A Writer's Fears

Save me from fear, Lord.
Give me courage to write;
make me “bold in our God” (1 Thessalonians 2:2) to write for you,
whatever obstacles or blockages the Enemy may throw in my way.

Save me from the fear of rejection;
let me write today for your approval first and foremost,
and if I receive it, let me be satisfied with it.

Save me from the fear of inadequacy;
remind me that “all my springs are in you” (Psalm 87:7),
and that you are wholly sufficient no matter how inadequate I may be...or feel.

Save me from the fear of failure.
I know, as Samuel Logan Brengle said, “Fear is a fruit of selfishness.”
I confess my selfishness, my desire to amount to something.
Destroy that desire in me, and replace it with boldness and bravery.

Save me from the fear of success,
from all the “what ifs?” the future may hold.
As long as you are with me, I will not fear (Isaiah 41:10).

Save me also from the fear of criticism and ridicule.
Grant me willingness and boldness to think and work under your mighty hand,
and to do it “as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23),
in Jesus’ name, amen.