posted on Friday, April 20, 2012
Fear—if we are honest with ourselves, much of our lives and decisions can be affected by fear. We fear much, both the known and the unknown. We spend dollars and time addressing our fears, running from them, or standing still because of them. As employees, students, fathers, wives, teachers, and coaches, we deal with our own fear and the fears of others.
Coach Thomas would condition his teams aggressively. Before practice he would list the schedule. As a player, you would check the conditioning entry before any other. Many days, it would instill fear as you knew you would face a difficult test of endurance. Yet, as you pushed through the drill, fear would dissipate and confidence would be revealed.
A key to overcoming that fear was faith in Coach. Faith that the work required and the circumstances faced were preparatory for the challenges ahead. There was a plan and leader who pushed past the fear and instilled confidence for facing the unknown. Fear dissipates when one is confident and secure that they are led according to a sure plan by a sure leader.
“Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 (AMP)
We need never fear. God has a plan and it is sure. He is with us, protects us, pushes us, and comforts us. We are led lovingly through all circumstances. We can proceed confidently through life because our God is with us. The Psalmist delivers a promise that is immutable and unqualified.
We are challenged to live in the light of this truth. To put aside fears of the past and to leave fear of the future for tomorrow. We are challenged to follow the Great Shepherd and trust His leadership. In every aspect of our life we are challenged to boldly proceed knowing that even the shadow of death falls when we are under His protection.
As a leader in your life, do you proceed fearlessly in pursuit of a sure plan? Do you impart a vision and inspire the work to get there? As a parent, at work, with your team? Above all, are you secure and confident in your relationship with God so that you proceed fearlessly through your life?
Be comforted by God’s promise to be with you in the hardest times. Move forward with the knowledge that your leader is there, knows what He is doing, and provides in the darkest of days. Impart to those you influence your fearless pursuit of a communicated goal and be blessed as fear dissipates and plans become fruitful.