Striving vs. Stewarding: How Kingdom Women Are Called to Build Differently

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human master"— Colossians 3:23 (NIV)

Have you ever felt like you were doing all the things—posting, planning, pushing—yet still felt like it wasn’t enough? If so, you’re not alone. In a culture that celebrates hustle and rewards performance, it’s easy to fall into the trap of striving. But as Kingdom women, we are not called to build the way the world builds.

We are called to steward, not strive. We are invited to build from a place of partnership with God, not pressure from people.

What Does It Mean to Steward Instead of Strive?

Striving is fueled by the pressure to prove something.

Stewarding is rooted in the posture of obedience.

Striving says, “It’s all on me.”

Stewarding says, “God, it’s all for You.”

When we strive, we chase outcomes.

When we steward, we walk in assignment.

Read, Journal, Meditate:

• “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” — Psalm 127:1a (ESV)

• “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me… For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” — Matthew 11:29–30 (NIV)

Striving leads to burnout.

Stewarding leads to peace.

Rhythm Shifts: Moving from Performance to Purpose

Here are three simple rhythm shifts to help you walk in stewardship instead of striving:

1. Start Your Day with Surrender, Not a To-Do List

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Practical Shift:

Instead of jumping into emails or tasks, begin your morning with prayer and journaling. Ask, “Lord, what is mine to do today?” Let Him set your pace.

2. Replace Pressure with Prayer

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Practical Shift:

When you feel overwhelmed by deadlines or expectations, pause. Turn the moment of pressure into a moment of prayer. Breathe. Release. Receive peace.

3. Focus on Impact, Not Impressions

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?” — Galatians 1:10 (NIV)

Practical Shift:

Before hitting “post” or starting a new project, ask yourself: “Is this rooted in purpose or performance?” “Will this honor God and serve others well?” Let your yes be grounded in calling, not comparison.

Dear God, Thank you for calling me to build with you and not apart from you. Help me to lay down the weight of striving and pick up the joy of stewardship. Remind me daily that my worth is not in my work, but in who you say I am. Teach me to walk in your rhythm of grace, to rest in your timing, and to trust in your provision. I surrender my gifts, my plans, and my pace to you. In Jesus' name, AMEN.

Hey Beauty, you don’t have to prove your value—you already have it in Christ.

You don’t need to perform for applause—just be faithful with what’s in your hands.

Keep showing up with a surrendered heart. Keep building with intention.

The fruit of stewardship is so much richer than the pressure of striving.

You are not behind. You are right on time, in step with the Spirit.

Let’s build differently—Kingdom style. 💛

Join me for my FREE masterclass:

“Kingdom Over Hustle: How to Grow Your Business Without Compromising Your Faith.”

Now, pause... What is God saying to you? Grab your Live Love Lead Journal to write down what He speaks to you and track your spiritual growth. You can get your copy by CLICKING HERE.

As you are on your faith journey, I would love to connect more. If you want to further connect or if you’re looking for more inspiration and practical tips on living a Christ-centered life with purpose, head over to the Live Love Lead Community for regular updates and encouragement. Let’s journey together in faith and resilience.

I love you with the love of Christ! ~ April Nicole Scipio 💛