by Tammy Van Gils @TammyVanGils

Most folks are familiar with the story of Gideon from Judges 6-8.

The Israelites had done evil in the eyes of the Lord and oppression came upon them at the hands of the Midianites. Eventually, the Israelites cried out to the Lord for help. He sent a prophet to remind the Israelites of His past faithfulness and of His direct warning of idol worship. And then the angel of the Lord visited Gideon and commissioned him to overthrow the Midianites.

And then Gideon made a daring plea. He requested a sign.

And God provided.  Not once but on three different occasions.

Once with fire from the angel of the Lord’s staff. And twice with fleece and the morning dew. Three signs to validate the message to a self-doubting Gideon.

Judges 6:12 tells us, “When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”

The Almighty foreknew the strength of His servant in spite of Gideon’s need for a few signs along the journey.

Now some people find it daring to request a sign from the Lord. Not me. I pray for a billboard-size communication confirming God’s clear message often. I’m a Gideon-like, sign-seeking Christian.

Do you know that many Christian writers constantly struggle with…

• Doubts about being qualified for this noble calling,
• Lack of self-esteem and spiritual knowledge to effectively reach the lost,
• And having the time and resources to expand the necessary skills of the writing craft?

Before I attended my first Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer’s Conference, I requested a sign from God. Over and over for weeks, I pleaded with the Word of Life to show me if I’m on the right path by broadcasting a neon-glaring billboard notice to proceed. And if moving forward wasn’t in His plan, then don’t simply let the door close, but let it slam shut. Clearly, I desired to leave that conference without an ounce of doubt.

Long story short that’s exactly what He did by providing at the conference…

• Excellent faculty that not only taught but encouraged us,
• Experienced speakers who not only appreciated our struggles but who motivated us to persevere,
• Industry-leading publishers, editors and writers who not only offered time to hear our ideas or stories but who also persuaded us to think outside of the box,
• And like-minded novice writers who not only share the calling of writing for Him but also cheer and promote each other on the journey.

This year’s BRMCWC is quickly approaching. As I prepare for my third conference, I’m again praying for direction and signs from the Holy One of Israel.

My prayer is to be a Word-revealing, Truth-sharing, Hope-bearing, Faith-promoting, Love-giving, Jesus-emphasizing writing-warrior. And like His faithfulness to the Israelites and our warrior friend Gideon, our Lord is into abundantly providing for His children, even if they need a few signs along the journey.

What has helped you succeed in fulfilling your calling to write for Him? Who or what has encouraged you on the journey?

Tammy Van Gils is a writer, blogger, and small business owner. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Word Weavers International. In the Richmond area, she is a member of The Christian Writers Hub and Word Weavers Richmond. Visit her Facebook Page, Pinterest and Twitter @Tammyvangils.