I just started writing a new book a few days ago and it has been very interesting. I’d like to map it all out and then fill in the gaps with writing, but that’s not the way it is happening. For each paragraph I write, I am having to wait on what comes next. I don’t know the outcome of the story or even how to get there. Of course, writing a book this way really makes it exciting to me. I am getting just as excited about what comes next as I know the readers will also. But, what if it doesn’t go anywhere? What if the ending doesn’t make sense? What will others think?

This is faith. I must trust that since Holy Spirit is leading me to write it, that He will also give me every word to write and that it will tell a story that not only makes sense, but will help to change lives. As I was thinking about what more to write in chapter 2, I suddenly felt like writing this article in the blog. The title came to me immediately, “Holding On To Your Faith - Or Someone Else’s.” Then as I was wondering how to start, these words started coming to me as an example of the title.

So, just what is the difference between holding on to your faith and holding on to someone else’s faith? You see, someone could have told me that they believed I should write a book. They could even have told me that God told them to tell me to write a book. They could even have the faith that it is going to be a great book. Now, being excited about writing a new book, I could have dreamed up a title, outlined the chapters and started adding the content. It may or may not have been an interesting book. It may or may not help others. Others may or may not even read it. The bottom line is that I would be doing everything based on someone else’s faith and it could get very stressful, especially if it doesn’t turn out the way I or the other person expects it.

The way for me to hold on to my faith is to hear from the Lord that he wants me to write a new book. Now, since He told me, His faith will be imparted to me upon my obedience. The words and ideas start flowing and I simply write them down and illustrate as necessary. I don’t worry about the outcome, nor even if the book is read by anyone else. If the storms come and try to deter me, I lean on Him. If it gets delayed, I lean on Him. If the words stop coming, I lean on Him. What He speaks to us, He is faithful to perform.

I know this is a very simple story, but it is exactly what I am doing right now. Has someone told you to do something based upon their faith? Have you heard from the Lord to do that thing? If not, don’t. If you don’t have the faith, wait. The scripture says, “whatever is not of faith, is sin.” It is simple. Be at peace, rest and relax.

Have a great day!
Joseph