Closed Doors and the Writer’s Call
by Tina Yeager
(Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV).
The last rays of summer light hinted at the lateness of the hour. Hunger’s rising growl confirmed our situation. We entered the first take-out spot on the strip, only to find filth and soapless restrooms. Not our place. The second establishment had no room. Rain pelted us as we continued our search for a table along the sidewalk. At the third door, we heard the same announcement. The fourth announced imminent closure. On our way back to the car, I glanced around the last corner and noticed a single, frosted-glass entrance. My husband asked what I might be doing as I reached out to tug at that final opportunity. The maître-de informed us we had arrived just in time for an open table. The finest gourmet meal of our trip soon lay before us in an exclusive setting. And we had almost missed it.
As writers, we face an overwhelming number of closed doors. Not the right time. Or the wrong spot. Rejection upon rejection, the slam of each lost opportunity turns our souls out in a hungrier and more despondent trudge. How often do we wonder if we’ll ever enjoy a seat at the publishing table? The temptation to leave writing behind and give up grows stronger with every pelt of circumstantial rain.
Yet, the Lord has called us as bearers of words. He made reservations for us at an exclusive place. He created this calling, this hunger in our souls. Our Creator plans to bless us with a certain, glorious experience in which we will find fulfillment. If we give up, we risk missing out on one of the finest opportunities of our journey with him.
As the rain and our rising hunger deplete our perseverance, we must remind ourselves to trust the Lord to nourish and fulfill us.
Lord, guide me on this path of multiple door closures toward the perfect spot you’ve reserved for my message. Strengthen my weary steps and sustain me through discouraging circumstances. Remind me to look for your opportunities, which await around a corner where I cannot yet see them. Amen.
Award-winning author, speaker, licensed counselor, and life coach, Tina encourages audiences to fulfill their potential. She offers writing workshops through Serious Writer Academy, hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast, and is a mentor with Word Weavers International. Beautiful Warrior, her book on women’s esteem is available through New Hope Publishers. To connect with her, visit tinayeager.com.
Wonderful message, Tina. Thank you!
Thank you for your wonderful words of encouragement.
Thank you Tina, for this timely encouragement!