If we’re honest, most of us struggle with confidence to some degree. Some are uncertain about their abilities; some are unsure about the future. Some are insecure around certain people. Others feel inadequate as a parent or spouse. Some just feel that they never measure up. We often try to compensate when we lack confidence in some area. Some attempt to please everyone around them in order gain approval. Others try to boost their confidence by seeking compliments and affirmation. Some people boast about what they have or what they are doing to impress others. However, some people just quit, sit on the sidelines, stop trying because they are afraid of failure. It’s good to be realistic about our abilities because false confidence doesn’t lead to success. However, as followers of Jesus Christ we can have confidence in God’s ability to lead, guide and direct us. Too many Christians are not living to their full God-given potential because they are afraid to move forward, afraid of failure or embarassment. It is essential that we find our confidence in God because he has a plan and will provide all we need when we follow him.

Scriptures 

1 Co 10:12; Ro 8:31; He 13:5-6; Js 1:5; Ps 46:1; Ph 1:6

Verses

Forget about self-confidence; it’s useless. Cultivate God-confidence. (1 Co 10:12) I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus. (Ph 1:6)

Thought

Here are three declarations (God-vibes) that can help you gain confidence. 1) God is always for you. Not only is God with you, He is for you. As a parent and grandparent, I am always for my kids and grandkids. I’m not always proud of them and I don’t always approve of what they do, but I always want the best for them; I am always for them. God doesn’t base his love on your performance, He loves you unconditionally. He is always for you! 2) God will always help you. No matter the situation; God will help you get through it. Things may not work out the way you want or the way you hope, but God will help you. You can move forward with confidence knowing he’s there to help you each step of the way. 3) God is working in you. Not only is God for you and helping you, through his Holy Spirit he is working in you. Even if you are struggling with sin, or feel you should be stronger spiritually, God isn’t finished. He’s working in you, and Paul says in Philippians (see Scripture above) God will complete the good work in you by the day of Christ Jesus. It’s a process, so keep moving forward with confidence in God’s ability to bring you to your full God-given potential

Questions

Is there anything you always wanted to do but never had the confidence to do it? In what area are you most confident of your abilities? In what area do you lack confidence in your ability? Describe a time when you stepped out in God-confidence? How did it turn out? If you feel insecure or lack confidence about something are you most likely to quit or go for it with what you have (+God)? What’s the difference between confidence/God-confidence and arrogance?

Response 

Write down a couple of things you have wanted to do or have felt led to do (to serve or help others) but haven’t followed through because you feel insecure about your ability. Maybe it’s to lead a class or teach children or spend time with someone who is lonely or in need. What is your excuse? Decide that you will move forward with God-confidence. Do it!

Prayer

Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for always wanting the best for me. Help me to rest confidently in Your ability to help me each and every day in every situation. Work in and through me so that I can make a difference in this world and in the lives of others for your kingdom. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.