RELEVANT CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

We are living in days of uncertainty.  Like never before, we need leaders that serve and walk with confidence.   

Being confident doesn't mean you have all the answers.  Rather, it means you are placing your faith in God and His plans.   

Look what Paul said...

 For I am CONFIDENT of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Here's the good news.  Just like Paul said, you can be confident.  Why?  Because our confidence is in not in ourselves, but in God.  Our confidence doesn't rest in our own abilities, judgment, resources or talents. 

I call this GODFIDENCE.  It's a confidence that emanates from your trust in your Heavenly Father. 

Here are some practical tips on being confident.

Often our confidence is directly related to the people around us as we try to gain their approval.  When they approve, we become confident and when they disapprove, we begin losing our confidence.

As a leader, when we experience criticism, rejection, disunity or lack of support, it can deplete our confidence.

But we must do as Paul did, put our confidence in God and not in ourselves.

A confident leader...

• does the right thing, even if others criticize you for it. 

• is willing to take risks and go the second mile to improve things. 

• admits their mistakes and learns from them. 

• goes out of their comfort zone.

• is positive.

• inspires confidence in others.

Here are some tips on how to project confidence when talking with other people:

• Maintain eye contact when talking with someone. 

• Stand with your hands at your sides.  

• When shaking hands, be firm, but not too firm.

Here are some more practical tips for maintaining confidence:

• Identify things or situations that deplete your confidence.  Work on improving your skills in these areas.

• Set personal boundaries and make sure other people understand these.

• Realize that you deserve to be happy.  No one should be treated badly.

• Identify and develop your good habits.  Break the bad habits that are draining your confidence.

• Invest in your physical health.  Regular exercise can boost confidence.

• Keep an achievement log.  Start by making a list of 10 things you're most proud of. 

• Don't listen to the negative self-talk.  

Paul also said this in Philippians 4:13.

I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.

Just like Paul, you can walk with a "I can" confidence that comes from trusting God and being filled with His power and strength. 

Perhaps you're reading this today and you are struggling with your self-confidence.  Perhaps you blew it in an area and it has caused your confidence to be depleted.  Perhaps you are being criticized for a decision you made or a new direction you introduced.  

Tell the negative voice in your head to be quiet and listen to what God says about you.  Regain your confidence in Him and through Him. 

And one last thought.

Confidence doesn't mean you are cocky or full of pride.  Confidence means you are leaning on Jesus and working in His power and strength. 

Your turn.  What are some things that have tried to take your confidence?  How do you keep a positive, confident attitude as you lead?  Leave your thoughts and insights in the comment section below.