“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 (ESV)
With both feet off the pedals, my little nephew flew down the hill on his bike hitting the bridge at the perfect moment to avoid the creek. His giggles and smiling face gave away the joy of the moment, and back up the hill he went for another thrill ride while his mom watched.
Brings back sweet memories from my tomboy years. Amazing how carefree and fearless I was – totally unafraid to tackle anything. Perhaps you can relate too; however, adulthood along with its responsibilities and sometimes traumatic events can easily sabotage fearless. Somehow we transition from carefree to worry, apprehension and over thinking. Not exactly the perfect way to enjoy the thrill of adventure.
Wonder what we miss by holding tight to caution and reservation versus trusting God?
Fear didn’t cause the prophetess Deborah to cower. She boldly delivered God’s word to warrior Barak that God’s plan was for him to take down Sisera the commander of Jabin’s army. Despite Deborah’s pronouncement of his ensured victory, Barak cowered. “If you will go with me, then I will go but if you will not go with me, I will not go, relented Barak. Not exactly how you would expect a warrior to respond, especially admitting his dependence on a woman. End result, Deborah went with Barak but the glory of defeating the enemy went to Jael, the wife of Heber.
Wow quite the riveting story – read it for yourself in Judges 4. Stark contrast of how fear can rob us of the victories God desires to give. We don’t want to land in the place of paralysis or cowering absorbed in fear. We don’t want to miss the thrill of an exciting adventure designed specifically for us. But if we buy into the fear lie, then we will watch as someone else celebrates the victory dance.
Undaunted, gutsy, brave….let those be the very words which describe our response to God’s invitation. Trusting in Him versus questioning our own abilities or trusting someone else. When we are tempted to cave into fear may we remember who is going before us, who is walking beside us and who is walking behind us. God is our constant companion whose character and reputation can be trusted.
Fearing public speak….step out of the comfort zone and honor God. Fearing standing on His truths…stand up and remain unmoveable bringing glory to God. Fearing failure…leave the results in His hands and trust completely that obedience will birth growth. Fearing_____________ you fill in the blank and then obey God’s voice. Trust in His truths and enjoy celebrating the victory dance.
“Father, You have challenged us to fear not and to trust You wholeheartedly. Help us to release our caution and lean into Your Word and obey regardless of the cost.”
For His Glory
Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life
trbccoffeebreak 
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