“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
— Isaiah 41:10
Have you ever come up with a great new idea for a project or undertaking? Just thinking about what might be accomplished can bring a rush of excitement as you imagine great success. But it doesn’t take long before a swarm of doubts and fears begins to gather, threatening to overwhelm you and leaving you wondering, Have I lost my mind?
The decision to create this blog felt that way. The idea of a new ministry—sharing the stories of my journey in hopes of encouraging others—was thrilling. I was energized and excited. And then, almost immediately, the doubts and fears arrived.
What do you know about blogging?
What makes you think you can keep this up?
How will you know what to write each time?
Putting yourself out there for all to see is a risk. And those questions are valid. When we contemplate any risk, it is only wise to consider the consequences.
As I worked my way through the growing doubts and fears, something shifted. I was reminded that if my Good Shepherd was the One leading me into this unknown path, then He already had a plan for what I was to do. I was not blindly stumbling forward.
Being legally blind, I understand what it means to navigate when things are dim and fuzzy. In those moments, everything comes down to trusting your guide.
A few years ago, I went out to dinner with my dear friend, Ed Bagby, and another couple. I rarely went out at that time. The fear of falling greatly limited where I was willing to go outside my apartment complex or the homes of close friends and family. I avoided going out after dark whenever possible. Because of neuropathy, I use a walker, and maneuvering through unfamiliar places can be unnerving.
That evening, we went to a Mexican restaurant. As he always did, Ed guided my walker to the table and read the menu to me. When it was time to leave, it was dark outside. His car was parked some distance away, so he began guiding my walker down a long, very narrow sidewalk. There was a drop-off from the edge of the sidewalk to the pavement below.
Panic rose within me. I could see how little space there was between the right wheel of my walker and the edge of the sidewalk. The thought of the wheel slipping even a fraction of an inch—and me plunging down with it—filled me with terror.
Then, it was as if a small, quiet voice whispered in my ear:
“Do not be afraid. Ed will lead you safely to the car. Relax. You can trust him.”
In a thousand different ways, that same gentle voice continues to whisper to my heart:
“Fear not—I will lead you each step of the way.”
As long as I do not try to take control, but instead follow the Good Shepherd’s lead, I trust that He will continue to guide me—through this blog, through this season, and through whatever lies ahead.
A Closing Blessing
May you find hope in the steps you are taking today, even if the path feels uncertain.
May the Good Shepherd quiet your fears, strengthen your trust, and remind you that you are not walking alone.
And may you rest in the assurance that the One who orders your steps holds your tomorrows securely in His loving hands. For those who would like to know more about the journey that led me here, I share that story in my memoir, He Ordered My Steps – From Shattered Dreams to Something Beautiful. You can learn more about the book and my author journey at heorderedmysteps.com
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