About this episode

This episode explores the concept of hesitant obedience to God and its implications for Christian leaders.

Have you ever sensed clearly what God was asking you to do—yet found yourself hesitating? In Episode #686, The Danger of Hesitant Obedience to God , we explore a subtle but powerful leadership challenge: the difference between saying "yes" to God and saying "yes… but." Drawing from the story of Barak in Judges 4, this episode reveals how even sincere faith can become conditional when the stakes feel high. Barak didn't refuse God's command—he agreed to go, but only if Deborah went with him. His obedience was real, but it was also hesitant. That tension is familiar for many Christian leaders today. We often don't resist God outright. Instead, we negotiate: "I'll step forward when I feel more prepared." "I'll obey when the risk feels manageable." "I'll act once the outcome looks clearer." This episode unpacks why hesitant obedience matters more than we realize. While it doesn't stop God's purposes, it can reshape our role in them. Barak still experienced victory—but the honor of that victory went elsewhere. You'll also discover three critical leadership insights: Hesitation doesn't cancel God's plan—but it may limit your participation. Faith is most tested at the point of risk, not…

People in this episode

Host: Ron R. Kelleher

Topics covered

• obedience
• leadership
• faith
• risk
• Christianity

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Judges 4

More episodes of Inspired Leadership with Ron Kelleher

• IL #688: Part 4--When Leadership Obedience Costs You Belonging · April 27, 2026 · 9 min
• #687: When "Perhaps the Lord" is Enough: Leading with Faith in Uncertain Outcomes · April 20, 2026 · 10 min
• IL #685: Saying "No" As A Leader: Why It's Essential to Stay Focused on God's Calling · April 6, 2026 · 9 min
• IL #684: Part 3: The Pressure to Stay Silent · March 30, 2026 · 7 min
• IL #683: 3 Ways Expenmdient Decisions May Pull Leaders Away from God's Best · March 23, 2026 · 9 min
• IL #682: When Leaders Feel Like Frauds: Biblical Lessons on Imposter Syndrome · March 16, 2026 · 12 min

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