Dear Friends,
After many hours of praying, journaling, and reading the word I finally figured out what to write about: Stepping Out In Faith.
Stepping out in faith sounds easy,but it means leaving the comfort zone you have became so use to and facing our fears. Yes, it can be very scary, but God has been teaching me that when you step out in faith your stepping into a life of adventure and learning to trust God fully.
Isaiah 41:10(NLT) “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Here are some of the reasons why I was hesitant about stepping out of the boat for the world race:
-Fear of the unknown.
-Leaving what is familiar such as; my home, job, family, friends, and my every day life.
-Doubting God can provide.
– I didn’t think I was prepared enough.
-I didn’t think I was knowledgeable enough about the bible to be used.
I know everyone has fears. They might look a little different than mine do.Now that I have fully put my trust all in God these doubts that I once had went away.I am learning how to trust in Jesus fully.I’m not going to lie, sometimes these fears try to slip back in my head but I try to read the word and find passages that speak truth into those areas that im struggling in.
In Matthew, Peter had to step out in faith.
Matthew 14:28-32 Then Peter called to him, “Lord,if it’s really you,tell me to come to you,walking on the water””Yes,come,”Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.But when he saw the strong wind and the waves,he was terrified and began to sink.”Save me Lord!”Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said.“Why did you doubt me?”
I believe this is a challenge to each of us.Do we have the faith to step out of the boat when Jesus tells us to? Or are we scared of what could happen? Are we scared we are going to fail? I think it’s time to stop over thinking and have faith. Faith is like a muscle.Each time we use it, we get stronger and stronger.Are you willing to live your life in comfort and live your life afraid of change? The israelites forgot how God delivered them from egypt and provided them a way of escape through the Red Sea.When they did arrive at their new land they complained that they wouldn’t have enough food to eat, Surely God provided them with what they would needed. Their lack of faith kept them stuck.Exercise your faith friends and don’t stand on the sidelines.
Stepping out in faith can open doors for us that we couldn’t ever have imagined before.I think God is speaking to all of us but are we willing to answer?
It could be as simple as smile at someone, sharing your faith with your friend or even a stranger, going on a mission trip, or praying with someone. It will look different to everyone.When you step out to do something God has called you to do he will not leave you.He goes to those very paces with you.
Matthew 28:20 “..and surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
We were created to do something magnificent.Within each of us is a plan more glorious than anything we have ever known. Fear is what separates us from it and from the love of God. It captures us and tells us that our tiny corner is safe and warm and rewarding. We are convinced that instead of daring to be bold, we should be quiet and reserved and let someone else do the talking. It’s much better that way.I mean what do we have to offer?WRONG! I have believed this lie for far too long. I stayed quiet. I would never talk at bible study because I believed I didn’t have anything to offer.I thought I wouldn’t make a difference if I did speak up. It took years to realize that was not true. Thank goodness I finally realized it, I wish it was sooner but God’s timing is perfect.
We have so much to offer. We need to step out more and claim the calling God has placed on our lived. We need to shout his love from the mountain top.We need to radically love everyone.
Also I say to you again-JESUS WON’T LET YOU FALL!
I challenge you all to step out in your faith. Don’t just say you believe in Him- Trust in him.Trust that his every move is one that will strengthen you, help grow you, and draw your heart near to him(If you let it). Be courageous friends, and walk on water even WHEN the wind picks up.
Much love,
Lindsey Brown
