When leaders allow themselves to be overwhelmed by uncertainty fear will grip their spirit and stall progress toward their calling and mission. Ultimately fear is rooted in a belief that God is not in control. So when a leader is struggling with anxiety it's a matter of changing their mindset more than changing their circumstances.
One morning i was meeting with an individual who talked to me about the problems he was facing and expressed a sense of defeat in the overwhelming odds against him. Later that day I had another meeting with an individual who held a similar position and was facing similar circumstances. But instead of talking about the problems he was facing he told me about the opportunities in front of him. He acknowledge the challenges yet spoke with hope and optimism as he anticipated the hand of God to move in his situation. Both men were facing financial difficulty, relational challenges and lack of resources. The only difference between the two was their perspective.
Paul told the Philippians "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Phil. 1:6) Paul expresses a strong confidence that the work God has begun in us will be brought to completion, perfection. He's certain of it. That Greek word for "confident" (peitho) means persuaded, already convinced. I'm reminded of that every time I begin to feel fear and uncertainty. My circumstances may not be what I would like but I can be confident that God is in control. And when the conviction that God is in control grips my heart it changes the way I lead.
