Nik Wallenda is a member of the world-famous seven-generation Wallenda family of high wire performers. He’s famous for his walks on the high wire across the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, between skyscrapers high above Times Square, New York, and a nearly 32-minute walk across the fire-y Masaya volcano in Nicaragua. Nik’s book titled Facing Fear tells of his conquest not only of these perilous walks but of his conquest of fear, especially after the collapse of an eight-person high wire pyramid in Sarasota, Florida that nearly killed all eight of them. After the accident, Nik had to conquer his fears or he would never walk the high wire again.

Nik says, “I’m always walking into the unknown.”[1] But aren’t we all? Every day when we get up in the morning, we have no idea what the day will hold. That’s why it’s such a comfort to read verses in the Bible that assure us of God’s presence with us as we go about our responsibilities each and every day.

My favorite is Isaiah 41:10 NKJV, that tells me, “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” How many times have I taken hold of that verse when I was afraid!

Another favorite of mine is Matthew 10:29-31 NKJV: “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will…. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

When a big “unknown” looms in your future, hold on to God’s promises, and watch your fear turn to faith and peace.

[1]Nik Wallenda with Don Yaeger, Facing Fear (Nashville, TN: W Publishing, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, 2020), 141.