I heard that question, most often with a negative connotation, several times during my childhood. OK, many times. My mother used to say it when I’d overstepped my boundaries. I learned an important lesson. Soap does not taste good.
These days, I still contemplate this question from time to time. Who do I think I am? When another book releases, I’m worrying about how it will be received and whether I’ve overstepped my boundaries this time. Do I really know what I’m doing? Will my readers discover I know nothing and wonder why I think I can call myself a writer?
Who do I think I am? In my own opinion, I daily fall short in so many ways. But during those times, I’m reminded of 2 Corinthians 10:12-18. Verse twelve says, “We’re not, understand, putting ourselves in a league with those who boast that they’re our superiors. We wouldn’t dare do that. But in all this comparing and grading and competing, they quite miss the point.” [The Message Bible]
This verse alone is powerful, but the next few verses really drive the point home. I believe all writers (Christian writers in particular) should study this passage. “We’re not barging in on the rightful work of others, interfering with their ministries, demanding a place in the sun with them. What we’re hoping for is that as your lives grow in faith, you’ll play a part within our expanding work.” [10:15-16]
In short, we shouldn’t compare ourselves to others, or even ourselves, for that matter. What we do, what we accomplish, should be for God’s glory. If it’s not, it’s empty and vain. That doesn’t mean we can never be commended and praised for our accomplishments, it just means we should take it as praise to the Almighty, Who has given us this wonderful gift.
“If you want to claim credit, claim it for God.” – [10:17].
So, who do I think I am? I believe I am an ambassador, delivering the message God has placed on my heart. I hope the work that I do (what I write to share with others) brings glory to Him. I hope that I can continue to grow and learn and work, as He gives me strength.
Who do you think you are?
What we do, what we accomplish, should be for God’s glory. via @batowens #SeriouslyWrite #Faith #amwriting
~~~~~~
Betty Thomason Owens considers herself a
word-weaver, writing stories that touch the heart. Besides her work on the KCWC
planning committee, she also leads the Louisville Area ACFW group and is a
co-founder of the multi-author Inspired Prompt blog. Married forty-four years,
she’s a mother of three, and a grandmother of eight. A part-time bookkeeper at
her day-job, she writes for Write Integrity
Press, and has seven novels in publication. You can learn more about her at BettyThomasonOwens.com. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.
She's waited too long. When Tom proposed last year, Annabelle wasn't ready to open
her heart
Folks in town are keeping a close
eye on their pharmacist, hoping to be the first to hear the good news. He’s
been courting the widow Cross for nigh on two years now. Annabelle Cross better
wake up and put her dancing shoes on. Mr. Tom is prime real estate.
Drift back into the simple, country
life of Tennessee in 1957 with this sequel to award-winning ANNABELLE'S RUTH.
Annabelle’s Joy – Kinsman Redeemer,
Book 3
Genre: historical romance
Author: Betty Thomason Owens
Release Date: August 7, 2019
