© 2017 Jeris Hamm

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you by the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self discipline. —2 Timothy 1:6 (NIV)

Have you ever thought of your desire to write as a gift from God? Our writing talents are glowing embers that can be fanned into a flame that enlightens the world, revealing God’s truth. Here are four ways to spark your creative fire.

Igniting

If you are just beginning your writing journey, find teachers. Be humble, sharpen your skills, and learn the etiquette of the publishing industry. Attend writing conferences, read recommended books, and listen to the advice of other writers who are further down the road.

Refining

Focus on the type of writing God is leading you to explore. Look for specific learning opportunities. I began writing for children and found a conference that zeroed in on that genre. I also met other writers on the same journey. Books, websites, blogs, and a host of other internet resources are available to help you find your niche.

Writing well requires learning craft. It involves an investment of time and money to explore opportunities. I recently signed up for an online course that teaches writing specifically for children and gives graduate credit. Although I have written for this age group for a while, I am learning on a new, challenging level.

Stoking the Fire

As Christians, we must stoke the fire of God’s enablement. Our talents should compel us to action. As we take every step on our writing journey, the flame of our gift burns brighter. We stoke the embers by devoting time for reading Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with mentors who cross our paths. Pay attention to divine appointments that can be the “burning bush” of God’s guidance.

Hearts Aflame

Has God filled your heart with his Word? Are you about to burst with a revelation God has given? Then you may be like the prophet Jeremiah who wrote:

But His word was in my heart like a burning fire
Shut up in my bones
I was weary of holding it back
And I could not.
—Jeremiah 20:9 (NKJV)

Let us not quench the fire of God in our hearts. May it burn brightly as we pen the words that light the way for those who are seeking Him.
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Jeris Hamm lives near Nashville, TN, and has completed a children’s fantasy novel, The Secret of the Seven Rubies. She is an award-winning blogger and has published articles, short stories, and poetry for several magazines. She loves family, hallelujahs, and Wyoming summers. Visit Jeris at her Southern Grace blog.