A Writer's Mission
- KDL
- Jan 18
- 4 min read
a mission statement for writers like me
It's been a bit of a struggle to write recently. I have a couple of posts in progress but not ready to publish yet. My book project is in a reworking phase, which doesn't feel like writing to me, even though it is. In seasons like this it is easy to get off track by listening to every doubt and lie that enters my mind. I wanted a tool to help me combat the lies. This writing mission statement, inspired by this blog post and the classic writing craft book "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott, is the result. I know it will not resonate with every writer, but for writers like me I hope it is encouraging.
Who am I? I am a writer. I am called to write. I am committed to writing. I have permission to write. To write is to remember or witness Truth and to use words to record it in creative ways so that others can also experience it. The enemy will say that I am nobody, but the Father says I am His beloved child. “But to all who received Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12, RSV)
Who do I write with? I write in community with other writers, and through the inspiration of my Father. Other writers provide encouragement, advice, and accountability. Our various skills and experiences make a beautiful tapestry that supports us in the writing journey. God steers me with memories, creative ideas, and His word as I submit my writing to Him. The enemy will say that I am alone, but even if every other person abandons me, my Father will not forsake me. “It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 31:8, ESV)
Who do I write for? I write for myself, and for other people. Writing helps me learn and remember the Truth that I have been given. If sharing my words with others encourages them to receive that Truth, then God be praised. Ultimately, though, I write for my Father even if no other person cares. God has asked me to write and I do so for His pleasure. The enemy will say that my words don’t matter, but there is a real reason I am compelled to write. “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17, ESV)
What do I write? I write about things I know well, and things that I am learning. I am a lifelong learner, and I am a teacher. My writing is an extension of both of these. When I learn something, or when I am reminded of something that I have already learned, I put it in writing to share with others. This also opens the door to continue learning from others – fellow writers, and readers. “Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths.” (Psalm 25:4, ESV)
When do I write? I write whenever I can. Conventional wisdom says writers should write every day. In the sense that I am always observing, puzzling over, and editing stories in my mind, this is true. However, the actual work of putting ‘words on paper’ fits around other commitments, both personal and professional. The enemy will tell me that my writing time is not enough, but the Father asks me to bring the little I have to Him and let Him multiply it. “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (II Corinthians 9:10, ESV)
Where do I write? I write wherever I can. Conventional wisdom says writers should have a specific place to write. Due to my other commitments, I have found it useful to be flexible. I have written in waiting rooms, parking lots, coffee shops, gymnasium bleachers, and train seats in addition to my trusty desk. No matter where I put ‘words on paper’ you’ll be able to find the words I’m ready to share here at yourcreativeworship.com. The enemy will tell me that I can’t do this, but the Father says He will meet me wherever I am. “If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me and Your right hand shall hold me.” (Psalm 139:9-10, ESV)
Why do I write? I write because when I don’t I feel stifled, bottled up, silenced, and invisible. Sometimes I write just to get my thoughts and feelings on paper. Sometimes I write because I hope expressing my own thoughts and feelings will help someone else. The enemy tells me that my expressions are too much, that others won’t understand and will reject both me and my words. The Father says that I am safe with Him. “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah” (Psalm 62:8, ESV)
Some songs that have been encouraging in this season:
The Truth by Megan Woods
Big God by Terrian
Brighter Days by Blessing Offor
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