The Courage to Move Forward
Healing What Holds You Back—and Living the Life You Were Created For.
At some point, most of us find ourselves stuck. I know I have.
Here’s the thing, fear keeps us from taking a risk. Rejection convinces us we're not enough. Burnout steals our passion. Shame keeps us looking backward. And disappointment causes us to settle for less than we were created for.
If you've ever felt trapped by one of those realities, this book was written for you.
Get Your Copy
Amazon • Kindle • Paperback • Audiobook (coming soon)
What You’ll Discover
How to overcome fear and move forward with confidence.
Why rejection doesn't have to define your future.
How to rediscover purpose when life feels uncertain.
What to do when burnout has stolen your joy.
Why your past doesn't have to determine your future.
How to embrace the next chapter God has for your life.
…And more.
A Personal Note
I didn't write this book because I have all the answers.
I wrote it because I've spent decades walking with people who were struggling to move forward—and because I've experienced some of those struggles myself.
Again and again, I've discovered that courage isn't the absence of fear.
It's simply taking the next step—even when you can't see the entire path.
What Others Are Saying
(Endorsements from Mark Mittelberg, Dale O'Shields, Sonny Misar, and others.)
“Do not be afraid” is one of the most repeated phrases in the Bible. God knows we need help with self-doubt, insecurity, worry, and fear. These are issues that pastor Robert Pooley has grappled with deeply. This book is his guide—written as a fellow traveler—to help all of us tap into God’s resources in overcoming fear and uncertainty so we can move forward in our own lives. Read it, and put its wisdom to work!”
MARK MITTELBERG
Senior Apologist with Apologetics, Inc., and bestselling author of The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask (With Answers) and the Contagious Faith book and training course
“In Robert Pooley’s book, The Courage to Move Forward, you’ll find inspiration and practical instructions for personal and spiritual growth. We all experience times when our path forward seems hard, unpleasant, and sometimes even impossible. It’s helpful to hear from people who have walked out their faith through the ups and downs of life. Robert’s stories and lessons learned will help you move forward into your God-designed destiny!”
Dale A. O’Shields
Senior Pastor Church of the Redeemer Gaithersburg, MD Key founder of the United Pastor’s Network
“Every pastor and church leader need encouragement! In The Courage to Move Forward, Robert Pooley combines biblical truth with practical wisdom to help people navigate the real struggles that often keep them from becoming all God created them to be. Drawing from years of pastoral ministry and personal experience, he offers hope, healing, and clear next steps for overcoming fear, pain, discouragement, and misplaced identity. This is not simply a book of inspiration—it is a practical resource that pastors and church leaders will find valuable as they walk alongside people toward healing, purpose, and renewed courage to move forward.”
R. Sonny Misar
Spirit and Truth Church Network, Director
Journey Ministries, Founder
Author of “Journey to Authenticity” and “Journey to the Father”
"This book was not written merely from the trophy case of success. It is written from the fire of suffering."
Brad Livingston
Lead Pastor, Transformation Church
Foreword to The Courage to Move Forward
“Magnificently written, insightful, and practical. I’ve known Robert Pooley since he was a young follower of Jesus finding his way in ministry, and he has learned the lessons he writes about well. Read it and reflect on it for your personal growth. Then gather a group and discuss the themes chapter by chapter. It has the potential to be life-changing. I will use it with some of my men."
Ken Jumper
Senior Pastor
Harvest Church
Lexington, South Carolina
“The Courage to Move Forward is not just a book—it is a manuscript for maneuvering through some of life's most sensitive and difficult seasons. From prevention to preservation, readers will find wisdom, encouragement, and strength as they absorb the many truths drawn from both Scripture and Robert's own personal journey. Having known Robert for years and having served alongside him in ministering to pastors across the nation, this book carries even greater meaning for me.”
A must-read.
Dan Livingston
Founder, Transformation Church, Pensacola
Founder, Pastor to Pastor Ministries
“Pastor Robert Pooley is solid and stable. He lives what he teaches. I have personally grown as a leader by having his voice in my life. Pastor Robert is a gifted leader, communicator, and author.”
“The Courage to Move Forward” is a compelling journey through fear, pain, and purpose, pointing readers back to the only foundation that truly changes everything: identity in Christ. I will keep this book close for years to come. I am truly grateful for his life and leadership.”
Dr. Jon E. Russell
Leadership Consultant | Speaker
Founder, The Greatness Academy
“Robert Pooley does a great job of weaving together Scripture, stories, and personal experiences to provide practical tools for dealing with the struggles we all encounter. Each chapter is filled with nuggets of wisdom and practical approaches to many of the issues we face, while teaching us how to thrive in those moments. As you read this book, you will be challenged, encouraged, and equipped with the courage to move forward.”
Pete Shinnick
Head Football Coach
Towson University