Our Daily Bread: Character-Driven LeadershipExemplo

Impostor Syndrome

After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened. . . . All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished. -Luke 2:17–18

Marcie grew up in a family with an alcoholic father and an absentee mother. Raised by older siblings, she struggled in school until she joined a Christian fellowship. Her mentors inspired her to study well, and it paid off. Marcie landed an internship that led to a management position in a large company. She now leads hundreds of employees. When she remembers how far she’s come, a small voice inside her head whispers, Am I really here? Do I really belong?

Many of us know how she feels. Some days we feel like impostors. Our role seems too big, and we’re not sure we belong.

That’s why I’m impressed with the shepherds in Luke 2. They had the most important job anyone could have—to spread the news about the baby King. They didn’t say, “What are we doing here? We’re just shepherds.” They “told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child” (V. 17).

The shepherds were so focused on Jesus they didn’t have time to worry if they were qualified to spread the news. They knew their message was more important than the messenger.

Truth is, none of us belong—not on our own account. But Jesus belongs in every capital, boardroom, and family. As He draws us to rest in Him, we can walk confidently by faith.

MIKE WITTMER

What role or task do you feel unqualified for? If God is calling you to this, how might you step forward in faith?

Father, thank You for giving the grace that I need for today. I gladly receive and rest in Your Son.