“We tend to think that we are first ministers with a pen. However, before we can minister, we must learn to worship and regard all our writing as an act of worship, done for God’s pleasure.” ~ Ethel Herr
Do you write to make a name for yourself, or to bless others? It’s true—folks write for different reasons.
Ethel Herr, author of An Introduction to Christian Writing
Ethel Herr addresses the nature of our worship:
It begins in the heart of the writer.
“It is a personal, private act of the heart whereby I offer to God my adoration, praise, and thanks for all he is and has done for me, in me, and through me.”
It reflects the image of God.
“It shows to me and to my world through me, what God is like…as I live and write, I am allowing Him to live out His personality and His creativity in human form on earth.”
It acts in obedience to the revealed will of God.
“Knowing that to present our bodies a living sacrifice to God is an “intelligent act of worship” can help us decide what kinds of things to write.
It shares openly and honestly what represents our genuine selves.
“If we lived simple carefree lives, how could we command the attention of a world that expects us to show them how to face tension and solve problems?”
After we learn to worship on paper, “we are free to think about ministering,” Herr tells us.
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on January 24, 2007 - 9:23 pm
I’m not sure why I don’t come visit here more often…I believe part of it may be because I don’t really consider myself a “writer”…however, the points highlighted in this post in regards to Ethel Herr’s interpretation as the nature of our worship…I couldn’t help but shout a hearty amen after each point. I have printed this post as a reminder to me as to why I blog.
on January 24, 2007 - 10:43 pm
Amen.
It’s amazing how long it took me to realize this with my writing. Amazing too how easy it is to forget.
That’s why it’s been my prayer for over a year now that what I write would first and foremost honor and glorify my Father in heaven.
on January 25, 2007 - 11:57 am
Thanks Victoria. If you have any questions, let me know!
Did you receive my reply to your eMail? I ask because it was the first time I’d used the new eMail address.
on January 25, 2007 - 11:58 am
Sissy, but you *are* a writer, my friend. And a good one. Thanks for your visit and comment. I’m due for a visit with you!
Hal, thank you so much for those words, and for stopping by. I’d like to post about your new book and website soon. Keep writing for His glory!
on January 25, 2007 - 3:50 pm
Hal: Got it! Thanks!
on January 31, 2007 - 5:02 am
I’m new to your site- glad I found you! As a new writer I try to explain that I write for God as He directs & leave the rest to Him. God knows who it is for, when & where. I may never write that book I dream of, but I am being obedient to my call.
Over 50 years since I fell in love with boooks & began making up my own stories… now He calls me!
It is an exciting new adventure & I am thankful that I don’t mind being behind the scenes. I do not need the applause… I just need to put my fingers to the keyboard & tell the Lord “I’m ready!” Then wait & see what happens.
Thank you for sharing Ethel Herr’s words. I will pass them on to my local & online Christian Writing Groups & my Christian Writers’ Bible Study group. So expect more visitors! Connie
on January 31, 2007 - 8:03 pm
Constance: Your post was delightful—thanks for letting me know you stopped by. What you said is so key…that it’s about our obedience to His call. I have to admit, writing is a grand adventure when you’re being led by God. You never know where you’ll end up! But it’s always a good place in Him.
on January 31, 2007 - 8:17 pm
P.S. Read your profile- I am a retired nurse, but still do Parish Nursing. What a joy to actually have time for my patients & to be able to pray with them. cg
on February 5, 2007 - 11:56 pm
Vicki, I appreciated this focus on Ethel Herr. Wise words!
I feel the same about my photography–it’s like worship when I’m out in nature, shooting details of creation. I loved this post. Thank you.
Visit Photo Buffet…arrive hungry, leave inspired!
http://bonniebruno.wordpress.com