Writing is a profession, but being a Christian writer is a calling. And if you're called to be a Christian writer, you'll be plagued with self-doubt, family skepticism, and friends who can't decide whether to be ashamed or proud of you.
If you're called to be a Christian writer, you'll hear, "Oh, I've always wanted to be writer," over and over. You'll have distant relations and brief acquaintances coming out of the woodwork to have you "take a look at this and let me know what you think." You'll have well-meaning relatives volunteering you to write speeches and newsletters because, "Well, you're the writer" or "You don't have anything else to do."
If you're called to be a Christian writer and you find yourself in the enviable position of being able to write fulltime, the demands on your time will increase sevenfold. "Since you're not working, can you <insert their pet project here>?" But remember you ARE working. Your boss is the LORD; you are writing for Him. This is your ministry.
If you're called to be a Christian writer, you'll need a support group. Now in this case, it's not to cure you because that's an impossible task. Instead it's to have friends that speak the same language. Terms like "POV," "protag," "hero's journey" and "believable characters" won't mean a thing to your normal friends and family.
If you're called to be a Christian writer, you'll start thinking of your characters as real people. This is not necessarily a bad thing. However, one writer's spouse was concerned when he found her leaving notes for her characters on the kitchen table. After some discussion, he agreed not to worry unless the characters started writing notes back.
If you're called to be a Christian writer you'll need talent and tenacity. And in most cases, tenacity is more important. Stick with it! It was years before the dreams promised to Moses and Abraham became a reality. Who are we to ask for ours sooner? Although there are some “overnight sensations,” most writers spend at least six years learning their craft before they publish anything.
If you're called to be a Christian writer, it will happen. But, it is not being published. It is not making lots of money. It is not being recognized when you walk into a bookstore.
If you're called to be a Christian writer, it is the completion of your calling. You don't know need to know the “where,” the “why,” or the “how” of publication. Just obey the call.
