You’ve heard of hydrophobia, right? It’s often used as a synonym for rabies, but technically the word means “an abnormal fear of water.”

Our horses tend to develop an abnormal fear when they reach this point on a trail we ride fairly often, only it’s not the water they’re afraid of, it’s the bridge.

The photo doesn’t capture the total essence of the bridge. It extends into the trees on both sides and ramps up and down at each end. The flooring is solid wooden timbers. Then there’s that large metal framework on either side which extends way above their heads, plus it’s the longest bridge we cross. To top it all off it’s an out and back trail. Soon after crossing the bridge you reach the end of the trail and have to turn around and come back the exact same way.

On our last trail ride here, our horses acted as if they’d never seen a bridge before in their lives, although they’d crossed this very bridge at least half a dozen times. When we finally made it onto the bridge, my daughter’s horse, Kody, startled a little. In doing so, he pounded his hooves extra hard on the timbers, making a really loud noise which frightened both of them even more. We managed to make it safely across, hit the end of the trail and were soon back at the bridge.

You would think since they had just crossed the bridge 10 minutes before, that they wouldn’t have been bothered by it this time, but no, they still acted silly and frightened. I explained to them that it was perfectly safe and there was nothing to be afraid of, but I don’t think they quite comprehended. With great fear and trepidation, they made it over the terrifying bridge again.

Sometimes I marvel at the things horses find to be afraid of. Why don’t they just trust us? But as I continue to battle my own fears, I understand a little how God must feel. He wants us to trust Him, but too often we let our fears get the best of us. Frequently in the bible we’re told not to fear because God is with us.

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.  Isaiah 41:10

Jeremy Camp has a song that has a line that says, “Help me to rid my endless fears. You’ve been so faithful for all my years.” I often think of that when I am feeling fearful. It reminds me to look back and remember how God has provided for and protected me for many years. I have been just as safe as my horses were on that bridge.