Breaking Free from People-Pleasing and Walking in True Freedom

I have touched on this in previous posts, but I want to dive deeper into how the Lord Jesus Christ set me free from the mask of people-pleasing—a mask that hid the shame rooted in my abandonment issues from childhood.

Though that mask has been removed, I am still in the process of surrendering and tearing down the strongholds and habits that came with it. Scripture reminds us that our weapons are not carnal but mighty through God for the pulling down of strongholds:

I believe I am set free through the work of the cross—but salvation is just the beginning. Once we are justified and made right with God through the blood of Jesus Christ, we begin a lifelong journey called sanctification.

Sanctification: The Ongoing Work of God

Sanctification is a process, not an instant transformation. Philippians 1:6 reminds us:

God, through the Holy Spirit, continues to shape and mold us into the image of His perfect Son, Jesus Christ. This means that even though we are set free from sin, we still need to walk in that freedom by continually surrendering to God.

This is important because the only One who was, is, and will ever be perfect is Jesus Christ. As for me? I am still a work in progress—and praise God for that! If I were somehow perfect in this lifetime, I would no longer depend on the Lord the way I do now, and I wouldn’t pursue a deeper relationship with Him.

The Enemy’s Tactics: Comparison and Doubt

The enemy always finds ways to capitalize on our insecurities and weaknesses—no matter how big or small they may seem. And that is exactly what happened to me.

When I was halfway through writing the rough draft of my first book, Battles Beneath the Blossoms, I started to feel insignificant. I began comparing myself to other authors in my genre, questioning if my writing was even worth pursuing.

Doubt crept in:

• What if I look foolish writing this book?

• What if I don’t say things the right way?

• What if no one understands my message?

A million "what-ifs" filled my mind until I couldn't even look at my manuscript for two months.

To the Aspiring Writers Who Feel Stuck

If you’re an aspiring writer, you may have felt this same kind of paralyzing doubt. Maybe you've started a book, a blog, or even just a journal filled with thoughts God has placed on your heart—but somewhere along the way, you stopped.

Why?

Because the enemy knows that words—especially words that glorify God—have power. Your words carry weight. Your testimony, your lessons, your insight matter in the kingdom of God.

The enemy’s strategy is clear: if he can get you to doubt the value of your voice, he can keep you silent.

But let me remind you of this:

If you have been redeemed, you have something worth saying.

God’s Intervention: Renewed Inspiration Through Prayer

But God—in His perfect timing—led me through a season of prayer. I began waking up at 5 AM to pray with a couple of sisters from church, and during that time, the Holy Spirit reignited my passion to continue writing.

When I finally picked up my manuscript again, I realized something crucial:

• The framework and themes needed restructuring.

• I was too focused on pleasing people rather than writing for God.

• I was trying to combine my testimony with theological concepts in a way that wasn't flowing naturally.

These realizations led me to surrender my writing process to God. My goal shifted from trying to "get everything perfect" to simply being obedient in sharing what He had placed on my heart.

To the Writer Who Wants to Give Up: Keep Writing

If you're questioning whether your words matter, they do.

If you’re wondering whether anyone will read what you write, God already has.

If you're scared of being misunderstood, trust that God will lead the right people to your message.

Remember this: You are not writing for applause. You are writing for obedience.

There will always be critics, but if God has called you to write, then you must push through the doubt. He will equip you, but first, He asks for your yes.

Commit your writing to the Lord, and He will establish it. It’s not about being the most polished or profound writer—it’s about being faithful.

Final Thoughts: Walking in Freedom and Purpose

The journey of faith is one of constant surrender. Even when we have been freed from something, there will still be battles to fight—battles in our minds, battles in our habits, and battles in our hearts.

But the key to victory is this: Keep seeking God. Keep surrendering. Keep trusting Him to complete the work He started in you.

As I continue writing Battles Beneath the Blossoms, I no longer worry about how my words will be received. Instead, I rest in knowing that God is the Author of my story.

Reflection Question

What has God placed on your heart to write that you’ve been hesitant to start (or finish)? What’s stopping you?

Call to Action

Take a moment to pray and ask God to reveal any areas where you may be struggling with doubt, comparison, or people-pleasing. Then, take a step of obedience today.

• If you’ve stopped writing, pick it back up—even if just for a few minutes.

• If you’ve doubted your message, remember that God is the One who called you to share it.

• If you’ve been afraid of what others think, remind yourself that you write for an audience of One.

If this post spoke to you, share it with another writer who may need encouragement—and let’s continue this journey of faith together!