I was on vacation and decided to fit in a short run while my friend had to attend a zoom meeting. I know for most people, exercise isn’t on their list of things to do while on vacation, but I’m not most people. 😊
Since I wasn’t familiar with the area, I picked a road that looked less traveled, turned up my music and was on my way. It was a perfect day- 70 degrees with a gentle breeze, surrounded by endless miles of rolling hills and tree lined roads.
Nature is so good for the soul.
I came up to a road that had a cone with a sign that said “Do not Drive- High Water.”
Well.. it didn’t say “Do not RUN,” so I kept going.
As I ran around the curve, I didn’t see any water and proceeded. I was so fixed on trying to look out for mud & water that I almost missed the real danger up ahead-
A pit bull.
I’ve heard too many bad stories about pit bulls attacking people, I was not about to take any chances. The dog was barking ferociously, running straight towards me. I came to a sudden stop, spun around and ran as fast as I could in the opposite direction.
I was so thankful for the curve in the road (and that God created me to run fast!) because when I got around the bend – the dog stopped.
Even though the dog was gone, I couldn’t shake the fear for the rest of my run.
My heart was pounding, cautiously looking around for a potential hazard, turning my music off so I could hear my surroundings. [Now, I am fully aware that my reaction was probably a little over the top…]
What started as a peaceful jog quickly turned into a tense and fearful experience.
Lingering fear is real.
If you have ever had a frightening or traumatic moment in your life you understand how it can rob you of your peace; Your chest tightens, it’s hard to breathe and the feeling can last months. Some of you might still be living in fear, even though the experience happened years ago.
When I get really afraid, I come to you in trust. (Psalm 56:3 MSG)
I realized that it wasn’t until I got back to the Airbnb that I felt safe again.
God can be that safe place for you!
You might be thinking, “It’s not that easy.”
I understand.
I understand what it’s like to be walking around with your guard up, anticipating the next bad thing to happen. But I also know that God didn’t create us to be fearful.
Instead of expecting bad things to happen, anticipate triumphs!
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:37
The word “Counselor” in Hebrew means: someone who comes alongside to support, defend, and guide. I love that!
That’s true for you too if you believe in him as your Lord and savior! You are never alone- you have the Holy Spirit! The next time you start to feel yourself sink into hopelessness and fear remember –
God’s got you!
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