September 18, 2023

"Fear is the gatekeeper to purpose and strength.”

 How do you react to fear when stepping out in faith or living boldly? Everyone has their unique way. Many respond by retreating to safety, one of the most dangerous places to live. Dale Carnegie once said, “Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”

You will not be more courageous and learn to live boldly by avoiding your fears. Courage is strengthened with every step of faith, no matter how small. Each step of obedience creates momentum that breaks through the stronghold of fear. Fear and faith are two opposing forces. If you consider what might happen if you step out in faith, you must also consider what will happen if you play it safe and don’t.

The fact is, we all experience fear. The real problem is not the idea that something is fearful; the real problem lies behind the tension of the fear. If we choose to live by faith – over and over and over again- this consistency develops a core confidence and direction fueled by internal awareness.

Know that when you come face-to-face with fear, you are looking at the next place you are being prepared to grow. To embrace this, put the fear of failure or intimidation aside and take your step of faith. Embrace the wise words by Madeline L’Engle, “We have to be braver than we think we can be because we are constantly being called to be more than we are.”

Intentionally Own It Reflection: Where are you being led to "step out to find out?" What inspires you to let faith be your guide and fuel?