I’ve noticed there’s a particular time when God speaks to me about my writing and lifts me up. The rest of the time I need to show up and trust that my efforts will be used for a Higher Purpose. Being an inspirational writer parallels the faith walk in many ways. We need to trust that during the lean times (when time to write leans near nil), God still multiplies what we offer to feed those He has in mind.
Often, in the process, we—the writers—are the ones who are fed first.
I’m a needy writer. I regularly hunger for affirmation from God. It’s not a daily need. I can write for weeks before the desperation sets in. But when a bottoming out of my writing sprints occur, I sit on the side of the racetrack, stare at my untied running shoes, and wonder if I should bother tying them up again.
I think things like:
• No one needs what I have to say.
• I’m not worthy to write worthwhile words.
• I might as well go back to my former hobbies and forget about writing for others.
• My journal is enough to satisfy my cravings to write (Insert laughing emoji here.).
Then, I tie my laces up and head down the track because I’ve done enough laps to know that if God thinks I need encouragement, He’ll send it. If He doesn’t send it, then maybe I am supposed to hang up my writing shoes.
The last time my writerly enthusiasm bottomed out, an email arrived with a contract for me to sign regarding something that had previously been shortlisted for an inspirational magazine. Once again, God spoke to me about my writing:
Keep running.
As I read the devotional that had been contracted, I was ministered to just as I had been when I wrote it. It was about being content with our little corner of the world—being content with where God has planted us to grow (or write).
And this reminds me of something the apostle Paul wrote:
I am not saying this because I am in need,
for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,
whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 NIV
I'm nosy-to-know:
How does God lift you up when your writer’s heart is down?
Blessings ~ Wendy Mac
