Just the Pen
An open letter on the "why" behind these words.
A short note from the writer
This will not be a regular post, but a brief open letter from me to you all.
As many of you know, I’ve been writing in some way, shape, or form for a large percentage of my life. In middle school it was stories; in high school and college, it morphed into those sleep-depriving research papers and essays. Along the way, I started writing poetry. My earliest poems date back to ~2012.
Recently, I found myself asking:
“Why am I doing this? What is the purpose of not only continuing my writing but ramping up those efforts?”
Not counting an in-progress book that may exceed 100,000 words, I’m on pace to more than 10x the amount of writing I’ve ever done in a single year.
So far, this has been my hobby—my poems, my writings, my thoughts, and my emotions turned into words. I’ve always tried to write through a clear spiritual lens, but lately, I’ve found myself shifting even further in that direction...
...that “all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.” (Isa. 52:10)
I’m not going to brand this as a massive shift in direction or a “come to Jesus” moment, but I had some pressing thoughts that I needed to get out to ensure we are collectively on the same page about the “why” behind this Substack.
If you are as curious about my “why” as I’ve been, here it is, loud and clear:
If this wasn’t 100% the case already, this is now His.
His writings, His thoughts, His Word. His Substack.
I’m just the pen… or keyboard.
The purpose of this Substack is to glorify God through speaking the truth. I do not want this to be a place where I share gossip, toxic opinions, or criticism. I trust all of you will keep me accountable and call me out for any perceived misuses.
Words have power, and with great power comes great responsibility. I hope the words I’m given to write have a positive impact beyond what I’ll ever know.
If you’re wanting to come along for the ride, all aboard! If you believe in the mission and want this to continue, please know that I can’t do this alone. Thank you to those who give me feedback both when I ask and, especially, when I don’t. This doesn’t work without you.
Please continue to support my work the work God is trying to do through me.
The audience that will read this will cover the globe, but I write for the approval of One.
This isn’t about me; this is about Him—the single most transformative figure to ever set foot on planet earth. The name that has echoed throughout history.
It’s all about Jesus.
—BJ
If you’re with me, please hit the “like” button and share this with a friend to help us grow.
Don’t hesitate to reach out with any thoughts or feedback.
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ICYMI: Part 1 of February’s theme of Reset vs Relapse
