Throughout my life, I have dealt with a spirit of fear. My fears were like giants in the land, my land, and my life. They were holding me back from the fullness of life we are promised by Jesus. My weapons against the spirit of fear are the Word of God and prayer.

My husband and I moved to South Carolina three years ago. The highway traffic was shocking to me with multiple lanes, higher speeds than I am accustomed to driving, and vehicles changing lanes like they are NASCAR drivers. My fear level, as far as driving on the highway was concerned, skyrocketed, and I was not going to put myself on those roads. I will say my fears are not completely unfounded with SCDOT posting on the highways the death rate for accidents for the year.

However, I had a problem that this fear was hindering me as to where I could go. In May, I received an invitation from a speaker to attend his conference in South Carolina, which was located on the opposite side of the state from where I live. To attend this conference, I needed to drive on the highway, which meant facing this fear head-on. So, I went to the Word of God for the courage to overcome this fear.

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13 (NASB)

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” – John 14:27 (NASB).

“Even though I walk through the valley of death (or the highway in my case), I fear no evil; for Thou art with me.” – Psalm 23:4 (NASB)

As I get in my vehicle to drive, I PRAY!!!! I thank Jesus that He is with me as I drive, as in Psalm 23. I pray for a hedge of protection around my vehicle, that I will be alert as I drive, and that His angels will have charge over me and my vehicle. I have peace as I drive because He gives us His peace, as in John 14:27. I arrived at the conference; it was a four-hour drive, and all was well! The enemy was defeated that was holding me back from going where God was sending me. I thank God that He is faithful, He goes with us, and understands our weaknesses. He provides His word to encourage us to stand up against the enemy and our flesh that would prevent us from being and doing all He has called us to do.

When you are facing the battleground of fears that are holding you back in life, go to the Word of God and pray. It is also helpful to recruit other believers to stand with you and pray as you face your fears head-on.

Meet Shirley Bonazza, a soulful worship leader with roots as deep as the Pittsburgh soil she was born and raised on. From the tender age of 14, Shirley has strummed her guitar strings, weaving melodies that reach the heavens. For over two decades, she harmonized with her late husband, both on guitar and bass guitar, as they ushered congregations into the presence of God.

Nine years ago, Shirley found love again, marrying Patrick and embarking on a new chapter of life together. Their journey led them to the serene landscapes of Goose Creek, South Carolina, where they now call home. Here, Shirley continues her musical ministry, lending her talents to the worship team at their local church.

But Shirley’s devotion extends beyond the realm of music. For the past decade, she has served as a prophetic intercessor, standing in the gap for multiple ministries and prayer teams. With a heart attuned to the whispers of the Holy Spirit, Shirley channels divine guidance and intercedes on behalf of others with unwavering faith.

In every note she plays and every prayer she utters, Shirley Bonazza embodies a steadfast commitment to worship and spiritual warfare, enriching the lives of those around her with her profound love for God and His people.