Fear of new wineskin was an unexpected reaction to my decision to let go of the old and embrace the new. I’m not sure why I thought it would be seamless, but it has turned into more of a process.
I awoke the morning after writing “New Wineskin” to the low level buzz of anxiety and a face with the blotchy red patches of eczema. It took some time to figure out what was going on. On one had I was excited about this new gift. The other hand was afraid to let go of what is known, what is comfortable, what is expected.
It surprised me to realize that claiming the restoration that God has brought and continues to bring would feel so uncomfortable. The unknown of the new wineskin became overwhelming. Sticking with my predictable patterns, occasional feelings of being inadequate or not good enough seemed more tolerable.
10 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10 NIV).
God tells me not to fear the new wineskin. God offers help and strength. Many times God has called me onto new paths, challenged me to go in a new direction or gave me the opportunity to do something terrifying. Every time I have had comfort, grace and the perseverance needed to be successful. Every time I knew I wasn’t doing it alone and here I am once again afraid.
Fear of new wineskin is actually an expected and common reaction to the unknown. Many times throughout scripture we told not to fear and not to worry. It’s like God knew what our tendency would be. So, I will embrace the fear and step into the new trusting that God has me.
Do you fear a new wineskin? Do you struggle to let go of past patterns? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.