Follow Through

Have you ever noticed that several days after a writing conference like ACFW, maybe even a week after, everyone's got that glow about them? They're excited about the new friendships, networking opportunities, lessons learned, and maybe even manuscript requests.

Ever noticed that happens a week or two after that?

Everyone is sick, exhausted, and worn-out.

I actually managed to stay healthy after this year's ACFW conference, somewhat of an amazing feat considering my social stamina usually outlasts my germ tolerance. :) But thanks to my students, here I am a couple weeks later, sitting on the sofa, typing this and thinking about taking my third nap of the day. Stupid germs!

It's oh-so-easy to allow ourselves to get weary when we come off of a mountaintop experience. Suddenly reality hits again, and we begin panicking. Is our manuscript really strong enough to send? Should we even bother connecting with that editor or agent who asked to see our work? Do we really have what it takes to be published?

In these moments, it's so very important we allow positive affirmation of God's calling and purpose to enter our hearts and lives. Remember what your critique partner has said about your story. Remember that feedback you got from a paid critiquer, the verse God brought to your mind? Think on these things.

God has given us this whole room full of gifts. We're talking, way bigger than Christmas morning. We wake up and get excited when we see them, but how often do we then walk out the door without ever having used these gifts He has given us? We keep saying, "God, give us more," when He's saying, "It's time to start using what you already have."

I hope you're encouraged today to see beyond the here and now into the deeper promises God has spoken over your life. When He purposes something in us, He does not forget, and He does not give up. Accept that He has a plan for the stories He has put in your heart, and He's placed them there for a reason. Do not be afraid. You never go alone.

How do you pick yourself back up on those days you'd rather stay in your pajamas and watch a Gilmore Girls marathon?