Daily Power #143

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you.” (1 Chron. 28:20)

Most people seem to think I’m confident. Many people tell me I’m a natural leader, strong and even-keeled. But the truth is that I doubt myself every day. I’ve been haunted my whole life with feelings that I’m not good enough, worrying that I might not measure up.

I had hoped that when I became a Christian my insecurities would disappear. But that wasn’t necessarily the case. It wasn’t long after I committed my life to Christ that I had opportunities to speak publicly and to teach the Bible. At first, I declined every invitation, never feeling good enough to teach the Word of God.

Finally, my pastor convinced me to give it a try. I was so nervous that I threw up in a garbage can right before taking the pulpit—a habit that continued for some time. For years, every time I spoke publicly my face would get blotchy, my neck would flush red, and I’d feel like I couldn’t breathe.

But I know God has called me to pastor, to preach and teach. So I’ve had to trust that he will give me the confidence and power needed to do what he wants me to do. I do my part to prepare and do my best, and this includes wrestling my fears.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing.

Power Lift

Dear God, pull me out of my comfort zone as I grow into being the person you created me to be. Today let me put my fears aside knowing my confidence is in you.