As we prepare for the start of a new year, I’d like to talk to you about how to inherit God’s promises by facing our fears and taking action. When I was about eight or nine years old, there was a slope near our house that we nicknamed suicide hill. It was a massive gradient that went almost straight down. There was a group of four of us boys who would ride our bikes together, and I’m embarrassed to say that I was the one who was frightened to fall. They would start on that hill every time we got close, and I would tell them that I was going to go around the long way and meet them at the bottom. It eventually got to the point where I was continuously thinking about that stupid hill and feeling humiliated by my fear. I finally grew tired of it one day! I stepped out on my own and stood on the top of the ridge, determined. As soon as I saw the steep gradient, I opted to race down it on foot first, which I did. I felt more secure after finishing that, so I decided to ride my bike down carefully, and before I knew it, I was at the bottom. I was on cloud nine when I arrived, and my pals and I were riding down all the time not long after.

A while ago, I went back to that neighborhood for a walk. I turned a corner, and there it was: suicide hill! In disbelief, I marveled at how short it was…it appeared to be only 12 feet tall, but that was just my viewpoint. It appeared to be nothing to a grown guy. Isn’t that how life goes?

Friend, whatever it is you’re terrified of isn’t as huge as it appears. Taking action, whether in your professional, personal, or romantic life, may truly break the back of fear! You don’t have to overcome everything in one day; instead, start with one small item that makes you nervous and see how your courage grows. Saying “yes” to the Lord is all you need to do to witness him accomplish miracles in your life, just like Moses bringing God’s people out of Egypt, Joshua going around the wall of Jericho, and Mary giving birth to Jesus. Instead of allowing fear to prevent you from being a vessel of God’s power, trust Him, take the initial step toward your problem, and face it fearfully. He’ll assist you, and your hill won’t appear as steep as you once imagined! Isn’t it wonderful news?