Doubt-Frozen in Writer’s Block

Doubt-Frozen in Writer’s Block

by Tina Yeager

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind” 

(James 1:4-6, NIV).

A blizzard whirled snow and ice throughout my region. I feared accidents, so I peered out at the frosted world from my windows. Just as blank and white were the unfinished pages on my desktop. I rubbed my arms to settle chill-bumps, sprouting from nerves as well as winter drafts.

The existing lines of my manuscript taunted me. One chapter droned. The next fell short. Self-doubt rose as a monstrous, frigid blockade. The sibilations of my enemy wormed into my subconscious and impersonated my own voice. I questioned my book’s worth. The terror of failing to meet expectations anchored my hands and feet like ice-shackles.

As the world outside began to thaw, the Holy Spirit breathed melting words into my frozen soul. He reminded me to show up and trust him to bring wisdom. Self-doubt has no relevance in matters of Christ because power and results depend upon him. Not me.

I need only to obey when he calls me to place my fingers onto the keyboard. No matter how many hours of revision this manuscript requires, Jesus will guide me toward completion. I must persevere and seek him instead of my own assessments.

Savior, you are my strength, purpose, and hope. Please continue to spur me toward perseverance. Center me in your Holy Spirit. Use my fingers as your vessels and keep me from allowing them to freeze. Amen.

Award-winning author, speaker, licensed counselor, and life coach, Tina encourages audiences to fulfill their potential. She offers writing workshops through Serious Writer Academy, hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast, and is head mentor with Word Weavers International. Beautiful Warrior, her book on women’s esteem is available through New Hope Publishers. To connect with her, visit tinayeager.com.