When You Experience Doubt as a Writer

With worry in his eyes, my 4-year-old looked at me and cautiously asked, “Are you sure I can do it?” 

He had been practicing for weeks to get into the “zipper club” at school. This meant he had to be able to put his jacket on AND zip it up all by himself … not an easy task for preschoolers. But he was determined and had been working so hard. Finally, something clicked, and he did it! For the rest of the day, he excitedly showed everyone he could zip his jacket by himself. But as we got ready for school the next day, the doubt crept back in and his confidence was gone. 

So often our writing journey can be like trying to get in the “zipper club.” We waver between writing confidently and doubting we can even write at all. We ask God, Are You sure I can do it? 

When the doubts creep in, here are three ways you can move forward in confidence. 

1. Look forward to the bigger, eternal picture.

“Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised” (Hebrews 10:35-36, ESV).

This calling to write isn’t easy, but it is holy. We endure, confidently walking forward, knowing God has promised eternity with Him. Let’s write with our eyes upward, leading people into deeper relationships with Jesus. 

2. Look back at God’s calling and faithfulness.

“Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man. He turned the sea into dry land; they passed through the river on foot” (Psalm 66:5-6a, ESV).

We have been called by the God who “turned the sea into dry land.” He was and is and always will be faithful. When the way forward seems dark, look back and remember: He was with you then and is with you now. 

3. Look at this minute, and ask what God would have you do now.

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:34, ESV).

The writing journey requires so much more than writing: using social media, studying, marketing, networking, etc. It’s enough to make anyone overwhelmed. But instead of letting the fear paralyze you, ask God what He wants you to do right now, and trust that obedience at the moment is enough. He has called and He will equip. 

As I looked into my son’s eyes, I lovingly reminded him of the hard work and success he had already experienced, of the reward awaiting him, and most importantly, that I would be proud of him for simply trying his best. He came home from school that day a proud member of the “zipper club”!

If you’re experiencing doubts as a writer, let the Father lovingly look into your eyes and speak to your heart. Walk in confidence knowing He who calls you is faithful. 

In Christ,

Samantha

 

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