Thursdays - Dawn's Devotions for Writers“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 NIV)
How are you doing this week? Are you making it through with a smile on your face? Or are you feeling a bit bogged down?
You may have just returned from the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) conference a few days ago and are still trying to get your bearings after a wonderful, but crazy four or five days. There’s unpacking, laundry, mail to go through, (not to mention all the e-mail accumulated in your box while you were absent) and the kids and/or spouse may be tugging on you for attention. Let’s not forget how tired you may feel after all the adrenaline rushes and nights with little sleep that conferences provide. Add in the pull to get requested submissions sent off to editors and agents.
Or you may be trying to balance the day job, the kid’s extra-curricular activities, housework, volunteer responsibilities, and—oh, yes, you can’t ignore the characters in your manuscript screaming at you to move them along in their story.
I didn't attend the ACFW conference this year. Instead, I flew to another state to attend my niece’s wedding. Family traveled to the Midwest from both coasts. The event was amazing and she was a stunning bride. But it was definitely a whirlwind weekend. We arrived home happy and blessed by the trip, but also exhausted. I began tackling all that needed to be accomplished this week when all I really wanted to do was curl up in bed with a good book and not talk to anyone for several days. Not a chance.
Friends, who are also writers, are going through some major challenges concerning health issues, finances, and various struggles with family members. Those things can wear a person out.
Sometimes writing can be tiring because it is “work.” But because we love it—because it’s our passion—it can also be invigorating. Energizing. It’s all the other stuff that we feel we need to deal with before or after we write that drains us.
What do you do when you’re stressed? Tired? Fighting for time?
I reach for another cup of strong coffee. Sugar in any form. A glass of wine.
I sometimes forget that what I could be doing—should be doing—is going to the Lord for my strength.
Why don’t I go directly to Him??? Is it easier to grab chocolate than to sit for a moment and ask my Lord for the strength—the energy—I need? I don’t know about you, but I’d like to run and not grow weary . . . And soar on wings like eagles? That sounds pretty good!
Of course God isn’t hanging around waiting for us to request an energy boost. But I believe He does care about our well-being. That includes trying to meet our responsibilities and desires regarding our families and jobs—while still fulfilling the passion and calling He’s instilled within our hearts.
Next time you feel burdened by all that needs to be done, ask God to renew your strength.
And have a great week!
Dawn
