Two of our biggest fears are: failure and criticism. And they never completely go away. We can overcome them for a time, but they’ll often show up when we face our next challenge. Yet when we accept fear as part of life’s journey instead of running from it, we can learn to grow stronger through it. When we feel anxious, God says to us, ‘Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.’ So we need to trust Him, and get out of our comfort zones. But that can be easier said than done. Entering a new year, we can have lots of ideas about how we’re going to change things and do things differently over the year, how we’re going to embrace our God-given calling or use our God-given skills, how we’re going to serve in new ways or finally get round to talking to a friend about our faith, or how we’re going to rebuild a relationship that’s broken down. But then the fear of failing or being criticised by others creeps in, and we can talk ourselves out of doing all those things. This was like when Peter walked on water. ‘Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink’ (Matthew 14:29-30 MSG). But Jesus saved Him. And when we step out and then become fearful, He’ll save us too. We just need to trust Him and take that step in the first place. So let’s make 2018 the year that we take the risk and step out of our comfort zones.

What Now?

What things do you want to do for God this year? Spend some time talking to God about them all, and ask for His strength and courage to step out and take a risk.