Anticipate Success, Not Failure

Facing a new beginning can create anxiety and even fear. Fear is often caused by what is anticipated. The phrase "what if” magnifies negative possibilities. A farmer who was having a difficult time making a living was offered a job in a nearby city, but the "what ifs" began to erode his confidence.

“What if I can't live up to the job’s expectations? What if my wife and children do not like the city and schools?” Moses used "what if" as an excuse when responding to God’s call to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt. Fulfilling God's purpose brings great satisfaction, but often at the cost of a significant sacrifice.

What is God asking of you at this moment that causes you to be anxious or fearful? Concentrate on God’s promise and keep this at the forefront of your thinking and feelings. Jesus promised, "I'll be with you and never forsake you." Let his promise give you courage and hope to press onward with confidence to successfully fulfill God’s purpose.  

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Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

~Joshua 1:8-9 New International Version

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A Sure Formula for Success

Each person, at some point in life, will have to consider a change that seems beyond consideration. That's what Moses concluded when God informed him that he was chosen to deliver the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt. Moses responded with loud protests of being unfit for the task.

Moses grew up with the best education, medicine, food, and social skills that could be provided for an Egyptian royal. All of this vanished when an impulsive act forced him to flee for his life. As bad as it was, God waited for him to mature for a calling that would change his life.

When God revealed his plan to Moses, he protested, "Who am I to deliver these people from Egypt?" God responded by promising, "I will be with you," which ensured his success. This may be the moment when God  requires you to make a new beginning, however intimidated and fearful you may feel. If it’s God’s plan, he offers you the same promise: "I will be with you." Permit his promise to be your assurance of success. 

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Be determined and confident. Do not be afraid. Your God, the Lord himself, will be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you.

~Deuteronomy 31:6 Good News Bible 

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Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.