Do you lack confidence to lead? It is normal to  have feelings of inadequacy, concerns of competence, and worries about overcommitting when contemplating a leadership role. Fear is the basis for these concerns, feelings, and thoughts. Although you know that fear is not of God, you are experiencing these thoughts and feelings of inadequacy, concern, and worry as you dwell on the “what ifs.” This is when you can, and need to, stand on God’s truth. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

God has gifted you in many ways and already equipped you to do the purposes He has called you to do. James 1:16-18 says, ”Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”

The commitment to lead can be scary but doesn’t have to be. “Blessed is the man that trusts in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreads out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat comes, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

Overcoming our fear allows us to operate differently. We no longer operate out of fear of rejection, fear of pain, and fear of abuse, but with power, love, and a sound mind. When you are aware of the gift and calling that God has given you to lead in His local church, you move beyond yourself into serving others. Here are some steps to help you overcome your fear of leading:

  1. Discover how God has gifted you. Take a spiritual gift assessment in order to learn about your own unique gifts and where you would fit best in your local church.
  2. Study to show yourself approved. There are many and various resources, in addition to Bible study, that can be utilized to learn how to use your gifts more effectively. Check out various reputable online tools.  I recommend biblestudytools.com for some great resources. (try read>interlinear bible for the original Greek or Hebrew word study)
  3. Practice your leadership skills by working with your teams at your church and following the C.A.R.E. model with your team members. (C.A.R.E.: Connection, Accountability, Resource, Encourage)
  4. Pray that God will give you wisdom through his word, other believers, and his still small voice.
  5. Prioritize the responsibility of leading your team at your church or workplace well.
  6. Balance your family, work, and calling in a way that honors God and gives you the stamina for the long haul. (Is it time to invite someone to lead with you to lighten your load?)

The development of your leadership gift is up to you. The Holy Spirit is your helper, which means he is coming alongside you to exponentiate your efforts and makes you a healthy and effective leader for him and his church.