When Your Offering Becomes An Idol

It’s been quiet around here lately. I’ve felt a need to step away from the blog (and even my Facebook page) over the past few weeks. I’m not completely sure what the future will look like in either space. I can’t see myself giving up writing completely; it’s ingrained in me. It’s who I am.

But I’m realizing more and more that my worth is not wrapped up in the words I write.

The other day I stumbled across something on social media that describes the season I’m in. I think I’ve taken a sabbatical. I’m not quitting, I’m just taking a rest from work or more literally, ceasing. A period of rest and rejuvenation. 

I don’t make much; but writing is my life’s work.

Writing is therapy.

Writing is surrender.

Writing is my offering at His feet.

But there are times when writing entangles me.

Social media, platforms and status updates leave me weary.

My worth gets tied up in the words I write.

They are no longer an offering but an idol.

That’s when I have to take a step back.

That’s what I’ve been doing this summer.

God has tucked writing dreams into the deep places of my heart, but the outpouring of words hasn’t always resulted in the outcome hoped for.

I’ve heard His voice numerous time – a small whisper instructing me to share my stories as a way of pointing others to Him.

There’s a purpose for the words I pen; although at times it feels like the words just disappear into thin air.

Recently our pastor shared these words: The process to get to the promise is often messy. We can’t focus on the promise more than we focus on God. 

I’m guilty of doing just that.

But when I cease striving, spend time with Him, and pen words straight from the deep places He’s touched, that’s when He moves.

I pour out my offering.

I share struggles.

Pain often leads to purpose.

And I catch a glimpse of the promise He’s given me through the words of a reader – keep writing, we’re listening!