Step 11: Risk

The reality TV show Alone is a popular program that captures the essence of the human condition. Each participant attempts to survive in a remote and harsh environment entirely on their own. I love watching the contestants face their fears as they find a way to thrive in extremely challenging circumstances.

However, whether or not we attempt to stay alive in the Arctic wilderness, we all face seemingly impossible challenges. When we allow ourselves to honestly acknowledge the problems we face, fear is the natural response. For some, it's the fear of rejection, while for others, it's the fear of conflict. The Bible tells us that powerful forces oppose our desire to be close to God: Satan, the world, and our sins.

Yet sadly, spiritual formation is often marketed based on its benefits. We reduce knowing God into a consumer-friendly product. The focus is on personal well-being and comfort, rather than following Jesus, even when difficult.

I'm not saying we need to return to wooden benches. But a pampered spirituality is totally insufficient to handle the challenges of life. Worse, it leaves us grossly unprepared to live a courageous life for God's glory.

**Taking risks is an essential component of spiritual formation.** Without trying something new, we can never change, and without risk, we can never experience the fullness of God's plan for us. If you are signed up for God's mission, you must face your fears, be uncomfortable, and take chances that might not work out.

So how does God send us on mission?

**First, God fills us with His love.** 1 John 4:18-19 says, "There is no fear in love; instead, perfect love drives out fear."

**Second, we are sent on this mission with friends.** We are not meant to be solo superheroes but a community on a mission. Jesus sent his disciples on mission in pairs of two.

**Third, God reframes the rewards.** God understands that we fear rejection. With his help, we can remain a blessing, even in the face of persecution and insults. Jesus said, "You are blessed when they insult you and persecute you... Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven."

**Fourth, God goes first.** He is already at work, and we are invited to join him where he is active. You'll never "bring God" to a new environment. Rather, we're responding to the work of the Holy Spirit to participate in what God is already doing.

**Finally, we are invited to be courageous,** to do what is good and honorable, even though we may be afraid.

The Apostle Paul is a perfect example of courage in the face of fear. Suffering in a Roman jail, his life at risk from an upcoming trial, he pressed on. In Philippians 1:20, he writes: "My eager expectation and hope is that I will not be ashamed about anything, but that now as always, with all courage, Christ will be highly honored in my body, whether by life or by death."

**To grow spiritually, risk is necessary.** We can choose to be comfortable and bored. Or we can take some risks to love others—and see God at work.

**Our eleventh step to God is to take risks to love others.**