Books & Writing -- The Call

  

When I first started creating stories it was just a hobby. I never dreamed it would be anything more. But after being side-lined by an auto accident, God gave me a new vision, a new way to serve Him through the gift of writing. Though I didn’t fully understand what I was saying yes to, I was committed to the call. God threw open every door, and it was clear that writing novels was part of His plan for me. I vowed to remain faithful to the call until and if He led me elsewhere.

Recently, I’ve heard a lot of writers talk about weariness of spirit. The job of writing (which is huge) along with discouragement and the general difficulties of life are wringing the energy and joy from their lives. Writers work hard. Not only do we create stories, but there can be mountains of research to do before we can even begin. And the editing process can feel endless. Plus there’s marketing, which begins long before we’ve completed a book. It eats up huge chunks of our time.

For a lot of us what is required is more difficult than we’d imagined. I’ve heard many voice thoughts of walking away. I’ve been there myself a time or two. Each time the Holy Spirit calls me back, reminding me of what God asked me to do and of the vow I made to Him. Ultimately my spirit is refreshed and I continue this unpredictable adventure.

God has a purpose in choosing the paths He places us on. We each have a journey and commission chosen by Him. If we decide to walk away we lose something precious—God’s best.

 When we set out on this writing quest did we really believe it would be easy? If you’re new to the world of writing get ready to be surprised by its joys and its sorrows. And if you’ve been traveling this road for a while, I pray you’ll hold fast to the dream, remembering God has a bigger picture in mind—it’s not about sales numbers, awards won or achieving fame. It’s about doing what we love and doing it with intention. It can be a tough road, but it’s also full of fun, discovery and remarkable people. And I know no greater sense of accomplishment than writing “The End” when I’ve completed a novel.

Expect rough patches, dry places where we thirst and valleys so dark we fear passing through them. Troubles can throw us off track, but there is always a way back—reach out for God’s helping hand. He is close and will set us back on our feet.

I’m grateful that I get to write. Despite poor wages and long hours, it’s fantastic fun to create characters and leap into their stories. And what a blessing it is to do something with my life that makes a positive difference in the world. I’ve received many letters thanking me and my characters for being an encouragement or helping someone find their way—some who discover Jesus for the first time.

 When we find ourselves worn out or uncertain remember God is our Father.  Seek Him. Talk with Him. Rest in Him. Lay your troubles, your disillusionment, your fatigue and sorrow at His feet. He will reach out with love, mercy and wisdom. His strength will lift us up and once again help us see the path laid out for us and know the joy of serving others.

Sometimes we need rest. Don’t push forward when God says stop. Resting is not deserting our call. We must be wise stewards of the gifts we've been given. If we keep going when God says stop, we’re working in our strength not His, which is no strength at all.

May you find joy in service. Turn your hearts toward Christ. And remember that as writers we have the privilege of glorifying God through our gifts. No matter how difficult it may seem don’t miss God’s best.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Thoughts For Today -- Purpose

Me, first thing in the morning.

I took this photo to make a point. I'm no one special. I'm just a round, sixty-one-year-old woman who takes a long time to wake up and begin her day. However, like most people, I crave purpose. I need a reason for living. Where do I find it? How do I know if I even have a purpose?

God tells me He had a reason to create me, a path that is mine alone to walk. I trust Him. But, there are days when I feel pretty close to worthless. Times when I'm weary and in pain and I mostly just try to make it through the day--times when I don't feel motivated to do much of anything. And I know that as I grow older the weariness will become more intense and very likely so will my pain. When I can do little more than sit and chat, what will my purpose be then?

And then I remember my life. I have had an incredible time, filled with family and friends and service to my Lord. There has been music, joy and worship. Laughter, tears and troubles. But . . .

I HAVE A PURPOSE

Wife

Mother

Daughter

Sister 

Grandmother

Friend

Writer

Believer

       

I've been given a beautiful calling. I'm valuable, for God has given me purpose. When I am old and feeble and my vision becomes dim, I am still me and the meaning of life will continue to embrace me. Memories will warm my heart and I will delight in the heritage I received and then . . . gave to others.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God -- The Healer of Broken Hearts

In the midst of sorrow or hardship, our sight sometimes becomes so narrow we forget there is One who sees it all--the beginning and the end. While our eyes are on our troubles, we do not see the glory or the hope. Instead, we feel the weight of sorrow, fear, responsibility.

God waits for us to look to Him. He will carry our burdens. He will break through our sorrows. He will take our hand and squeeze tightly. He will draw us close and enfold us in His love. And He will heal broken hearts.

The glory of God is so bright it pushes back every shadow. When we are in the light only then can we see the truth.

There is nothing God does not know about our lives--the joys and the sorrows. The wonder of it all is that no matter how deep a valley we find ourselves in He will be there also. God gives us strength and direction. He will carry us out of the valley and set us upon the hilltops where we can see the beauty of a landscape shimmering in His light.

He has a plan . . . He always does. He wastes nothing. He will lead us into His presence and reveal His purposes. Praise Him!

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie