Into the Fire

Well, I’m not proud to say that in 2007 I did not write one novel. I have one in progress but not completed. In 2005 I wrote three. In 2006 I wrote 2 and ¾.. In 2007 I finished the one that was ¾ written and began the one I’m slowly working on.

In 2007 I wrote regularly on the blog which I acknowledge became therapeutic. I met other writers on the journey to publication, some with finished work, some in the process of writing their first efforts, and I was privileged and honored to read those WIPs and one completed novel from this group.

I did my share of criticism without malice—more like revealing acquired undeniable information which simply isn’t very complimentary to the process of publication. Nonetheless, it is what it is.

I’m no closer to having an agent than I was in 2006. In fact, I might be farther away.

But all things considered, it’s been a wonderful year. God has blessed me in innumerable ways, too multitudinous to even recall, and I am grateful for all He has done for me and within me. He is truly amazing and awesome in His power.

There is peace in proclaiming my heart for writing. There is comfort (somehow) in accepting my differences with popular opinion and requirements. Knowing who I am as a writer has its benefits, although not commonly measurable. I can say I’ve written seven novels and still find satisfaction in the stories and the characters. These are good things. Gifts, if you will, to my heart and soul.

Wherever you are in this writing world, remember this: God is the Author of your life. Sometimes there is gladness, and often there is sorrow, but above all there is still the Lord. He has perfection waiting for us but right now we must write about the imperfection and drama of life embalmed in sin. So, whether you write humor, suspense, fantasy, terror, or romance, honor the One who gave you both the desire and the ability to put words together into stories. He is pleased to read them when we’ve worked hard to write them. He, above anyone else, knows the effort, the hope, the dedication, the joy, the frustration, and the love of creating a story in this world.

Write for Him, write to Him, write with Him.

God, thank you for stories. Thank you for so many ways to tell them. Thank you for being our biggest fan. Thank you for guiding our lives even when we feel lost in a plan we fail to understand. Thank you for mercy and grace. Thank you for Jesus, for your Spirit, and help us to be led by your Spirit. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.

*Please continue to pray for Kristy Dykes.*