Christian Latina Leadership Blog

By Anna Rodriquez

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“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

In addressing political and social challenges, demonstrating boldness serves as a measured stance against apprehension and negativity. It involves articulating one’s perspectives despite uncertainty, embracing change, and steadfastly supporting personal values and aspirations. Such courage originates internally rather than from external encouragement.

This principle guided my response to a recent situation. Recently, I received an invitation from a former client to meet for breakfast and reconnect. I hesitated, wondering if I could balance my commitments, but I realized that stepping out of my comfort zone aligned with my values. Although my initial inclination was to decline, the genuine enthusiasm in their voice prompted me to accept.

The ladies had thoughtfully planned a breakfast so we could reconnect and share stories about their successful children and growing families. When they thanked me, I responded that all honor belongs to God, adding, “You did the hard work; I did the heart work.” I reminded them that boldness means taking risks and acting with courage, especially when facing uncertainty.

I praised the women for embracing discomfort by trying new things, speaking up, and tackling intimidating tasks. Boldness is not about being loud or reckless; it is choosing to speak up when silence is easier, expressing yourself authentically, and saying yes to uncertainty despite fear.

While driving home after breakfast, I received a call from my youngest daughter. She discussed an experience previously mentioned in her women’s group regarding her husband’s health. He had not been feeling well and was admitted to the emergency room, where the medical staff identified a 99% arterial blockage; he was on the verge of a heart attack. Doctors recommended a stent procedure. Before the procedure, her husband reported feeling anxious. My daughter remembered a phrase that prompted her to pray for him. Afterward, he appeared calmer and successfully underwent the surgery.

My daughter told me that during those moments, she felt my voice—her mother’s encouragement—at the core of her being, inspiring her to act with courage. She recalled hearing me pray assertively over various situations and, when confronted with fear, she understood what steps she needed to take.

As we continued our conversation, my daughter put the cherry on the cake when she shared that after sharing her bold prayer, the ladies’ group have now implemented “teaching their daughters” to pray bold and pray out loud with courage and faith.

Boldness is not a trait reserved for the few, nor an innate quality, it is a skill that anyone can cultivate and develop. By choosing courage over comfort, embracing risk-taking, and purposeful action, individuals can create new possibilities and opportunities for themselves and those around them.

Boldness is a quiet rebellion against fear. It is a declaration that your voice, your dreams, your presence—matter. So be bold. Not because the world demands it, but because your soul does.

Furthermore, boldness represents a measured defiance of fear. It is a clear affirmation that each person’s voice, aspirations, and presence have inherent value. It is important to pursue boldness, not due to external pressures, but because it aligns with one’s inner convictions.

As Latina Christian leaders, we are often turned to by members of our communities during their darkest and most challenging moments. In these times of despair, encouraging them to be bold and loud against the fear that tries to overwhelm them becomes a powerful testimony of unwavering faith and trust in God’s authority. This courageous response reflects our deep conviction and shows others that we serve a living, attentive, and responsive God.

When we choose to be bold and to lift our voices in faith, we inspire those around us to believe in the impossible, stand firm in truth, and approach the throne of grace without hesitation.