How Many Blessings Have You Blocked by Staying Silent?

"Anytime you don't ask, you automatically give yourself a NO. But if you ask, you have a 50/50 chance—50% chance they'll say no, and 50% chance they'll say yes. You have nothing to lose."

These words from my uncle changed everything for me. I was a freshman with only $800 of the $2,808 needed for tuition. As the daughter of a single mother with two other children, I knew sitting out a semester meant likely never returning. Yet when my uncle asked why I hadn't approached him for help, all I could say was, "Because I thought you would say no."

His response hit me like a lightning bolt of truth, illuminating a pattern I'd been living with my entire life—giving myself a "no" before anyone else had the chance.

For as long as I can remember, I've struggled with being bold. It started with childhood teasing about my freckles, seemingly innocent comments that slowly chipped away at my confidence. That early insecurity grew roots, spreading into every area of my life as I grew older.

Even now, I catch myself:

• Holding back important thoughts in meetings
• Hesitating to ask for what I'm worth
• Procrastinating on God-given dreams
• Second-guessing my instincts
• Worrying about rejection before it even happens

It's not just about putting things off—it's about questioning whether I have what it takes to succeed in the first place.

But here's what God's Word says about asking:

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." - Matthew 7:7-8

"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." - Hebrews 4:16

These aren't mere suggestions—they're divine invitations. Our God isn't intimidated by bold prayers or big requests. In fact, James 4:2 tells us plainly: "You do not have because you do not ask God."

I know I'm not alone in this struggle. If you've ever:

• Swallowed your words to keep the peace
• Talked yourself out of opportunities because "someone else would be better"
• Prayed small prayers because you weren't sure God would say yes
• Let past disappointments convince you to dream smaller

Then ma'am, this space is for you.

Let me be clear—I'm not writing as someone who has it all figured out. I'm on this journey with you, learning to be bold one day at a time. Some days I soar, others I struggle. But I'm committed to walking this path of bold faith, and I'd love for you to join me.

What's one thing you've been afraid to ask for—but deep down, you know God has placed it on your heart? Share in the comments below. Let's encourage each other to step out in bold faith.

Ready to walk this journey together? Join our community of faith-filled women in She Leads with Faith, where we pray together, grow together, and support each other in walking boldly in our calling.