!