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This Is Not a Dress Rehearsal

When I was in sixth grade, I auditioned for and was given a starring role in a school play. I’m not entirely sure what made me want to try out, but I went for it. For months, I memorized my lines, practiced with the cast, and learned how to manage the responsibility that came with a leading role. During the dress rehearsal—the final run-through before the big day—everything clicked. We were focused, we were ready, and it felt just right.

On the day of the performance, my nerves hit hard. I looked out at the audience and spotted my classmates, and just like that, the pressure felt heavier. But even with the butterflies in my stomach, I knew I was ready. I had practiced. I knew my part. The only thing that could stop me now—was me. Then, my drama teacher looked me in the eyes and spoke life into me. It might have seemed like a small moment, but something shifted deep inside. It was a quiet, powerful turning point I'd never forget.

So why am I sharing this story? Because life isn't a play—and there are no do-overs. This is your moment. Your opportunity to show up and shine for God.

Sometimes, God will call you to step into something that feels completely outside your comfort zone. Something that doesn’t seem to match your experience, your personality, or your plans. You might wonder, “Why me?” especially when others seem more qualified, more confident, more ready. But if you’re not careful, fear, comparison, and the wrong voices will talk you out of what God has already confirmed.

David wasn’t trained for battle, but he ran straight toward Goliath with nothing but a sling and faith. Peter didn’t walk on water because of ability—he stepped out because he trusted Jesus. Joshua wasn’t a seasoned leader when he took Moses’ place, but he moved forward with a single promise from God and a heart fully surrendered.

Unlike the play I participated in, life isn’t a rehearsal. There’s no practice round, no second take—this is real. This is purpose. This is Kingdom assignment. You can’t keep waiting for the stars to align, for the timing to feel safe, or for others to validate what God already confirmed. When God says “Go,” you don’t need another opinion. Obedience is your permission.

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart…” —Jeremiah 1:5

So if you’ve been hesitating—telling yourself you’re not ready, not good enough, not equipped—this is your wake-up call. The dream, the idea, the calling you’ve been sitting on isn’t waiting for another confirmation. It’s waiting for your yes. This is your moment—and God has already gone before you.

When Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, everything changed. After being blinded and then healed, he didn’t wait for comfort—he stepped into purpose.

Jesus, even as a young boy, was already walking in alignment with His Father’s will. He didn’t wait for a platform, applause, or permission. He didn’t delay purpose for comfort. He moved when the Father said move. Because when God sends you, excuses lose their power and timing.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” —Joshua 1:9

So what’s stopping you? What are you waiting for? What has God called you to that you've buried under fear, excuses, or delays?

Maybe you feel like Peter, sinking in shame. Or like Elijah, overwhelmed and hiding in the dark. Maybe you feel like Moses, standing before an impossible sea with nothing but a word. But the same God who met them in their breaking point will meet you in yours. He didn’t wait until they were confident—He moved when they chose to trust.

“Faith without works is dead.” —James 2:26

The truth is, faith doesn’t make fear go away; it just refuses to let fear control you. Faith says, “Even if I don’t feel ready, I’ll still move forward because God is with me." You don’t have to be perfect, you just need to be willing. You don’t need to know every step—just take the first one.

“The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” —1 Thessalonians 5:24

God isn’t asking you to perform or try to impress others. He’s calling you to obey Him. He doesn’t care about people’s opinions; He wants you to glorify Him with your life. Yes, following God’s call will challenge you. Yes, it will cost you something. But the reward of living with purpose and in sync with your Creator will be far greater than anything you give up.

Now is not the time to hold back. It’s not the time to wait for others to approve. This is your moment to rise up and step into your calling.

No more practicing. No more doubting. No more waiting.

Now is the time to say yes.

Pray with Me:

Lord,
I surrender every excuse, every fear, every delay.
I know You’ve called me—not because I’m perfect, but because I’m Yours.
Help me to stop rehearsing and start walking.
I give You my full yes, not for my glory, but for Yours alone.
Thank You for trusting me with purpose. Thank You for equipping me when I feel unqualified.
Now, help me to move—boldly, humbly, and fully surrendered.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
 
 
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