I remember my dad teaching me to ride a bike.
Fear kept me from learning this skill for quite some time.
It didn’t seem possible that my own sense of balance was enough to sustain me on those teetering two wheels.
What if I just couldn’t get it, and ended up feeling stupid?
What if I hurt myself trying?
But as much as I tried to put it off, I knew it would be good to know how.
It took me a while to learn, but I got there.
Once I started to think less and use my natural instincts more, it came easy.

I’ve let fear hold me back from doing a lot of things.
I have a natural interest in acting and performing, yet I never auditioned for parts at school because I was scared.
I’ve always liked writing stories, yet never really believed I could make a career out of it.
However, when I met my husband Michael, he encouraged me to follow my dreams.
With his help and belief in me, I landed my first job as a cadet journalist.
Fear can lead to a life of regret.
Lack of self-belief can hold us back from discovering the call God has on our life.
But we need to believe God can strengthen us, ease our anxiety, and give us boldness and confidence.
God made you uniquely you, with qualities no-one else has.
How are you going making use of those?
We don’t need to use all our gifts at the same time, as the seasons of our lives change continually.
There are always natural, external limits to what we can do.
But we can assess the resources we have right now, and make a choice to use them.
It can be a journey to discover what our gifts are.
But whatever season we’re in, we have opportunities we’ve never had before.
The possibilities are endless.
Sitting on that bike was scary the first time I did it. My first job interview wasn’t much easier – nor my new school or my first date.
But God reminded me he was with me, giving me the strength and courage I needed.
There is never a perfect time.
Is there a ‘bike’ you’re thinking about riding but aren’t sure?
It might be as simple as sitting on the rickety seat for a little while, getting a feel for it.
It might mean asking someone who’s skilled in ‘cycling’ for advice on how to hold the handles.
It might mean ensuring someone is there to catch you when you fall.
Jesus certainly will.
Why not start with these words from the Bible?
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Tim 1:7 NLT)
“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” (Phil 4:13 NLT)
God bless you,
Ali
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