Our Sometimes Foggy Call to Write

by Edie Melson @EdieMelson

And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. Exodus 13:21 ESV

I always treasure the times when I go to the mountains and get to witness the clouds hanging low in the valleys. It won't be long until I get to spend an entire week there for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference.

The morning I took this picture was special because I'd been studying the book of Exodus. This sight reminded me again of how God accompanied the Israelites—by night a pillar of fire and by day a column of cloud. 

As I stared across the valley my thoughts turned to God, His presence, His creation, His grace, and His calling. Sometimes in our writing life, our calling is clear. There are times when, like the Israelites we can see God almost as clearly as they saw the pillar of fire and the column of a cloud. But there are other times when we're IN the valley and we are covered up with God—surrounded and insulated by His tangible presence—but we can't actually see Him.

The thing we have to remember is this. Whether we're able to see God clearly, sense Him insulating us, or just wondering where He is, God is still with us. Not seeing or sensing God never means He has abandoned us. God doesn't abandon us—ever. 

We keep moving forward, doing the last thing He told us to do. We can rest in the truth that if we get off track, He is big enough to get our attention and guide us back into the way He wants us to go. So it's time to look at this picture and figure out where you are. And take comfort in the fact that God is always present. 

It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8 ESV

What Bible verse(s) sustains you through the ups and downs of writing? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Don't forget to join the conversation!

Blessings,

Edie

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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.