Living on the coast, serving with FCA Surf for almost two decades, I have seen thousands of kids enter the water as novice surfers. A strong core in body and mindset the stage for success. Reversely, fear can take down even the most athletic. When the height and the force of the waves seem bigger and stronger than one can navigate, standing on the shore seems the safest option.

I stand on the shore next to that discouraged youth and draw a line in the sand right in front of our feet. That line represents a level of fear they must determine to step past. When we place our toes on the line, it becomes obvious the opportunity to step past fear is obtainable with just a slight forward movement. Overcoming fear is not elimination of the feeling, yet placing oneself in a non-negotiable position of forward movement. When they take a giant step back from the line representing fear, stepping back up to the line takes more courage than they can conceive possible. Before they realize, fear can result in multiple steps backward and they are firmly planted on dry land with no hope of entering the water.

Fear and discouragement can take over our mind and body, and we quickly find ourselves stepping backward. What we once thought was attainable becomes seemingly impossible as we have stepped back as a result of allowing fear and discouragement to rule.

But God invites us into His plan. His plan promises courage and strength. Stepping back we are not only missing what God has planned, but we also can find ourselves in a place of danger. Stepping forward with faith means we are safe in the purposes of God. God promises a peace that transcends all understanding and guards our hearts and minds, granting us the ability to embrace all God has planned for our lives.

Draw your line in the sand, step up, put your toes on the line, and lean forward. The courage and strength of God will provide the ability to do all He has planned for you.