Fear Not

 

Fear is a four-letter word that is small but to some is mighty.

Fear can stop some people dead in their tracks; they refuse to move, and they are glued to their spot.

Some individuals are afraid of heights, while others fear public speaking. Because of this fear, they are hesitant to try something new, such as taking a new job or volunteering.

For me, it is speaking to a group. I know what I want to say, but when I start talking, my mind is all over the place, and I stumble over my words, making me feel like I'm babbling incoherently. Public speaking is definitely outside my comfort zone.

I feel God has called me to tell my story; I thought it meant writing it, so when I sat down to write it, no words would come. "Okay, God, you want me to tell my story, but where are the words?"

A friend of mine informed me she wasn't going to continue on the committee we were a part of. I needed to move on, too. She mentioned a volunteer opportunity she was involved in and suggested I might like to help with data entry. I thought, "Why not? I have experience in that area." I called the volunteer coordinator, expecting to sign up for data entry, but before we hung up, I found myself volunteering as the Programs Coordinator.  

This new role requires me to attend events, sit at a table, hand out brochures, and provide information about Dementia. It also requires me to talk to people I have never met before and share my connection with Alzheimer's -- my story.  Talk about stepping way outside my comfort zone. This is it. You can't tell me that God has a sense of humor, showing me that He wanted me to share my story verbally, not in writing. 

Venturing outside my comfort zone and tackling something I'm afraid of has opened up numerous opportunities that I never would have experienced. For example, I had the chance to visit the State Capitol and meet with my Senator and Representative. Even though I didn't get to talk to them directly, I did talk to their assistants. Being at the Capitol, learning, watching, and sharing my story with others has pushed me a little further out of my comfort zone. 

Did I feel fear? Yes, however, I stepped out in faith and trusted God to give me the words to speak.  

God tells us that He did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7) God also tells us, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear what man can do to me." (Hebrews 13:6)

If God is asking you to do something that you are afraid of, remember that He will help you. He will grant you favor and provide you with whatever you need to do the job. Trust Him and see what He can accomplish through you.