Moving Forward When Fear Holds You Back

The Israelites stood at the edge of the Red Sea, the roar of chariots growing louder behind them and the seemingly endless water stretching before them. Imagine the fear that gripped their hearts as they faced what looked like an impossible choice: step forward and drown or stay put and be overtaken. In that moment of overwhelming uncertainty, God gave Moses an instruction that defied logic: “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward.”

Sometimes, “going forward” feels counterintuitive. Like the Israelites, we might find ourselves paralyzed at the edge of our own Red Sea. The obstacle in front of us could be financial struggles, a strained relationship, or a dream that feels out of reach. Fear whispers, “You can’t do this.” Doubt suggests, “Go back—it’s safer there.” But God’s voice calls out through the chaos: “Move forward.”

The Red Sea symbolizes the vast unknown—a seemingly impossible boundary between where we are and where God is leading us. Stepping forward might feel like walking straight into disaster. But faith transforms fear into hope and uncertainty into possibility.

The sea didn’t part until the Israelites obeyed God’s command to step forward. Picture the moment: the water towering on either side, a dry path unfolding where moments before there was no way through. What had seemed insurmountable became a passage to freedom, and God’s power turned their greatest obstacle into a testimony of His faithfulness.

Our “Red Seas” may not be made of water, but they feel just as daunting. A broken marriage, an intimidating career move, a loss of direction—each one can leave us trembling at the shore, wondering if stepping forward is worth the risk. But just as God parted the sea for the Israelites, He promises to make a way for us when we trust Him.

Walking on Water: Another Step of Faith  

Peter’s story gives us another glimpse of what it looks like to take a step of faith. In Matthew 14:22-33, Jesus called Peter to step out of the boat and walk to Him on the water. At first, Peter obeyed, fixing his eyes on Jesus as he did the impossible. But as the wind howled and the waves crashed around him, his focus shifted to the storm, and fear took over. He began to sink.

The lesson is clear: progress happens when our faith is greater than our fear. Peter’s mistake wasn’t stepping out of the boat—it was looking away from Jesus. Like Peter, we may falter when we focus on the challenges rather than the One who calls us forward. But even then, Jesus reaches out to steady us, just as He did for Peter. It’s not about never failing; it’s about trusting God enough to take the step.

Practical Steps for Moving Forward  

How do we move forward when the path ahead feels uncertain? Here are some steps to help you face your Red Sea moment with faith:;