Facing Fears

I went ice skating last Thursday with Kurt and some friends. Lynn and Dale 'grew-up' in Wisconsin, and as most of you know, my husband, Kurt, is from Michigan. Well, I am from Georgia. Enough said.

I watched them glide effortlessly in and out among the other skaters while I shuffled (yes, you can shuffle on ice!), along the rink's outer border. You know. Just in case.

My friend, Lynn, at 60 years old, was jumping, spinning and skating backwards. I was in awe. The fact of the matter was since I had never learned as a child, I was just plum scared. Afraid of getting hurt.

Having pity on me, Kurt came along side me and took my hand. He gave simple instructions, and with the stability of a slight touch, I found my sea legs, whoops, I mean skate legs! I was bending into my knees, pushing off with one leg while taking a long glide with the other. It wasn't by any means a pretty sight, but I was skating! And as long as I didn't gather too much speed, I was comfortable and felt, well, safe and encouraged.

I thought how much our lives are like this...when we are fearful. We cling to what we consider safe and watch in envy those around us who are enjoying life! Living life! They are gliding along effortlessly. And here we are - stuck...just shuffling along. Around and around in the never-ending circle. That is until someone comes along side us and encourages us.

Do you have a vision for your life and want to do something greater than what you've been doing? Are you going to cling to the edge of the rink and watch everyone else go by, or will you be one of those rare individuals who glide out on the ice and refuse to live in fear?

May be you don't have a friend or even a family member who is willing to walk along beside you through your fear. Fear is always going to come against us, but I would encourage you to look beyond your fear and see a friend in Jesus. He is willing to hold you, touch you with the slightest touch to bring a sense of calm AND strength to face any fear that is holding you back from living your life to the fullest. Jesus tells us to take courage because of who He is!! He came to give us hope and the power to overcome - Refuse to yield to the fear and remain stuck! Take your first step of many this new year, and glide on toward joy and freedom!!

Philippians 4:13
New Living Translation (NLT)

"For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength."