A Biblical Prayer for Writers

by Joshua J. Masters @JoshuaJMasters

After the struggles of the last year, many of us are rededicating ourselves to more productive writing schedules, a greater respect for deadlines, and an organized plan for our business. But if our last turbulent trip around the sun taught us anything, it’s that we should focus on the things that are most important and be grateful for the things we take for granted.

 

For Christian authors, our focus and our gratitude should continually return to the One who called us to a life of writing, the One who put that desire in our hearts and outlined our purpose in His plan. Yet I sometimes find the tasks of writing can overshadow the worship that should drive and inform the words I write.

 

So, how do we remain focused on God and His call on our lives as we continue to be faithful to the work of that calling? 

 

The biblical prayer for writers that follows is based on over a dozen passages of scripture, encouraging us to lean into the promises and character of God as we write. In this new year, let’s remain focused on Him—not only by making this prayer our own, but by reading and meditating on the passages themselves. 

 

 

Dear Lord,

Your Word is living and active. It sees the very intentions of my heart,1

And I pray You would examine my heart2 as I write words to reflect the truth of Yours.

 

Just as you directed Isaiah, Jeremiah, and John to write the things You revealed to them,3

May my writing be true to what you reveal in my own life—not for my purpose, but for Yours alone.

 

May the words that first come to my heart be words of worship,

That I might proclaim the words of the psalmist:

 

“My heart is moved by a noble theme as I recite my verses to the King; 

My tongue is the pen of a skillful writer.” 4

 

I have so many dreams for my writing, so many plans. 

But I pray You would make my steps sure.

Help me seek You and Your path rather than my own.5

Teach me to work with integrity, writing for Your pleasure above all else. 6

 

And as I dedicate myself to learning the craft You’ve placed on my heart,

Help me commit all my work to You, Lord.7

 

When I need to focus, remind me that Your shield surrounds me. 8

When I am discouraged, remind me that You will lift me up. 9

When I am without words, remind me that wisdom comes from Your mouth. 10

 

Humble my heart in success,

Encourage my heart in disappointment,

And strengthen my heart in Your purpose. 11

 

Not to my name, but to Yours alone may glory come12 through these words I write.

 

I ask these things knowing I am Your workmanship,

That You created me to fulfill the deeds you’ve designed just for me.13

May my heart and my pen forever seek those things.

 

In the name of Christ, the Word that became flesh,

 

Amen.

 

1. Hebrews 4:12

2. Psalm 139:23

3. Isaiah 30:8; Jeremiah 30:2; Revelation 1:19

5. Psalm 45:1 (CSB)

6. Proverbs 3:5-6, 16:9

7. Colossians 3:23; 2 Timothy 2:15

4. Proverbs 16:3

8. Psalm 3:3

9. 1 Peter 5:6-9

10. Proverbs 2:6

11. Philippians 4:11-13

12. Psalm 115:1

13. Ephesians 2:10

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Joshua J. Masters is a pastor, author, and speaker with a heart for encouraging others. His book on prayer, American Psalms, was a Serious Writer’s Book of the Decade finalist. He’s been featured on CBN Television, HIS Radio, the Light Radio Network, and worked in the film industry as a member of SAG-AFTRA performer. He is a regular teacher and speaker for large groups. A self-proclaimed sci-fi and comic book geek, Josh loves film, pop culture and is known in some circles as The Bat Pastor. Joshua was raised in the White Mountains of New England and now serves as a pastor in South Carolina where he lives with his wife, Gina, and their miniature poodle, Franklin the Pup, who is the subject of his latest book. Josh would love to connect with you on his website,  JoshuaJMasters.com.