Placed with Purpose: Overcoming My Fear Through Obedience
Yesterday was a such a beautiful reminder of how God intentionally places us exactly where we need to be, even when it feels uncomfortable.
My church, The Outpouring, hosted a drive-through Back to School event to hand out book bags and supplies to families in our community. Early in the morning, we gathered at a local school and were divided into groups of three. I found myself assigned to group 2 - the “evangelizing” group. Our task was clear: greet the passengers in each car, hand out flyers, invite them to our Faith and Family Sunday (which happened today), engage in friendly conversations, and offer to pray with them.
Let me be completely honest — I felt like I had been put in the wrong group. I’m a writer, not a talker. And the thought of praying aloud for strangers felt daunting. I’ve always admired those who can effortlessly pray over others, but that wasn’t me. It felt scary, overwhelming, and way out of my comfort zone.
But God….
He knew exactly why I needed to be in that group. After all, how can I genuinely want to call myself a disciple eager to share the Gospel if I’m not willing to step into uncomfortable moments? Recognizing this conviction, I took a deep breath and silently asked the Holy Spirit to lead me.
As I confessed my nerves to friends around me, their encouragement deeply resonated with me: God isn’t looking for perfect prayers or eloquent words. Just have a conversation with Him with a sincere heart. With that in mind, each time a car pulled up, I took my turn and stepped forward, greeted families warmly, and gently asked if they had any prayer requests or if we could pray for them right there.
And guess what?
Not a single family turned away our offer for prayer. Each moment felt orchestrated by God, gently nudging me past my fear and into faithful obedience. I genuinely felt His presence guiding my words, calming my nerves, and helping me connect authentically with each person. My prayers weren’t perfect, but they didn’t need to be. They were exactly what God intended them to be — genuine and heartfelt.
Reflecting back, I realized God knew I’d be more comfortable handing out book bags quietly from behind a table, engaging only in small talk. But He intentionally placed me where He wanted me, not where I wanted to be. And I’m so grateful He did.
It truly was a beautiful morning, serving the community alongside my church family, stepping courageously into obedience, and experiencing firsthand the power of God at work through our willingness, even when we’re afraid.
Friends, if you find yourself in a similar situation, feeling overwhelmed by what God might be asking you to do, I encourage you to lean into it. Step out in faith, knowing He meets us exactly where we are and provides the strength and courage we need to fulfill His purpose.
Remember, obedience doesn’t require perfection — it simply requires willingness.
✨ A Prayer for Overcoming Fear
Father God,
Thank You for meeting us in our fears and uncertainties. Thank You for gently leading us toward obedience and for using us even when we feel inadequate. Give us the courage to trust You more and fully, to step confidently into the places You call us, and to remember it’s Your strength, not ours, that makes our obedience possible.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen
