What am I thankful for today? Of all the blessings that cross my mind, the one that stands out is: I am thankful that God has given me the desires of my heart. He plants the desire of His plan in my heart and helps me achieve it.
The path of my life’s journey is full of examples of His grace and favor that could not have happened without Him. From a beautiful wife and blessed marriage through success in a secular career followed by a ministry career that brought me closer to Him and to His people.
Nine years ago He planted in me the desire to write and something I had dabbled in became a passion. A passion to write stories that honor Him, to learn the craft, to be the best I could possibly be. He honored that by bringing instructors and mentors to encourage and challenge, to not let me settle for mediocre or “good enough,” to strive for excellence, and to do it with integrity.
And the desire was fulfilled.
And then, in 2009, the desire to write full time was birthed. In the natural, I did not see how it could happen any time soon. But it was there and along with it were the lessons I’ve learned from Him: one day, one step at a time; obedience to complete what is in front of me; to trust Him for the long term; to be faithful in the little things.
One year later, He opened the door. He released me to move into full time writing and He has blessed this latest journey with creativity, with strong friends and mentors, with opportunities to teach and to help others just as I was helped.
Thank You, Father.
Henry, you are an inspiration to all of us. I’m thankful to be getting to know you and the others in the writer’s group. It’s wonderful when tests become testimonies.
Dear Henry, thank you so much for these encouraging articles. I joined NTCW a year and a half ago, have just finished my first novel and have an invitation to send it to Tyndall but have not done so because of fear. Your post reminds me that God has had His hand on this process by bringing folks into my life, like He did in yours, at just the right time. And I know that whatever He has called me to do, He will accomplish – acceptance or rejection. His plan is always best and I too will choose to be thankful. Thank you! May God continue to bless and keep you until the day of His coming.
You’ve sparked the ‘thankful’ wagon. Filling mine up now.
I’m glad I got the email about your blog and read it. Today I have been meditating on God’s goodness to me throughout my life in every aspect and I am also grateful that He loves me enough to care about my every little concern. Your message verifies that I’m on the right track.
I really enjoy seeing what you are thankful for each day. I am so glad that the Lord opened the doors for you to allow you to bless others for His glory!
So happy for you Henry that is an amazing story! God is faithful. It makes us all wonder if we really applied ourselves as you have is if it is in us too. Thanks for the encouragement to dream and believe.
“He plants the desire in my heart and helps me achieve it”. These are words I needed to hear. I have so many desires which I have not walked in. Would “Let go, and let God” be my next step? I think so.
Member of North Texas Christian Writers group under Jan Brand.
Thank you, Ruth. Letting go and letting God is always good. Be lead by His peace in your heart.
You’re welcome, Holly. I look at it that if He did it for me, He’ll do it for anybody. Our part is to take that first step of faith and obedience.
Thank you, Kariss, for starting this topic. It really made me think about all He has done for me.
Amen, Emma. I’m glad I could be part of His confirming word for you.
Thank you, Julie. I so appreciate your comments.
Thank you, DiAne. I pray His blessings and favor on you as you submit your work.
Thank you, Velma.
Henry,
You inspire me, not only with your writing but your willingness to teach others. I am grateful for the help you’ve given me. Keep writing, brother.
Lisa,
It’s good to hear from you. Miss you. Hope to see you soon.