In Others’ Words: Tug of War (Guest post)

 

“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear.” ~ Mark Twain (1835-1910), American writer & humorist

There are times I struggle with discouragement. Desiring to write a story that will speak to peoples’ hearts, I pressure myself to excel in this endeavor. Instead of achieving, however, I battle dismay. Analyzing why I am where I am, I realized something. Fear and courage both strive to be the dominant voice in my thoughts. Which one am I validating?

Fear tells me if I complete my story it won’t be one that touches peoples’ hearts.

Courage enables me to keep writing, knowing the story will need work after the first draft is completed.

Fear says, “You’ll never be good enough.”

Courage says, “With God you’re the right person to achieve these plans.”

Fear directs my eyes toward others’ accomplishments and then compares them to my weaknesses.

Courage focuses my eyes on others to encourage them, and to learn from them.

I can’t erase the lies fear whispers into my thoughts and heart. But I don’t have to listen to them.

I can move forward, thinking on the truths I know. For me, those include that God is for me. When He calls me to do something, He equips me to complete it, and walks alongside me. With Him I can step out in courage rather than fear.

In Your Words: Writers and Readers: In what situations have you chosen to listen to courage rather than fear? How have you made the choice?

My writing friend and critique partner, Jeanne Takenaka, is today’s guest blogger. Jeanne lives near the Colorado mountains with her husband and two exuberant boys. Her heart is to create stories that draw women closer to God and to those around them. Follow Jeanne on Twitter: JeanneTakenaka.