Imposter Syndrome

But Moses said to the Lord, “The Israelites haven’t even listened to me. How can I expect Pharaoh to listen to me, especially since I’m not a very good speaker?” Nevertheless, the Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron. – Exodus 6:12-13a (CEB) 

Moses wrestles with a familiar voice in his head: “Who am I to do this, poor speaker that I am?” His insecurities spill out of him as he faces rejection from his own people and anticipates the same from Pharaoh. He sounds like someone snagged in the grip of imposter syndrome, doubting his qualifications and fearing he’s not enough. 

Most of us have been there. We land a new role, take on a different ministry, or find ourselves in bigger spheres of influence, and suddenly we’re flooded with self-doubt. “I’m not skilled enough.” “I don’t have what it takes.” “They’ll figure out I’m not really qualified.” Deeper into the spiral of doom we go.  

But as with Moses, God doesn’t let us linger in our insecurities. Instead of coddling our doubts, God instructs us: Keep going. Speak anyway. Lead despite your fears. This is a reminder that God’s call on our lives isn’t about our perfection but about our willingness. God chooses the imperfect, the hesitant, and even those who feel like frauds, because ultimately the mission is God’s—not ours.  

While imposter syndrome whispers, “You’re not enough,” God declares, “I am enough.” When we let God’s assurance drown out our inner critic, we can step into our calling with the courage to act, even and especially when we feel unqualified. 

Prayer
God, when we’re overwhelmed by the fear of not being enough, help us remember that you are. Give us the courage to follow your call, even when we feel inadequate. Amen.

About the Author
Phiwa Langeni creatively invites others into transformational liminal spaces between what has been and what is yet to be. They currently serve as the Associate Conference Minister for Equipping Leaders in the Southern California Nevada Conference UCC.