by Katy Kauffman @KatyKauffman28

It often comes in our weakest moments as writers—the thought that says, I can’t do this.

I’ve thought it. Have you? Writing books. Editing books. Finishing blog posts on time. Thinking up ideas to write about. Building a platform. Marketing. With all of the to-do lists we create as writers, along with the challenge of writing itself, we may wonder if we’re up for it all.

Self-doubt likes to whisper joy-stealing, fear-fueled lies into our lives.

• You can’t write this book.
• No one will want to publish your writing.
• You’re not as good as so-and-so.

 We’re not the only ones who have heard self-doubt speak. One of Israel’s greatest leaders started out with doubts and questions, but God answered each one.

When God called Moses to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt to a new land, Moses had five doubts or questions.

1. Who am I to do this? (Exodus 3:11)
2. Who are You if they should ask me? (Exodus 3:13)
3. Suppose they won’t listen? (Exodus 4:1)
4. I’m not eloquent. (Exodus 4:10)
5. Please send someone else! (Exodus 4:13)

God answered Moses’ questions with the truth—He would be with him. He gave Moses evidence that He would go with him, and He commissioned his brother Aaron to be a companion in the adventure. God has adventures in store for us, if we will trust Him.

God knows how to answer our doubts and questions. Here’s what Moses’ list would sound like coming from a writer and what God might say in response to it.

1. Who am I? I’m not a natural writer. … I will be with you. I have called you to write and will teach you.
2. Will anyone want to listen? … If I have called you, I will use your words to bless others.
3. Will I ever have a way to be heard? … I will provide an avenue for that to happen.
4. I’m not eloquent! … I will be with your pen (or keyboard) and guide you.
5. Please call someone else! … Here’s a writers’ group to belong to. You don’t have to be on your own in this.

In the writing journey, you’re not alone. If God has called you to write, you have Him as your greatest inspiration and strength. You have hundreds—even thousands—of other Christian writers who have similar struggles and questions. The internet and social media are great ways to stay connected, no matter where we live, and to encourage each other in the writing journey. It’s a blessing when a writer can find a local group to belong to and receive encouragement and feedback.

Together we can be a strong voice for God in the world. We can share messages of hope and redemption. Don’t let self-doubt keep you from sharing the messages God wants you to write. Refuse the lies and the fear, and turn self-doubt into God-confidence. We write for the One who saves souls and heals hearts. As He strengthens our hearts, we can strengthen others.

Defeat self-doubt by remembering God Himself is with you and by believing He will help you to find the right words and the right way to share them with the world. Work with God to develop a plan to tackle each project. This world needs more Christian writers who aren’t afraid to let the light shine and to pierce the darkness. Keep your torch bright by refusing self-doubt and by flourishing in the presence and promises of God. Have confidence in Him, and keep writing.

Katy Kauffman is an award-winning author, an editor of Refresh Bible Study Magazine, and a co-founder of Lighthouse Bible Studies. She loves connecting with writers and working alongside them in compilations, such as Feed Your Soul with the Word of God, Collection 1 which is a 2020 Selah Awards finalist. She recently started The Lighthouse Connection, a monthly writers’ newsletter including writing tips, inspiration to write, and news of submission opportunities.

In addition to online magazines, Katy’s writing can be found at CBN.com, thoughts-about-God.com, and three blogs on writing. She loves to spend time with family and friends, take acrylic painting classes online, and do yard work in the morning sun. Connect with her at her blog, Winning the Victory, and on Facebook and Twitter.