How Do I Know if God Is Calling Me To Write?

Is God calling me to write? 

It’s a common question for Christian wannabe writers, including those who have never written a word, those with a shelf filled with dusty journals, even those who have met with some writing success. Whether you’re a newbie looking at a blank screen or an experienced writer stuck in a slump, breaking down the question can help.

Is God calling me to write?

The nudge can come from almighty God, a friend’s random suggestion, or a childhood dream. Is the urge the whisper of the Holy Spirit, a voice from your past, or a personal desire for something more?

Start with your relationship with God. If you don’t already have time in your schedule for daily Bible reading and prayer, get started now. Christian writing requires a foundation of Bible knowledge and spiritual inspiration — as does any other form of service. Trust me, even if writing doesn’t prove to be your thing, your time won’t be wasted.

If God is calling you to write, the process will enhance your connection to Him. If writing comes between you and God, either it isn’t your calling or now is not your time.

Is God calling me to write?

There are lots of Christian writers. Are you meant to be one of them? 

There’s more to it than typing and sharing a few words. Not all of it is fun. It requires discipline and perseverance. Grammar and punctuation matter. Good writers go over their words time and time again — crafting the flow of ideas, word choices, transitions, and readability. 

Don’t go into writing for the money. Few writers earn a living with their words. 

Is God calling me to write?

Write what? And to whom? Is writing the best way to get your message out?

If the calling is from God, the mission will glorify Him and serve others. You may indeed have wisdom to share, but the vehicle doesn’t have to be written words. You can tell your story one person at a time, in a small group, maybe even to a large audience. You can put your message into action — doing it, not telling or writing it.

A writer directs her words to an audience. Christian writers sometimes describe it as “an audience of one,” meaning for God alone (for me, my private journal). Blog posts, devotionals, Bible studies, books (fiction or nonfiction) all have a target audience. If God is calling you to write for others, He’ll help you figure out who these other people are and how best to reach them.

Writing, like any service for the Lord, starts with a divine conversation: You speak … God listens. God speaks … you listen. Based on that conversation, you take action.

In the parable of the talents, the master says, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities” (Matthew 25:21, NLT). 

Obey the Master. Start small … Start now. 

Bless your words; bless your calling!

Shirlee Abbott

Has God given you a message to share? What steps can you take this week to get started?