Saturday, October 31, 2009

Breaking down the fence.


We all have comfort zones- those places of contentment where we're currently satisfied with the present. However, could these "zones" also be places we've completely surrounded with a fence of limitations. Too often, we settle for what is now. Do you have a longing to achieve more, to reach greater potential? Is there a fence that lies between you and a dream?

One of our more formidable "fences" we tolerate is fear. Fear paralyzes people from attaining their God-given dreams. As someone once said, "A great deal of talent is lost to the world for want of a little courage." How often Jesus would say to those he was ministering to, "Fear not" or "Have no fear". He was well aware the impact fear had on the results.

Imagine how the dynamics could change if there was no such thing as fear- that is, unhealthy fear. Imagine living free of fear! We're not talking about a fear of rattlesnakes, heights or a high-voltage power source, but the opposite of faith. What kind of liberty would that bring to your life. Where would you venture to go? What would you venture to do?

Faith is going in the complete opposite direction of fear. Faith is a firm conviction- and expectation- in what is yet unseen. Fear is being motivated (or not) by what seems at the moment to be apparent. Like fear, faith is a powerful force; in fact, so powerful it can break down those fences we've allowed to encompass us. Faith in God's Word positions us to tap into God's ability, provision, and wisdom. No wonder Jesus said, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God".

To attain to this kind of faith, we need to become acquainted with God and His Word. As we become keenly aware of what His Word declares we must purpose to walk it out. It's important to learn to do God's Word not just read it. Without taking action, faith is powerless. As we find ourselves stepping out, we can begin to move out past the fences that have been built up through the years.

Take courage today! Determine to know God and His Word and start the journey of tearing down some fences and living fear free!

Where do I start?


If I had only counted the times I've watched others accomplish greatness and thought, "I would've loved to have done that". My heart swells as I take account of those who have passionately pursued a dream- and succeeded. I've always had this affinity for people like that; people who've accomplished great things- things beyond the ordinary. I yearn to do likewise; I think I'm wired that way.

However, does accomplishing "great things" have to be relegated to a select few? I've never been content to live in the successes of others; and yet too often, I've found myself doing the very thing I don't like...sitting in the grandstands...watching...wishing, all along wanting to be on the field. I realize there are some who are content to watch. I'm not.

So what is it that moves some to get going, to elevate themselves above the mundane? I've thought about it many times. I mean, are certain people given special grace to scale the mountains that stood between them and their dreams? Obviously, people differ in ability. But surely it can't be as easy as the obvious...or can it?

When my wife and I set out to teach our sons to walk at 10 months old, there was nothing special that suddenly rose up inside. Not that I remember anyway! No goosebumps just bumps to the head and knees. However, after several weeks of hand holding and help, we realized it was time and they were ready. With a little coercing, they eventually started to take those first short steps. Wobbly though they were, they were their own! And those steps would soon transform their lives, elevating them to the next level of lifes experiences.

Could getting started toward the fulfilling of dreams be as simple and as close as just a few short, wobbly steps?