Dipping the Quill Deeper: Carrying Out the Obligation

by Eva Marie Everson @EvaMarieEverson

While I was beseeching our Lord to-day that he would speak through me, since I could find nothing to say and had no idea how to begin to carry out the obligation laid upon me by obedience. ~St. Teresa of Avila
She was a noblewoman who lived in the 16thcentury. She chose the reclusive life of a Carmelite nun over a life of privilege and ease. She was a mystic. An author. A religious reformer. A theologian. A woman after God’s own heart. A rare beauty. And she penned lines such as those above that can take my breath away.I don’t know about you, but there are truly times when I sit at my desk, staring at a blank screen, wondering how in the world I’m going to do that which I believe God has called me to do. Not just write and not just speak but write something or say something that has true value. A lasting effect for the kingdom of God. 
So, what do I do? 
Sometimes I take a walk. Sometimes I watch a movie … or clean a sink … or read a book … or wash a load of clothes … or listen to a majestic piece of music. Because I am … me.
And, apparently, I am not St. Teresa of Avila. When Teresa of Avila faced the same problem, she prayed. Okay, she did more than that—she beseeched our Lord. 
Beseeching is greater than a request or a simple one-liner with our eyes closed and so much more than a dramatic pounding of the fist against the table or your desk. Beseeching is asking fervently. With zeal and passion. With urgency. 
Writing for the Lord—that which we have been called to do by obedience—is serious work. Having a day or even days when the words seem stuck or an idea won’t stir isn’t unusual, so if that sounds familiar to you—about you—do not be dismayed. 
But don’t do the dishes … or read a book … or wash a load of clothes … or listen to a magnificent piece of music …
… until you beseech the Lord, knees bent, asking—pleading—“Give me your words, Lord. What shall we write today?”

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Eva Marie Everson is the multiple award-winning and bestselling author of over 35 books, both fiction and nonfiction. She is the president of Word Weavers International and the director of Florida Christian Writers Conference and North Georgia Christian Writers Conference. Eva Marie and her husband make their home in Central Florida where they enjoy a lake view, their children, and grandchildren. They are owned by a very small dog.