Reclaiming Rejection

Eighteen months ago, I hit the proverbial pavement and began querying any publication that would accept my storytelling, devotional submissions. No one told me with multiple submissions would come multiple rejections. And as the weeks passed, I began sifting through far more rejections than acceptance letters. It felt like I was in junior high again.

After a few days of discouragement, I decided to make a list of all the reasons the editors might not be accepting my writing.  And to my surprise, some of them weren’t about the writing. Rejection’s power over me, convinced me that I was inadequate. However, when I took the time to examine my writing and myself, I realized a I needed to reclaim a few truths about rejection:

1 Rejection isn’t final.

One rejection, especially the first one, can make you feel like you don’t have a place in the world of writing. But when you think of all the inventors and scientists and athletes that have become heroes and legends, their lists of failures surpass their success. But it didn’t stop them. They realized this was just one rejection in a long line of getting it right. Don’t let rejection convince you that you’re finished.

2.   Rejection comes for many reasons.

 As I brainstormed the reasons I was getting rejected, I realized that the rejection sometimes has nothing to do with the writing. Perhaps instead it has to do with:

• The publication has already covered your topic. This happens most often with seasonal publications. They are full. It has nothing to do with your submission.
• The writing is excellent but the tone doesn’t match the audience. Clear communication of tone and expression are usually found in the writing guidelines of a particular publication. Be sure to follow those guidelines.
• Sometimes the topic or scripture or illustration has been overused. Studying the previous issues of the publication will help you know the variety of articles that have been used and also give you clear direction on writing something fresh and new.
• Sometimes the information I presented in my submission was too focused on one audience. Knowing who I am writing for is key to writing a message that will be accepted. Know your audience.

These tips helped me to evaluate whether it was my writing they were rejecting, or was it something else. Being careful to follow the writer’s guidelines will help you secure a spot in your favorite publication.

3.   Rejection is not personal.

The editor doesn’t know if you have a good personality or not. He doesn’t know if you are practicing what you write about. He doesn’t even know if you had an argument with your spouse before submitting your article on marriage. The rejection is not personal. You are still who you are. Don’t let rejection write the final word.

4.   God didn’t reject you.

Are you writing for a bigger purpose than yourself? If so, then you have probably prayed over your work and attempted your very best for God. That’s worship. That’s not rejection. When we take our words, in all their frailty, and give them to the Lord as an offering, that is 100% an act of worship. He accepts our offering.

5.   Rejection leaves room for the better acceptance.

After rejection, the sweet smell of acceptance is even better. It’s like a shower after the end of a long day working in the yard. Everyday a shower is a good idea, but the cool water on dirty hands and feet feels better than ever when you’ve worked hard. That’s what a letter of acceptance, a published article or a signed contract feels like.

Keep trying! Don’t give up! The world needs writer’s whose message is far reaching, truthful and encouraging. The world needs your voice. Don’t let the rejection of yesterday hinder you from growing your craft, submitting your work and worshiping God with the fruit of your labor.

After years of living in fear and defeat, Gina Stinson is busy reclaiming every day for God’s glory. She is a pastor’s wife of 26 years and homeschool mom of two teenagers. Between family and ministry, she enjoys dabbling in gardening, crocheting and playing music on her second hand, baby grand piano. She writes true stories of God’s reclaiming power and is a storyteller for those who have overcome their circumstances and embraced God’s goodness. Her first collection of storytelling devotions, Reclaimed, The Stories of Rescued Moments and Days, will be released in November, 2020.