Sometimes, when I sit at my computer to begin writing, I have a kernel of an idea that unfolds gradually. Other times, the idea sputters, dribbling out in phrases rather than sentences, and takes far longer than I like to form into cohesive paragraphs.
My favorite writing days are ones that involve a Divine download. Words tumble into my mind faster than I can type, spilling effortlessly onto the page. I know those words are God-inspired and am grateful to be His chosen instrument.
The hardest writing days come when I am greeted by a blank screen, a pulsing cursor, no idea kernel, and no download.
Perhaps you are in a blank page life season, a time when you are unmotivated, uninspired, suspended in indecision, and awaiting the return of forward motion. These dry seasons are like a wilderness wander.
Here are reflections on a sojourn in limbo-land:
Wait
Waiting is something most of us don’t do well, especially when waiting is uncomfortable. We’d prefer problems to be resolved rapidly and desert seasons brief. Yet, often, we are forced to wait while circumstances beyond our control drag on, lengthening with no hint of resolution.
Successfully navigating a time of waiting involves attitude and perspective adjustments. Waiting is not punishment. Instead, waiting is often for our protection or preparation for what lies ahead.
Assess
Sometimes, we face a blank page season of life to allow time to assess where we are and determine correct next steps. In our hurry-up world, we often charge ahead without thinking through decisions.
Many years ago, I made a business decision without counting the costs. Soon, unforeseen circumstances ground forward motion to a halt and left the project in a desert season. Hastiness resulted in stress, financial hardship, and the need for honest assessment and a new plan.
When life hands you a blank page, take time to assess before moving forward.
Trust
The last year of my life has felt like a blank page. Instead of predictable, life has been filled with complicated emotions, redefining, and acceptance. Trust is my anchor in this sojourn in limbo-land. I continue to trust God to shape my life in line with his plans and purposes.
If we allow Him to, God writes a new story on the blank page of our lives that is far better than anything we could ever imagine or create on our own.
“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland” (Isaiah 43:19 NLT).
Candy Arrington is an award-winning writer, blogger, and speaker. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotions published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
To receive Candy’s blog, Forward Motion, via email, go to https://candyarrington.com/blog/ and scroll to the bottom of the page to sign up.
Thank you Candy for sharing this. I feel I’ve been looking at a Blank page for several years unsure of the path forward. The Covid time period issues made it worse to navigate. I’m looking for my new spark w the help of the Holy Spirit that I once had to begin a new page. I recently lost my ex husband and it stirred unexpected emotions since we’d been divorced since 2007. But I feel a sense of Release to move forward with nothing to hold me back or down.
Deborah,
Thank you. I understand the unexpected emotions and waiting for a new spark. I trust the Lord will write a fresh chapter on your blank page soon.
Wow, very well said, this is one that I copied and filed and also sent to a friend. I’m sure I’ll go back to it again and again. Thank you!
Jill, thank you!
CANDY! So true….TRUST and add TRUTH (God’s Word) and we can make it through anything. THANK YOU so much for sharing your beautifully written thoughts and your honesty. Stay the course dear sister in Christ. I truly understand.
Thank you, Debbie!