Now this story may be just a little bit tongue-in-cheek, but I would like to speak to any and all cowards out there, those of you who judge that you need more courage in your day-to-day life. So here’s the question: How does one overcome fear? Well, maybe this simple story will illustrate a principle.

I read this posted on a wall at the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station in California. Take it for what it’s worth. While flying from Europe to Dubai the following conversation was overheard across a military frequency:

Air defense site: “Unknown aircraft, you are in Iranian airspace. Identify yourself.”

Aircraft: “This is a United States aircraft. I am in Iraqi airspace.”

Air defense Site: “You are in Iranian airspace. If you do not depart our airspace, we will launch interceptor aircraft.

Aircraft: “This is a United States Marine Corps FA-18 fighter. Send ‘em up. I’ll wait.”

Air Defense site: (silence)

Now, there are those that would call this arrogant, but I prefer to think of it as confident, as decisive, as firm! But, that’s beside the point.

The principle illustrated by this story was taught by the Lord when he said, “…if ye are prepared, ye shall not fear.” (DC 38:30).

Fear, my friends, is overcome by preparation to the best of our ability and then faith in the Almighty to make up the difference. If you would conquer your fear, prepare for your fear! – and you can beat it.