Overcoming Fear and Doubt – Lessons from Moses’ Mission Impossible

When we face goals that seem far beyond our reach, fear and doubt are natural companions. Whether it’s launching a business, stepping into a new calling, healing from deep pain, leaving one employer for the other or simply believing for a better future, the weight of impossibility can feel overwhelming. But history and Scripture show us that the impossible often starts with a reluctant leader, a divine nudge, and a journey paved with uncertainty.

Let’s take a deeper look at Moses, a man who embodies what it means to wrestle with fear and doubt while being called to do the impossible: deliver an entire nation from slavery.

Moses’ story takes a dramatic turn at the burning bush (Exodus 3). God calls him to return to Egypt, confront Pharaoh, and lead the Israelites to freedom. But Moses doesn’t shout, “Let’s do this!” Instead, he hesitates.

“Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”

Exodus 3:11

His response reveals a deep insecurity and fear of inadequacy. Isn’t that where many of us get stuck? We hear a whisper to start that project, lead that movement, or speak up for truth, but we disqualify ourselves before we begin.

Lesson 1: It’s okay to feel unqualified. God’s call is not based on your résumé.

Moses gives several reasons why he shouldn’t be the one:

• “They won’t believe me.” (Exodus 4:1)
• “I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech.” (Exodus 4:10)
• “Please send someone else.” (Exodus 4:13)

Each excuse mirrors a form of fear: fear of rejection, fear of inadequacy, fear of exposure. Yet with each one, God doesn’t scold, He reassures, equips, and offers help. He gives Moses signs, promises His presence, and even sends Aaron to assist him.

Lesson 2: Fear doesn’t disqualify you, bring it to God and watch Him equip you.

Even after accepting the mission, Moses experiences rejection and failure. Pharaoh not only says no, he increases the Israelites’ suffering. Moses, disappointed, cries out:

“O Lord, why have you brought trouble upon this people? Is this why you sent me?” – Exodus 5:22

Doubt creeps in again. But God responds with renewed promise: “Now you will see what I will do…” (Exodus 6:1)

Lesson 3: When results don’t match your expectations, trust God’s process over your timeline.

Fast-forward to the Red Sea. Pharaoh’s army is behind them; the sea is in front. The people panicked. Moses, now bolder than ever, declares:

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.” – Exodus 14:13

This is the same man who once said, “Please send someone else.” What changed?

Moses didn’t become fearless overnight. But with every step, every obedience, every miracle, every answered fear — his faith grew.

Lesson 4: Courage grows as you keep moving forward, even with trembling steps.

You may be standing at your own “burning bush” moment. The goal ahead seems impossible. The fears are real. The doubts are loud.

But like Moses:

• You don’t have to be fearless to be used.
• You don’t need a perfect plan to take the first step.
• You don’t need to go alone, God walks with you, and He often sends others to help.
• You may fail, feel stuck, or want to quit, but every Red Sea moment starts with obedience and ends in awe.

God specializes in using the unlikely to accomplish the unimaginable. Your fear doesn’t frighten Him. Your doubt doesn’t disqualify you. And your calling is not a mistake. So, take the next step, however small, and trust that God is writing a bigger story than you can currently see. Because sometimes, the road to freedom begins when you say yes, even with shaky hands.

You were MADE FOR MORE.

Iamhenrylong