Thursdays - Devotions for Writers“ . . . for I have learned to be content
whatever the circumstances.” (Philippians 4:11 NIV)
Are you ever impatient with the status of your writing career?
Does it feel like other writers are getting all the big breaks while your work – which has potential to save the world - is being ignored?
Guess what? You’re not alone. It’s human to want what we don’t have.
This is what I’ve experienced, observed, and learned from fellow writers . . .
When the journey begins, it’s exciting to studying craft and glimpse the publishing world. Our hunger grows after being accepted for small publications, but we also realize how much we don’t know and how much there is to learn.
This is followed by publication of our work in a favorite magazine or receiving a large book contract - which is accompanied by worry that sequential manuscripts will be rejected. Or that our career will be over if the book fails to bring in numbers. The reality that we really do have to be involved with marketing, and how much time and energy it takes is overwhelming. Deadlines loom over our heads. Having time to kick back and relax is a memory. We look back on the good old days when we could just write because we enjoyed putting our thoughts down on paper.
Writers who must juggle demanding day jobs with their writing career envy those who are able to stay home. Writers who fight to remain patient while small children tug on them for attention envy those able to work uninterrupted.
The opportunities for discontent go on . . . and on . . . and on. But we can choose to be content where we are, and in what we have.
We’re blessed to have found our passion. Our calling. So many people search for years. They don’t have a clue as to what they’re supposed to do with their life. They just know that they feel a void.
I admit to experiencing discontent some days. I want to be farther up the road. But I’m also grateful for what God has given me through writing - the wonderful friends I’ve made, the interesting people I’ve met, and the avenues He’s provided to grow spiritually.
God desires us to be content in all circumstances. He also wants us to trust that He has a plan for our writing career. As difficult as it may be to work hard and wait, when the right time comes, doors will open. Try to savor your personal journey. Each stop along the way will include both disappointments – and joys.
Where are you on the “contentment scale” today?
Dawn
