When we allow God to use our territory for the benefit of another, He will surely expand it and bless us even more.

A couple weeks ago, I was feeling a bit insecure… As I sat in the waiting room of the spa, I was admiring a huge fish tank full of colorful fish. One of the staff members came to feed the fish and dropped food inside. The balls dropped all the way down to the sand. Immediately the big fish swam toward the food. I noticed a small fish that kept coming out from the protection of the ferns. It would peek its head out. When it felt safe, it would come out and take a bite. Suddenly the big fish would arrive again and the little fish would go back to its shelter. This went on for a while. Finally, the little fish was no longer afraid to eat side by side with the big fish. I was mesmerized by the behaviors exhibited in these fish. Now, don’t start thinking that I was psychoanalyzing the fish. Rather, the fish were giving me therapy.

God began to talk to me. No, not in an audible voice, but rather my thoughts took me to my feelings of insecurity; fear of the future, apprehensions about my capabilities, anxiety that somehow it would not be enough. I felt like that tiny fish – afraid to come out of its little cave due to the uncertainty that if I let another fish in my tank, I would fail at keeping my territory. Then, the first lesson came… I learned that although it may seem that the big fish were eating all the food, even the little fish were satisfied. God reassured me that there is plenty for everyone. You see, as the big fish took bites, bits and pieces of the food dispersed throughout the fish tank. The amount of food the little fish received was just enough for its size.

Then the second lesson came. The Lord allowed me to see (literally) how he was expanding my territory, but in order for this to happen I had to take the risk like that little fish. As the little fish began to take small risks, it practiced feeling uncomfortable around the bigger fish. Eventually, it was courageous enough to stay and eat with the big fish. I thought, “Although others may have big titles or may seem above us, we are all the same. What matters is how we live out our life for Christ.” When we allow God to use our territory for the benefit of another, He will surely expand it and bless us even more.

Today, if you are feeling like a little fish, I hope these thoughts bring hope into your heart. God is in control. He will surely supply all your needs according to His riches and glory (Philippians 4:19).

Rest in His Word: 1 Chronicles 4:10

“Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.” (NIV)

Heart Checkup:

• Write down the fears you may have and ask the Lord to replace them with His peace.
• Are you feeling like a little fish today?
• Why don’t you take small risks that will help you practice toward the bigger goal?