Hebrews 10:35
"Do not, therefore, fling away your fearless confidence, for it carries a great and glorious compensation of reward."
Fear can be gripping especially if it involves us moving forward.
A chance at a promotion can leave us stupefied wondering if we can handle the new job terms. Gosh, we could make a milestone mistake and be the laughing stock of the office especially for those who were past over for the job. How we are so hard on ourselves where God only sees promise!
It's funny, if God wants you somewhere, he'll keep knocking until you answer.
I had been a teacher for many years at a local private school. The school kept evolving to a special needs school as the years went by. I felt the tug of God's love from my heart to his ears. This pressure was the unique and satisfying experience I received when working with these kids.
I am certain now God wanted to expand the school to harbor more of these unique children. So, a call for directorship came quickly, and I was asked to step in. Of course my fear set in, also. I didn't feel confident with my academic status to accept. I was co-director with another individual who felt I did have the skills necessary to complete the task at hand.
Nonetheless, I felt quaking fear when I had to speak in front of large audiences. But, God propelled me forward and the audience members came up to make note on what an eloquent speech I bestowed on them.
The school began to thrive with a new concept saving all those students who were falling through the cracks. This mission statement included accepting their limitations and promoting their talents. We took our classrooms outside and began to commune with nature establishing student success. Past poor grades soared, and student input was now an important academic component.
Unfortunately, this was probably just a stepping stone as the school closed in a few short years due to the massive recession in 2008.
Another opportunity reared, and I felt that same vague unassuming tug. It came out of the blue, folks, and there was no prep to say no. It still amazes me how God works when he wants you to take the helm. There just seems to be no chance of retreat.
This new path came easier. I had the experience from previous years. I didn't dwell on status of my educational milestones. I didn't dwell on the status of public speaking fears. And, I definitely didn't question my experience asking He why had chosen me for this position. I was a principal again and this time I had found my shore.
Now I look at all those smiling faces each day and greedily take those end of the day hugs. I see students who were once bullied, now feeling confident when the day begins. I see students who once had terrible report cards, smile with anticipation when the latest quarter ends. I roam the halls seeking outstretched arms of enthusiasm as they continue their day.
I have done something wonderful and with God's guidance I continue.
How many people out there never try again? How many people out there are waiting for that great ocean liner hoping God will bring them aboard? It's the small boats folks that have the best experiences. Jump aboard! Let God take charge.
This Week's Meditation:
Teach me to go for it Lord and trust you.
Pray:
Help me to realize the days you are knocking and to answer that door.
Teach me how to trust in you so I can move forward with this new endeavor.
Remind me that you are with me every step of the way.
Meditate on this for several minutes a day. Allow various thoughts to come into your mind. And realize God has you in his arms always.