Writer, Are You Dressed for the Journey?

 

By Andrea Merrell

Writing for the Lord is a journey. Sometimes the path is smooth and straight. At other times it takes us uphill or winds through deep valleys. Yet He is always with us.

What we often fail to realize as children of God, called and equipped to spread the good news of the gospel, is that the Enemy will throw obstacles in our way to discourage us and keep us from accomplishing our goals. That’s why the Bible tells us to “put on all God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the Devil” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT).

The Word for You Today explains it like this: “Your clothes closet is where you find what you need to wear in the natural realm, and your prayer closet is where you find what you need to wear in the spiritual realm.”

Let’s look at each piece of armor and what it means for us as writers.

Truth

The belt of truth keeps us focused on what is right. We should always be ready to speak—and write—the truth in love without compromise.

Righteousness

The breastplate of righteousness protects our heart and soul from evil and deception. It keeps us from following the wrong path.

Peace

Our words should never cause strife, division, or arguments. We have a responsibility to be careful and intentional with what we write, especially on social media.

Faith

Faith is our shield, protecting us from the Enemy’s lies and fiery darts. We should never doubt ourselves or allow rejections to discourage or derail us. The God who called us to pen words that will glorify Him will open the right doors at the right time.

Salvation

We should proudly wear the helmet of salvation and keep our thoughts focused on the One whose name we represent.

God’s Word

The sword of the Spirit is the ultimate truth and our powerful weapon against the Enemy’s schemes to hold us back.

Prayer

This is the thread that binds all the pieces together. Let’s pray:

• Over every word we write.
• For opportunities to share what God gives us.
• That our words will reach those who need them.
• For our readers.
• For our fellow writers.
• That God will be pleased and glorified.

The Bible tells us to stand, firm and strong. In this dark world we live in, we are called to be salt and light. Our words can make all the difference in someone’s heart and life.

Be bold. Speak truth. And don’t be discouraged by the opinions of others, especially the media. Keep moving forward in faith, and be sure you’re dressed for the journey.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash and Anna Saveleva.