“I hope you know you’ll never be a writer.” It’s been decades, but those words from my high school English teacher deterred me from God’s calling. The words still echo in my mind, creating insecurity and fear whenever I write. They hurt me deeply, changing me forever.
For two decades, I quietly wrote my struggles, aspirations, and the desires of my heart in a journal—never letting anyone read them. I confessed to God that I felt called to write. Any time those dreams seemed possible, the words of my English teacher quickly dashed my hopes.
The opportunity came to guest blog for a friend. After prayerful consideration, I accepted. God opened a door even though it had been decades since I had written anything.
Those years of journaling were not wasted—they were preparation. God has been refining my skills. I still struggle with imposter syndrome, especially when I compare myself to writers with journalism or English degrees. I wonder how I will compete with my economics degree.
Finding my voice and niche helped me see where my writing brought hope. I’m not well-versed in research writing, but I can write from my heart. My writing stems from a desire to encourage others right where they are. I don’t want to preach or condemn, but encourage.
Through years of chronic health struggles that left me anxious and feeling alone, writing brought me peace and hope. Those times of intimacy with God became the catalyst for a devotional. The hope I gained through writing became a balm to my heart, and I could start sharing my story to help others on their own health journey.
Sometimes we face adversity in our callings, questioning whether we heard God correctly, but we know that if God has called us to it, He will see us through it. Writing brought a new sense of hope not only to me as I minister to others but also to those struggling with difficult journeys.
Whatever is holding you back, whether it’s criticism or fear of vulnerability, I encourage you to ignore the lies and walk in faith. Stay faithful to the calling the Creator placed on your heart. It may take years or decades before your faithfulness is revealed, but friend, I can’t wait to see your name in print someday. I’m here cheering you on.
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Brianna Barrett is a Carolina girl who loves Jesus, her family, and capturing life through words and photos. She enjoys sunrises and sharing encouragement through writing. She regularly contributes to Faith On Every Corner, The Grit and Grace Project, Candidly Christian, and Broken but Priceless Magazine. Her devotional, Hope in the Healing: A 40-Day Devotional Journey Through Chronic Illness, is available on Amazon. Connect with her on her Briannagrams website or on Instagram.
