The Unwrapped Gift

ACFWAdvice, Encouragement, Friends of ACFW 4 Comments

by Kathy Harris

It was a package much like the others, but it had somehow gotten lost among the branches of the tree. Perhaps a bit smaller, and more plainly wrapped, for a while it remained hidden behind the more elaborate gifts.

It wasn’t until the remnants of the celebration had been gathered, and life had taken another turn—now fueled by the excitement of the New Year, that it had been found and finally opened. Although its discovery brought momentary delight to the recipient, it was eventually set aside, placed on a shelf, and then tucked away in a drawer.

Have you ever received a gift you didn’t use? Maybe you didn’t know how to use it.

Someday I’ll pick it up again, you say to yourself. I’ll study it. I’ll make the most of it… someday.

But then it’s forgotten.

Until one day when you’re reminded of the Giver. How had He felt all this time knowing you hadn’t used His gift? Hadn’t He generously picked it out to match every aspect of your life? It fit perfectly with the nuances of your past experiences and your other talents. How could you not want to use it for His Glory?

This Christmas, after you have opened your gifts under the tree, take a moment to reflect upon your spiritual gifts and talents. At a time when we’re celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, and the Word, we can also thank God for the written word.

Writing is an extraordinary gift, and one that you can use to touch others, whether your audience is great or small. Don’t just unwrap it… Study it, develop it fully, step outside of your comfort zone, and let God show you what He can do through you. His calling may not be to fame and fortune. Pray, in many ways, that it’s not. For to whom much is given, much will be expected. Whatever your calling, pray that you will answer it.

Whatever is Thy Will, Heavenly Father, use me. Use my writing as You see fit.

May we all speak that prayer and mean it this year.

And speaking of gifts… If you’re reading this post, you’ve likely been blessed by the gift of American Christian Fiction Writers. ACFW is an extra special tool that will help you further your writing career. Don’t forget to “unwrap” it fully in the coming year—participate in the ACFW online loops, join a local chapter—and plan to attend the 2018 conference in Nashville. I hope to see you there!

Have a blessed Christmas, everyone!


Kathy Harris writes romantic suspense and women’s fiction and is represented by Julie Gwinn of The Seymour Agency. Connect with Kathy on her website, Facebook and Twitter.

 

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The Unwrapped Gift

ACFWAdvice, Encouragement, Friends of ACFW 4 Comments

by Kathy Harris

It was a package much like the others, but it had somehow gotten lost among the branches of the tree. Perhaps a bit smaller, and more plainly wrapped, for a while it remained hidden behind the more elaborate gifts.

It wasn’t until the remnants of the celebration had been gathered, and life had taken another turn—now fueled by the excitement of the New Year, that it had been found and finally opened. Although its discovery brought momentary delight to the recipient, it was eventually set aside, placed on a shelf, and then tucked away in a drawer.

Have you ever received a gift you didn’t use? Maybe you didn’t know how to use it.

Someday I’ll pick it up again, you say to yourself. I’ll study it. I’ll make the most of it… someday.

But then it’s forgotten.

Until one day when you’re reminded of the Giver. How had He felt all this time knowing you hadn’t used His gift? Hadn’t He generously picked it out to match every aspect of your life? It fit perfectly with the nuances of your past experiences and your other talents. How could you not want to use it for His Glory?

This Christmas, after you have opened your gifts under the tree, take a moment to reflect upon your spiritual gifts and talents. At a time when we’re celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, and the Word, we can also thank God for the written word.

Writing is an extraordinary gift, and one that you can use to touch others, whether your audience is great or small. Don’t just unwrap it… Study it, develop it fully, step outside of your comfort zone, and let God show you what He can do through you. His calling may not be to fame and fortune. Pray, in many ways, that it’s not. For to whom much is given, much will be expected. Whatever your calling, pray that you will answer it.

Whatever is Thy Will, Heavenly Father, use me. Use my writing as You see fit.

May we all speak that prayer and mean it this year.

And speaking of gifts… If you’re reading this post, you’ve likely been blessed by the gift of American Christian Fiction Writers. ACFW is an extra special tool that will help you further your writing career. Don’t forget to “unwrap” it fully in the coming year—participate in the ACFW online loops, join a local chapter—and plan to attend the 2018 conference in Nashville. I hope to see you there!

Have a blessed Christmas, everyone!


Kathy Harris writes romantic suspense and women’s fiction and is represented by Julie Gwinn of The Seymour Agency. Connect with Kathy on her website, Facebook and Twitter.

 

Comments 4

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Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *