A writer never knows . . .
. . . how a story will impact a reader. Whether fiction or nonfiction, a story or homily, an author never knows where the heart of the reader is at the moment they read our book. That is the divine work of the Holy Spirit.
A book on the bestseller list has clearly pierced some hearts. Sometimes a book’s theme is controversial or titillates the curiosity of a reader. But, then there are those rare books that pierce the heart with change, or hope, or compassion, or even humor that lifts their burdened hearts.
Inspirational Fiction
As an inspirational writer, my hope and prayer is to invite a reader into my world, but it is the reader’s choice to remain there and engage in the characters and story.
How do I know I’m on the right track when developing my characters and story? They have pierced MY heart. I can’t stop thinking about them. They become real to me.
One of the greatest compliments a reader can give any author is to say, “I didn’t want the book to end.” Or “I can’t stop thinking about these characters.”
If I want to be honest, sometimes I wish my messages and stories appealed to the masses. That I could be like several of my dear author friends who are bestsellers. But, I’m beginning to see that this is ingratitude.
Inspirational Nonfiction
My very first book was a women’s devotional, Making Eye Contact with GOD. Released in 2008, the book contains fifty-two devotions that covered a wide scope of spiritual, emotional, and physical issues. One of the things the LORD let me know early in the writing was that my job was to guide the reader to a place where they could hear from Him. It wasn’t my job to change them, it was my job to guide them to a sacred place for them to meet Him.
I didn’t understand what this meant initially. But then the responses came in from readers who were emotional and enthusiastic about various devotions. They shared amazing testimonies about how the devotion spoke directly to their heart. The “problem” was, when I wrote these particular devotions, my theme had nothing to do with what they took away for themselves. In fact, sometimes, I had no idea how they could connect their revelation from what I wrote.
While I was blessed that these women were blessed, I was confused. Finally, I remembered what the LORD said.
Ahh. Now, I get it.
I
was the literary bus driver to deliver those precious souls to her destination — their Heavenly Father’s presence. How their heart was pierced had little to do with me and more to do with where that reader was and what they needed. Humbling.
For nearly fifteen years, this book continues to drive the “bus” for my precious sisters — around the world– and I’m honored to have a part in that.
Takeaway for 
Writers:
Right now you may want to give up writing. I can’t tell you whether you should or shouldn’t — just like others can’t convince me to give up or press on. Ultimately, if you are called to write a novel, short story, article, devotion, script, song, or even a billboard, don’t allow anyone to tell you differently. Instead, search for the message you were called to write. The best place to search is the heart of the Father.
Whether our readership is large or small is nothing compared to how the Holy Spirit can impact a life through our words. And one doesn’t have to be a bestseller for that.
Takeaway for Readers: What Do You Love to Read?
What will pierce your heart or carry a story with you long after you close the cover? I would love for you to share your heart and one of your favorite books.
