Encouragement for Writers by June Foster

Whether we're beginning writers or multi-published, we all get discouraged. Sometimes it's tempting to say, "I quit." But, I hope this devotional offers a bit of insight and hope.

When I read passages from the Bible, I can't help but relate them to the task of writing. This morning Psalm 37: 4 jumped out at me.

Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.

So as Christians and writers, we delight ourselves in the Lord daily. How can editing tough passages and receiving rejections from editors and agents be delightful?

First, I believe we should firmly understand our identity—who we are. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation." 2Corinthians 5: 17. We are different creatures now with new purposes and motives. We don't write for our own glory but for His.

Next, we trust in God's leadership. He has the ability to accomplish his work in us. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3: 5. Even if things aren't going like we think they should, trust that God is in control. Since I received another rejection letter today, I can speak with certainty and first hand experience.

So, now that means God will give me the desire of my heart. Right? Yes, definitely. Whether it's publication of a novel or another use of our writing talents, God will accomplish His purpose for us and we can delight in that. Then someday, we'll hear those words: "Well done my good and faithful servant."

"Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4

Dear Lord, help me to trust in Your perfect plan for me through my writing. You instilled the desire within my heart so I can be confident You have a purpose for my work. Amen.

How can editing tough passages and receiving rejections from editors and agents be delightful? via @vjifoster #SeriouslyWrite #devotion #amwriting

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Frances Matthew Hall is obedient to family tradition: all firstborn sons will serve as a priest. Now Matt officiates at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas. But when on Easter Sunday, he notices a beautiful young woman who takes his breath away, he must fight against his attraction to her or leave the priesthood and alienate his entire family.

Mary Louise Graham is a middle school teacher and devout catholic. Yet no amount of service to the community can ease the heavy load of guilt she carries. God can never forgive her unspeakable mistake. But when Father Matt tells her about a forgiving God through His son Jesus Christ, she's free. Only thing, the Godly priest now means more to her than he should.

Can two people find their way to each other amidst insurmountable obstacles? 

Dreams Deferred is inspired by the author's great grandfather and great grandmother's story.

June Foster is an award-winning author who began her writing career in an RV roaming around the USA with her husband, Joe. She brags about visiting a location before it becomes the setting in her next contemporary romance or romantic suspense. June's characters find themselves in precarious circumstances where only God can offer redemption and ultimately freedom. To date June has seen publication of 19 novels and 1 devotional. Find June at junefoster.com.