Warfare of Writing
by Tina Yeager
I woke this morning from a dream about a leader who left her writing and well-televised speaking ministry after losing a child. I haven’t spoken with her for years, but had grieved for her loss and the apparently mortal wounds to her ministry.
She didn’t recognize me in the dream. With a cosmopolitan style, the once-gracious lady brushed me off and hustled about her new business ventures.
In this morning’s devotional time, I laid out my concerns. I’ve prayed daily for authors and leaders suffering unthinkable attacks—on their health, ministries, and even their children. The higher they’ve climbed, the harder the blows seem to come.
My path rises up a treacherous mountain, too. After years of effort, my first non-fiction book debuts soon. My valley-level misconception that publication lifts a writer to the mountaintop has vanished like a mirage. The next leg of my path rises far steeper than the previous climb. I cannot see the pinnacle from here, but I smell the smoke of enemy campfires and hear threatening drumbeats.
Jesus promised his disciples, “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). He didn’t suggest we might run across a rough patch if not careful. The Lord’s leaders and writers will face attack. We’re rallying troops in a very real war. According to the word, we can expect trials. Will we be able to continue our purpose or even recognize ourselves after the battle?
The Spirit encouraged me today with the promise of God’s provision “when I go through the darkest valley… you are with me” (Psalm 23:4, HCSB). I need not—and better not—head into the enemy’s minefields alone. The Lord is my strength (Psalm 28:8), protection (Psalm 27), and power (Exodus 14:14) in this war. I only have to choose to stand with him and stay the course he has set.
Jesus, I pray for your protection against the enemy. When the warfare does strike, equip me with courage and integrity to fight without giving up. Amen.
Award-winning author, speaker, and licensed therapist, Tina offers messages of encouragement. Beautiful Warrior, releasing July 2019 (pre-orders available now), champions women’s significance. She enjoys writing nonfiction and speculative fiction while coaching online clients. Tina mentors four chapters in four states with Word Weavers International. Come visit her for a virtual cup of java at tinayeager.com.
I’m right there with you in the battle Tina. Not as close to publication, but tempted to throw in the towel. There’s an all-front attack on my family and I feel it’s due to my work in a Christian pregnancy center as well as my desire to share the truth of the gospel in fiction and on my blog. I will stay the course with you though, laying aside sin, running the race with endurance, focusing on Jesus, and encouraged by the cloud of witnesses which surrounds me- thanks for being one of them. (Hebrews 12) Nicole
What a great message! Thank you.