DAY 2: Fear of Failure--Just Be Bold

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Philippians 4:13

 

DAY 2:  FEAR OF FAILURE

 

I was being carried kicking and screaming to a birthday party...yes, TO a birthday party.  Why didn't I want to go?  Fear.  Fear of failure.  Failure at a 6 year old's birthday party, you ask?  Yes.  At a birthday party, there were always games and I didn't want to play them because I didn't want to lose.  Weird...I know...which is exactly why my dad made me go.  I kicked and screamed all the way there, and I smiled and laughed all the way home--(typical woman). I ended up having a great time. 

 

I have many memories of being afraid to fail as a child.  In first grade, I even remember hiding under concrete stairs while the rest of my classmates participated in P.E.  Well, first of all, who wants to get smashed in the face in a barbaric game like dodge ball?  Second of all, I didn't want to compete with the other kids at the games we had to play and lose.  Fear of failure.

 

As an adult, I didn't have someone to carry me kicking and screaming to make me face my fears of failing nor did I have the option of hiding under the stairs to escape my fears of failing.  So what did I do?  Well, many times, I would just pass up opportunities; not try new things; wait for things to happen instead of making them happen. 

 

In the last six years, my faith has grown tremendously, and I've learned that nothing is done in our own power anyways.  All things I do are done through the strength and power that God gives me, so I might as well be bold and courageous, pursue new opportunities, try new things, and make things happen.  I might as well take a deep breath, pray, and just go for it.  And so should you!

 

 

 

PRAY WITH ME:

Today, Lord, I give my fear of failure to you.  Allow me to be bold and courageous in all that I do.  When I have moments where I want to resist you kicking and screaming, give me your truth.  When I have moments where I want to hide under the stairs, show me your unfailing love.  When I have moments when I am letting fear stop me from doing what you are calling me to do, give me your strength.  Lord, shine your loving light on my fear of failure, and fill me with faith to walk forward in confidence starting today.  In Jesus' name.  Amen.