Kicking Fear Out of the Driver's Seat

I know what it’s like to feel paralyzed by fear. You wake up on a Monday, and it’s there—the pressure to be everything everyone expects you to be, to lead perfectly, to never stumble. I remember lying awake many nights, going over every “what if” and every potential failure. Fear has this way of gripping us. Freezing our thoughts. Locking up our hearts. And for pastors, it can hit even harder because so much feels at stake.

But here’s the truth: fear only has the power we give it. If you’re ready to take that power back, start here:

Step 1: Face It, Don’t Flinch

First things first—write down what you’re afraid of. All of it. Don’t pretty it up. Don’t shrink it down. What’s keeping you up at night? Losing members? Someone realizing you don’t have all the answers? That nagging voice saying, “What if I’m not enough?” Write it. Name it. Because when fear stays hidden, it has way too much power.

Step 2: Ask Yourself Hard Questions

Now, look at that fear. Ask yourself, “Why does this hit me so hard?” I’ve found that fears often aren’t about what’s happening in the present—they’re echoes of past hurts or deep insecurities we don’t want to admit. Are you afraid of rejection because it reminds you of that time in ministry you felt abandoned? Or maybe it’s tied to a lie you’ve bought into, like “If I fail, I’ll disappoint God.”

Step 3: Give It to God, Straight Up

Let God into this. No polished, “I have it all together” prayers. Just real talk. Say, “God, this fear has been steering me. Show me the truth.” He’s not looking for perfection; He’s looking for honesty. The more raw, the better. Ask Him for strength to break free and show you what’s true. But it starts with you being honest. No more sugarcoating. God only works in truth and light—not shadow.

Step 4: Speak It to Someone You Trust

This part’s tough. But it matters. Choose someone who’ll listen without judgment. Tell them what you’re dealing with—plain and simple. Fear loses its grip when it’s brought to light. And remember, vulnerability isn’t a weakness. It’s a weapon. As always, I invite you to contact our team. We'll always give you 30 minutes of our time to listen. We've been there. And we can help. Set up a free call.

Step 5: Take One Brave Action

Now, do something that fear’s been keeping you from doing. Is it making a hard decision in your church? Asking for help? Taking time off because burnout’s around the corner? Fear doesn’t disappear overnight, but each step you take weakens its death grip on the steering wheel of your life and ministry. This is about taking control and exercising the agency God has given you.

Fear’s going to try to creep back in, but next time, it won’t have the same power. You’ll know how to call it out, face it, and keep moving forward.◼︎