Thursdays – Dawn’s Devotions for Writers“In his heart a man plans his course,
but the Lord determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9 NIV)
I am. It’s good to make plans. Without some kind of plan, not much would get done.
As a writer, I’m a plotter. I need to know how my story will begin, how it will end, and how I’ll get from one point to another. When I go to a writers conference, I prepare my pitch and one sheet, and I decide in advance what editors or agents I want to meet.
When I started my freelance editing business I didn’t just quit my day job and jump in. I spent months networking and asking questions. I took online classes to learn more about both editing and business. My husband and I took our finances into consideration; we thought through the feasibility of me working from home.
Having a plan makes me feel comfortable. I know—or think I know—what to expect. I hold onto the illusion that I have control over what happens.
The reality is that God is in control. I can plan a desired course, but the Lord will still determine my steps.
In my heart I wanted to be home doing what I loved. My husband and I wanted more balance in our lives, which included more time for each other. Leaving the day job was a way for that to happen. My husband and I originally planned for me to leave the day job at the end of this month. That was our plan. Last March, some things fell into place, we felt led to move on our decision sooner, and my husband told me to give my notice. So, instead of leaving the end of October, I left the day job the beginning of April.
I know what I want to accomplish in my heart for my business, but it’s not only my business—it’s the Lord’s. He’ll continue to bring the right clients for me at the right time.
My heart has desired to see my novels published and I work hard toward that goal. It’s up to Him how and when. It could be next year, or it could be years from now.
I am a planner. I do have dreams. But, I’m also sure relieved that God is leading the way!
Without Him determining my steps, I’d stand a good chance of tripping in a pothole, or worse yet—falling into a sinkhole. ;-D
Dawn
