“Because writing is work, work that must be done in God’s way if we want God’s blessing, it is important to periodically assess the way we approach our work as writers.” ~ Marlene Bagnull, Write His Answer: A Bible Study for Christian Writers
The writing profession is so competitive, we’re apt to run ahead of God to make our mark, lest we drown in a sea of rejection slips. Am I committed to Him and His plan for my life? Or am I striving to draw identity from getting published? If my identity is secure in Him, I’ll learn what it means to be content in all circumstances (Phil. 4:11), whether my writing is well-known or slightly obscure. The driven writer craves fame and success. He pushes himself into the limelight. According to Marlene Bagnull, this kind of writer “claims ownership of the words he writes and his career, rather than acknowledging the Lordship of Christ.”
We don’t have to force God’s hand in publication or compete with other writers. Royalty checks will come and go, but without Christ, we are nothing. As we surrender our agendas, He opens amazing doors of opportunities.
“For I know the plans I have for you…” ~ Jeremiah 29:11
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on April 29, 2006 - 7:16 pm
Once again, you have hit the nail on the head! Your encouragement, mixed with a dose of wisdom is something I have learned to count on! Thank you for your faithfulness!
Diane
on April 29, 2006 - 11:07 pm
Ahhhhhhh, yes!
on April 29, 2006 - 11:31 pm
Excellent post! The scripture you quoted at the end, Jeremiah 29:11 is the very verse I have claimed throughout the past four years at university. I’ve felt called to become a teacher, and that is what I am progressing toward. That verse has helped to get me through so much (and of course so has Jesus).
Thanks for the reminder of keeping Christ in the writing and the life of writing.
on April 30, 2006 - 12:27 am
Much wisdom in a beautiful blog, Vicki!
on April 30, 2006 - 10:31 am
For me the rewrites are as important as the first draft.
Most of my posts go through three rewrites.
Haven’t been over here in a while so I thought I’d stop by and read some back posts.
Thanks!
on April 30, 2006 - 12:52 pm
Hi Vickie,
That scripture was the one my husband and I chose for our wedding back in 1992.We’re still waiting for the prosper part…ROTFLOL…This was an excellent post!Have a blessed day!!
Sharon
on April 30, 2006 - 8:28 pm
Found you via CWO Blogring and so glad I did. I’m a wanna-be writer and on the roller coaster of wanting to persevere and wanting to give up. Your words are encouraging. Thank you. I’ve added your site to the links on my blog.
on May 1, 2006 - 2:49 pm
Diane ~ Thanks for those kind words!
Sure appreciate it.
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Paula ~ Your visits encourage this writer’s soul.
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Shelley ~ I pray God’s blessings upon your life as you move forward in your call to teach!
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Violet ~ So thankful for your friendship and support!
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Curious Servant ~ Good writing is in the re-writes, so you’re on the right track, my friend. Ah, but I love to piddle around with words. Thanks for visiting!
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Sharon ~ Love that verse, too. You have the beautiful gift of encouragement.
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Lisa ~ Writing is hard work, but includes much joy. I pray you’ll persevere! Thanks for visiting and linking here.
on May 7, 2006 - 12:20 am
So superbly said. Thank you for inviting me to drop by. I am constantly trying to stifle my “ambition” and to remind myself that what I do is about the women - the mothers - and impacting their lives and bringing glory to God and not myself. Every time I see someone surpass me and get notice while I still plug away - God reminds me that this is the path He has chosen to use me on.
But who am I to please - my Lord - or people? I am so blessed to be doing what I do. No amount of fame could ever mean as much.