For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)
My mom told me I had the ability to talk using somewhat proper sentence structure when I was only eighteen months of age. To this day, I credit her for my expansive vocabulary and love of reading. But walking was another thing. “She just won’t let go,” my mom would say, shaking her head, when her friends asked why I couldn’t walk without clutching the furniture or holding tightly on to someone’s hand. My fear of falling was greater than the joy of independence. Eventually, I did let go and experienced the freedom that comes with independent mobility.
Years later, I thought about my challenge as a toddler, and the disciple Peter immediately came to mind. When Jesus summoned him to join Him on the dark, murky waters, Peter didn’t hesitate. He had no fear. “So He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus” (Matthew 14:29). Peter didn’t question Jesus or waffle about whether the water was too deep, too cold, or just plain scary. He took a leap of faith. And whatever fears he had disappeared when he saw the Lord’s outstretched hand.
Jesus is calling us to do things we could never imagine ourselves doing—if only we conquer our fears. I know the spirit of fear is not by His design. We overcome through His love. What are your fears? Starting a business? Flying in an airplane? Writing a book? Whatever they are, know that Jesus is at the end of it, saying “Come” with outstretched arms.
Faith Step: Admit your fear to a prayer partner and ask him or her to pray that Jesus help you conquer it. It may take time, but remember He is with you every step of the way.
