The Call to Write
by Crystal Storms
“Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.”
When God gave me a book idea, I was elated and intimidated. I never planned to be a writer. I daydreamed as a child about writing books but couldn’t imagine it actually happening. I avoided writing research papers in high school and college. How could I write a whole book?
Thankfully, God showed me two verses (Habakkuk 3:2-3) which supported my call to write. Within those verses were three distinct guidelines I could follow as I pursued writing.
1) Write down the revelation. Capture ideas. When inspired with a story concept, write it down. If a verse speaks to your heart, write it down. As funny or interesting illustrations occur to you, write them down.
2) Make it plain on tablets. Work on the craft of writing. Clarity trumps creativity. Study the rules of grammar. Learn how to keep readers turning the pages.
“So that a herald may run with it” (Habakkuk 2:2). So an editor will accept it and an agent will represent it. Others play a part in reaching audiences with my message. But I do need to know publisher guidelines and where books fit on bookstore shelves.
3) Wait for it. Wait for an acceptance or manuscript approval. This doesn’t mean stop creating. In the waiting, continue to write down revelations. Sharpen writing skills. And trust in the One who gave the call.
So the next time you sit down to write the words God has placed in your heart, remember it’s as simple as one, two, three. Write it down, make it plain, and wait for God to do what only He can do. Holding onto the promise “it will certainly come and will not delay.”
Lord, thank You for the invitation to create with You as I write for You. Help me to trust in Your timing, as I continue to write and grow in my craft. Amen.
This is so exciting Crystal. May God bless your continued writing at a larger level!