Lynn H. Blackburn

So many things get in the way.

I want to write. I need to clean. I want to edit. I need to cook. I want to study the craft. I need to fold the clothes.

Sometimes all these distractions—these obligations—frustrate me because while I’m not sure how it’s all going to play out, I am sure I’m supposed to be writing.

My frustration reveals a hard truth.

I’ve bought in to a lie.

I know better. But it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that when God calls you to do something, there will be clear skies ahead.

Um. Sorry. No.

There is nothing Biblical about that notion. In fact, a glance at the lives of many heroes of the faith reveals the opposite.

Instead of smooth sailing—shipwreck.

Instead of easy success—years of anonymous toil.

Instead of accolades and praise—imprisonment and martyrdom.

Take Paul. Not only did he manage to get himself beaten and imprisoned just about everywhere he went, but he had to keep making tents to put food on the table. Talk about not quitting your day job.

And Noah. It took him years to build the ark. We assume he was ridiculed the entire time—”Rain? What’s rain? A flood? Sure, Noah, whatever.”

So if the Bible doesn’t indicate it, where do we get the erroneous concept that fulfilling a calling will be obstacle free?

Satan is called the father of lies for a reason. When it comes to deception, he’s the best in the business.

He can’t reclaim us. But he can derail us.

And the longer he can keep us off track, the less impact we can have for the Kingdom.

If I’m waiting for my life to get easier before I begin to fulfill my calling, I’m living in a fantasy land. But here’s the truth. No fairies are coming to clean my toilets.

My calling didn’t come with a cleaning service. It came with a promise.

Romans 8:28 ~ And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (ESV)

All things. Could that include vacuuming?

All things. Is it possible that laundry isn’t a hindrance to my call—but a part of it?

Don’t get me wrong. If the opportunity presents itself, I’ll hire a cleaning service in a heartbeat.

But until then, as Agatha Christie once said, “The best time for planning a book is while you’re doing the dishes.”

I’ve got my marching orders.

What are you waiting for?