Writer Fellowship Transcends Words by Tina Yeager

Writer Fellowship Transcends Words

by Tina Yeager

“I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me”

(John 17:22-23, NIV).

Eighteen years ago, an author met me at ground zero of a soul-shaking experience—my first writing conference. I struggled to stand in the aftershocks of expert criticism, agent rejection, and intensifying self-doubt. He stepped into the disaster zone and offered me an invitation. His critique group required a ninety-mile commute, but I accepted the opportunity as a lifeline.

I faced two certainties: my call to write and the inability to fulfill it on my own. Time and convenience proved minor sacrifices compared to the hope of serving God’s will as a writer. I prayed my newfound circle might improve my words. The fellowship of writers blessed me with far more than I could have imagined.

We gathered to hone our craft. The fellowship pooled its varied levels of skill to polish all the words shared. Talents brightened. Platforms grew. Our collective support advanced the potential of each member’s work. Yet publishing achievements pale in light of the unexpected blessings we shared.

Awards and advances do not define all the seasons of our wordsmith’s path. On this tumultuous writer’s journey, success proves an elusive and fleeting goal. We each struggle with discouragement in this calling while also battling personal crises. In the moments of greatest hardship, our writing family drew close so that no one need suffer alone. Prayers, Christian kinship, and encouragement rose over time as far more valuable blessings than the word-sharpening for which we had gathered.

I cherish the unity of my writing brothers and sisters. For the excellence we make possible. But even more so, for the spiritual kinship and love of Jesus knitting us together. I’m so grateful for this glorious dwelling place in Christ’s heart with his messengers.

Lord, thank you for inspiring that invitation to join Word Weavers so many years ago. I’m so grateful for my family of writers and the support you circulate among us in prayer. Please guide us all to remain in unity with Christ and one another as we continue to serve your will. Amen.

Award-winning author, speaker, and life coach, Tina hosts the Flourish-Meant podcast a YouTube channel, and the Flourish Today radio show. She serves as membership director for Christian Women in Media Association, on the marketing team for STRUCK the Series Streaming TV show, and as Director of Traditional Groups with Word Weavers International. Look for her books, Beautiful Warrior (Iron Stream Media) and Upcycled: Crafted for a Purpose (Bold Vision Books). To connect with her, visit tinayeager.com.

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