The measure of success

[Tim Lamb]

My success has been small but very rewarding. When a thought hits me I must, if I can write it down. I would leave them in public places hoping the Lord would guide it to a need. Almost a year ago I stumbled accross a Christian news paper that is supported by advertisers and given free to the public. A couple of e-mails later I was a coulmnist. No pay, the paper is even distributed in another state so I am an unknown accept to the editor of the paper. But I find great joy in knowing that the message God gives me is out there, and the glory is His.

[Rebecca]

Very encouraging, Tim. Thank you for sharing this with us! !thumbsup!

Rebecca

[AngelAzariah]

_____Very nifty Tim.

[ellenjames]

Thanks for sharing this, Tim.
You are right; there is certainly a place in writing for 'donation' writing. And God can certainly use such.
I send poems regularly to a small town newspaper. It is without pay, but it is good to write 'for free' some time.
Ellenjames

[writegirl1949]

I've done some writing without pay. And, I spend quite a bit of time on my blog entries ... that is where my ministry is.

I think the measure of success depends on the definition of success. Is it measured in souls saved, broken lives ministered to, kind words spoken? Obviously, I believe we each have several definitions of success. I think most writers hope to earn some kind of income from their writing. But that isn't my primary goal.

My goal is to follow God's leadership. I'm just thankful He's blessed me with the desire to write.

Blessings, Francine

[KO'Leary]

DEar Tim.

Success is measured in far greater ways than fame and fortune. If you touch one life that gives your work meaning. God is smiling on you today!!

Karen

[Butterfly]

Writing w/o pay can be very rewarding. For 10 years I wrote a column twice a month for our local newspaper. Most papers have a "Religion Page" where the local pastors or their secretaries send in a short article about the next weeks activities or upcoming sermon notes.
Since I was a pastors wife I wrote ours but made it my own encouraging word to the Christians in my city. Kind of like a christian Erma Bombeck. (Am I dating myself?)
I loved the writing process, the need to get my stuff in before 2pm every Wednesday, the positive feedback from my readers....being able to say "my readers"!....:D It was a real pleasure and need that I had.
Only problem is that the paper accepted anything and everything, not a real judgement on talent at all. That is why I am here. Soon I will post some of my things and get some real feedback ok?
Thanks for listening and hang in there on your nano-ing!!thumbsup!
Butterfly

[KO'Leary]

Dear Butterfly,

We don't have to be famous to serve the Lord. We are only asked to use the gifts we have. Thank you for providing a need and touching lives.

Karen !thumbsup!

[Tim Lamb]

Thank you all for your thoughts and kind words. I intended to encourage others and found myself the recipient, isn't that the way God works!
TimLamb

[mcstffr]

That's a great idea, leaving your thoughts on paper in public places. I'm going to do that too, tactfully.
Thanx
mcstffr

[Tim Lamb]

mcstffr, hi, the last piece of my writing I left in a public bathroom. Who thinks to bring a book to a public bathroom, at least I hope it got read there!
Tim

[ellenjames]

Tim, did you leave your writing there purposely? Rather than a book, maybe a page of manuscript might work better. They could read a few snatches while there.

If God's Word is on the paper, it certainly is a witnessing tool!

Ellenjames

[Tim Lamb]

ellenjames, hi, my writing is mostly short pieces (less than 500 words), all one page works. I usually have a copy of something I wrote in the bag I carry, to share with friends and family, and when I feel led, to leave in public places (like bathrooms). Sort of like a home made tract, I guess. I believe I am inspired to write and to share them.
Maybe I will submit one in the proper forum for feedback some day.:o