Fear and doubt can feel overwhelming when pursuing God-given dreams, but trusting God with your dreams is the first step to overcoming these obstacles. Sometimes we let our thoughts run wild and soon we find ourselves doubting what we are capable of; fearful of not being able to accomplish what we have envisioned.
As believers and followers of Christ, we don’t have to try and accomplish all in our own strength. When our endeavors are in line with God’s word, He gives us what we need to complete the task at hand. We can trust Him to help us overcome fear and doubt.
Recognizing the Roots of Fear and Doubt
Where have we allowed fear and self doubt to creep in? Sometimes we think that because we have failed in the past it means that this time we will too. This may make you feel cautious or lacking confidence to step out of your comfort zone and act on faith.
Maybe self doubt comes from constantly looking at other’s accomplishments and feeling that you do not measure up. Lack of self confidence can allow doubt to take a foothold and keep you from pursuing your big dreams.
For many Christians, the fear of failure stems from past experiences or comparing themselves to others. Recognizing these roots is essential to learning how to trust God when you feel inadequate.
What the Bible Says About Fear and Doubt
The Lord has a lot to say about our limitations and His magnificence. This is because we are to trust fully in him and not rely on our own strength or understanding when walking in faith and pursuing what we are called to do. He equips us with Biblical courage.
What Does the Bible Say About Fear and Doubt?
Isaiah 41:10 says this about fear:
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.
In this scripture, God is speaking to the Israelites about delivering them from their enemies, but we can also stand on these promises. That the Lord is always with us, that He will give us strength and help us, and that He will uphold us.
2 Corinthians 12:9 says this about our doubts:
But He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.
What a relief to know that God’s grace covers us and is sufficient so we don’t have to strive to make everything happen. We don’t need to have control over every single little detail. God’s got it! And not only that, He’s always available no matter the situation.
God’s promises for courage and boldness
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Life can sometimes be challenging. Sometimes we are faced with tough decisions or are required to walk through a difficult situation. We can take a note from this scripture in Joshua. Be strong and courageous and to walk in faith with our trust in the Lord.
Nothing can overcome the strength and power of our God! We can stand firm on His promises and trust that through Him, we have the confidence to move forward and pursue our big dreams.
What Steps Can I Take to Overcome Fear in Faith?
Pray & surrender: It is so important to pray and surrender our plans to the Lord. According to Proverbs 16:3 we are to “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Meaning that when we submit and trust our plans to the Lord they will succeed if we respond to His will and guidance.
We should also surrender our fears to the Lord. We can trust that we have confidence through Him. Some call this “God-Confidence”. It does not come from our own abilities but the strength from our All Mighty God to do what He’s called us to do. We can believe in His plan for our life.
We also know that from 2 Timothy 1:7 that we were not created with a spirit of fear. Meditate on the amplified version of this verse: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].
Surround yourself with Godly encouragement: Finding a community of fellow believers that will encourage you as well as hold you accountable is important. Proverbs 27:17 tells us that “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another”.
Examples of Godly leadership and community could be involving yourself in your church community and being a part of small groups or volunteering. It could also look like finding a mentor who is ahead of you in life stage who can help guide you, pray for you and hold you accountable.
You can also source faith filled resources like journals, courses and bible studies to help provide inspiration and encouragement alongside your bible reading. Using a tool like The Revive & Inspire Journal to break down big dreams into manageable, faith-filled steps can also help.
Help from a life coach can also be beneficial when outlining your next steps. More information on Life That Shines Christian life coaching can be found here.
Christian Strategies to Conquer Fear of Failure
When it comes to taking the first steps to trusting God with your dreams, obedience is more important than perfection. When we focus on getting everything perfect, we are (perhaps unknowingly) trying to take control away from God. All He requires from us is obedience to His Word and His Will and He will handle the rest. Trusting the Lord is a skill that requires development.
Here’s your task – Choose one small step to take today toward your dream. Where can you practice trusting the Lord in this step? Pray about it and consider using a journal to record your thoughts.
Conclusion
When it comes to the dreams that you have in your heart, know that with God, all things are possible. Fear and doubt are no match for the Lord’s mighty hand which upholds those who are His.
If the Lord has called you to something, He is sure to guide you along the way and give you the courage and resources to complete it. When we submit our plans to Him and obediently follow His guidance, we can find peace in knowing that we will succeed.
If you are ready to revive a dream that is in your heart and be inspired again, I encourage you to download your free copy of the Revive & Inspire Journal. In it you will find prompts curated by a Christian life coach that will help you take the first steps toward your big dreams.
Closing Prayer
Lord, I lift up the person reading these words and I ask that you would ignite the dream that you have planted in their heart. Whatever that may be. We know that you have equipped each one of is with unique gifts and talents to serve your Kingdom. We thank you for these gifts and we ask that you would help us by way of the Holy Spirit to steward them wisely. Infuse us with a new breath of encouragement and confidence to step into the things you have called us to do. In Jesus’ name, amen!
