Get Back Up!

It's funny how different people have different concepts of effective ways of communicating...some are more adept to speaking, some prefer the written page..I would be one to prefer to write..although given a chance I think I could master speaking effectively...I would just have to overcome the fear of public speaking! When I was in high school...I was so afraid to speak in front of the class, I would literally be traumatized whenever I had to give a speech or a book report...I would break out into a cold sweat....be so nervous I could barely speak...I would made my report as short as possible...simply for the fact that I was so afraid to get up in front of the class....When I went to college, much later in life I had to take public speaking....How did I do? Well, the first few times were scary, but I managed to make it through it...the more confidence I developed, the easier it became. I was still a little edgy at the idea...but each time was a bit better than the previous! I am so thankful that I took the class, because the fear I had of speaking to a crowd left me and now although it isn't my most favorite thing to do....I can do it!
Fear is a debilitating emotion, and in many cases is hard to overcome.....we face so many fears in our lives and often feel the need to avoid them at all costs. I have found that avoidance is not the answer...we must face them head on and overcome! Had I not faced the fear of speaking in public when I was in college...I would most likely still be afraid to speak...but due to the fact that I overcame the fear....I may someday be able to be an effective speaker and use it to make a difference in someone's life! It will still be a challenge...but, having faced the fear..I have an advantage and feel confident that I could pull it off!
We face the same fears in our Christian walk. Many of us don't care to admit it...but in reality, we fear to speak out for Christ and don't face that fear effectively....I admit my own guilt to this and hope and pray that I will overcome it in a mighty way and be able to break out of all inhibitions and speak the truth that I know will benefit my friends and everyone I encounter...God doesn't want us to be fearful...He wants us to be true to what we believe in and to be willing to share that belief with others! Others may not agree with us and they may make fun of us...but that's okay....the fact that we spoke out...even if it's for the very first time..we will be able to do it again and again! That's how I overcame my fear of public speaking...by forcing myself to get back up there...my confidence grew because of it....so can yours....just keep getting back up! You won't regret it and God will be smiling down on you!