Phobia is the Greek word for fear. It refers to panic that is completely out of proportion to the perceived threat behind it. Fear has very paralysing effects.
We all fear something. For instance, fear of failure keeps people from trying anything risky; fear of rejection makes people afraid of doing anything that would draw criticism or ridicule. Yet, anything that is worthwhile and living by faith requires taking some risk - getting married, a new job, having a baby or starting a business.