Listen for God's Voice

Thursdays - Devotions for Writers

“My sheep listen to my voice, I know them,
and they follow me.” (John 10:27 NIV)

Do you ever ask, “What does God really want me to do?”

Does the question pertain to your writing?

I try to include God in all aspects of my writing, but I admit that sometimes I neglect to check out what He wants. Even though I know that the decisions I make, and the words I write, will bear more fruit if He’s directing them.

I’ve probably learned more about waiting on God while working on devotions for Seriously Write. Even though I’d love to have a month’s worth prescheduled to post, often the topic God wants me to address doesn’t come until the weekend before it goes live. I’ve had to trust that God will give direction if I just wait and open myself up to what He wants shared.

And surprisingly – or maybe not surprisingly – I’ve frequently discovered that Annette has had the same topic pressed upon her heart for the weekly feature she writes. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

I desire to listen and follow God’s direction on not only what to write, but also where to submit my work - whether it’s a publishing house or an agent. I want to know how much time and energy He wants me to put in to this part of my life, so that I’m careful to not neglect Him, my family, or friends.

But, how does God speak to us? How does He tell us these things?

Of all the ways, I believe He most frequently uses His word, wisdom already gained or given from others, and the small voice of the Holy Spirit inside us who speaks God’s will to our spirit. Our spirit is then able to convey to our mind and heart God’s will and the action to take. Then we feel that glorious inner peace of knowing we’re on the right path.

What have you experienced in your writing career after listening for God's voice?

Dawn