
We often beat ourselves up for procrastinating. We call it laziness. We accuse ourselves of lacking disciple and willpower. But what if the real culprit isn’t laziness?
What if it’s fear?
Behind every delay, there may be a deeper emotion hiding—fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of not being good enough. We don’t avoid the task because we’re lazy; we avoid it because doing it exposes something vulnerable inside us.
We Delay What Matters Most
Have you noticed that we often procrastinate on the things that mean the most to us? That medical checkup we should make. That conversation we need to have. That idea to start a book club or sports club.
These aren’t trivial tasks—they matter. And that’s precisely why we delay them. We fear that starting means we might fail. Or worse, that we might not be enough. Fear traps us—but God invites us to trust.
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” — Proverbs 29:25
Perfectionism: The Polished Mask of Fear
Perfectionism often disguises itself as excellence, but at its core, it’s fear in a tailored suit. We say we’re “just waiting until it’s ready” or “I want to give it my best,” but sometimes we’re just stalling because we’re scared it won’t be perfect.
God doesn’t call us to perfection. He calls us to obedience. There will never be a perfect time. The best time is now—flawed, messy, but surrendered to Him.
“If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.” — Ecclesiastes 11:4 (TLB)
The Cure for Fear is Trust
Procrastination loses power when we anchor ourselves in God’s promises. He doesn’t expect us to have it all figured out—He simply asks us to take the next step in faith. You’re not walking alone. God is with you.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified… for the Lord your God goes with you.” — Deuteronomy 31:6
My Invitation
This is my invitation to you today: take a moment to notice what you’re putting off—not with shame, but with curiosity. Ask yourself: What am I afraid of?
Then bring that fear to God. Let His strength fill your weakness.
Because on the other side of that fear might be your next breakthrough.