Taking Risk

Thrill seekers often push the boundaries of risk and danger when satisfying their need for excitement. Once they accomplish something, they will try to outdo what they just attempted because the fear factor and adrenaline high are diminished. The explosion of X-Games, motocross, and B.A.S.E. jumping demonstrate this trend toward extreme behavior. Although most people will never parachute off of a skyscraper or jump a motorcycle over 50 cars, we can learn something from those who do.

Can the Church really learn something from this guy?

Faith is activated by risk. It is not enough to simply believe in principles or concepts. Believers must step out and act upon their faith in order to advance the kingdom. It is usually fear that hinders us from taking action. But interestingly, when we begin to take risks, the fear factor becomes lessened and we actually develop confidence in something we once feared. For example, some children are scared when they first learn how to ride a bike. This is natural because it takes time to master balancing on two wheels and not fall. Eventually kids become proficient at riding and will even begin racing, jumping, or doing tricks on their bikes. I remember the fear I had in asking others if I could pray for them. So many thoughts raced through my mind such as, "What will they think of me? What if they reject me? What if nothing happens when I pray?" The more I approached and prayed for people, the less frightening it became to the point where others have even called me bold in my faith. I'm not so certain I would label it that way because I still have to overcome fear and doubt when ministering to others, but it is certainly much better than it used to be. When I read the Bible, there are so many stories of people who do crazy things for God. They are like the extreme sports athletes of the Christian world- standing up to giants, fighting armies, facing lions, healing the sick, casting out demons, and raising the dead. I want to live the same way. I believe as we take small steps of risk, we will build confidence to do the greater things. May our lives be a continuation of the book of Acts!

"He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!" Acts 28:31