Part 1
Authors convey messages through their writings. Some write fiction while others write nonfiction. Some pen romance, history, and thrillers while others type fairy tales, adventures, and mysteries. Whatever the genre and medium there’s always a message.
Christian authors, however, have an ulterior motive; they want to share Christ with the world. “My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God’s Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion” (1 John 5:13 MSG). If Christian authors remain alert and ready (Matthew 25:13) when the Holy Spirit moves, they will hear God’s message. If they receive His message and do not share it, in the words of my friend Betty Slade, “they’re being stingy with God’s Word.” Don’t let this happen to you.
Below are ten tips to help the Christian author stay alert and prepared for when the Holy Spirit moves so they can be faithful messengers of God.
- Cling to God
The bottom line is:
1. Be alert to God’s Word.
2. Avoid worldly influence.
3. Attach yourself to God. And
4. Cultivate a deep affection for him.
Clinging to God is not only essential in our daily lives but gives us the strategy we need to face our enemies, so we can write the truth – God’s truth.
- Pursue Peace
“A mind focused on the flesh is doomed to death, but a mind focused on the Spirit will find full life and complete peace” (Romans 8:6 VOICE). In today’s world of social media, it’s easy to be consumed with fear and dread as we witness heinous acts of crime. We must be disciplined to pursue peace and not allow fear to control our minds.
- Judge Not
We often have no idea what is really happening in the lives and hearts of others. Don’t be quick to judge. Instead, wait before God. Ask for His direction. And always treat others with kindness and respect even if they don’t deserve it.
- Forgive
Forgiveness brings a kind of peace that allows us to focus on God and helps us move forward in life. “Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, and sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32 TLB). Jesus said, “If you want to be forgiven, forgive” (Luke 6:37 VOICE). Forgiveness is a choice. One we must make for ourselves. Until we choose to forgive, we will remain in bondage to hatred and anger which will make writing and sharing God’s truth much harder.
- Be Generous
Generous behaviors are intended to enhance the well-being of others. However, the giver can benefit, which distinguishes generosity from ‘pure’ altruism. Jesus said, “Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity” (Luke 6: 38 MSG). It is in the very nature of human desire to keep for us everything we can, but God tells us to give it away and He will return to us with so much more. When we learn this truth and put it into practice, what glorious treasure awaits us!
Stay tuned for the last 5 tips.
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