Reasons for Writing

Two weeks ago I wrote my first book.  

I agonized over the pictures. 

I agonized over the message.

I agonized over the presentation.

I agonized over the cover later.

I agonized over the results I wanted.

I put it in the mail.

I waited.

And waited.

And waited.

The waiting is over.

So is the agony.

It worked!

The comical book I wrote in protest of a parking ticket passed review.  I was escstatic about the results, and it wasn’t about the money. It was about the fact that something I wrote fulfilled a purpose.

As I continued to think about this today, rejoicing in my first publication, the Lord reminded me of a devotional given awhile back at the Northwest Christian Writers’ Association meeting.  The presenter reminded us all that if we used our writing gifts only for publication, for monetary gain or for public recognition we were writing for the wrong reasons.  She encouraged us to write for the right reason, because we were led by the Lord and were giving the Lord glory.  If He added the blessing of publication, money and recognition, then it was because you sought Him first.  She also reminded us to remember to use our writing to minister to others through letters, emails, cards, those simple things that can bring needed encouragement and hope to a hurting soul.

It reminded me that there are greater writing victories than getting out of a parking ticket.  I am thankful for this success, I have no regrets, but  my heart always longs for spiritual purpose and spiritual success. 

We write to bring the Lord glory,
to bring the Lord of glory to others,
and to let the Lord be glorified in our lives.

And, sometimes, we write to get out of a parking ticket.

Write on!