One of my earliest memories as a child is standing on the end of a diving board staring at my father and big brother in the pool as they encouraged me to jump in. A family member captured the moment with a photo, and it shows me standing with my hands on my hips and head slanted to the side as I contemplated my next move. My four-year-old face expressed a combination of anticipation and terror. I wanted so badly to be in the pool, but the lawn chair sitting a few feet away appeared to be a safer option. I can sympathize with that little girl. I’ve felt the same way many times since.
God knew we would struggle with fear. In fact, “Do not fear,” is the most often repeated phrase in the Bible. Although fear is an everyday struggle, it’s paralyzing if not confronted. To face fear just means to move forward afraid. If we wait until we are no longer fearful, there is a good chance we will never progress. Fear has the potential to rob us of our callings. If we give in to fear, we will settle for less than God intended for us. There are multiple examples in Scripture of God’s people confronting fear to accomplish something extraordinary. Here are just a few:
- Moses faced fear when he accepted his call as leader of the Israelites. (Exodus 3:11)
- Nehemiah confronted fear to rebuild the wall in Jerusalem. (Nehemiah 2:4)
- Esther faced fear when she approached the king on behalf of her people and ultimately saved the Jews. (Esther 4:14)
- David confronted fear when he went face to face with Goliath. (1 Samuel 17:37)
- Mary and Joseph faced fear to parent the Messiah. (Luke 1:38)
- Paul confronted fear to carry the gospel to the Gentiles. (1 Corinthians 2:3-4)
Most worthwhile endeavors demand a degree of risk and courage. If we follow Jesus long enough, we can expect to be called upon to face our fears and step out in faith. Living a life of faith doesn’t mean we won’t ever fail. If we go out on a limb often enough, we probably will at times. But that’s not the point. The point is, as Christ follower’s we are free to move forward in faith, despite our fears, knowing if God has called us to do something, we can trust Him to care for us regardless of the outcome.
You might be glad to know, on that day at the pool so many years ago, I finally mustered the courage to jump in the water. Why?
I knew my father was in the water waiting to catch me.
So is yours.
What are you waiting for?
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
2 Responses
Was that when you lived in Nashville ?
Hi Lisa- No, the time I am referring to was in Corpus Christi.