A Pre-Conference P.R.A.Y.E.R. for Writers

by Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT

Conference season is here! Many of us are already busy creating one-sheets, writing book proposals, or penciling in classes and appointments. 

But if you are new to writers conferences or have attended a few yet still feel unprepared, this article is for you. 

My Story

As a pediatric physical therapist, my writing has long consisted of medical record documentation and the occasional medical journal article. While I did well in English in school, the sciences were my love. There, writing was merely part of the job; it was not THE job.

In 2007, burned out from the stresses of my caseload and raising two active boys, I repeatedly called out to God for help and guidance. To my surprise, He placed on my heart a call to begin writing. “Write what?” I pleaded. 

He remained quiet as I began the journey yet placed signposts along the way. Eventually, I found a writers critique group, where a member—a seasoned writer and English teacher—introduced me to creative writing. Wow, what a concept! 

As I struggled to change my writing style to one less academic, the doubts that I had misheard God raged. The internal comparison games took on new levels of intensity. “These people have ALWAYS wanted to write. They’re real writers. What am I doing here?” peppered my sleepless nights.

Fast-forward to today. I have persisted with the call despite the mountains and valleys. Through the years, God has honed my skills and developed my new writing voice. The biggest reason I am still here is because God eventually led me from the first critique group to Word Weavers International. After joining them, doors began to open. Finally, I had found my team.

My First Writing Conference

I attended my first writing conference in 2017, a decade after God called me to write. Like a fish out of water (I realize that’s cliché, but I like it!), fellow writer friends gave guidance and encouragement: “Go here” or “You need to meet with ______.” 

Even though I did not feel ready or qualified, I did as they encouraged. Trusting God means going without knowing, so I went.

While more doors closed than opened at that first conference, my post-conference reflections revealed I was in a season of excess growth, trying to go in too many directions. God needed to prune some things for me to produce the fruit He wanted. 

But as I look back, some of the friends I made at that first conference were ones God placed there. They have continued to guide me, hold my hand, and encourage me. Many saw my place in the industry long before I was ready or able.

That is why I confidently say that even though you may not feel ready or qualified, you are. God is prepared to work on you and through you. 

My P.R.A.Y.E.R for You

P—PRAY over everything, whether it is your one sheet, book proposal, meetings, or classes. Ask God to direct every decision, appointment, and even your thoughts. 

R—RESIST the doubts the evil one sends your way. REACH out to fellow writers who are friends and supporters and REQUEST prayer.

A—ACKNOWLEDGE God’s call. If He called you to write, then you are a writer. ACCEPT with a grateful heart where you are on the journey. Some are ahead of you, and others are behind. It will always be so.

Y— Say YES when God modifies your plans. Say YES to making mistakes, and say YES to the pruning required for you to bear fruit. 

E—ENCOURAGE others. Everyone at the conference needs uplifting. Be the first to offer life-giving words to others. ENJOY the journey.

R—REMAIN faithful to God’s call. Conferences are opportunities to learn new information, lean on God's strength, and listen to that still, small voice. They are precious times away from the daily hustle and bustle. Use that time to RENEW your determination to stay the course God has laid before you.

I have discovered along the way that a writer’s life is just like life itself. There are mountains and valleys, laughter and tears, learning and relearning, and seasons. It is a journey along the path on which God has set your feet. No matter where you are on the trip, take heart and keep moving forward with your eyes on Jesus, the one for whom we all write. 

TWEETABLE

A Pre-Conference P.R.A.Y.E.R. for Writers from Ginny Cruz on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT is a pediatric physical therapist, early intervention specialist, and award-winning author. Her writing encourages and teaches moms simple and effective ways to help their baby meet developmental milestones. In addition to writing, she enjoys hiking, reading, and camping with her husband. Find out more at ginnycruz.com, Instagram, or Facebook.