Overcoming Fear = Trust

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13

Almost every new climber will get about the halfway point up the wall, when panic sets in. The brain is shouting, “This is not natural!” Suddenly, flight of fight sets in.

One of two things will happen. You can push past that fear, and move on. Or, you will start shaking uncontrollably, maybe even cry a little, and need to be lowered. When that happens, it usually takes a few tries, but eventually you will make their way to the top, in victory.

What really gets you to the top, once you have had to be lowered in total terror? Fear will eventually give way to trust. Trust that the rope will not break, and that your belayer will not drop you. Trust that if you do fall, you will not get hurt. Trust that you have the strength to accomplish your goal.

What can help you push past that initial fear in the first place? The better question is, were does your strength come from? In whom or what do you place your trust? Where do you turn when you really need to dig deep to make it through the crux, when your arms are pumped, and your fingers are raw? Where do you find courage when you are two feet above the last bolt, struggling on a move, trying to make it to the next bolt?

I have a horrible track record of self-reliance. Frankly, on my own, I do not have what it takes to push through these types of challenges on the rock, or in life. That is where God comes in. In Him, the impossible is possible. In Him, I can get through that crux, and get to the next bolt. In Him, my weaknesses are made strong.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

Today, when if you become stuck, afraid, run out of energy, or just think you can’t go any further, think about this message. Stop, take a deep breath, and hang on the rope of you must.  Whisper a little prayer for strength or courage, and let yourself be calmed. Once you are ready, get back on route and make it to the top!

Climbing Group Devotional

Each week our Bethel Assembly Women’s Climbing group meets out in the Mount Rushmore area for a great day of climbing and fellowship. Before each climb we have a devotion, and take a few minutes to pray and thank God for the great opportunity to be together, out in his amazing creation.