letting go of the fear

Why is it so hard letting go of fear? It is a paralyzing kind of feeling and when it takes hold- it swallows me up- making it very hard to get away from it and feel calm again. I am working at 'believing' and opening my heart sending love into the world and sharing with the world- yet the fear creeps back in- undoing my work.
I think I need to really make an effort at meditating every day to reach my inner flame and open my heart more- perhaps that would work? Any suggestions dear brothers and sisters?
Blessings to you all <3 Jan