The Reason I Write
by Barbara Latta
(2 Timothy 2:15, NKJV).
At times, the whispers of doubt about why I write taunt my mind. Why write that story or article when someone else has already written about a particular subject? Why am I blogging? Is it helping anyone? Maybe I should just quit.
Of course, the Lord always has perfect timing. I received a blog comment from a friend who hadn’t communicated with me in a long time. Although she doesn’t often respond to my posts, she noted how my words had been exactly what she needed to hear. That one comment brought me out of my pity party. The reason I write stands before me in the blessing of a single person.
The diverse voices of Christian writers have one goal—to affect people and encourage them to have a relationship with Jesus. Whether through novels, short stories, devotions, Bible studies, or poetry, we want the words we put on paper to have an impact for the Lord’s kingdom.
Though written by 35-40 various authors over a span of centuries, the words of the Bible share a common theme. Those ancient scrolls preserved multifaceted aspects of inspiration which point seekers to the one who wants to save them.
The gospels were recorded by four men with contrasting personalities who spent the same amount of time with the Son of God. They saw the miracles and heard the teachings yet the books they wrote differ in the insight they received from the Holy Spirit. One reader may glean revelation from Matthew they don’t receive when reading Mark.
This evidence of the Lord’s plan for our individuality to influence the world encourages me to keep penning the words he puts on my heart. What one can’t touch, another writer can—even with the same message.
We all have a vital role in the writing community because readers bear a variety of needs and interests.
An audience waits to hear each of us. This is the reason I write.
Father, may the words I share as a writer be yours and not mine. May I correctly reflect your message with truth and grace. Amen.
I was touched by what you said about writing for the audience of one to bring encouragement in the Lord. I too have felt that way about my writing, that it’s not worthy of anyone’s interest. Yet, the Lord knows there is someone who is searching for direction and guidance that needs to read my comment or my poem. I’ll continue to write as long as the Lord gives me the inspiration and the joy that comes from praising Him in all I do and write. Thank you for your words. They inspired me and gave me the will to keep on writing.
I’m so glad these words encouraged you. The Lord used this message to help me when I was discouraged and felt like quitting. We never know how far our writing can go, especially with the technology we have today. Blessings and peace to you!