Tuesday, June 15, 2010

God's Promises to Writers Series


Wisdom
God's Promises To Writers Series
Net's Notations Tuesdays

As for these four boys, God gave them knowledge
and skill in all writing and wisdom.
And Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.
(Daniel 1:17, ModernKJV)

Isn’t that a beautiful verse? Notice it says “God gave them.” They chose to live for God, even in a hostile land and God honored their choice by granting them what they needed in that role, and what would make them stand out and give more glory to God.

I need wisdom in every area of my life. How about you? Specifically, as writers, we need wisdom in regards to:

~Human nature – so we can write relatable stories and incorporate wisdom for how to navigate the situations we depict. Also, hopefully, readers won’t feel as alone in their pain and trials. With wisdom we can show them a new way to approach life. Against the reality of tough human struggles, we can contrast the light of hope in the situation. Wisdom helps us do this.

~Writing craft – the Daniel passage above is in regards to this having knowledge and skill in all writing. We could take that to mean the stages of writing, or the various genres some of us tackle, or the mode we tackle them in (i.e. writing in various POVs). Some writing craft books are so advanced, I have to take a moment and process the depths of what the writer is inferring in this new-to-me lesson. This is especially true as I tackle a new medium in writing, like going from novels to screenplays, for example.

~God’s word and His precepts – God’s concepts, His words, change lives. The Holy Spirit illuminates the Word. We need His light to help us understand what we’re seeing. And continue to reveal the truth to us. Reading the Scriptures helps inspire me for my devotional writing. And with so many blogs to keep up, this is a good thing! *grin*

~The business aspect of the professional author’s life. There’s marketing and where to spend our resources and time. What’s most effective? We’ll need wisdom to know.

~Time management – how to use our time wisely in the midst of busy days.

~Inventing new concepts and story ideas – what’s the need right now? Pair your passion up with the need and you’ll come up with a wise approach. Your passion will infuse the book with impact and staying power. Just what you need.

Those are the few areas which came to mind as I brainstormed. You can probably think of more. But no matter what, the good news is God will give wisdom to those who humble themselves and ask for it. Check out this promise from His Word:

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God,
who gives to all liberally and without reproach,
and it will be given to him. (James 1:5, NKJV)

What a great assurance in a list of promises from God for His writers.