My family and I had a great time this past week at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. We enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the ocean and the beach. This year, while there I wanted to do something a little more adventurous. I decided to climb a 75-foot tower and race down a 900-foot zipline! As I climbed up the never-ending stairs of the massive tower, I began to doubt myself. Finally, I made it up to the top and looked down. I began to think “This is crazy! I should not have done this. Will this zipline hold me? Is my gear on correctly?” These daunting questions made it difficult for me to leap out and take the plunge. I literally was standing there for several minutes, becoming overwhelmed with fear, and talking myself out of the new and fun experience I was about to have. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Apostle Paul admonishes, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.”
When God wants to do something new in you and in your life, it may make you feel fearful or uneasy. Doubts may swarm your mind. However, that’s when faith must kick in. We must overcome our fears by trusting in God. In Psalm 28:7, David proclaims, ”The Lord is my strength and shield; I trust him with all my heart. He helps me and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of Thanksgiving.”
PEOPLE ARE WAITING ON YOU
I was not alone in this adventurous endeavor, my 10-year-old daughter was right beside me. She was afraid like I was, but she made a statement that gave me courage. “Mommy when you go, I will go.” That’s when I stepped out and went down the zipline. A few seconds later, she followed me. You see, your new beginning is connected to people. Your children, spouse, and others need you to lead by example. If they see you obeying God and conquering challenges, they will have a positive model to follow. Let us not forget that we are called to make a difference in the lives of people around us. Apostle Paul urges in Titus 2: 7, “Always set an example for others by doing good actions. Teach with integrity and dignity.”
PRAY THIS PRAYER :
“Father I will praise you for being El Shaddai, the Almighty God. You are powerful, wonderful, and magnificent. I ask that you continue to give me courage and strength to step out and obey your leading, especially when it is not easy. Lord, when doubts try to overtake my thoughts, please remind me that you will never leave me or forsake me. Fill me with your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me to be a Godly example and bring glory to your name. I know that I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. In Jesus’ name I pray – Amen.”
