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| Photo courtesy Adrian van Leen, Perth, Western Australia, rgbstock.com |
That happened to me yesterday. I'm attempting to write my first inspirational romance novel. I had completed Chapter 3, but something wasn't right and I couldn't figure it out. The words weren't coming, the plot seemed too muddled, my characters weren't cooperating with me. I got really discouraged and started wondering what made me think I could write a novel.
I know some authors who are prolific with their writing and have cranked out scores of novels. I compared my feeble efforts to theirs and just wanted to scrap the whole thing and give up. I finally just went to bed, sad and dejected that the one think I love to do...write...I was not able to do.
But, God! God had a different plan. First he sent lots of friends to encourage me and pray for me. Then during my quiet time with Him this morning, he led me directly to the verses above. Ya don't have to draw me a picture! I got what He was saying loud and clear.
I said a prayer and got right back on my horse...I mean went straight to my computer and started writing. God gave me a way to outline my work this morning that will keep me on track, then he showed me what was causing most of the problems...or "who" was causing most of the problems, I should say. I got rid of one of my pesky characters and the rest started playing together nicely.
So, has the enemy been telling you that you haven't got what it takes to do what you feel God has called you to do? Then I encourage you, my friend, to fan into flame the gift that is within you, know that He loves you and what He has called you to do, He has given you the power to do. All it takes is a little self-discipline and boldness on your part and you'll be back on track in no time.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for your incredible patience with me and for helping me to get right back on track. I ask you to do the same for any of my friends who may be reading this and thinking about that one thing you have called them to do, which has seemed impossible. Empower them, Father, to push through the obstacles and to fan into flame the gift that you have placed in them. In Jesus' name, I ask it. Amen
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(Copyright© 2011 Jan Christiansen. All rights reserved.)
2 comments:
You know I saw you wrote something on your Facebook page and was going to write an encouraging word but ...got sidetracked and didn't. I am so glad others encouraged you and prayed for you Jan.
It reminds me to not get so busy that I don't take the time to stop and pray and acknowledge others. I cannot imagine writing a novel. I think I do better on short posts and maybe ...children's books. I admire those with the talent to develop characters.
It's wonderful that you are using the gift of writing that has been given to you by the Lord.
blessings and love,
Debbie
Aw, thank you, Debbie. You have been an encouragement to me many time. Writing is a wonderful tool for encouragement, teaching and even entertaining. I do better on short pieces, too. Whipping off a blog post is a breeze compared to what I'm trying to do, now, but I really wanted to challenge myself.
We all just need to keep using the gift God's given us in whatever capacity he leads us to.
Praying God's blessings on your writing!
Jan
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