Wilmington Word Weavers: A New Year's Resolution to Dissuade

My special china graced the table. Candles lit. Food prepared. I knew they would arrive soon. I could feel their darkness. Though I didn’t like these beguiling enemies, I had invited them for a visit.

A harsh knock at the door warned me of their presence, and I welcomed them in.

As soon as they sat down Discouragement began the conversation.

“You’ve been doing this for years,” she hissed. “You’ve touched a few lives, but where’s the growth to prove your worth, your talent . . . your calling? Your friend’s blog has received a million views; you’ve not gleaned half that.”

With each comparing sentence I slumped farther into my chair.

I could barely breathe.

The other guest, Fear, chimed in, “You are nobody,” he softly echoed. His melancholy voice streamed from pale lips, “Who would want to read your words? Who are you to write Bible studies and books? What audacity!”

His words invited a third guest named Self-Pity. She let herself in and silently pulled up her chair to the table. She did not need to speak.

I placed food on my guests’ plates as I agreed with their slander.

“I know,” I admitted. “I am not good enough.”

After a few hours, satisfied and victorious, Discouragement and Fear sauntered to the door, but Self-Pity hung around. Though silent, her presence further darkened my heart. I didn’t want her there, but I didn’t know how to make her leave.

I heard myself pray, “Help me, Lord.”

Just as quickly as my enemies exited, a gentle, warm, new voice entered the room and whispered into my soul. I couldn’t see His presence, but I knew He was there.

“I am faithful,” He whispered.

His was a voice of hope, encouragement, and promise. His always brought life and light.

“I’ve given you an assignment, my child. Leave the numbers and success to me. Don’t you know my economy is different? I’ve a plan for you. Trust me. Do what I lead you to do.”

The residual darkness from Discouragement, Fear, and Self-Pity began to dissolve as I chose to believe the Holy Spirit. I slowly lifted my hands to the Voice of Promise. I rebuked the voices I’d previously entertained and told them they were no longer welcome.

There would be no special dinner for them tomorrow night. My table would be set only for Jesus. I would prepare His dinner one faithful bog post, one article, or one chapter at a time.

Do you entertain Discouragement, Fear, or Self-Pity as I do? As the New Year approaches, these three resolutions can dispel their power and strengthen our resolve to follow the call to write:

· Don’t entertain negative comparisons. Rebuke those thoughts. Remember God’s economy is different than ours.

· Spend daily time with Jesus, listening to His direction.

· Spend time worshiping the One for whom you write.

What are other ways you can disarm Discouragement, Fear, and Self-Pity?

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)