Have you ever cancelled plans based on something that might happen? I have several times. As mentioned in previous posts, I strongly dislike driving in heavy rain. It’s less of a debilitating fear and more of an over-precaution. So, today my entire plans were hijacked due to the possibly of a severe storm. Weeks ago, I scheduled my dog for a grooming appointment. The shaggy, curly look is cute but he was smelling sort of funky. I reminded him of the upcoming appointment for days. In addition to this, I planned to meet my sister and go shopping while waiting for the completion of the grooming. As the day approached, turbulent weather loomed in the forecast. I ignored the warnings knowing full well how the weather changes from day to day in North Carolina. Finally, the day arrived with a light mist falling as previously predicted by weathermen. Not only was there a 70% chance of rain, the forecast included possible hail, strong winds, and a severe storm watch for the mid-afternoon into the evening. This time frame directly coincided with the time that I’d be returning home. I lay in my bed pondering whether or not get up or change my plans. There was no way that I’d pay for my dog’s grooming only to have him get soaking wet and muddy. Also, shopping in the rain is miserable. It goes without saying that driving in hailstorms is ten times worse that driving in the rain. I refreshed the weather page hoping that it would change in those short few moments. Naturally, it did not. I sadly decided to cancel my plans. I’d give my sweet doggie a bath myself and reschedule the shopping trip. Better on the safe side. As I type this post, it is well into the late evening and not a single hailstone has fallen. It sprinkled for a mere five minutes. My entire day was unhinged at the chance of inclement weather.
How often do we apply the same attitude to future goals? We look at all the ways that our plans can fail. We calculate the risks or over-analyze each step. One might call it fear and another may say it’s being overly cautious. Some may even venture to say its preparation and wisdom. Whatever it’s called, the result is inactivity. A pastor once said “The true root of the fear of failure is pride”. What will people think if we start that business and it goes bankrupt? How can I lead a small group when I’m imperfect and make mistakes? Will the risk really be worth it? The Bible says, “He who observes the wind will not sow”. But how often are we told by the world that “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”? Now, don’t get me wrong! We shouldn’t just live recklessly jumping from one venture to the next. But, sometimes God wants us to stretch our faith muscle and take the risk. He may show us the first two steps. He may place an inescapable nag in your spirit to try a new thing. It’s His way of seeing if we really trust Him. In addition, He wants to see if we’ll utilize the gifts that He’s given us. When we are faithful with two talents, then He’ll bless us with more.
So, what is that thing weighing heavily on your heart? Does it seem too risky? I want to challenge you to step out in faith. If it’s on your heart, then know that God has fully equipped you. He will walk with you. He’ll hold your hand so that if you stumble you won’t fall. Ignore the looming storm clouds and focus on Him. Don’t let the circumstances discourage you from taking a chance.
Be encouraged! :)
Written by: Christa Martina
FB Page: See Martina Write
Scripture References: Ecclesiastes 11: 4, 6 (ESV) “He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap…In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand, for you do not know which will prosper, this or that, or whether both alike will be good.”
Psalms 37:24 (NLT) “Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
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