Jars of Words

Personally, I’m tired, over-worked, and stressed because of school. I don’t feel like God is near. When we don’t feel His love, it’s like He’s abandoned us. But that isn’t true. He loves us and promised to always be with us regardless of how we feel about Him. While it sucks when we can’t feel Him, it won’t last forever. To stay close to God when you don’t feel Him, try this: 1. Search comforting Bible verses on Pinterest or Google. I like Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 6:25-34, and Romans 8:37. These verses break my heart in the most unexpected ways, letting Jesus in. 2. Drop the rituals. If praying isn’t working, go out in nature or listen to melancholy music and cry. Crying is a catharsis that can bring us closer to Him. Take some quiet time and don’t feel guilty about relaxing. Spend time with your family. Being with others helps us get out of ourselves and closer to God. Remember: you’re only human. 3. Find Youtube videos on feeling far from God or other spiritual subjects clo...

As a teen writer, I understand it’s nearly impossible to know what God wants for you at this point in your life. I thought I knew since age eleven I would be an author. Now, at sixteen, I also feel God pushing me to work for a company that helps children in third world countries. If you are going through a similar debacle and aren’t sure what God is calling you to, ask yourself these questions: Do I feel a deep desire to write? If God has put it on your heart to write, you’ll feel it. God wouldn’t call you to something you don’t like. He wants us to serve Him, and in doing so be fulfilled. What do others say about my work? What others say doesn’t define your ability, but if others praise you or you’ve won awards for your writings, it means God’s given you a gift. God wants us to use our gifts. Even if no one praises your work, you can still be a gifted writer. Has God spoken to me through Scripture? Have you been struck by a parable or verse that confirms your passion for writi...

Before writing, it’s a good idea to pray. God wants to use our writing for good and He will - as soon as we let Him in. I welcome Him before each writing session with this prayer: Lord, let me please, honor, and glorify You through this writing session. Let me comfort others by displaying Your tender compassion for them on the page. Let my characters be realistic and my descriptions be accurate. Let my novel twist and turn in unexpected yet satisfying directions. Keep me focused and inspire me. Amen. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pray for your other writerly needs as well. These are my favorite prayers: My Career Path. Abba, thank You for my gift of writing. Let me know if writing is my future career because I am deeply passionate about it. If it isn’t, lead me along the right career path because Your ways are good. Focus. Before I begin this writing session, help me keep my focus on You. Transform my story to suit Your needs and the needs of Your kingdom. Bring ...