As he rides from grass to pavement, I hear, “I have to believe I can fly!” When he circles his front yard, his declaration changes to, “I can fly right off my bike!” Then within a matter of seconds, at top speed, he pops a wheelie, shouting, “I’m flying! I’m flying!” How did he know the three steps to flying?
Oh, how I wish I could bottle up the dynamics of this motivational message. Or perhaps hear it preached from the pulpit.
The Message
- I have to believe.
- I can.
- I am.
Three Stages Of Belief
My primary-school-aged neighbor laid out three stages of belief. I carry his three steps to flying in my spirit as I get my 10k steps in for the day. I meditate on them, chewing slowly and savoring the goals that come to mind. So often, my goals are tied to a lead-filled balloon of doubt. The importance of belief in the vision God has given me for 2023 compels me to dig deeper. I reach for my Bible and search for a few scriptures to anchor my thoughts on this topic.
Immediately I’m comforted by the passages God directs me to:
- Isaiah 28:16 reminds me, “the one who believes will be unshakable.”
- Luke 8:50 says, “Don’t be afraid. Only believe.”
- 2 Samuel 22:30 inspires me to declare what I can do, “With you I can attack a barricade, and with my God I can leap over a wall.”
- While Philippians 4:13 empowers me to claim, “I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me.”
- And finally, like Paul, “I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in [me] will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 CSB
Where Are You?
Perhaps you’re in an “I do believe, Lord, help my unbelief” season. If so, then you’re at step one. I have to believe. Or maybe you’re finally allowing yourself to see the possibility that you can. If so, you’re at step two. I can. And for those who can say “I am.” Congratulations! You’re at step three. No matter where you or I are on the path of purpose, God is there with us, holding our hands, and guiding our steps. Blessings to you, dear one. Let’s continue walking out each stage of belief, in each area of our lives, until God calls us home.