DON’T LET THE FEAR OF BEING MISUNDERSTOOD STOP YOU ❤️

During our recent Called to Launch workshop, a couple of ladies shared something with me that has stayed on my heart.

They talked about how they had felt led by God to step out and do certain things in ministry, but the words and opinions of others had caused them to pull back.

Some had questioned their motives, suggesting they were trying to build their own kingdoms, draw attention to themselves, or simply be seen.

What touched my heart most was realizing that these ladies weren’t lacking a desire to serve God. They were afraid of being misunderstood.

And I wonder how many others are carrying something God placed on their hearts but have been hesitant to move forward because of what someone might say.

One of the Scriptures mentioned was Matthew 6:4, where Jesus speaks about giving in secret and being rewarded by our Heavenly Father.

I love that Scripture, but I also believe it’s important to understand what Jesus was teaching.

He was reminding us to serve with pure motives, not for the praise or recognition of people.

Yet in Matthew 5:16, Jesus also tells us to let our light shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven.

Both Scriptures are beautiful reminders that it’s not about being seen or remaining hidden. It’s about the condition of our hearts and bringing glory to God.

Some things God calls us to do will be done quietly, and others will require us to step forward, lead, teach, gather people, and share what He is doing.

And that’s okay.

I want to encourage someone today who may be struggling with the same thing these ladies shared.

If you’ve allowed the words of others to stop you from doing what God placed on your heart, please don’t be discouraged.

I know it can be painful when your intentions are misunderstood, especially when you’re genuinely trying to follow God’s leading.

But sweetheart, you cannot spend your life trying to convince everyone that your heart is in the right place.

God knows your heart.

He knows the prayers you’ve prayed, the things you’ve wrestled with, and the courage it has taken just to consider stepping out.

You are not responsible for everyone’s opinions, assumptions, or understanding of your assignment.

You are responsible for being obedient to what God has asked you to do.

Of course, we should always remain humble, seek wise counsel, and be willing to receive loving correction. None of us is above that.

But please don’t confuse someone’s misunderstanding with God’s disapproval.

And don’t allow the fear of criticism to keep you from taking the next step.

If God has placed something on your heart, take it back to Him in prayer. Ask Him for wisdom, courage, and clarity.

And when He gives you direction, trust Him enough to move forward.

You don’t have to have everyone’s approval to walk in obedience.

One of the things I love most about gathering women through Called to Launch is seeing them begin to recognize that what God has placed inside them matters.

Their stories matter. Their gifts matter. And the people God has called them to reach matter.

It would be heartbreaking for someone to never experience what God wanted to do through their lives simply because they were afraid of being misunderstood.

So today, I’m reminding you, and perhaps even reminding myself:

Stay humble. Keep your heart pure. Love people well. But don’t hide what God has called you to release simply because someone may not understand it.

There is room in the Kingdom for those who serve quietly and those who are called to step out publicly.

We need both.

And my prayer is that we become people who encourage one another to obey God rather than unintentionally make someone afraid to try.

If you’ve been holding back, perhaps this is your gentle reminder to begin again.

Take the step.

Make the call.

Start the ministry.

Share what God has placed on your heart.

Not to prove anything to anyone, but simply because you want to be faithful to Him.

You don’t have to defend every step of your journey. Just keep walking with Jesus.

And remember, you are not responsible for making everyone understand what God has spoken to your heart.

Do what God said, and trust Him with the rest. 

With love,

Tricia