I grew up a writer.
I wrote poems, songs, love letters to boyfriends (so many love letters), and a mystery novel in 6th grade that involved a secret staircase and lots of flashlights (I was in my Nancy Drew phase.) I loved how I could look at the finished product and feel I had ushered emotion and understanding into the world.
Words on a page are lasting and powerful, and I had a love affair with them.
When I turned 18, I felt the urge to write BIG. Not little thoughts in my journal, but BIG, scary writing for everyone to see and read. My gut said to write, but my heart said no. I was terrified. As a compromise, I came up with the title of my unwritten book, Wisdom At 21. (The irony of this was lost on me at the time.) Well, age 21 came and went, and no writing.
Fast forward to 24. That Voice urged me to write again. I had just left a very toxic church ministry and I possessed actual wisdom as a result. Putting pen to paper was easy and the words came quickly. I figured my effort at the time was enough to get a “gold star” from God. I could move on and the Voice would disappear.
It did not.
Then 26 hit and I had a baby. It was awful and post-partem-depression-y and I NEEDED to write. In the late hours of the night, I clicked away at my computer feeling completely ridiculous for working on a book no one would ever read. During the next year I penned over 60,000 words, all of them horribly written. “Ok, God. Done and done. You’re welcome.”
As if.
Last summer God hit me with an all-out assault. Not just a nudge or a tap on the shoulder this time- He split my heart open and got my attention. It was that Voice again, and there was no denying it.
“WRITE.”
…Geez. You could have asked nicely.
What is God calling you to do that is terrifying and risky and you would never attempt in your wildest dreams?
If following that Voice feels a little bit like faith and a LOT like standing in front of a firing squad, God is calling you to step out and take a risk! Be brave and jump in with both feet. You were made for more than “safe” and “comfortable.” There is more to your life than coloring in the lines! Life is passion, fullness, and all things breathtaking. It is seldom easy and ever-changing. Your faith is no different.
As for me? I finally followed through. I starting getting up in the early morning to pray and write, and “BelieveBoldly” was born. I was tired, yet invigorated. By asking me to step out of my comfort zone, God had been preparing me for this next season of my life.
We have to be obedient and listen WHEN He calls us, even when it is scary, because He may be busy paving the way for our future.
I am not claiming I will be a famous writer. I cannot say if anyone other than family will read this blog. But I CAN say that the risk of stepping out into the unknown to follow God’s calling has been absolutely worth it.
The lesson learned?
1.) Listen to that Voice.
2.) Do what it says. Every day. Even when you want to die from embarrassment or exhaustion. Do it.
3.) Watch God work in your life.
When was the last time you took a risk? Was worth it?
Well done you!!! Love, love, love it!
Thanks, Tara! I loved getting to pick your brain about your site- thanks for all the tips 🙂
I will be reading! I am pretty sure it is biblical to write only happy thoughts about your mother-in-law. ❤️
Oh, Sheila…There would never been anything negative to post, as long as you continue to spoil me the way you do 😉
It’s been a long time coming! So proud of you.
Thanks for watching the kids EVERY SINGLE MORNING while I write for hours! You need a gold medal or something.
So excited to follow you on this journey Love your style and pizzazz! See you through next post.
Love ya, Julie!
Cheering you on!
Thanks, Janet! You are one of the best cheerleaders out there 🙂
I loved reading your thoughts and perspective. I think we all hear those voices but it’s up to us to respond to them accordingly and hear God’s whispers. I looked forward to keeping up with your blog sweet girl!
You are so right! If we are quiet enough, we can hear Him telling us what to do. Love you guys!
Erica, so happy for you! You have amazing wisdom and insight for someone your age. It truly must be a gift from God. I have NEVER read anything you wrote that didn’t inspire me and/or touch my heart. I am so looking forward to reading all your blogs. My God bless your courage and faithfulness.
Yay, Chris!! You have always encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone (going to NH for a worship leader internship, anyone?!) and I can always trust you for a word from God when I face struggles. Love that we are family!
As someone who is currently also taking a risk by listening to the Voice, I am encouraged by your words. Do what it says, every day! It’s so worth it.
Preach it, girl. Maybe literally… <3
Not a family member ~ but looking forward to more
Eba- close enough. You inspire me with the risks you take- lead the way!
Very cool…looking forward to reading and learning. 🙂
Excited for you! How are we in our 30’s? When I think of us, so many fun memories of my childhood! Thankful to still be in touch with you all these years later and states a part 🙂
Erica,
Wow you are on the right path for you and yours no matter how scary. ..love the writing and will follow along. If you and your family need anything I’m only 30 minutes away. Looking forward to your writing
Blessings to come to so many! So proud of you for stepping out in faith.
keep preaching at me, friend. ❤️
Your passion for life and ministry are contagious. You have continued to inspire me to greater things beyond what I thought I could do. Lead on, sister!
Thanks, Gretchen! You do the same every day with your girls. Keep it up!
Great post! I look forward to your future posts! Thank you for reminding me to step out of my comfort zone and do what I fear!
Getting all caught up, love this and I think youre amazing!!! Im so excited to go on this journey with you 🙂
I’m so excited for you! I can’t wait to follow you through this journey!
Yay Erica!!! Finally!!! I love this!!–kind of my theme for this year!