By Kelly Basham

Have you ever been excited about an assignment from God only to have your zeal plucked out of your heart by the opinions of others? When the opinions of others threaten to steal your zeal, you can go back to God for affirmation.

When the Opinions of Others Threaten to Steal Your Zeal

When I sensed that God was leading me to be more involved in women’s ministry, I knew I would have to clear a few things off my plate to make room in my schedule. As I prayed and sought God’s wisdom on what I needed to remove, God revealed I would need to significantly cut back on the number of orders I was taking through my home-based floral business.

At first, I was apprehensive. The thought of losing some of our income worried me, but the more I prayed, the more confident I became that God was leading me to take this step. Excitement over my new assignment began to grow, and I looked forward to everything God had planned.   

Not Everyone Will Share Your Zeal

When I shared this news with others, the feedback was mixed, and not everyone shared my zeal for what God was leading me to do. Some went so far as to say that they didn’t think I should cut back on my business in any capacity.

As I listened to the conflicting opinions and advice, I wondered if I was making the right choice. Thoughts like these ran through my mind:

Did I hear God right?

Am I making the wrong decision?

Should I do something different?

Does everyone think I’m making a mistake?

As I pondered these thoughts, my heart became conflicted, and my confidence and excitement began to wane. Hearing differing views and opinions prompted me to question my calling and purpose.

Ask God To Reaffirm His Call

It was only by continually seeking the Lord for guidance that my uncertainties calmed.  It took time, but eventually, all of my apprehensions were replaced with a newfound passion for serving God in women’s ministry, and I looked forward to this new chapter in my life.

The opinions of others may not line up with the steps God is leading you to take, and that’s okay. Not everyone will understand or agree with what we are called to do.

When the opinions of others tempt us to stray from the path God has laid out for us, we can pause, spend time in prayer and ask God to reaffirm his call in our hearts and minds. Proverbs 29:25 GNT says, “It is dangerous to be concerned with what others think of you, but if you trust the LORD, you are safe.” 

People will share their views, but we don’t have to let their opinions deter us from what we know God has led us to do, nor do we need to worry ourselves over whether they agree with us. 

Don’t Let Anyone Steal Your Zeal

If God has called you to it, keep going, don’t give up; you can trust God to work out the details and provide you with everything you need. 

As you boldly and passionately walk out your calling on the exact path the Lord has led you to take, he will strengthen your faith and help you stand firm so you can move forward in your calling.

Wife Step: The next time you’re tempted to doubt your purpose and calling, make it a point to pause, spend some time in prayer, and ask God to reaffirm his call in your heart and mind. 

Looking for community to grow your faith and your marriage? Join The A Wife Like Me Collective for FREE for 7 days, here!