Courage Over FearSample

Courage To Follow

In June of 2018, my husband, myself, and another couple went on our dream trip to Alaska for an incredible fishing adventure. We were all extremely excited to be in Alaska, amongst other great fishermen. We chartered a boat, and fishing began early each morning. We fished on several rivers for salmon and halibut. One day we had the opportunity to fish on the Kenai River, which was excellent. It was like fishing on a river Autobahn. The water on the river was moving fast, and boats were going at very rapid speeds to get in the other fishing boats' flow. I had never seen anything like it. Watching the boats maneuver through the river was exciting and a bit scary. However, each boat captain appeared to know precisely how to get us all safely to the middle of the river.

In my 33 years of marriage, I have learned that my husband often uses one-or-two-word directives and calls it communication. For example, he may say, “follow me,” “don't move,” or “shhhhhhh.” This may work well in most marriages, but I am a person who requires explanations. I must ask: “Why do you want me to follow you? What do you see?” I can't help it. I need to know. But over our years together and the fact that I am getting older and losing my grit, I have succumbed to the short-word directives.

My husband and I often fish together but also hunt, so we usually land in interesting areas and terrains. I have learned to keep watch and scream when necessary. After riding the Kenai River for about four hours, the captain stopped at a little dock to stretch our legs and use the restrooms. However, the bathrooms were located a short distance in the woods. As we exited the boat, my friend began to walk over a small bridge leading to the restroom. I immediately put out my hand to stop her and explained that we should let the men go first. She had a puzzled look on her face, so I explained. I told her I allow my husband to lead and will follow whenever I go into unknown territory. If a bear comes, he will get eaten first, giving me time to run. I was kidding, wink, wink. But all joking aside, I follow because it allows him to ensure everything is safe for me.

In the first chapter of John, John was standing with two of his disciples as Jesus walked by. John then declared, "Behold the Lamb of God!" When the two disciples heard John speak, they began to follow Jesus. This is an entire message about declaring Jesus to the point that others will follow him. Okay, back to the story at hand. Jesus turned around and asked the disciples, "What seek ye?" In other words, why are you following me? They, in response, asked Jesus, “Where are you going?” Jesus responded, "Come and See."

During my Christian walk, there have been times when I walk very close to Jesus. I can hear his voice very clearly. I heed every directive that he gives without question. My answer is yes, even before he asks anything. And in these times, I fall more in love with him.

Then, that ugly emotion called fear shows its face. These are the times when I question everything. I even doubt the voice of Jesus speaking to me. I can't see where Jesus is leading me, so I question his directives. Sometimes, I stop following and demand an answer before going any further. Very grown-up, huh? Especially since following Jesus has never led me astray or into a dangerous situation.

If you feel stagnant in your relationship or feel lost and unsure of your next step, follow him. That means reading his Word and learning how to apply it to your everyday life. It means saying yes to him, even when you don't know where he is leading you. Follow Jesus, just like I have learned to follow my husband.

Dear Jesus,

I love and adore you. I know without a doubt that you have my best interest at heart. I am clear about the love that you have for me. You have made me feel loved many times in my most challenging moments. Help me today to overcome fear. This emotion always shows up when I have an opportunity to trust you. Please open my eyes to recognize the onset of FEAR and acknowledge that you did not give me this emotion. I don't want to live a life of fear. Could you give me the courage to follow you?

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen