“Every timidity eventually turns into regret.” – Anthony Doerr, Four Seasons in Rome
We all dream of opportunity. We hope that one day something amazing will fall in our laps, and we’ll snatch it up and go on to live better lives. We hope for better jobs, international travel, or a whirlwind romance—something extraordinary.
We are looking to take a leap of faith. We are hoping to be brave and courageous.
But oftentimes, when opportunity does knock, we only open the door a little bit. We look, think, waffle, and then make excuses. We ask if it can come back tomorrow while we think about it.
Sometimes it does come back. Sometimes—most times—it doesn’t.
Today’s fears become tomorrow’s regrets
Fear is a powerful motivator. It can edge out almost every other emotion. Even hope and faith.
When we let our timidity and fear control our decisions, we land up saying no to things we should have said yes to. We end up standing still instead of moving forward. We land up shutting the door on great opportunities and God-given blessings because we are afraid.
Unfortunately, when we pass up good stuff, we tend to regret it. Can you think of times when fear has held you back and you’ve lived to regret it?
I know I can. I’ve been afraid to try jobs that would have challenged me, for fear of failing. I’ve said no to travel because I feared the logistics and work that would have gone into it. I’ve said no to hard conversations because I was afraid of confrontation.
These fears led me to later regrets, for opportunities that were lost, relationships that were stymied, and growth I never experienced.
When we let our fear rule us, it steals our ability to hope, believe, and trust. Our faith in God and ourselves is lost. And we regret the choices we make.
Living with faith, not fear
Let’s stop saying no to opportunity, and instead, start saying no to fear. “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7).
We are called to be brave and walk out into the world with the strength of God behind us. As you start your week, remember that the Holy Spirit lives within you. Fear has no place in your heart because you have hope and faith.
And remember: “You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you.”
Have a blessed Monday!
Looking for more encouragement and inspiration today? Try these posts:
Inspirational Monday: Fear Not
Faith + Action = the Right Path
Do You Trust God to Provide for You?
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