Monday, June 3, 2024

In 2011, the university’s provost, who was my supervisor at the time, walked up to me and said, “I need an ADA coordinator.” 

It took me a few seconds to realize she was offering me a new position, and my very first promotion! She explained the role: I would oversee the student support services lab, which included testing, tutoring, and services to maintain compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA). I would supervise multiple staff members and learn the latest ADA regulations. 

Though I hadn’t sought out this position, through her observations, she had noticed my strong interpersonal skills, ability to learn information quickly, and effective problem solving skills. She thought I would be the best person for the role. I, on the other hand, had many doubts.

In the sermon this week, we reflected on a similar story about how God instructed the prophet Samuel to find a new king of Israel. It was decided that Saul was the best person for the job, so Samuel summoned him to share the news.

1 Samuel 9:17
When Samuel saw Saul, the Lord said, “That’s the man I told you about! He will rule my people.”

Saul doubted whether he was the right person for the job and tried talking Samuel out of it.

1 Samuel 9:21
Saul replied, “But I’m only from the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest tribe in Israel, and my family is the least important of all the families of that tribe! Why are you talking like this to me?”

At first glance, Saul’s humility seems like a good trait. But when our self-doubt is out of control, as Saul’s was, it can lead to unhelpful and unhealthy behaviors. Instead of living from who God says we are, our unchecked insecurities drive us to fulfill the ideas of who everyone else says we should be. 

God had a purpose for Saul’s life, but Saul allowed his people-pleasing insecurities to drive his actions. He chose to do what was most appealing (1 Samuel 15:9) instead of following what God asked of him (1 Samuel 15:1-3), and it eventually cost him dearly. 

The bottom line: Unchecked insecurity will destroy your destiny. 

If I had allowed my uncertainty to get the best of me by not accepting my first promotion, I wouldn’t have the amazing career I have today. God has a purpose for our lives, and with his help, we can overcome our insecurities. We just need to put our faith and trust in him.

Questions:
Saul didn’t think he was important enough to be king. What insecurities do you have about yourself?

Have insecurities held you back either in your personal or professional life?

What insecurities might be holding you back from carrying out God’s purpose for your life?

Next Steps: 
This week, take a few minutes to reflect on your insecurities. Name them and explain how they have held you back in your personal and professional life. Consider the steps you can take to overcome them.

Ask for God’s guidance to overcome your insecurities and how you can use your insecurities to help others through theirs.

Prayer: 
Dear God, I admit that I have insecurities in my life that have held me back from carrying out your purpose. This week, help me to dig deeper into these insecurities and discover ways to overcome them. I know I can overcome anything through you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 37:3-4 

³ Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. ⁴ Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.

Today’s post was written by Connie Disbro, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut devotional.