by Edie Melson
Now faith is confidence in what we hope
for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
This is one of
the first verses I learned when I began memorizing scripture. But until today,
I had never thought about applying it to my writing. This morning I was texting
back and forth with a fellow writer, trying to encourage her to move forward
and leave the result up to God.
You see, Novemberis National Novel Writing Month. Or in the vocabulary of writers, NaNoWriMo.
The goal is to write 50,000 words in one month. It was started to help writers
get a story down, BEFORE editing. A good
idea, but it can carry a lot of pressure. That’s what my friend was dealing
with.
So I texted that my
friend should just sit down at the computer and write in faith. As I hit send, the words were highlighted, and it
hit me like a message from God. I knew, in that moment, that I desperately needed
to take my own advice.
Let me explain. To
get ready for NaNoWriMo, I’ve been working hard at mapping out a fiction
manuscript. I’ve gotten to know my characters, researched the location, even
brainstormed the major plot points.
But still I was
overcome with doubt and indecision every time I sat down to write.
I had forgotten
that, prepared or not, the outcome of my writing is in God’s capable hands.
Sure I need to be obedient and do my homework. But then, I have to leave the
results up to him.
Even the SMALL
results.
He’s in charge of
how each scene turns out, as well as how the book turns out, and even whether
it’s published or not. He cares about the people who will read and WHEN they
read it.
My part is small,
just obedience. I know, it’s NOT easy, but the big stuff is Gods. It’s not my
place to think too far ahead in the process.
Today, I sat down
and wrote with this in mind—and the joy returned
The pressure had
disappeared and the fun of playing with the words returned. So join me, as I move
forward with NaNoWriMo and—
Write in Faith!
Edie, I've never thought of this before, and I've read that verse a million times. But like you, I've never thought of applying that to my writing. I've always thought of that verse concerning when we get to heaven in that our faith will finally become what we see. Thank you so much for your encouraging words. That's one reason I've never done National Novel Writing month, because I feel so much pressure. Love you, precious friend!
ReplyDeleteJamie, I was blown away when I read this verse with my writing life in mind. Blessings, E
DeleteExcellent post, Edie, as are so many of yours. I love stopping by here for a shot of encouragement. (Hmmm, I meant like a shot in the arm; not in a glass. LOL)
ReplyDeletePam, thanks so much for the encouragement! Blessings, E
DeleteSuch an encouragement, Edie. Such an encourager -- that's what you are!
ReplyDeleteBeth, thanks so much!
DeleteThanks, Edie. Fantastic post. A true gift for me today.
ReplyDeleteMarjorie, I appreciate you taking time to stop by! Blessings, E
DeleteWhat a great post to read as I sit down to hammer out NaNoWriMo word count. Thank you for posting this!
ReplyDeleteReba, thank you!
DeleteEdie,
ReplyDeleteThank you for writing this. I did not prepare ahead like you did but decided to take the plunge anyway. I spent the last couple days desperately trying to get a story plotted and was feeling overwhelmed. Today at church, I decided to write 50,000 words of non-fiction instead. So I guess I failed in a way, but feel like the nonfiction is what I need to write right now. I love the advice to write in faith!! Thanks again, and happy writing!
Megan, writing what God lays on your heart is NEVER failing. Go ahead and sign up for MBTWriMo and work on your nonfiction! Blessings,E
DeleteYea!!! Edie. Thanks for being transparent, like masks hides anything anyone. I will be praying for you and can't wait to hear the results.
ReplyDeleteTime, thank you for the encouragement! Blessings, E
DeleteOh, thank you for this. I've been stressing out. Even though I'm not officially doing MBTWriMo this year, I was going to try to fast draft the scenes I need in my WIP. This post really touched my heart. I "percolated" on it all afternoon and evening. This morning's Scripture, "...do not be anxious about anything, but ... let your requests be made know to God," (Phil. 4:6-7) sealed the deal. I'm putting it in His hands -- again! Thanks, Edie!
ReplyDeleteSuch a wonderful, encouraging message, Edie! Thank you for posting. I always do try to apply scripture to my writing - any and all scripture - but it's easy to forget, especially when you're pressured by a deadline. I decided to do MBT Wrimo last minute, so I did not plot ahead, or get to know my characters. I'm truly writing SOTP this time around...and also finishing up another book that is already contracted and due in December. It's great to be reminded that God's got it all in His great big hands, and the result is up to Him. 0:
ReplyDelete