7 Biblical Ways To Move Past Writer’s Block Today
Blank screens. Blinking cursors. Feeling stuck, frustrated, uncertain … As a writer, sooner or later there’s a good chance you’ll face writer’s block.
It’s possible to be both sure of your calling to write and at a loss for words. When that happens, what should we do? Here are seven biblical ways to move past writer’s block and start putting words to paper today.
- Pray.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, ESV).
Writer’s block is not a surprise to God. Spend some time asking Him to help the words flow. He is faithful to provide “help in time of need.”
- Spend Time in the Word.
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom …” (Colossians 3:16, ESV).
Not only is God’s Word our inspiration, but it’s where we should run to for teaching, admonishment and wisdom. When you’re stuck, open the Word and ask the Lord to reveal what He would have you write.
- Look at God’s Creation.
“‘Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you’” (Jeremiah 32:17, ESV).
It’s easy to get so focused on the blank screen that we forget to look up and look around us. God’s creation is full of perspective and inspiration. Take a walk, drive to a scenic area near you, or simply look out your window when writer’s block hits.
- Eat Something.
“He gives food to every creature. His love endures forever” (Psalm 136:25, NIV).
This may seem simple, but when writer’s block hits, check to see if you might be worn down physically. If so, it may be time to get up and eat something. God has provided food for our nourishment, and often, it not only fuels our stomachs but fuels our minds as well.
- Move Your Body.
“Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way” (1 Timothy 4:7b-8, ESV).
Like eating something, moving your body is another great way to break writer’s block. According to Timothy, bodily training has value. Exercise, take a walk, or even do a household chore that’s a little more physical. This can help your mind reset and writer’s block to fade.
- Find a Quiet Place.
“And he said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while’” (Mark 6:31a, ESV).
When the disciples came to Jesus exhausted and hungry, He led them away to a quiet place. Similarly, when our schedules are full and our energy is depleted, it’s a wise choice to find somewhere quiet. It’s often in the quiet that the Lord ministers to our spirits and renews our minds.
- Reach Out to a Friend for Encouragement.
“The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense” (Proverbs 27:9, NLT).
Lastly, when you’re experiencing writer’s block, reach out to a trusted friend for encouragement. Sometimes, their council, advice and listening ear is just what you need to start writing again.
As a writer, it’s likely you’ll experience writer’s block in different seasons, but the good news is you don’t have to remain stuck. Start with one thing on the list above, and move on from there.
Most importantly, remember that the same God who called you to write in the first place is faithful to provide the words when you ask. You are not alone!
In Christ,
Samantha
What do you do when writer’s block hits? Are there any other practices from Scripture you’ve implemented to get “unstuck”?
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