“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua‬ ‭1‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT

Ha! I want to laugh when I read this scripture. To me this seems an impossible task. Yet, I knew going into this year of FRESH things, God would send me outside my comfort zone. As I tested the waters of two new things this week, I sang to myself, “Fear is not my future.” Fear may be a little in my present, but this song was God’s encouragement to move me forward.

New thing number one: I had a conversation with a recovery nurse about my dogs. She told me about a local trainer who did agility training which sounded like something my dogs would enjoy, especially Meg. Only thing was, I’d have to take her through the obedience training first. I looked online and saw a new class was about to start.

The first class was without dogs. Good thing! I expected at the most two dozen people. Our town is not that big. When I saw the parking lot was full, I thought they might have something else going on as well. Nope! They were all packed into the chairs set up in the room. I counted six rows with ten chairs each. Then as more people came in late they added half a row in the back and another five on the side. There was only one chair in the middle of the front row that was empty.

That was definitely overwhelming. But then we all introduced ourselves, told about our dogs, and why we were taking the class. Let’s just say there is good reason for all those dogs to take obedience classes.

Next week will determine if I have the strength and courage to get through this class. Right now, my fear and excitement are currently even.

New thing number two: I went to check out the local chapter of Sweet Adelines. They are an international organization of women singing in the style of barbershop quartets. The local ladies were so welcoming, I was instantly at ease. I have a feeling I will find some good friends in this bunch.

I’m curious. Have you been like me, afraid to try new things? Sometimes when we press through our fear, we find more fear. This is my experience with the dog training, but I’m going to press forward anyway. And sometimes we press through and wonder why we were so afraid to begin with.

I’m glad I looked up today’s scripture reference. It reminds me that God goes with me into the scary things. And it reminds me of another verse.

So, what does all this mean? If God has determined to stand with us, tell me, who then could ever stand against us?

Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭31‬ ‭TPT

I pray you may find your courage to try something new this year.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy