I Failed My Music Class… But God Made Me a Choir Director

Hi Reader,

I want to share a story today that still makes me laugh and reminds me just how gently

and creatively God works with us.

Years ago, my mom, the minister of music for our church, asked me to become the

young adult choir director.

Now, let me confess something right up front:

I failed my college music class.

Not “barely passed.” Not “struggled a little.”

Failed.

Because your girl here does not know music.

I couldn’t keep the rhythm.

I couldn’t read the notes.

And if the beat had walked up, tapped me on the shoulder, and introduced itself, I still

wouldn’t have recognized it.

But there I was standing in front of a choir, waving my arms like I knew exactly what I

was doing.

And do you know how I survived those rehearsals and Sundays?

A kind choir member stood in front of me giving me little cues so I could pretend I was

directing on purpose.

And yet, God used me.

I stepped into that role with fear and holy boldness, trusting that if He called me, He

would equip me.

And He did.

I didn’t have the beat, but I had the heart.

I couldn’t read the music, but I could encourage the choir to worship.

And to my surprise, our annual concerts became standing‑room only events.

I felt like an imposter, but God wasn’t looking for a maestro.

He was looking for a willing vessel.

And that’s where today’s encouragement comes in. Standing in that choir loft taught me

more about imposter syndrome than any textbook ever could, and it left me with three

truths I want to share with you, particularly if you’ve been feeling unqualified or not good

enough in the places God is calling you.

1. God Doesn’t Call the Qualified, He equips the called. “He who calls you is

faithful; He will surely do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24

If God waited for us to feel ready, nothing would ever get done.

Your insecurity doesn’t cancel His assignment.

Your weakness doesn’t intimidate Him.

Your lack doesn’t limit Him.

Sometimes the very place you feel least confident is the place He plans to shine the

brightest.

2. You don’t need perfection, you need obedience. “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

I didn’t know the beat, but I knew the One who sets the rhythm.

God wasn’t asking me to be flawless.

He was asking me to show up.

Imposter syndrome says, “You’re not enough.”

God says, “Just bring what you have.”

3. Boldness grows when you step, not when you wait. “Be strong and

courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Confidence doesn’t magically appear before you move.

It grows as you move.

Every shaky step becomes a testimony.

Every trembling yes becomes a seed of courage.

I stepped into that choir role with fear in one hand and faith in the other and God met

me there.

Reader, this week I challenge you to choose one place where you feel unqualified and take one small step anyway.

Not a leap.

Not a performance.

Just a step.

Because boldness isn’t the absence of fear.

Boldness is trusting God enough to move while your knees are still knocking.

I shared my story, now I’d love to hear yours.

Where has God called you into something you didn’t feel qualified for… but He showed

up anyway?

Hit reply and tell me. Your story may be the encouragement someone else needs.

Blessings,

Donna

A Year of Healing 2026

We’re stepping into a new year with a new series designed to bring restoration and

renewal all year long. This quarter will focus on a theme of Inner Healing, Identity & Emotional Restoration.

If this message stirred something in you and you’re ready to go a little deeper, I’ve created two resources to support your journey.

First, take the Imposter Syndrome Quiz to help you identify the patterns that may be holding you back. It’s quick, eye‑opening, and designed to give you clarity and language for what you’ve been feeling.

And if those “not enough” whispers have been loud lately, you’ll love “7 Lies That Whisper ‘You’re Not Enough’ and the Truth That Sets You Free.” It’s a gentle, truth‑filled guide to help you silence the lies and stand firmly in who God says you are.

These tools are here to encourage you, strengthen you, and remind you that you’re not walking this journey alone.

Facebook Live With Me!

I’d love for you to join me every Wednesday at 9:00 AM PST on the Donna Scott: 👉 Donna Scott – Speaker, Author, Therapist for a 15‑minute pause, a sacred space to breathe, reflect, and receive hope.

Each month, we dive into a new theme crafted to speak to the tender places in your heart and remind you that healing is possible and you are deeply loved.

If you ever miss a Wednesday morning session, don’t worry, you can always catch the replay on my YouTube channel. Every video is uploaded, so you can watch it whenever it fits your day.

I’d love for you to subscribe to the Donna Scott Therapy YouTube Channel so you never miss a moment of encouragement and hope. Donna Scott Therapy – YouTube Channel ​ , where every video is uploaded for you to watch at your own pace.

My 4-part series, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Stepping Boldly in Who God Says You Are, is now available on YouTube. If you missed January’s Live, I shared honest, hope‑filled encouragement on overcoming imposter syndrome and practical ways to walk boldly in who God says you are.

Click below and learn how to unpack the Imposter Syndrome by watching the replays.

Naming the Lies: Taking off the Mask: https://studio.youtube.com/video/AF29QxOXE6I/edit#:~:text=https%3A//youtu.be/AF29QxOXE6I​

You belong in the Room: Understanding Your God-Given Identity https://studio.youtube.com/video/aQIHFD9kF9Y/edit#:~:text=https%3A//youtu.be/aQIHFD9kF9Y​

When Confidence Feels Fragile: Strengthening Your Inner Foundation https://studio.youtube.com/video/wxAfYCvRsyE/edit#:~:text=https%3A//youtu.be/wxAfYCvRsyE​

Stepping Boldly: Walking In Who God Says You Are: https://studio.youtube.com/video/7Z2-HYjFL8o/edit#:~:text=https%3A//youtu.be/7Z2%2DHYjFL8o

Your Story Matters: Church Hurt Poll

And before you go, if you haven’t yet taken part in the Your Story Matters: Church Hurt Poll, there is still time.

Have you ever experienced church hurt?

As I work on my upcoming book, When Church Breaks Your Heart, I want to create space for voices that often go unheard. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, silenced, betrayed, or spiritually wounded in a church setting, your story matters deeply.

This short, confidential, and anonymous poll is designed to be a safe place to reflect and share. If permitted, your responses may be included in the book, not to expose, but to extend comfort and connection to others walking through similar pain.

You can take the poll here: https://forms.gle/hJ1LcrqdrqRuXEmX6​

Upcoming Speaking Events:

Are you looking for a speaker who will speak to the heart and stir the soul?

It brings me great joy to share messages of hope, healing, and restoration rooted in God’s love. Whether you're planning a women’s event, church gathering, retreat, or small-group series, I have a few open dates on my schedule and would be honored to serve your community.

If you or someone you know is looking for a speaker who uplifts, inspires, and walks alongside those navigating life’s challenges, I’d love to connect.

Let’s begin the conversation—just reply to this message or reach out through my contact page.

Together, let’s bring encouragement, spiritual growth, and emotional renewal to those who need it most.

Thank you for trusting me with your heart. Together, we can remind one another that God’s healing is greater than human hurt.

Blessings for a hope‑filled 2026,

Donna

Helping hurting hearts heal,

Donna Scott, LMFT

​donnascotttherapy.com​

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