Paddling Past the Fear: When Following God Means Going Alone
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.
2 Timothy 1:7 CSB
Have you ever felt entirely alone in obeying God’s call? Have others looked at you askance when you shared your assignment? While God often calls us to lead in community, there are seasons He calls us to step into the boat completely alone.
I hear God most clearly at the beach—likely because I’m listening with greater anticipation. One year, the Lord used the ocean to teach me a lesson about the risky beauty of solitary obedience.
When my husband and I first bought a tandem kayak, our initial launch was a disaster. We constantly clashed oars, failed to row straight, and finally returned to shore exhausted—much to the amusement of onlookers in beach chairs!
Later, the water called me back. Despite fearing I couldn’t handle the large kayak by myself, I pushed past the shoreline waves. Suddenly, I was gliding across smooth water with unbelievable ease. While I love my husband’s company, rowing alone was simply smoother. Today, we each have our own kayak—and our Yorkie Gabe, even joins the fleet!
God whispered to my heart that sometimes, He needs us in the boat alone. Following Him might mean parting ways with friends, family, or ministry partners who are heading in a different direction. It isn’t easy; Christ-followers are often called to stand alone, brave isolation, or even face persecution for the truth.
Fear threatens to anchor us to the shore. But 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.
If you are in a solitary season, lean into Him. Pray for a prayer partner to support you, and watch for those God is preparing to join your vision. What He teaches you in isolation is meant to impact someone else down the road.
Lord, when you give me a solitary assignment, give me courage to follow.
Chris Adams
