Nothing to Prove by Jennie Allen
Week 3: Chapter 2 — Afraid
Read Chapter 2 of Nothing to Prove. Key passages: Psalm 27:1; 1 John 4:18; Isaiah 41:10.
Previewing Week 3 of Nothing to Prove
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
Beneath most striving, Allen argues, is a deeper current — fear — and until we name it, it will keep running our lives from the shadows.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Allen suggests that much of our striving and performing is rooted in fear — fear of failure, rejection, irrelevance, or being truly known. Does that ring true for you? What are you most afraid of when you stop performing?
2.Fear can be so familiar that it feels normal. What are the specific fears that tend to drive your decisions — in relationships, work, ministry, or parenting? Take a moment to name them honestly.
3.Allen points to 1 John 4:18 — 'Perfect love drives out fear.' How does the love of God actually displace fear, rather than simply coexisting with it? What does it look like to let love lead rather than anxiety?