I still remember the first time I stood (or sat) in front of a group of women, Bible in hand, heart pounding, palms sweating. My mouth was dry, my notes were shaking, and every lie of inadequacy came rushing in like a flood. “Who do you think you are?” “You’re not qualified for this.” “What if you mess up?” The fear was real. But deep down, I knew I God had called me to be obedient. So, I had to do it scared and embrace God’s call with courage.
Maybe you’ve felt that same trembling in your bones when God nudged you toward something bigger than yourself, whether that was speaking, writing, mentoring, leading, teaching, or simply showing up and sharing your story. And maybe, like me, you’ve felt the weight of fear trying to keep you silent or hinder what God wanted to do through you. If that’s you, then you’re not alone. And you’re not disqualified.
Let’s look at Jeremiah, a person who also wrestled with fear in the face of a big calling.
God’s Call Doesn’t Wait for Perfect Confidence
In Jeremiah 1:4–5, the Lord tells Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
What a powerful affirmation. Before Jeremiah ever took a step, God had already called, formed, and appointed him. And yet, Jeremiah’s first reaction wasn’t bold acceptance. It was fear. Could you imagine him shaking in his boots, while saying:
“Ah, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.” (Jeremiah 1:6)
Isn’t that just like us? We hear God’s call and immediately think of why we’re not ready or not enough. But God doesn’t back down He responded in verses 7–8: “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
God doesn’t coddle Jeremiah’s fear. He addresses it head-on with His presence, His promise, and His Word. Sometimes, He may have to do that to us as well.
Fear Is Not a Disqualification
Fear isn’t a sign that you’re doing something wrong. Often, it’s evidence that you’re stepping into something sacred. I didn’t say something scared, I said s-a-c-r-e-d. There’s “A” BIG difference here.
When I started sharing my story publicly, I waited for the fear to disappear before saying yes. Spoiler alert: it didn’t. I still get scared after years of speaking. But eventually, I had to realized that God wasn’t waiting for my fear to vanish, instead He was inviting me to obey despite it.
We may wait forever if we’re waiting to feel confident before we step into our calling. Confidence comes on the other side of obedience. And courage follows because we trust the One who called us.
So, the next time fear rises up, remind your heart: Do it scared and embrace God’s call with courage.
God Equips the One He Calls
In verses 9–10, God personally touches Jeremiah’s mouth and says: “I have put my words in your mouth… See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms…”
The same God who called Jeremiah is the God who equips you and gives His Word. All you have to do is be faithful in sharing it. You might not feel ready. You might not feel brave. But God promises His presence. He says, “Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you.” (v. 8)
Friend, He is with you!
You Can Be Both Afraid and Obedient
Okay, let’s get real. Many of us are still waiting to feel fearless before we obey. But Scripture shows us a better way: we can be faithful in fear.
God never told Jeremiah, “Don’t worry, it’ll be easy.” But God did warn him that the road ahead would be hard (Jeremiah 1:17–19). God also promised that He would strengthen and protect him in the journey.
“They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord. (v. 19)
This promise is the tension we walk in. Obedience may be costly. Fear may whisper in our ears. But faith stands up anyway and says yes when fear says no. Faith says, “I’ll do it scared if that’s what it takes.”
Your Courage Makes a Difference
Someone is waiting on the other side of your obedience. When you say yes to God, even with trembling hands and shaky knees, you are planting seeds of courage in someone else. Your vulnerability becomes someone else’s encouragement to step forward. And your faith becomes fuel for someone else’s fire.
What if your obedience today gives another woman the courage to obey God tomorrow?
Don’t wait until you feel fearless. Do it scared. Go wherever God is calling you, whether that’s to lead, teach, speak, serve, or simply step out in a new way.
God doesn’t call the fearless. He calls the faithful. So, give Him your yes, and trust Him with what comes next.
With a splash of courage,
💛Dee
Have you ever said yes to God even when you were afraid? What helped you step out? Share your story in the comments below, I’d love to cheer you on. And if you’re looking for more ways to grow your faith? Head over to the dee-votionals for monthly encouragement, practical teaching, and resources to help you live with Christ, courage, and clarity. If you missed last’s month devotional, you can find it here: Son-Shine in My Soul.
DoItScared #CourageousFaith #ObedienceToGod #GodsCalling #FaithOverFear #WomenOfFaith #SayYesToGod #ChristianWomen#Psalm62 #RestInGod #RestForYourSoul #TrustGod #FaithOverFear #GodIsFaithful #ReturnToTruth #ReleaseYourBurdens #ChristianEncouragement #WomenOfFaith #HopeInChrist
Comments Off on