Overcome the Fear of Failure
“Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 NLT).
It requires courage to step out of the boat of fear. Have you noticed that when it comes to trying something new, most people are hesitant? The reason is because as creatures of habit, we're only comfortable with doing things that we are accustomed to doing. The moment we're challenged to operate outside of our comfort zone, walls are formed, emotions flare, and tension is built. All of these are signs that you're stretching your faith beyond your comfort zone. It takes courage to say yes to the extraordinary and no to the ordinary. Courage is not the absence of fear; it's the mastery of fear. Many people try to wait until fear totally dissolves before they do anything. Have you noticed these are the people who wait 20, 30, and even 40 years to no avail? Understand this; you cannot wait until fear leaves to step out of the boat...
Fear is the enemy of success. A common fear among dreamers is the fear of failure. No one wants to fail. No one wants to look like a fool in front of their peers. Sometimes we look at great achievers as if they've always had it all together. The truth is that every last one of those you admire has failed at one time or another. But, where are they today? They are enjoying the benefits of courage. Others have left behind them a legacy that will be echoed from generations to generations. Courage pays off in the end. If you have failed in an area, don't beat yourself over the head. Follow the old adage, "If first you don't succeed, try again." The only difference between the winners and the losers is that one gets up and the other waddles in the mud. It takes courage to get up after a fall.
- Pastor John Barton
Today's inspiration is an excerpt taken from Pastor John Barton's latest book, It's Time to Start Living - Life Keys for Unlocking the Doors of Your Dreams.