Write2Ignite

Last time I wrote about writing a plot summary within a short period of time for a potential fiction story opportunity.

The good news is, the publisher accepted my pitch! The bad news is, the publisher accepted my pitch!

Of course, this isn’t really bad news. It’s great news! But, the reality has set in that now I have a bit more than two weeks to turn in my first deadline: a chapter-by-chapter outline! This is something that I’ve never been asked to do before. So how do I handle this?

Trust — Don’t Give In

Previously, I talked about not panicking with a deadline. The feeling of wanting to panic is even more intense because now I have a signed contract. I need to have this outline completed by that date. No exceptions.

Again, I’m giving this to the Lord. I have to trust Him to direct and guide me and keep me calm.

Reflect on His Word

My favorite verse comes into play at such moments. Proverbs 3:5-6 says,

Breaking this down, I need to trust Him completely. I’m not to let my mind wander and think about the “what ifs” that could happen. I’m to acknowledge Him in mind, body, and soul, and then be assured that He will direct me.

Throughout my life the Lord has helped me as I trust in Him. I need to keep reflecting on this so that my doubts will start to fade away.

Take a Step Forward, Then Step Again

If I want to meet this first deadline, I need to keep progressing. These are steps of faith as I’m trusting God’s guidance to help my mind focus on breaking down my story idea, while at the same time not being able to write it all out yet.

This is new to me since I usually just write and let the story lead. I now have to come up with a creative way of figuring out where the story will go, where the clues and red herrings come into play, and how to intertwine my sub-plot. A tall order, but I know I will get this done. I need to focus on the task at hand, be ready to listen to the still small voice of the Lord for inspiration, and work each and every day, taking one step at a time.

God provides opportunities in amazing ways. And if we know He is in the midst of things, then we can move forward boldly, trusting Him to provide ALL we need!

How are you moving forward with what God has planned for you?

Unsplash credits: Clem Onojeghuo, Jessica Mangano, and Jan Kopriva

Catherine L. Osornio has written inspirational articles for a women’s ministry newsletter, over 200 leveled reader stories for a school’s reading program, fiction and nonfiction articles for Clubhouse and Clubhouse Jr. magazines, The Declaration of Independence from A to Z, Thunder Comes a Rumblin’, plus various work-for-hire projects. A former elementary school librarian, Catherine is passionate about sharing the love of reading. She enjoys cartooning, illustration, and reading kids’ books. Email her at CLOsornio@verizon.net or visit her at www.catherineosornio.com.