Revise us

Steinway artist Randall Atcheson gave new flourish to old hymns at The 2012 Christian Writers Guild conference. He also sang with gusto if not giftedness and practically danced on the piano, delighting worshippers with his colorful tie and matching socks sprouting out of checkered loafers. He embodied joy.  Best of all, he rewrote the lyrics for his audience of writers.  Revive us again became Revise us again and wouldn’t we all like that?

We had many opportunities to revise our thinking. Conference speaker Davis Bunn urged us to gird up our loins and take seriously that He who began a good work in us will carry it through (Philippians 1:4-6). Here’s a sampling of what he said.

1.       Accept the challenge of success. Success is not a goal it is a daily practice that balances the earthly and heavenly realm. Our purpose is eternal; our message is universal. What role does your writing play in this process?

2.      Accept the discipline of success. Have a professional perspective and be flexible when you are challenged to change. Are you forward thinking? Can you see the list of books you will write?

3.      Accept the vision of success. Identify a purpose for change. What are you moving toward?

4.      Apply your life lessons to your writing. This glorifies God and creates an opportunity for you to give at a higher level.

5.      Hourly bond your work and your walk together.

In addition to reviving our energy for the task he encouraged us to revise our attitudes and expectations around success. I gladly hand the red pen the author and finisher of my faith and say “have at it!”