Written by: Caleb Hoffman
I remember when I first learned how to skateboard. I was terrified! My friend was teaching me how to stand on the board. As I was starting to get the hang of it, he suddenly said, “Alright, now we’re going to start moving.” I paused for a moment, petrified. I gulped and began to move forward, but I immediately lost balance. By God’s grace, I landed on my feet. After some trial and error over the next few weeks, I began to move more confidently on my skateboard.
Now, skateboarding is one of my favorite things to do. Looking back, I can see that God used that experience to teach me something important. People often say, “Don’t be afraid, just trust God,” but it’s not always that simple for us. Being told by others not to be afraid doesn’t necessarily suddenly make one calm and confident. God has the power to conquer fear.
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Here, God is reminding us not only to have no fear, but He’s telling us why we should have no fear. He is faithful and trustworthy. He has split seas, moved mountains and calmed storms. If He can do such great things for others, then why not assume He will do equally great things in our lives? He can help us do well on our academics, provide for our financial needs and anything else we may face in life.
God promises to strengthen, help and uphold us. When He says something, He holds to His word (Numbers 23:19). He helped me face my fear of skateboarding. My challenge to you is to take God at His word and trust that He will do what He says He will do. Do not fear, for He is your God.