Sometimes the things God asks us to do are hard, and stepping out in faith to do what He’s nudging us to do can be scary. Whether it’s doing something for the first time, or changing some old routines we have.

Have you ever procrastinated doing something God wants you to do out of fear? I’ve told myself before that I’m “waiting for the right time,” and realized later I was really a little paralyzed by a desire for things to be just right before I put myself out there.

I want to lead with courage and grace, and without fear, but this is a process. Learning to trust is challenging. But God loves us and He stands ready to help.

I’m learning how trust, a firm belief and confidence that God can do what He says He will, is like a bridge to calmer waters.

I opened my Bible this morning and asked God for an encouraging word. I heard Him whisper Psalm 131:1-2.

My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.

Our Heavenly Father knows us so deeply; we often forget just how intimate He is with us. It is pretty difficult to keep our distance from such a loving God. It still amazes me how He knows right where I am and exactly what I need. The heading above this passage in my Bible this morning says, “Simply Trust in the Lord!” 

When taking on new challenges, trust is not the first word that comes to mind for me. Fear is. But isn’t trust the opposite of fear?

As I read these verses, I searched my heart. It should not be lofty, nor my eyes haughty. I wonder how many times it’s been my pride that’s said “Wait, God.” Surely asking Him to “Wait” was better than telling him “no”?

Sometimes God doesn’t want us to wait, though. And what a challenge for those of us seeking God’s will.

One thing is clear. As I prepare for new challenges I need to calm and quiet my soul. In God’s presence I need to relinquish my needs, instead of letting fear spin me out of control. My hope is in God. Getting myself out of the way and staying focused on Jesus is where I need to stay. In the calmer waters. Because following God is much better than not.

Deeper Still: Why do you think trusting God sometimes is so difficult? How have you learned to act on what God is telling you? Leave us a comment below and be entered in our monthly giveaway of some awesome FREE resources.

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About

Cherie Zack is a Speaker, Author and Wife Coach. She is the founder of The Imperfect Wives Ministry  and Marriage Boot Camp and is the radio host for Imperfect Wives Radio. She recently served for 6 years as the District Director of Women's Ministries for the South Carolina District Council of the Assemblies of God before moving home to Florida. Cherie is currently the Women's Ministry Director for the women's department at her church. She has a counseling degree from Liberty University and has been coaching wives on how to save their marriages for 10 years.  Cherie and her husband Bill have been married for 22 years and have 4 children and 1 precious granddaughter. 

• When You’re Scared to Do What God Wants You to Do -