This week I did something scary.
First I signed up to be a member of U.S. Masters Swimming. I filled out the online form, paid my fee, and hit submit. And then I felt a bit sick to my stomach.
I had to do it, because I had to be a member before I could go to the South Dakota Masters Swimming website the next day and sign up for the swim meet on April 9. And then I felt even more sick.
What am I doing?! I’ve only been practicing since January. I’m not in the best shape (although I have improved). I’m scared!
But I will push past my fears and do this scary thing.
I’ll meet other swimmers. I’ll have fun watching other races. I’ll challenge myself in four events. I doubt I’ll win anything, but who knows? It could happen.
Tomorrow I fly to California for the Inspire Christian Writers Conference at Mount Hermon.
What am I doing?! Will I be able to share my writing project ideas clearly? Will my flights go well so I can meet some friends and get to the conference on time? Will everyone else be dressed better than me? Will they like my writing? I’m scared!
But I will push past my fears and do this scary thing.
I’ll spend time with other writers. I’ll get support and inspiration for my own writing and I’ll be able to encourage others. I’ll get a few days to really spend time with God and hear his direction for my book and other writing projects.
For the swim meet and the conference, I’m assuming the fear will turn into a sense of accomplishment once I get to the other side.
I have to keep that in mind when other scary opportunities come my way.
God will be with me, whatever I’m doing. He’ll be with you, too, dear reader, as you face your own scary thing.
That medical diagnosis? He’s there.
That cross-country move? He’s there.
That first date? He’s there.
That speech you have to give? He’s there.
No matter how scary it is (and you don’t have to pretend it’s not), God will help you and get you through it. Do it even though you’re scared.
I’ll make it through my scary things. I just hope I’m not shaking so hard at the swim meet that I fall off the starting block early.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10 NIV)
Do you have to face any scary things right now? How can focusing on God help you to get through them in spite of your fears?
I understand your fear! I love reading about how brave you’re being. I hope you have a great time at the writing conference. I’ve heard it’s a good one to attend! Cheering you on my friend!
Thanks, Susan! I think it’s going to be a great conference. My jitters should settle down once I get there. Praying you can push through any fears you have, too! ~Robyn
You will do a great job at anything you do!!! You are the greatest!!!!
Thanks, Mom! I appreciate the support! Love you! ~Robyn