Before we talk craft or contracts or query letters, we need to talk about something that will shape everything else on this journey.Humility.Not the kind that shrinks back and whispers, I have nothing to offer. And not the kind that charges forward thinking, I already know what I need to know. Both will quietly sabotage the work before it ever reaches a reader.The Two ExtremesSome of us feel a deep sense of calling. God may have put this book on our hearts. But a divine assignment doesn’t exempt us from the learning curve. God can call us to write a book and expect us to grow in the craft. Both things are true.Others are drowning in insecurity. That hesitation can feel like humility, but sometimes it’s just fear wearing a disguise.Here’s the line worth sitting with:Confidence doesn’t mean we have nothing to learn. Humility doesn’t mean we have nothing to offer.What Teachability Actually Looks LikeWhen someone critiques our writing, something in us flinches. It feels personal. But that resistance, if we let it run things, will keep us small.Proverbs doesn’t soften this: “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.” (Proverbs 12:1)And here’s a practical reality: if sharing our words with a trusted friend feels terrifying, what will it feel like to publish a book for strangers?A Few Next Steps* Pray and journal. Ask God to show you where pride, in either direction, is shaping how you see yourself as a writer.* Learn the industry. Let yourself be a beginner. That’s not weakness; it’s wisdom.* Find someone to read your work. Start thinking about who in your life could offer honest, caring feedback.One More ThingIf mindsets are getting in the way of your writing, The Christian Writers’ Mindset Makeover is a free resource that walks through six common struggles and the biblical truth that meets each one. Find it at amylynnsimon.com/makeover or grab the link in the show notes.Resources:From Stuck to Steady: The 5 Pillars of a Consistent Writing Rhythm for Christian Writers (free 30-minute recorded workshop)Schedule a free discovery call to see how coaching can help you get unstuck.Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email to encourage you in your writing. The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you’ll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I’d love to hear from you! [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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