What Am I Really Afraid of as a Writer?

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, 
turning people away from the snares of death. Proverbs 14:27

We writers are a fearful lot.

We let so many things stand between us and the words we’re called to share.

• The opinions of others.
• Being ridiculed.
• Falling short.
• Failing.
• Success.

And writers don’t have a monopoly on fear. We all struggle against this deadly enemy. No, I didn’t misspeak. Fear is deadly. It strangles all hope, killing our dreams with a dreaded whisper of what if.

But what if fear isn’t always a death sentence for our dreams. What if the right kind of fears could propel us into fulfilling our callings?

I’d like to propose that we’re afraid of the wrong things.

• Instead of fearing the opinions of others, we feared the opinion of God
• Instead of fearing ridicule, we feared NOT standing for something that matter.
• Instead of fearing falling short, we feared not making an effort.
• Instead of failing, we feared immobility.
• Instead of fearing success, we feared putting the emphasis on the wrong things.

Today I’m starting new, redirecting the fear I feel in the right direction. How about you? What fear do you need to redirect to once again get back in the middle of the path God has for you?

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Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.