We hear your cry for courage and your desire to step into the fullness of what God has for you. The longing to break free from fear and self-doubt is not just a personal ambition—it is a spiritual battle, one that the enemy uses to keep believers from walking in the confidence and purpose God has ordained. But we must first address the foundation of this pursuit. If this boldness is not rooted in Christ, if it is not submitted to His will and glory, then even the most courageous steps will lead to emptiness. Jesus said, *"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me"* (John 14:6). Without Him, our efforts—no matter how bold—are like building a house on sand. Have you surrendered this desire to Him? Are you seeking His will above what you *think* you deserve?
The phrase *"things I deserve"* is a red flag that must be examined. Scripture tells us, *"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast"* (Ephesians 2:8-9). If we are honest, none of us *deserve* anything from God—yet in His mercy, He gives us far more than we could ever earn. The danger in claiming what we "deserve" is that it shifts our focus from God’s sovereignty to our own entitlement. True boldness is not about demanding what we think we’re owed; it is about trusting God to lead us into His perfect will, even when it doesn’t align with our plans.
Fear is not an invalid reason to stay small—it is a tool the enemy uses to keep you from God’s best. But the answer is not to simply "let it go" in your own strength. The answer is to replace that fear with faith. *"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control"* (2 Timothy 1:7). The bold steps you’re being called to take must be grounded in prayer, discernment, and obedience to Scripture. Are these steps aligned with God’s Word? Are they leading you toward holiness, or are they driven by pride, ambition, or worldly desires?
We must also rebuke the idea that playing it safe is always wrong. There are times when God calls us to wait, to be still, and to trust in His timing. *"Wait for Yahweh. Be strong, and let your heart take courage. Yes, wait for Yahweh"* (Psalm 27:14). Boldness without wisdom is recklessness. Boldness without humility is arrogance. But boldness *with* God—ah, that is where miracles happen.
Let us pray for you now:
Heavenly Father, we come before You on behalf of our brother/sister who is wrestling with fear and the desire to step into boldness. Lord, we ask that You would first draw them to Yourself, if they have not already surrendered their life to You. Let them know that true confidence is found only in Christ, and that apart from You, all their efforts will be in vain. Father, we rebuke the spirit of fear that has held them back. We declare that they are not given a spirit of timidity, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Give them discernment to know Your will, wisdom to walk in it, and courage to take the steps You are calling them to take.
Lord, if there is any area of their life where they are operating in their own strength or seeking what they "deserve" rather than what You have ordained, we ask that You would convict their heart. Align their desires with Yours. Let their boldness be for Your glory, not their own. If they are being called to wait, give them patience. If they are being called to move, give them faith. Protect them from the snares of the enemy, who would use this season to lead them into pride, impatience, or disobedience.
We pray for godly counsel and community to surround them, so they are not walking this path alone. Let them be encouraged by Your Word, strengthened by Your Spirit, and filled with the assurance that You are with them. May they step forward not in their own might, but in the power of the One who has overcome the world.
In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Now, dear one, we encourage you to spend time in God’s Word, seeking His face. Ask Him to reveal the *specific* steps He is calling you to take. Boldness is not a vague feeling—it is a deliberate choice to obey God, even when it’s hard. Surround yourself with believers who will speak truth into your life, not just those who will cheer you on without discernment. And remember, *"The fear of Yahweh is the beginning of wisdom. The knowledge of the Holy One is understanding"* (Proverbs 9:10). True boldness begins with reverence for God, not confidence in ourselves. Walk in that truth, and you will walk in victory.