TAKE THE FIRST STEP

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In the Christian life, we often find ourselves in situations where we know what we should do, but fear, doubt, or complacency prevent us from taking the first step. However, the Bible teaches us that God blesses those who act with faith and courage. In this episode, we will explore how we can overcome fear and take that first step in the direction God wants for our lives.

Those Who Took the First Step

Abraham: Faith in the Unknown

God called Abraham to leave his land and his family without giving him details about his destination. He didn't know exactly where he was going, but he trusted God.

Genesis 12:1

"But the Lord had said to Abram, 'Go from your country, your people and your father's house to the land I will show you.'"

Today, many people feel God's call to serve, change their lives, or make difficult decisions, but fear of the unknown paralyzes them. Like Abraham, we must trust that God will guide our steps.

Peter: Walks on Water

When Jesus called Peter to walk on the water, he had the courage to take the first step, but when he looked at the circumstances, he doubted and began to sink.

Matthew 14:29-30

"And he said, 'Come.' So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!'"

Often, when we take that first step of faith, difficulties cause us to doubt. But Jesus is there to sustain us if we call upon Him.

The People of Israel: Crossing the Jordan

Before entering the Promised Land, the priests had to take the first step in the Jordan before the waters parted.

Joshua 3:13

"And when the soles of the feet of the priests who carry the ark of the LORD, Lord of all the earth, rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan will be divided; for the waters that come from upstream will stand still in a heap."

God often doesn't show us the way until we dare to take the first step. If we wait to see everything clearly before acting, we might never move.

What's stopping us from taking the first step?

Fear of Failure "The insecurity about whether we will succeed."

2 Timothy 1:7

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of self-control."

Doubt and Unbelief "Not trusting that God will keep his word."

Hebrews 11:6

"But without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Comfort: "We prefer the safe to the unknown."

Luke 9:62

"And Jesus said to him, 'No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.'"

How do we apply it to our lives?

Obey without having all the answers; if God has called you to something, take the first step in faith.

Fix your gaze on Christ and not on the circumstances; like Peter in the water, we must focus on Jesus.

Believe that God will provide what is needed; God never leaves those who walk in His will alone.

Psalm 37:5

"Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act."

God calls us to take the first step in many areas of our lives: in our faith, in our ministry, in personal decisions, in reconciliations, in projects, and so on. Let us not allow fear or doubt to hold us back. Like Abraham, Peter, and the priests of the Jordan, let us trust that God will make a way for us as we move forward in obedience.

What first step do you need to take today in your spiritual life?

God bless you!!