It’s Not That You Can’t—It’s That You Won’t

Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

If we truly believe that, then why do we keep passing up opportunities? Why do we hesitate, hold back, or disqualify ourselves in our minds before even trying?

We tell ourselves we’re not ready. Not smart enough. Not skilled enough. We allow fear, doubt, and insecurity to speak louder than the voice of God within us. We give more power to our thoughts than to the truth of His Word. And in doing so, we talk ourselves out of blessings. We stay stagnant—not because we can’t move forward, but because we’ve decided we won’t.

We get comfortable in the familiar—complaining about it, yet clinging to it. We wonder why things aren’t changing, yet resist every opportunity that might lead to growth.

I was reflecting recently on why I dislike virtual meetings—or meetings in general. The truth hit me: it wasn’t that I couldn’t show up. I just didn’t want to.

But it revealed something deeper—we do the things we want to do. That’s a whole blog in itself. The issue wasn’t the meetings or the timing but my unwillingness to participate. And in choosing not to show up, I wasn’t just holding myself back—I was withholding the encouragement or knowledge someone else might’ve received through me, while also blocking myself from receiving the same thing from others.

How often do doors open, jobs present themselves, or ideas stir in your spirit—and fear talks you out of them? It’s not that you’re unqualified. It’s not that you’re incapable.

It’s just that you’ve decided not to move.

Not to speak.

Not to show up.

But remember: You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

So maybe it’s time to stop saying you can’t—and start asking why you won’t.

Amara L. Russell M.FA. Creative Writing B.F.A. Public Relations

Rare Books & Publishing

www.rare-publishing.com

Email: Info@rare-publishing.com