Facing fear and moving forward

Last time we discussed taking one step of faith at a time on this journey of faith. I mentioned that fear is the biggest obstacle to taking that first step. So I thought I would share a time in my own life that I faced my fears head on and stepped out: I learned to swim at the age of 40. I know for some of you that is no big deal. But, I’m confident that there are others of you our there who know exactly what I’m talking about. I never learned to swim as a child, and grew up to be afraid of the water. After I had married and had children of my own, I made sure they took swimming lessons. They turned out to be great swimmers. But, there I was, sitting on the sidelines, while they and my husband enjoyed the pools, water parks, lakes, oceans, rivers, etc. They were like little fish. I finally got the nerve to take adult swim lessons. There were others like myself who were deathly afraid of the water, but with the patience of the instructor, we all learned to at least do a simple stroke to keep us afloat. I was very proud of myself that I had accomplished a goal that was long over due at the milestone age of 40. I will tell you now, that I am not a great swimmer, but I join in and really enjoy swimming. I share this story to let you know, you can face whatever it is that paralyzes you today. When you face one fear and learn that you can do it with God’s strength, it gives you courage to try other things and face other fears. Fear is something that doesn’t magically disappear when you become a follower of Christ, but it is something to be faced with His help. We will feel afraid at times, but we are never alone. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (NIV). Facing my fear of the water helped me later on when I decided to go to college at 48. There were struggles and other fears I had to face throughout that journey, but last May I graduated with honors from Liberty University. It was another goal I had set for myself when I left high school, that someday I would go to college.  Someday came and I am so glad I faced the fear of going back to school. Maybe that’s your fear today. or perhaps it something else. But be encouraged. You can do it! God Bless- Nancy