This season, we’re digging into the faulty mindsets and spiritual struggles that surface when we write for others. Writing has a way of pushing our fears and insecurities into the light, and that’s not a bad thing. It’s one of the ways God grows us.

In this episode, we talk about:

* Why spiritual growth is really about renewing our minds (Romans 12:2)

* How writing for publication exposes the lies we believe about ourselves and about God

* A simple three-step process for working through any faulty mindset: reveal, investigate, replace

* A preview of the mindsets we’ll tackle this season, including “Who am I to have anything of value to offer?” and “It’s prideful of me to promote my work”

* Two upcoming interviews: Angie Baughman on rest and seeking God in our writing, and author Ryan Pote on his journey from atheist Navy helicopter pilot to Christian thriller novelist

Mentioned in this episode:Download the free Christian Writers’ Mindset Makeover at amylynnsimon.com/makeover. It walks through several of these mindsets, shows you the kernel of truth that keeps you hooked, and gives you Scripture to counter the lie.

Sign up for Pen Points, a weekly email that accompanies each episode, giving you a question to consider and some possible next steps.

Note: The journaling practice I talk about is not meant to be a quick fix or a substitute for biblical counseling, especially if the “investigate” step involves past trauma. I am not a counselor. Serious issues of your past should be addressed with a godly professional.

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! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.com