Into the Fire

The computer screen can stare down any writer. When the words are nowhere to be found, the fingers at the ready to no avail, yes, it's always a challenge. It's not like the mind is empty, but there's a rhythm that accompanies creating, and when it's good, it's very good, and when it's not, it's . . . terrifying, worrisome, difficult, anger-inducing, frustrating, and so on and so on.

Some authors can write out of sheer discipline and give instructions – which can come off as flippant – for the cure of what has been conveniently labeled "writer's block". I have my own interpretation of that term. Sometimes writers need a break. To step back from those words on a page. Some writers aren't afforded that "luxury" because they've been set up with deadlines they must meet without a lot of leeway.

When I was on a writing tear several years ago, I noticed after a considerable time spent creating, there would come a time when words were scarce, inspiration took a time-out, and I had to learn it was "break time". Sometimes it was for a few days, other times for a couple of weeks. The fervor returned, not always predictably, but I learned to trust the rest time. And for a believer, we know it's God's way of saying, "Take a break." I've never been able to force my writing, so all the disciplinary instructions are just words in the wind to me.

However, once I get away from story-writing for any length of time – and still it can be the Lord's timing - I can be undisciplined in my return. After a long, long break I need to reread. And when I get to the end of what's been written, a slight fear emerges testing me with the what ifs, i.e. What if you can't finish it? You really like these characters and this storyline, but what if you just can't find your way? What if . . .

I'm grateful for every novel I've written. Thankful for the process and everything about the coming together of those books. I've learned to trust the Lord for the continuation of the creation process. It is, after all, up to Him what He wants me to do. I need to follow His lead even when it doesn't feel like I can. That's when He does His best work.

Father, apart from you, I can do nothing. Help me to do it when you want me to. Help me with my lack of self-discipline. Thank you is never enough. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.