Confidence is a Feeling; Courage is an Action
I love the Wizard of Oz, where the cowardly lion acquires courage! Even though it develops through an arduous journey, I’m still left wondering…
“If only it were that easy!”
In Lessons I Learned in the Light, Jennifer Rothschild describes a thought-provoking difference between confidence and courage:
Confidence is a feeling. Courage is an action that leads to trust in God and confidence. Don’t wait until you feel confident to exercise courage… because when we fail to act, we lose hope.
God doesn’t require confidence. He only asks for courage… Get out of our comfort zone and experience the uncertain adventure of exercising courage- in spite of our lack of confidence. When we do, we find that an amazing confidence results: a confidence in God and His promises!
Driven by Feelings?
I recently “dared” to quit my job and search for a new career. Some of Paul’s “last words” to his mentee, Timothy, really apply:
“Keep a firm grip on your faith and yourself; after all, this is a battle we’re in.”
Transitions are emotionally-laden and his challenge to “get a grip” is a good reminder to me- daily!
Acting with Courage
Get courage by acting with courage. It’s a choice. God can be trusted.
► Take a risk –it’s worth it.
o Give yourself freedom to fail and try again.
o Try a totally new experience on for size- how does it fit?
o What promises has God given you?
o What would you do if you were brave?
► Boldly refuse to act.
o Be content to wait until you’ve heard God speak.
o Release control. Trust God and others. Discover the adventure of “chaotic order”!
o Empower others. Enable them to go further than you’ll ever go.
o Build your team with diversity- of gifts, experience, skill, style, values.
Feeling Confident
Know thyself.
► I keep a “listening file” where I stash
o Results of profiles that help me understand how I’m wired: MBTI, Kolbe, Clifton Strengths-finder, Spiritual Gift Inventories.
o My Personal Leadership Profile from NextLEVEL Leadership. Their Integrative Leadership Intensives significantly address confidence, character and competence for Christian leaders today. This community has made a world of difference for me.
o Insights and comments- both affirming and constructive- from mentors, friends, family, co-workers… those who know me well enough to speak the truth
o Journal entries of what God has revealed to me.
Let your confidence develop based on the “truth” of who you are- in Christ and …
DARE to act courageously, be confident!
Sharon Johnson skjohnson@rogers.com
Facilitator for NextLEVEL Leadership
Venturing into a new career with refugees in her hometown.
