Young Christian Writers as Ruths: The Power of Consistency
While preparing this article, I struggled to give it a name. I wanted writers to talk about their best Bible books and why they love it. Well, let’s still do that. Share your thoughts in the comment section. While you type, let me share one book that has blessed me and has influenced my writing.
Ruth’s Unwavering Commitment
For those who may not know Ruth’s story, it’s one of great sorrow and unprecedented restoration. It’s also one of dogged commitment to someone or a cause. After losing her husband, Ruth decides to stay with her mother-in-law so she can look after her. It’s not stated how old Ruth is at this time but she is described as a young woman. And being young comes with lots of benefits – you are still very strong; you’ve got plenty free time and not many responsibilities. I believe many young people, young writers even, can relate to this. The world seemingly feels like your oyster.
But we see how Ruth refuses to leave Naomi despite the apparent lack of opportunities this choice might cause. This is where I am headed: doing the same today would be really tough- if we will be really honest.
Why stick to a genre for example, when others seem to be making more sales? I know there is the
market analysis side of things but if as young Christian writers, our message would be influenced by
trends and not the Father’s heart, then we’re getting some things wrong.
There is beauty in consistency and God ultimately rewards us when we stick with the assignments He has given us.
Would Your Core Message Change with Every Trend?
In Ruth’s story, we see how she chooses to serve the true God, Naomi and then Boaz who later falls in love with her. The bottom line here is she was consistent. Perhaps, it was months or even years of just attending to the needs of – who knows – a cranky, old woman.
We see different waves and changes particularly with young people and a Christian writer may not be left exempted. But what gives credibility to our message? Why would anyone want to listen to what you say if all you do is jump on trends to get some fame? I know my social media experts would say jumping on trends is one way to boost your publicity. But really, are we making idols of ourselves or living for an audience of one?
As Christians, primarily, we have been given a mandate to share the gospel, and our writing should be one of the ways we express this.
Writing May not Always Be Convenient
Yeah. Let me cut you some slack. Writing may not always be convenient. But what do we then do? Do we turn to the Lord who gave us His assignment in the first place or do we just pass on the task? The Bible states that Ruth wept when Naomi urged her to go back to her parents. But Ruth wouldn’t leave. She remained resolute, determined to serve the true God and see to her mother-in-law’s needs.
As young Christian fiction writers we must have a “Ruth-approach” to our writing. We must steward our giftings for God’s glory and remain steadfast to His message – the Gospel.
Hi Rume, My apologies for the late reply.
You wrote:
“ There is beauty in consistency and God ultimately rewards us when we stick with the assignments He has given us.”
I agree, and sometimes the rewards are not what we expect—or they exceed our expectations in unlikely ways that have nothing to do with fame and/or fortune. Chasing trends has always been a fools game because they often don’t last long enough for authors to catch the wave.
I’ve always loved Esther’s story and seeing the wicked Haman thwarted and unable to implement his evil schemes. It’s a great example of the hand and providence of God at work without His name being mentioned on the page. A fiction story can be infused with faith and follow the same storytelling pattern.
Absolutely. Chasing trends isn’t the best tactic for a Christian fiction author. And yes, I love, love the book of Esther too! Thanks for your comment, Narelle.
Thank you. I really enjoyed reading this. It is so important to remain steadfast and harder still to understand what you’re supposed to remain steadfast to! Ruth had to leave her homeland to remain with Naomi, leaving what many would say we ought to cling to. So, thank you for the challenge and the insight into the wonderful story of Ruth.
Thank you for reading, Dienece!