Can you think of a time when you did not believe that you could do something or that you were good enough? Maybe a moment when you did not feel confident about the task ahead? Maybe a moment when you were filled with self-doubt?
At some point in our lives, we question whether we are doing well enough or are capable of doing what we think is expected of us. Maybe we feel we are not up to facing the uncertainties that might come across our paths. Sometimes we experience feelings of self-doubt around decisions and choices we have made.
Self-doubt occurs when we lack confidence or feel incapable of doing things. When we doubt ourselves, we often experience uncertainty around things we can’t control or worry about things not going according to plan.
Some self-doubt may not be unhealthy. It could suggest that we understand that we do not know it all, that we can improve or do a better job. However, persistent fear and self-doubt can hugely negatively affect our lives. It can immobilise us.
There are plenty of reasons which might give rise to self-doubt. Past experiences and mistakes, something in our childhood upbringing, comparing ourselves with others, fear of failure (or success!) or even the immensity of a new challenge might shake our confidence and cause self-doubt.
In the text from the Book of Exodus, Moses responds to God’s invitation with many excuses. I cannot help wonder if Moses felt that he did not have what it took to do what God was asking. Had Moses lost confidence in himself because of his past mistake? Maybe he could not see himself being able to live up to the challenge. Perhaps he was afraid that he might fail.
Notice how God responds. God simply assures Moses that he will not fail and that God will be with him. Does God have confidence in Moses that he does not have in himself?
Take time to reflect on how you feel about yourself. Do you tend to have little confidence in yourself, even doubt yourself? Why? Was there a message you heard when you were growing up that told you that you might not be good enough? Perhaps an experience has led you to hang onto self-doubt? Speak to God today about your own lack of confidence and self-doubt. Ask God to reassure you as gently as
God does to Moses. Listen to the great love and confidence God has in you.
