What Does It Mean to Lead Brave?
What Does It Mean to Lead Brave? A Faith-Based Approach to Leadership
It's a question I wrestled with for a long time. By nature, I'm slow to take risks, and brave isn't a word I would have used to describe myself. Ever. That is, until I realized that brave isn't a feeling—it's a choice, rooted in faith. What I’m saying is this: brave leadership is possible even if you don’t feel brave.
Leading brave means showing up, leading with faith, and trusting that God has called you—whether you feel brave or not, whether you feel ready or not. It’s a faith-based approach to leadership that changes how we view challenges and opportunities alike. It actually transforms us.
For many Christian women in leadership, fear and self-doubt are constant companions. Questions creep in:
What if I'm not good enough? What if people believe I don't know what I'm doing? What if I fail? What if they misunderstand me?
Here's the truth that changed my approach to leadership: You can be brave and still feel afraid. The key is choosing to take action in faith despite fear. Or, as I like to say, do it afraid. Leading brave means stepping into your God-given purpose, even when you feel unqualified, especially when you feel unqualified. More often than not, that’s right where He wants us.
What Does Faith-Based Brave Leadership Look Like in Practice?
When we think about being a brave leader, we often picture something grand—public speaking to large groups, taking major risks in ministry or life, or stepping into the spotlight with unwavering confidence. And brave leadership can certainly include these kinds of things.
But being brave in the small, seemingly ordinary moments is just as meaningful and often more impactful for long-term growth. So, what does everyday, brave leadership look like?
Speaking biblical truth with kindness, even when it's uncomfortable
Setting healthy boundaries in ministry, even when people don't understand
Showing up authentically as a Christian leader, even when vulnerability feels overwhelming
Making decisions aligned with God's Word, even when popular opinion differs
These seemingly underrated moments of brave behaviors build courage because we learn what it looks and feels like to do things afraid (and survive)!
Biblical Examples of Brave Leadership
Scripture provides us with countless examples of brave leadership that we can apply to our lives today. These biblical leaders remind us that courage comes through faith, not feeling:
Moses felt inadequate in his speaking abilities, yet God used him to lead an entire nation.
Esther felt unqualified to speak to the King, yet saved her people through courageous leadership.
Gideon doubted himself deeply, yet became a mighty warrior when he stepped into God's calling.
These biblical leaders were real people. They were brave not because they felt fearless, but because they were full of faith and acted in obedience. Their examples offer powerful lessons for us those of us who may feel similarly inadequate or in over our heads as women in leadership.
You Don't Have to Feel Brave to Lead Brave in Your Calling
Most great leaders don't feel brave all the time—but they lead with extraordinary faith. Fear doesn't take the lead, faith does. That's the difference.
Leading brave means stepping into your God-given purpose unapologetically, even when it feels too big. Honestly, friend, it probably is too big without God. That's precisely why choosing to lead brave is a powerful paradigm shift—it acknowledges our dependence on God's strength rather than our own.
So, what's your next brave step in leadership? Maybe it's:
Using your voice in a space where you'd normally shrink back, whether in the marketplace or in ministry.
Making a faith-filled leadership decision you've been putting off.
Trusting that you are called, equipped, and capable as a Christian leader—because God is with you.
Taking Your Next Brave Step in Faith-Based Leadership
Can I encourage you today? Stop waiting until you feel ready or feel brave. You can choose brave. You can live and lead with extraordinary faith, right where God has placed you. And He promises to be with you every step of the way.
"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 one way you can be brave in life or leadership today? I'd love to hear from you in the comments!
Resources for Your Brave Leadership Journey
Want to grow as a brave leader? Here are some helpful resources from The Purpose Project:
Join our free 5-Day Leading Brave Challenge!
Download our Leading Brave Guide!
Join the waitlist for our upcoming Leading Brave Mastermind or Mini Course!
