Into the Fire

Naively setting out to write a book—and let’s stick with novels here—stars in the eyes, visions of glory, a possible call to fame and fortune . . . C’mon. Every novel writer has a streak of imagining the so-called ultimate in success. And I refuse to slam the door shut on that for anyone.

What I will do is re-emphasize the beauty of laying aside the typical visions of “success” for the higher imagining of bringing pleasure to the Lord with the offering of that writing.

There are those who do not write well but think they do. I’m not sure why they think they write well, but I suspect it’s because they don’t read much. Reading a lot of fiction definitely gives you a flavor for what works and what doesn’t. Some people can put a few words together and give some great descriptions, some fair dialogue, but before they know it, they’re into melodrama or trivia, and the hope of a real story has fizzled. They have an imagination, but they have no idea how to translate those ideas into coherent story forms. Usually, another marker of their inability is their lack of basic grammar skills. A skilled reader and a good writer can always spot the absence of that knowledge and can easily differentiate between a writer who is purposely ignoring the confines of good grammar to experiment with style and one who is oblivious to his mistakes. Those who simply don’t know the basics can’t conceal it because the practiced eye of an avid reader or a skilled writer can’t help but flinch at the mistake(s) as if someone has conspicuously just belted out a wrong note into a microphone during a solo.

Far be it from me to stomp on their dreams. However, any writer has to practice the craft, know the basics, take the training in whatever forms life has to offer them, and apply the knowledge to create. Experience is necessary. Failure is part of the process but not an end—unless one concludes the particular failure is a surefire indicator that the talent for writing is not that individual’s call.

Anyone who thinks they must write can find a real wealth of instruction on innumerable sites on the web. At any level on any subject for any type of writing, the information is there for them. All kinds of theories, opinions, recommendations, Qs & As, with many of the professionals weighing in on every topic in literature and suggesting multiple instructional books to purchase or borrow from the library.

Those who’ve aspired to write, have practiced the craft, have read a large number of novels written in the genres they prefer, and have decided to tackle the actual writing of that novel are most likely to succeed to some degree.

But what will really determine their advancement in the novel-writing craft is if the Lord has determined they should be an author and alongside that call is the desire to abide by His decisions for their success. Yes, His definition, His decision, His purposes and opportunities. Without those in order, any other success will flounder and will not hold up to the wheat and chaff measurement when all is said and done. Who is it we want to impress the most? When the Lord tells us what is “highly esteemed” among men is “detestable” to Him, I don’t think he’s kidding. Do you?

Therefore, at any level of whatever you do, make sure your focus is on achieving success in the eyes of the Lord. Give your work to prayer and submit it to Him for purification of motives. There is little you can do to hold back “success” if that is what the Lord has for you—just make sure your definition coincides with His.

Father, let us put you first, seek to follow your lead, your direction, your inspiration. Help us to be faithful to you. In all that we do, let us honor you. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.