Mr. Koop says there are some questions we need to ask ourselves, as writers – “Do they (our words) encourage better attitudes? Do they inspire better activity? Do they edify? Do they entertain? Do they strengthen the right muscles? Do they inform truthfully and graciously? Do they honour Jesus Christ and the Church He loves? Those kinds of questions matter …”
As I read his column, it gave me pause. Can I put a check mark beside each of those questions when I consider my work? I would hope so. I think Mr. Koop has encapsulated what it means to be a writer who is Christian, both in terms of motivation and practise.
It is a high calling, one not to be taken lightly, one not to be used to grow our own egos but to act as the conduit for God’s purposes. He has purposes for our words – purposes that involve people we may never meet - a young woman who needs emotional healing, a young man who needs to deal with his anger, an elderly woman who needs to forgive, an elderly man who just needs a good laugh. Our words, used to God’s purposes, can affect change in the lives of our readers. All we have to do is choose them wisely, put them together and then get out of the way.
All we have to do is respect our readers enough to work hard at finding the right words, praying they will understand and act upon the words we write, and honour God enough to acknowledge His sovereignty as He does with them what he will.
For “of this gospel I was appointed a herald” (2 Timothy 1:11)
Marcia Lee Laycock’s inspirational writing has won awards in both Canada and the U.S. Her devotionals are distributed to thousands and her novel, One Smooth Stone, won the Best New Canadian Christian Author Award in 2006. Marcia is also a sought-after speaker for women’s events. Visit her at www.vinemarc.com
Thank you Marcia. This is beautiful, and very thought provoking. What an immense responsibility the Lord has given us.
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