Take the Risk

Today we’re talking about something that can make your palms sweat—taking risks. 

Are you a risk taker? I’m not, really.

Whether it’s a new job, stepping into ministry, making a new friend, or sharing your story, life is full of moments where we have to decide whether we’ll stay comfortable or take a leap of faith. And let’s be honest, most of us like a good safety net. But sometimes the greatest blessings are waiting on the other side of uncertainty. So, let’s talk about what it means to take the risk.

Our scripture for today is Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NLT): "Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest."

Have you ever been scared to start something because it didn’t seem like the right time? Or maybe you were waiting for every detail to be just right?Our verse today reminds us that if we wait for the perfect conditions, we may never move. Let’s break free from the fear of “what if” and step into “even if.”

Sometimes the biggest changes start with the smallest step. Like saying yes to that new volunteer role or introducing yourself to a neighbor. I once joined a Bible study I was nervous about, and it ended up changing my life. What small risk are you being nudged to take?

Risk or Regret? Think about a time you didn’t take the risk—do you regret it? Now think of a time you did, and it worked out (or maybe it didn’t, but you grew from it). Fear might protect us from failure, but it can also rob us of purpose.

Two times in our marriage, we took the risk. Again—I’m not a risk taker. I like to make sure we’re going to be okay. The first time went smooth, and the job change was great… until jobs for my husband’s construction crew came to a halt. We grew from that experience.

The second time, we knew what God had said, so we followed. But it wasn’t what we thought it would be, and there was a waiting period. We took the leap, but God was still preparing. We grew from that as well.

I can say both times—God was leading. And though times may have been tough here and there, God had a plan for us, and we came out of those experiences stronger in our faith.

Life can be scary, and taking risks can seem crazy. But God’s voice should be the loudest voice you hear—and when it is, there can be no doubt, only obedience.

So, today’s encouragement? Don’t let fear be the loudest voice in the room. Take the risk, even if your voice shakes. God doesn’t ask us to be fearless—just faithful. Be obedient to what God is calling you to.

We’re diving into how faith helps us face fear. Risks aren’t just about careers or big moves; sometimes the riskiest thing is being vulnerable, honest, or willing to grow.

When the stakes feel high, it’s nerve-wracking. It’s easier to take a risk when not much is on the line—but when it involves relationships or finances, that changes everything. Faith doesn’t remove the stakes; it gives us the strength to move forward anyway.

Not every risk ends in a win—and that’s okay. Some of the best stories come from stumbles that turned into stepping stones. Let’s talk about how to learn, laugh, and grow when risks don’t go as planned.

One of the best parts of taking a risk with God is knowing He sees the full picture. We can trust that He will teach us along the way. We’ll have moments of joy, and we’ll of course have some growth. We might feel uncertain—but He is not. He’s already ahead of us, working things out in ways we can’t yet see.

Here’s some more encouragement for today: You don’t have to have all the answers to say yes. Seek the Lord and make sure that He is the one leading you. If you know without a doubt He is, then take the step, send the message, try the thing. Trust that God will guide your feet once you start moving.

Sometimes the risk is just trusting in God and not worrying about anything else. Not everyone will get it—and that’s okay. God has called you, not everyone else. So make sure you’re hearing God’s voice above all the rest.

Let’s wrap up strongly by talking about living boldly as a lifestyle. Taking the risk isn’t a one-time thing—it’s a mindset of faith over fear. Sometimes that’s all it takes: the right mindset.

But know that courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes it looks like getting out of bed and showing up. It’s making the phone call, applying for the job, or having the conversation you’ve been putting off. Sometimes it’s just taking a step forward.

Have you ever had to take a risk on your own? How about taking a risk with others backing you?

Risks feel less scary when we’re not alone. This is so true. Who’s in your corner, cheering you on?Let’s talk about how to be brave together and support each other in faith-filled risk-taking.

When we walk through difficult seasons, we feel better equipped because we have others praying for us or walking through it with us. So why not have that same community when taking a risk and stepping into what God may have called you to?

Supporting one another in all things—that’s how community works. Find a good, godly community that you can walk with.

If we’re waiting until we feel totally ready, we’ll miss our purpose. God doesn’t call the perfectly prepared—He prepares those who answer the call. Step out, and watch Him meet you there.

Some final encouragement for today: You were made for more than comfort. You were made to live boldly, love deeply, and trust God fully. Don’t let fear stop you from the story God wants to write through your life.

Remember this: Taking the risk doesn’t mean you won’t be scared. It just means you trust God more than your fear. Whatever you’re standing on the edge of today, I encourage you—take the leap. God is already on the other side, cheering you on.