No Fear

No fear

You'll probably recognize that statement as one that comes from the skateboarding/surfing community: The more dangerous  the activity, the bigger your tolerance for risk needs to be.

It could apply very easily, however to the life of a Christian. That might sound  weird but it actually makes sense.

Most people think that Christians play it safe. We're pious people who always do the right thing and don't live dangerously...right? Perhaps. 

If you are living out your Christian faith as we are truly called to live it, however, there are abundant risks.

Living a truly Christian life sets you apart from people who live their lives according to the secular culture. This can cause all sorts of misunderstandings and negative feelings.

Walking the path that Christ laid out for his followers, puts those followers in the position of having to often choose the unpopular route - the ones of mercy, integrity, humility, and obedience - over and over again.

Through all these difficult choices that Christians have to make however, the Bible continuously counsels us to 'Fear Not'. When we choose to be faithful to God, we will find that God is always there to give us exactly what we need, when we need it. 

God doesn't necessarily promise us earthly victory, wealth, or popularity - just look at the example we have in Jesus' earthly life - but he does promise us a magnificent eternity.

When you are caught in a web of fear the only thing to do, as a Christian, is to reach out for God's hand.  He will be as near to you as your own heartbeat, giving you the courage and strength to move forward.

'So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.' (Isaiah 41:10 TNIV)

Chesney Szaniszlo