Write His Answer

The blank sheet of paper, blank screen, worse still blank mind . . .

I’ve been there, especially when facing a deadline. What about you? Have you been there, or are you there now?

Of course, the first thing we need to do is pray. But what about those times when God seems silent?

From personal experience, I can tell you again that I’ve been there. But be encouraged. God doesn’t leave us “high and dry.” (Yes, I know that’s a cliché.)

You’ve no doubt heard one of the versions of the story about the man who drowned. He asks God why He didn’t save him. “But,” God says, “I sent two boats and a helicopter but you never got in.”

The bottom line . . . I think God has a plan, a good plan, for those times when He allows us to feel stuck.

And so encourage one another and help one another . . .
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (TEV)

If you are not part of a writers’ critique group, I urge you to find one or start one. Click here for help for forming a group, the critique process, and goals for a Christian writers’ group.

Of course, a great place to find other writers who may already be part of a group you can join or who may be interested in joining with you to form a group is at a writers’ conference. Early Registration for the July 26-29 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference has been extended through June 30.

Beyond saving money by registering now, you’ll receive an additional free 15-minute appointment with the faculty member of your choice. For those who register for Thursday through Saturday, that’s five appointments! (Two day registrants get four appointments; one day registrants three appointments.) Not only is this a way to get your manuscript before an agent or publisher (it’s rare to be able to connect with them other than at a conference), it’s also a great way to get your questions answered by a seasoned author. (Click on “Appointments” in the top menu of the conference website for info on our appointment procedures, making the best choices, and how to prepare.)

And if you’re really stuck, consider one or more 30-minute paid critiques for only $30 each. Your manuscript will be forwarded to the faculty member of your choice in preparation for meeting with you at the conference. Click here for info on genres and critiquers available as well as length parameters for what you need to submit by July 8.

Our amazing Registrar and Appointments Coordinator, Barb Haley, says:

We have a fantastic list of faculty willing to do paid critiques. Let me encourage you to consider taking full advantage of this opportunity. I don’t think I’ve ever learned quite so much as I have from professional edits of my writing. 

We’re coming to the conference to learn more about the craft of writing. But the opportunity to have a trained pair of eyes look over our work, point out strengths, and offer personal ideas to improve our skills is invaluable. Many years I’ve done 3-4 paid critiques, and I know it is definitely some of the best money I have ever spent! 

Writer’s block or being stuck is part of the writer’s life, but God can use it for good. Will you let Him?

Some scholarship help as well as time payments are still available for the Philly conference. Trust Him to overcome any obstacles that may seem to stand in your way and register by June 30. You’ll be grateful you did!