Word of Encouragement While success has a specific definition according to the dictionary, in everyday life, the definition varies based on an individual’s point of view. After finding my stride as a writer and speaker, book sales, likes & shares, and brand popularity were my measures of success. I spent so much time posting and scrolling through social media cross comparing my brand with others I didn’t have time for much else. Sadly, these measures caused me to partake in a constant cycle of overthinking, self-sabotage, and feeling inadequate. Earlier this year, Yahweh spoke to my heart and had me assess my definition of success. He reminded me of a time when I was leading a women’s bible study group at one of my old jobs. The group was held weekly during lunch. In the beginning, attendance was high, but as the weeks went on and workloads changed, attendance fluctuated. There were days when only one person showed up. I remembered feeling discouraged and unsuccessful, and for a moment wanted to quit, but then Yahweh sent me a great piece of wisdom through a friend. They told me to show up and teach every class as if I were doing it unto Yahweh. It didn’t matter how many people were in the room. Whoever showed up was who the message would be for, even if the person was me. It wasn’t about the number of people in the room. It was about whether or not I had done what Yahweh told me to do and if at least one person got what they needed at that moment. I have come to understand that my success is based on my obedience to Yahweh’s will and path for my life. If I stick to His plan and directions, I will be aligned to help and pour into those who need the wisdom and expertise I am purposed to share. It is not about the numbers but the fulfilled assignment. So tell me, what’s your measure of success? I hope today’s word has encouraged you. Now go write something great!
Word of Encouragement For years I knew God had called me to write a book, but I kept putting it off. My first response was, “Well, I don’t even know what to write about.” Then it turned into, “I know I have a book to write, but I don’t have time between work and family. I just need to be able to quit my job and sustain myself as a full-time writer. Then I can write the book.” Yeap, that’s what I said. And let’s not forget the classic excuse, “I mean, I don’t even know how to write a book or even get started.” The bottom line was I was looking for the perfect set of circumstances to make me feel better about the uncomfortable thing God told me to do. Then, one day as I moved about my day, I heard Yahweh say, “I’m not looking for your perfection. I just want your obedience.” Wowzers! So, what would be my excuse now? When God calls us to do something that makes us uncomfortable or that we feel unworthy or unqualified for, we tend to put it off and find every reason possible not to do what God said. But today, no more excuses! Who cares if you’ve never written a book before? So what if this is not your usual medium for writing. Noah had never seen rain or built a humongous boat before God’s prompting, but he was obedient and started anyway. God had already lined up the provisions for what Noah needed, and he guided Noah throughout the entire process. And, he’ll do the same for you. I don’t know what’s been your reason or excuse for not writing the book as God has directed. If God said now is the time to write the book, then know he already knows your skillset and what you need, and he will provide. But first, you have to be obedient and start the process. People are waiting and need your story and testimony for where they are in life. God is not asking you to be perfect at it. He simply wants you to be obedient and get started. How much longer will you make him wait? I hope today’s word has encouraged you. Now, go write something great!
Top Tip of the Week This week’s top tip is, “Write the first word and the rest will follow.” It’s that simple watch the video to hear how I apply that to my writing life, then go write something great! Until next time, be safe & be well!
Welcome I am so excited to welcome you to The Writer’s Utopia. We’ve taken our online series, Penned The Writer’s Utopia, and expanded it to include everyday encouragement for faith-based writers, new and old, looking to pour out their stories and testimonies. For many, the thought of writing a book for the first time, let alone telling your story, can seem like an impossible feat. You may find yourself like Gideon, asking Yahweh to confirm multiple times that you heard him correctly. But have no fear. Know that if Yahweh said to write the book, he will provide you with everything you need. Maybe he’s telling you to start a blog and share your story. Whatever it is, know that he will provide all of the necessary resources needed to complete the task. The Writer’s Utopia is here as one of those resources. Here you will find tips for writing and encouragement for your soul during this process. So, don’t delay. Be sure to follow and subscribe, so you don’t miss a beat. Welcome to the Writer’s Utopia. Let the writing journey begin. T Lynn Tate
