I’m going camping this weekend for my first time ever. What is there to fear about camping? Bears, bugs, sleeping outdoors? I ain’t scared of no stinkin’ bear! Okay, maybe that isn’t true, but worse than facing a bear or deer in the middle of no where, I’m afraid of peeing in the woods. 

I have never had a desire to go camping and I’m anxious about going this weekend. The only other opportunity I had to go to camp was in sixth grade. I didn’t even go to camp then because I was worried about the bathroom situation, or lack there of. 

So why am I going? My church hosts several camping retreats a year for just about everyone: Women, Men, Couples and High School and Middle School students. A prayer was answered when I was asked to play the drums with the worship team for more than 1500 ladies at Woman Camp this weekend.

Some of my anxiety has been about making sure I’m prepared for the songs I’ll be playing, and I’ve also worried about what I might eat. But, the thought of having to use a porta-potty, or God forbid, the alternative - peeing in the woods...I’m just not cut out for that life. 

I had conversation earlier this week with a group of ladies about my fear. Some of these ladies had attended camp before, and shared how easy it was and how freeing it felt. I’m still looking at them with a major side-eye. Although I didn’t think it was unusual, these ladies were surprised to learn that I had never used a porta-potty. I avoid those like the plague. I barely use public restrooms, but I’m getting at that age I guess, where I cannot always “hold it.” I’ve taught my two young daughters how to practically gift wrap the toilet seat if we have to use a public restroom, even if we don’t sit on the seat. My husband always wonders why it takes us so long - he has no idea of the struggle.

God has been opening many doors lately that have required me to step out of my comfort zone. First, he has called me to “walk on water”, which simply means trust Him and keep my eyes on Him and I will not sink. This weekend, I don’t know what He has for me, but I know He is telling me not to be afraid and that He goes before me. 

In what areas of your life is God calling you out and challenging you to be comfortable with being uncomfortable?  Whether it is as small as peeing in the woods, or big as starting your own business, trust God. 

“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” ‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31:8‬ ‭NLT‬‬