From Clarity to Courage: Taking the Next Step in Your Calling

The Step After Clarity Requires Courage

I sat across the table from a business owner not long ago—visionary, successful, respected.
He had recently come through a season of deep reflection and finally had clarity on what God was calling him to next.

But instead of excitement, what he felt was hesitation.

"I know what I need to do," he said quietly, "but honestly… it terrifies me."

This is the moment so many faith-driven leaders find themselves in.
Clarity has come. The next step is obvious.
But obedience? That’s where the real battle begins.

If you've ever found yourself delaying the thing God has clearly placed in front of you—not because you’re unclear, but because you're unsure if you have what it takes—this newsletter is for you.

Because courage doesn’t come from knowing everything.
It comes from trusting the One who does.

Inside this month’s LEADing Diligently newsletter:

✔ Why clarity isn’t the finish line—it's the starting point
✔ Three journaling questions that help you move from knowing to doing
✔ A Scripture reflection to strengthen your courage when you're afraid to act

Let’s dig in.

Have you ever known exactly what God was asking of you—and still hesitated?
You’re not alone.

Clarity is Only the Beginning

In the last article, we explored what it means to get clear on your calling and purpose.
We talked about how clarity often starts with a holy discontent—a growing realization that your work, while successful, may no longer reflect your deeper purpose.

A few of you wrote back and shared how those questions stirred something in you. That’s not surprising—God often speaks through questions. He invites us to search our hearts, examine our motivations, and reimagine what’s possible when we align our work with His calling.

But here’s the part we often forget:
Clarity isn’t the destination. It’s the starting line.

Once we see it, we’re responsible for it. And that’s where things get real.

Why We Hesitate, Even When We Have Clarity

It’s not that we don’t know what to do.
It’s that the next step often requires more faith than we’re used to using.

Maybe it’s launching that new initiative.
Or having the hard conversation.
Or finally letting go of something that used to define you.

Fear doesn’t always scream “I’m scared.” Sometimes it disguises itself as:

• “I’m just waiting for the right time.”

• “I need to do a little more research.”

• “It doesn’t feel wise to move right now.”

But what if the delay isn’t about timing or wisdom?
What if it’s about trust?

Courage Doesn’t Mean You Feel Brave

Courage is doing what God asks of you even if your voice shakes.
Even if the numbers don’t quite line up.
Even if the path ahead looks foggy.

The call isn’t to leap the whole mountain—it’s to take the next faithful step.

Scripture is full of leaders who had clarity… but still hesitated. Moses had a burning bush moment and still said, “Please send someone else.” Joshua was told three times in a row, “Be strong and courageous.”

From Clarity to Courage

Journaling Exercise – Three Reflection Questions:

1. What is the next small, faithful step God may be asking of you? (Not the logical step. Not the safe one. The one step God is asking you to take.)

2. What’s the fear underneath your hesitation?
   (Name it. You can’t confront what you won’t name.)

3. Who do you need walking alongside you right now?
   (Calling was never meant to be carried alone.)

• Take Action:

  You don’t have to take ten steps.
  Just take the next one.

  • Name your fear. Write it down. Bring it before God in prayer. Honesty is the starting point of courage.

  • Do the hard thing first. Choose one small, faithful action today that aligns with what you already know God is asking of you.

  • Invite accountability. Reach out to someone you trust—a mentor, friend, or leader—and tell them what step you're taking. Ask them to walk with you as you move forward.

Bible Scripture Reflection

Topic: Taking the Next Step of Faith, Even When You’re Afraid

Joshua 1:9 – "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." KJV

God speaks to us in ways big and small—through Scripture, through people, through a quiet nudge in our hearts. But how often do we hear His voice and hesitate? We tell ourselves, 'I’ll do it later' or 'I’ll act when the timing is better.' The problem is, later often turns into never.

When God gives us clarity, we’re often surprised by what follows—FEAR.

This verse reminds us that courage isn’t a personality trait—it’s a response to God’s presence. Joshua had clarity about where God was leading him, but he still needed the reminder: You’re not doing this alone.

Obedience doesn’t require full confidence in ourselves—it requires full confidence in Him.

God doesn't ask us to see the whole picture, only to trust Him with the next step. So even if your voice shakes, move forward. His presence is the promise.

Application - Let’s Put This To Practice

At LEAD Diligently, we believe obedience is the bridge between clarity and transformation. Growth happens when we choose to act—not just think—differently.

This month, take one intentional step in courageous obedience:

• Spiritually – Pray boldly about the next step God is asking you to take. Don’t just ask for clarity—ask for courage.

• Professionally – Take one faithful step in your business that you’ve been putting off—whether it’s starting something new or letting something go.

• Personally – Text or call someone you trust and say: “Here’s what I think God is asking me to do. I don’t want to walk this alone.”

God doesn’t need your perfection—He desires your obedience. And when you step out in faith, even when afraid, He meets you there with strength, peace, and provision.

That’s it for this month’s LEADing Diligently newsletter—I’ll see you again next month!

If this message challenged or encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you. Just hit reply and let me know: What’s one courageous step you’re taking this month?

— Paul Harstrom

P.S. If you’re looking for deeper clarity in your leadership and purpose, here are a few ways to work with me:
✔ Executive Coaching & Advisory Services
✔ CEO & Emerging Leader MasterMind Groups
✔ Strategic Leadership Consulting
✔ 2-3x Your Business – Systematize and Scale for Sustainable Growth

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