Petra's Devotions

“Called to Write”

Bible reading: 1 Chronicles 28:9

The requested material never arrived, and I was surprised to receive an e-mail that it was returned to sender. Presumably it had taken a detour of more than 9 months! But it was meant to be, for the articles that were re-sent to me contained precious wisdom that helped me get my priorities right.

Ever since graduating from the “Breaking into Print” course from the LongRidgeWritersGroup in June 2007, I had been exploring my calling to write. I tried to write all kinds of articles in a range of different subjects - from medical subjects to Jewish holidays to Biblical Background articles. The more I wrote, the easier it became to blend the often extensive research material into a well-crafted piece.

Gradually, I began to receive confirmation, either in the form of encouraging remarks from readers, or even better – articles that were published. Sales however, were very few.

I tried to write every day, and even learned to write when only a few minutes opened up in my often hectic daily schedule. Writing had become a big part of my life - I couldn’t do without it any more.

Frantically, I kept searching for markets, but most of the time with frustrating and disappointing results. It often made me wonder why bother – it was just a waste of time.

Then an unexpected door opened, one that was very close to home. The organization my husband works for asked me to write monthly fillers for their international Newsletter. Someone else from that same organization heard about my love for history. He asked me to write four two-minute radio articles each month. I was flabbergasted. Even though it was “pro Deo” (as unto the Lord - paid in heaven) I knew it would help me to hone my skills.

However, what gave me the most pleasure and joy was writing Biblical Historical fiction. The positive feedback I received from short Biblical stories confirmed I was on the right track.

When there were no appointments, the children off to school, I jumped behind the keyboard.

The envelop I received anew from Christian Writers Fellowship International contained a few of Sandy Brooks’ articles about the need for a reality check. She highlighted the fact that if we want to write for God’s glory, we have to spend each day in communion with Him.

That’s how this devotional came into being.

I’m someone who needs a framework to spend time with the Lord. That’s what matters most, and the things I learn through this time with my Heavenly Father, may help and encourage others as well.

Most writers are disciplined people, and for us as Christian writers, that quality must also apply to take time with the Lord. Only then He can use our talents to write for His glory.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

I want to acknowledge you as the One and only, True God. I want to serve you with wholehearted devotion. Make my mind willing. You, oh Lord, search my heart and understand my motives behind the thoughts. If I seek You, I will be found by You. Please Lord, help me not to reject You!” (From 1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV)