Step Forward
November 11th – It’s nearly impossible to me to comprehend what those soldiers faced as they put their lives on the line for our country. The amazing thing to me is how these soldiers still moved forward in the midst of fear.
What fears do you face today?
The fear of being a parent?
The fear of leaving a job?
The fear of being a leader?
The fear of sharing the Gospel?
The fear of pursuing a dream?
The fear of commitment?
The fear of being embarrassed?
The fear of rejection?
The fear of failure?
Do you know who these people are?
Shammua
Shaphat
Igal
Palti
Gaddiel
Gaddi
Ammiel
Sethur
Nahbi
Geuel
These are people who let fear cripple them from moving forward in life due to the emotion and belief that the uncertain results will cause them danger, pain, or harm. That feeling of anxiety and worry can come from simply not knowing how it will all turn out. Therefore, in the midst of fear many of us often stay in the same spot because it’s comfortable and safe.
The Psalms says “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”
It’s impossible to see how it’s all going to turn out which is why we have to learn how to trust God in the midst of fear. That’s where our courage, boldness and strength must come from. A theologian from the 1800’s said “Life is best understood backwards but must be lived forward”. Living forward in uncertainty requires us to fully depend on God as we need to trust Him every step of that way. It doesn’t mean it will all turn out the way you expect, but it does means He’s with you as you step forward. He will not give up on you and the Cross reminds us of that.
What if I added these two names to the list above…
Caleb
Joshua
We remember the ones who walked in courage and who didn’t let fear prevent them from moving forward in life
Fear makes us think about what if it doesn’t work out
Trust makes us think about what if it does