5 minute read 
by Bethany Rees

Put Yourself Out There

There’s nothing quite like the view from the stands. The popcorn is hot, the breeze is cool, and if someone gets hit in the face with the ball, you’re far enough away to laugh guilt-free. But let’s be honest: Life isn’t meant to be lived from the bleachers. It’s messy, exhilarating, and yes, a little terrifying, but the best action always happens when you step into the arena.

You’ve been equipped for this. Let’s take a look at 2 Timothy 1:6-7, where Paul writes: “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 

If that doesn’t make you want to roll up your sleeves and show up for life, I don’t know what will.

God has gifted you with unique talents, strengths, and even quirks that make you, well, YOU. 

But those gifts weren’t given so you could keep them neatly packed away in a spiritual sock drawer. Nope. You’re called to fan that flame and let it burn brightly. And yes, that includes the occasional moment where you feel more like you’re fanning smoke and praying for a spark.

The Call to GO

God’s instructions are refreshingly straightforward: GO. 

In Genesis 12:1, He told Abraham, “GO from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.” He didn’t hand Abraham a GPS or an itinerary. Similarly, Jesus tells us in Mark 16:15, “GO into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”

Notice He didn’t say, “Go once you’ve figured out your five-year plan” or “Go after you’ve mastered the Bible.” No, He says, “GO!” As you are. With what you have. With the spirit of power, love, and self-control He’s already given you.

What About the Critics?

Now, stepping into the arena doesn’t mean everyone will cheer for you. Some people might boo or throw metaphorical tomatoes. And that’s okay because we have Psalm 118:6: “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Really, what can they do? Post a snarky comment? Forget to “like” your Facebook post? You’ll survive—and you’ll keep growing.

Theodore Roosevelt famously said: 

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood.” 

God calls us to be those people. Dusty, sweaty, and bloodied? Sure. But also alive, obedient, and faithful.

Living Out Loud

To live out your faith is to love God and love others, even when others don’t return the favor. It means forgiving the coworker who steals your thunder in meetings, showing kindness to the family member who’s impossible to please, and serving those who may never say thank you. 

The point isn’t to be loved back; it’s to love as He loves us.

When we step out of the stands and into the arena, we’re saying yes to God’s call to go, grow, and glow. It won’t always be easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. And as we stumble forward, fanning the flame of His gifts in us, we’ll discover that the arena isn’t just where the action is; it’s where we’re refined, strengthened, and blessed.

So, what’s your next step? What’s the arena God is calling you to enter? Whether it’s a tough conversation, a new job, or simply saying “yes” to an opportunity you feel unqualified for, remember:

God’s Spirit equips you.

He’s given you everything you need to show up as your authentic, God-designed self.

Take a deep breath. Step into the arena. And don’t forget to pack a sense of humor—you’ll need it for the dust and sweat ahead.

Know Better. Do Better. Live Better. Step into the Arena.

Rocks before Sand!

Scripture: 

“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands,  for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” ~ 2 Timothy 1:6-7

Theme Song: 

MŌRIAH - Brave (Official Lyric Video)

References Used:

• The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
• Roosevelt, Theodore. Citizenship in a Republic. Speech, Sorbonne, Paris, April 23, 1910.