Am I Not Sending You?

I came upon a remarkable Bible verse the other day as I read the disturbing story of fallen Israel in the book of Judges, chapter 6. “Then the Lord turned to [Gideon] and said, “Go with the strength you have… I am sending you!”

It was a Monday when I stumbled across this verse. I was tired, but I had much to do. Looming writing deadlines interfered with my novel edits. The thought hit me as it often does on dreary, overwhelming days: maybe I’m just not cut out to be a writer. Think how much simpler my life would be if I gave it up. I wouldn’t have to learn all these new aspects of social media, of content upgrades and search engine optimization and digital formatting. I might even make some money at a normal job.

But as I immersed myself in the Word, God’s Spirit spoke with gentle persistence: “Go with the strength you have.” My NIV translation continued, “Am I not sending you?” I knew the answer to the rhetorical question.

I am a writer. I write because God created in me a love of words, of communicating thoughts and feelings and events so others can experience them and benefit from them. How then can I turn my back on the mission He has given me?

The Bible story continues with Gideon arguing with the Lord, presenting all manner of excuses: I’m a nobody, my family is nothing, I don’t rate in the scheme of things. Yet God used him in miraculous ways to free his people from bondage. Not with the 32,000 men he started with but 300 bravehearts carrying torches and trumpets. And God, not Gideon and his few followers, defeated the enemy completely.

God’s asking us to do what we can; He will make it happen according to His will.

So I’m sending this blog out to those of you who are tired, discouraged, overwhelmed: remember Who it is who sends and empowers you. And to those of you who have confidence to burn and feel on top of your game: remember Who it is who sends and empowers you. It starts and ends with God, not with us.

Blessings on you all as you write!