Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety. Proverbs 29:25 (NLT)
There is truth to the old saying, “No risk, no reward.”
You see, God created us to take risks. Now, I’m not talking about gambling with your life or behaving recklessly. But the truth is, anyone who tries to live an utterly risk-free life will limit their enjoyment. In fact, trying to avoid risk at all costs can hold you back from the promises of God. Why?
Because fear works as a trap: it clamps down and prevents you from going anywhere. It limits what you’re willing to go for because you’re scared of what you may lose. It can hold you back from thoroughly enjoying relationships, church and God. It keeps you from living with boldness and enthusiasm.
Look at what happened to the Israelites in Numbers chapters 13 and 14 when they let fear of man trap them. God had given them the Promised Land, but they still had to fight for it. Although it involved risk, God had already guaranteed their victory!
But when ten spies spread terrifying stories about giants living in the land, the Israelites panicked. The result? Countless people never enjoyed the Promised Land because they allowed fear to hold them back.
We need to accept that every new step in life involves risk. Getting married, being emotionally vulnerable with friends, having children and even driving on the road all require risk.
Don’t allow fear to trap you because it will always hold you back from God’s best. Instead, place your trust in the Lord and His rock-solid promises. Then, just as the Israelites discovered twenty years later, fear will no longer hold you back from taking hold of all He has promised you!