It's Okay to Take a Chance!

How are you doing with 2024, the goals you hope to reach, or other things you'd like to accomplish? 

I made goals and a list, but I'm still playing catch-up. I wonder if I can do everything I'd set out to do.        

You may or may not be in the same boat, but many people (myself included) are visited by P-r-o-c-r-a-s-t-i-n-a-t-i-o-n. Oh, that word; it's as long as it's definition!  

Procrastination is not welcome, but I've inadvertently let it in. And I'm not alone. Why do we sometimes delay in doing the things we planned to do? From my experience, it's often due to one of two things: (1)My to-do list is too long and I feel overwhelmed by it, or (2)The "What Ifs" intrude with negative thoughts like, "What if I fail?"     

The problem with the "What Ifs" is that they can keep us from moving ahead.   

I thought about my objectives: I needed to leave my comfort zone. I want to get my writing out into the world. I never saw myself as someone who could get up in front of people to speak, but recently, I succeeded. It helps if you can talk about something you are passionate about.  

My new book, "Just One Good Thing - A Faith-Inspired Recipe for Optimism," is being released soon by AMG Publishing. I am excited, and I have the opportunity to get the word out. My heart rejoices in sharing these inspirational stories of faith, focusing on what is good in a world drenched in negativity.     

But as we know, we need courage to take a chance.

Many of the characters of the Bible had to step out of their comfort zone despite the "What If" moments and facing fear. Moses doubted his ability to speak to Pharaoh and lead the people out of Egypt. Jeremiah lacked the confidence to send a warning message to people who turned away from God. Jonah was sent to preach but was afraid. David feared Goliath, yet he succeeded in slaying the giant. Daniel feared when he was thrown into the lion's den but didn't lose hope.  

Many others dealt with fear, too. But they had one thing in common: they trusted God, listened to Him, and knew He was with them.     

The same God who helped His people then still helps His people today—that's you and me. 

The next time you begin to worry or feel afraid, remember you have a great God who is bigger than your fears. It's okay to take a chance. Trust in Him and step out in courage!   
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"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What will mere mortals do to me?" - Psalm 56:3-4 (NIV)
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." - Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

Photo courtesy of Vecteezy.com

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