Freedom From “Not Good Enough” Feelings
by
Elaine Creasman
“…Well done, good and faithful servant!”
I sat in my seventh-grade music class eagerly awaiting the chance to show my music teacher the instrument I had made.
Several of my ideas failed, but I finally came up with an instrument made from a cardboard box and rubber bands of different widths and lengths. I stretched the bands on the box so they would create a variety of sounds.
My classmate, Dan, was chosen to show his instrument. I can’t remember the details, but I recall I thought it was fantastic. So did the rest of the class as they clapped with exuberance after he demonstrated it.
The thought that mine wasn’t good enough bombarded my mind.
“Does anyone else have an instrument to present today?” my teacher asked.
I kept silent, hoping Mr. P wouldn’t notice the paper bag beside my desk which contained the evidence of my inferiority. After class, I hurried to the bathroom and threw the instrument into the trash.
Now, so many years later, whenever I’m tempted not to use the gifts God has given me or compare myself to others, I am reminded of that day in seventh grade.
Since then, God has done so much to set me free from the badgering voice in my head that tries to convince me I have nothing of worth to offer as a writer. He has used me over and over to reach others through my writing. I’ve been published in magazines and newspapers for which I never dreamed I could write.
God often reminds me he is pleased with my best efforts, and his power enhances them. He doesn’t compare the gifts I offer to what others bring but reminds me of this truth, “Little is much, if God is in it.” If I use my gifts to help people and honor God, tremendous results occur in my audience as well as in my own heart.
Lord, help reject the lie that says, “Mine isn’t good enough” when it comes to my writing. Deliver me from comparing my writing to what others write. Give me courage to write the best I can with your help, send my writing out, and leave the results to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Note: This article has been revised from the original one which appeared in the May 1992 issue of Decision magazine.
Elaine Creasman has been a freelance writer since the 1980s. She has been published in over 30 Christian magazines and in her local daily and weekly newspapers. She is a former blogger and present podcaster. She has two grown daughters and a granddaughter. She lives in Largo, Florida with her husband of 47 years. Website: www.elainecreasman.com Podcast site: https://heartssetfree.libsyn.com/
Thank you for sharing, Elaine.
I can relate!