Leading Through the Hard Places

You can lead and still be healing. Both can exist—and both are holy.

Let’s have a heart-to-heart.

There are seasons in leadership where you’re not leading from overflow—you’re leading from survival. Maybe you’re navigating grief, betrayal, burnout, or just a deep weariness you can’t name. And yet, the assignments keep coming. The people still need you. The calendar doesn’t pause.

In Episode 3 in Season 1 of the Graced to Lead Podcast, I opened up about one of those seasons in my life. I had the title, the influence, the schedule—but behind the scenes, I was battling through personal heartache. And still…I showed up. But here’s what I learned—and what I want you to hold onto today:

You don’t have to be unbreakable to be impactful. You just have to be obedient.

God never asked us to lead from perfection. He asked us to lead from His strength.

A woman with her eyes closed and hands on her heart—symbolizing quiet strength and grace.

Here’s what I want you to know:

• You are still qualified, even if you’re struggling.

• Your vulnerability is not a liability—it’s part of your ministry.

• God will use your broken places to bring healing to others.

And while you’re carrying others, please don’t forget to let God carry you.

You don’t have to wait to be “fully together” to lead well. Your strength is not in what you carry—but in who carries you. Keep showing up with grace for others and for yourself.

You’re doing better than you think.

With love and light,

Belinda

Reflection Questions:

1. Where have I been pushing through when I really need to pause and let God refill me?

2. What would it look like to lead with more honesty and less pressure?

3. How has God met me in my hard places before—and how might He be meeting me now?