Called to Write… But Feeling Stuck?

Have you ever felt a nudge in your spirit to write a book—but then felt stuck, scared, or unsure where to begin? You’re not alone.

Many aspiring Christian authors are deeply passionate about sharing a God-given message but get tangled in doubt, confusion, or overwhelm before their words ever reach the page.

Here are 5 struggles Christian writers face when trying to publish their first book—and how you can move forward with peace, purpose, and clarity.

1. Doubt and Fear About Their Calling

You feel like God’s told you to write… but you keep wondering:

“What if I’m not qualified?”
“What if I mess it up?”
“Does the world really need another Christian book?”

This fear is often rooted in imposter syndrome or a spiritual attack meant to keep you silent. But here’s the truth: If God has given you the message, He’ll equip you to share it.

📖 “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:24

2. Lack of Clarity on Message and Audience

Many Christian writers start with a testimony, a journal, or a burning message… but can’t figure out how to turn it into a focused book.

Should it be a devotional? A Bible study? A personal story?

Should it be for women? Teens? New believers?

This lack of clarity stalls progress and fuels frustration. Clarity comes when you prayerfully narrow your focus and create with one person in mind—the one God is calling you to serve through your words.

3. Not Enough Time or Structure to Finish

You’re balancing family, ministry, work, and life. Writing gets pushed down the list again and again. Before long, the book sits half-finished (or never started) for years.

You don’t need to write 5 hours a day. You just need a simple, consistent rhythm and accountability.

Start with 20 minutes a day. Protect that time like an appointment with God. Progress > perfection.

4. Confusion About the Publishing Process

Even if you finish your manuscript, you might feel overwhelmed by what’s next:

• What’s an ISBN?
• Do I need an editor?
• Should I use KDP or IngramSpark?
• What size should the book be?
• How do I format it properly?

Christian publishing can feel like a maze, but the good news is—you can learn every step (or get help to do it). Self-publishing gives you full ownership, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.

5. Struggling to Market Without Feeling “Salesy”

This one’s big.

You know your book can help people. You believe in the message. But when it comes to sharing the book? You freeze.

“I don’t want to seem prideful.”
“I don’t know how to talk about my book online.”
“Is it okay to make money from a Christian book?”

Marketing isn’t about being pushy. It’s about stewardship. Your book is a seed—and God can multiply it when you plant it boldly and wisely.

📖 “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

🙏🏽 Final Encouragement

If any of these struggles hit home—you are so not alone. Every Christian author I know (myself included) has faced at least one of these hurdles.

The key is not to give up.

Start with prayer. Then take one faithful step forward. Whether you’re still dreaming or almost done, your book matters—because the message came from the Lord.

And when He calls you to write, He also calls you to trust.

Want Help?

Check out my free Christian Author Checklist or dive into the Faith to Published roadmap to get step-by-step guidance, biblical encouragement, and practical tools to finish the book God placed in your heart.