Am I Helping or Hindering Other Writers

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Galatians 6:3

I am incredibly privileged to direct the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. As much as I LOVE what I do, this conference is always a blessing, and a trial for me to attend. A blessing because I get see first-hand the way God is using His people to impact the world. I also get to witness incredible acts of selflessness and encouragement. I always see multiple examples of grace in action. 

Here, seasoned writers encourage, teach and network with those who are still working hard to get started on their publishing dreams. It seems everywhere I turn I see someone putting others ahead of themselves. I watched one generous writer give away her coveted editor appointment to another writer, and as a result the recipient moved several steps closer to her publishing goal. Beyond that, during the conference it's normal to see knots of attendees huddled together, praying for one another or celebrating good news.

The trial comes when I see the other side of human nature. In the stress-filled environment of a conference some revert to a more selfish way of carrying on. Their conversation tends to consist more of I and me, instead of you and yours. Even worse, their actions are subtly orchestrated to remind those around of their importance and yes, greed. The hardest thing about encountering this, is how obvious it is to everyone around. 

So what do I do when I witness these sorts of individuals? I’ve discovered the first thing I need to do is pray—for myself. When I see this in others, I use it to remind me to be on guard against self-centeredness within my own heart. Because I guarantee you it’s there, even if I’ve managed to conquer it for the moment. I let the behavior I observe be a signpost, pointing to the fact that none of us is perfect and we all must work to react in a giving and grace-filled manner.

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Am I Helping or Hindering Other Writers, thoughts from author @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Featured Image: Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash