Is Fear Holding You Back?
The McClures’ Inspiring Story Behind “I Belong to Jesus”
The story of Paul and Hannah McClure is a testament to the transformative power of faith, even in the darkest of times. Worship leaders and songwriters, the couple recently shared their journey on Family Life Radio, detailing the emotional and spiritual challenges they faced during a season that included a miscarriage and a life-threatening medical emergency.
“Fear is just a part of life,” Paul McClure said, challenging the notion that fear is something to be shunned or suppressed. Fear is a natural human emotion, even when you’re walking with God. Instead of feeling ashamed or trying to suppress it, we can acknowledge it. It takes away the stigma that sometimes comes with admitting you’re afraid, especially in faith communities.
This is a liberating perspective, especially for those of us who have been taught that fear and faith can’t coexist. But as Paul pointed out, “Psalm 23 says, ‘When I walk through the valley,’ it’s not if I walk through the valley, it’s ‘when I walk through the valley, I will fear no evil because you are with me’” (Psalm 23:4 paraphrased).
The Power of Authentic Worship
The McClures’ song “I Belong to Jesus” was born out of a season of intense pain and fear. “It was a real thing for us right then,” Paul said, “because [Hannah] was actively miscarrying during this writer’s retreat.”
The song captures the raw emotions they were feeling, making it an authentic form of worship. “You can tell with songs when someone’s singing something that’s authentic, that is real, you feel the power and the anointing on that,” Paul added.
Authenticity in worship is a powerful form of ministry. As Jesus said in John 4:24, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (NKJV). When we are genuine in our relationship with God, it not only resonates with us but also serves as a testimony to others.
The McClures found comfort and strength in leaning into their relationship with God during their darkest moments. Psalm 23 became a cornerstone for them, a reminder that even in the valley of the shadow of death, God is with us.
When you’re going through tough times, let God’s promises be your anchor.
Open Conversations About Fear
One of the most striking aspects of the McClures’ story is their willingness to talk openly about their fears. “I just feel fear,” Paul said, challenging the notion that we should hide or suppress our fears, especially within the church.
By talking openly about their experiences, they create space for others to do the same. Open conversations can be healing and can help you see your challenges from a new perspective—God’s perspective.
Hannah added, “Everyone feels that fear at some point and that’s just our brain. Like when I’m in the ICU, the Lord’s not expecting me to not feel fear when I wake up alone wondering what’s happening. He doesn’t expect me to be perfect and not experience emotions because He’s kind, and He knows that I’m a human.”
Turning Pain into Purpose
The McClures turned their painful experience into a song that has touched many lives. “It kind of became our anthem,” Hannah said, “but realizing everyone can relate to this and hopefully gain strength, just being like, ‘here’s the fear’ and giving it back to the Lord.’”
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (NIV).
We can all find ways to turn our pain into purpose –
Whether it’s through sharing our testimony, helping others going through similar trials or simply leaning into God’s plan for us.
Victory Over Fear
Heather said, “Not just the acknowledgment of the fear, but the acknowledgment of [God’s] power, and this isn’t going to conquer me right in that moment.”
The song ends on a note of victory, a declaration that fear will never conquer us because we belong to Jesus. “Just that sense of victory,” Hannah said, “through a difficult season.” No matter what you’re going through, victory is possible through Jesus.
The McClures’ story serves as a beautiful example of how God can turn even our most painful moments into powerful testimonies of His love and grace.
When the rain fell, when the floods came
When the wind blew, I was ok
‘Cause You were right there, You’re in every step I take
When the night falls, when my heart aches
If I stumble, I will not break
You’ll be right there, You’re in every step I take …
So, the next time you find yourself in a valley, remember to embrace fear as a part of life, lean into authentic worship, open up conversations about your fears, turn your pain into purpose and claim your victory in Jesus. Because, as Paul and Hannah remind us, “fear will never conquer us because we belong to Jesus.”
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