Dishes and Despair

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corthians 10:31 (NIV)

What do dishes and despair have in common? For author and speaker, Patsy Clairmont, doing the dishes became the first step out of depression. She recalls the time the Lord nudged her to tackle that one thing when everything looked overwhelming. And as the suds washed over each plate, Patsy felt the burden lift and the courage descend to tackle the next project.

I can relate to Patsy’s despair as I have struggled with depression for most of my adult life. It is hard to do anything when all is in overwhelm. So, I often tell myself to just do the next thing. When my To Do List says it will never be done, I remember Patsy and her sink full of dishes. If it helped Patsy to take the next step, then surely it can help me.

Exercise:

Does overwhelm attack your writing life? Experts tell us a myriad of things to add to our list to grow our online presence. Things like lead magnets to grow an email list. An email list to grow our customer base. A customer base to develop through online courses. Online courses to expand our reach. Whoa. Did the cart get ahead of the horse? What happened to the call to write and spread the message?

Look up the following verses and respond.

• 2 Peter 3:14. What are we to do?
• 2 Peter 1:5-8. What qualities will help us be effective and productive?
• John 15:4-5. What happens when we stay connected to Jesus?
• Titus 3:14. What must we learn, and why?
• Ephesians 2:10. What’s on God’s To Do List for you?

How can you create a plan that will enable you to see the smaller, more doable step?

• Break down the action needed to reach your desired goal.
• Brainstorm scenarios to accomplish your objective.
• Be proactive to celebrate the wins.

“Instead of pursuing every new opportunity, focus on what God has already given you. Take good care of it, and He will grow it.”

Coach Kristin Dronchi

Remember the call God laid on your writing and submit it back to Him for safe keeping. He will not abandon the work He began in you.

 He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 (NIV)

What’s your next step?