Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue… Isaiah 35:4 (GNB) What if you were to sit and ponder on what causes you to be afraid, no time like the present….close your eyes take some deep breaths, silence your thoughts, and ponder. What was the first thing that popped into your mind? Maybe it was losing a loved one,or not being able to provide. What about failure,or not being able to live up to others expectations, or maybe it was the unknown. Yes, the unknown can cause some to be afraid. You can’t plan,or fix what you don’t know is coming… like this pandemic. There are some who are battling with fear, anxiety, being overwhelm,and the unknown. So, what do they do? What do you do? During these times of uncertainty…. having to just focus on day by day living. How do you conquer being afraid? Let’s look at Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, and his experience (Matthew 14:22-30). Can you imagine sitting on a boat and seeing a person walking on water? Would you be afraid? Well the disciples were and they made it known… “and they cried out in fear”. But, immediately Jesus spoke “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” After Jesus spoke…. Peter asked to come out to Him on the water. It was after he heard Jesus speak that Peter gained the courage to ask to come. When you acknowledge that you are afraid.... regarding a situation or circumstance….what are your next steps? Do you cry out like the disciples? Do you listen for Jesus’s voice? When you hear Jesus' voice does it give you courage and strength...like Peter? Peter was able to have a moment unlike anyone by crying out to Jesus, gaining courage to step out of the boat, and walk on water. Here is the thing, even after having this amazing experience. He allowed the boisterous wind...to cause him to be afraid again….and he began to sink. Peter called out to Jesus again and immediately Jesus reached out and saved him. I encourage you today that no matter what is causing you to be afraid….cry out to Jesus, gain courage and strength, step out in boldness. Remembering that if you get afraid,even in the midst, you just have to call out to Jesus and he will save you….God is coming to your rescue….Be strong and don’t be afraid! Be Encouraged, Shaneen |
AuthorI pray by reading this blog that you will leave feeling inspired, encouraged, and motivated. Archives
January 2021
Categories |