Claiming Victory Over Hesitancy

In the spiritual conflicts that surround sharing the gospel, Christians often have a tendency to view themselves as potential victims rather than guaranteed victors. Overcoming this mindset is the first critical step toward exercising boldness in our outreach.

It is true that evangelism carries risks, and there can be real personal consequences to sharing our faith. We face the risk of losing close relationships, or simply appearing foolish, intolerant, and out of touch with the world around us. In many parts of the world, the Bible’s warnings about arrest, imprisonment, and even death remain a daily reality.

Because of this potential for loss, we naturally hesitate. However, when we compare these temporary risks to the surpassing joy of knowing Christ, receiving the full forgiveness of sins, and the absolute certainty of eternal life, our perspective shifts entirely. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things” (Philippians 3:8).

When our focus in evangelism remains on ourselves—our comfort, our reputation, our fears—we quickly lose heart. But when our focus rests on the power, strength, and grace of Christ, we begin to reflect Christ’s heart. Like a loving shepherd seeking his lost sheep, we are filled with his compassion for those lost in unbelief. Embraced by God’s love, we no longer see ourselves as victims of potential loss. Instead, we revel in the victorious status Christ has already won for us..

The gospel account of Peter walking on the water offers a profound illustration of this shift. When Peter asked to walk out to Jesus, the other disciples likely thought he was foolish, bold, or even embarrassing. They were far more inclined to stay in the safety of the boat rather than climb overboard and step out in faith. If we are honest, many of us relate to the disciples in the boat. We are reluctant, finding it difficult to step out of our comfort zones and into Christ’s promises.

Yet, Christians who view themselves as victims will always prefer to stay in the boat. It is only those who revel in Christ’s victory who are eager to step out in faith and test God’s promises. When the waters appear deep, we step out and realize Jesus provides the solid ground. When the waves seem too high, the Lord is there to calm them. When the devil stirs up storms in our lives, Jesus commands us to keep our eyes fixed on Him. Only then can we walk on water.

The Bible is clear: every time we share the gospel, we can expect a storm. The message of the cross is inherently disruptive. The sword of the Spirit confronts, making people uncomfortable. The Word of God divides which can cause stress in relationships.

Despite this, in Christ, we are more than conquerors. He not only calms the external storms but also quiets our internal nerves, fears, and apprehensions. In a world scarred by the spiritual carnage of sin and unbelief, we must keep our gaze locked on the cross. A life rooted in Christ relishes His victory. When harm, disappointment, or difficulty arises from being a light in the darkness, we do not need to cower as victims. We stand as victors, ready to experience the immense blessings that come from stepping out in faith.