Awards, Rewards and Writing

"In the name of the hungry, of the naked, of the crippled, of the homeless, of the blind, in their name, I accept the award." —Mother Teresa of Calcutta

By Scoti Springfield Domeij

What writer wouldn't want to receive a major writing award? It adds an impressive sparkly star to the resume or website. It affirms your credibility and positions you in the league of the prestigious. Writers are encouraged to build their platform, their brand, their tagline, their expertise, and their voice. While working on all these planks to sell yourself and your manuscript to a publisher, I rarely hear something I believe to be true: God is in control of our writing careers. He lifts to a seat of honor those who pour their God-given passions out on paper. He equips us to remain faithful to our unique purpose and calling.

Mother Teresa's words tug at my writer's heart. Is my writing passion about offering hope, encouraging others, making a difference in someone's life, or seeking attention? Which begs the question: Why do I write? God imbedded a distinct DNA code in my heart with instructions: Write.

What's the deeply satisfying reward of writing?

Publication?

Recognition?

Awards?

To me, my reward is doing what God designed me to do—to express the dialogue of my soul.

Why Do You Write?

Join me in congratulating the writers of the 2009 Christianity Today book awards whose works honor God and teach and inspire others. The judging process began with 436 titles submitted by 67 publishers. CT editors selected finalists in ten categories. Then their panels of expert judges — one panel per category — sorted out the cream of the crop from 2008. Click here to learn the 10 winners and 11 notables that best shed light on the people, events, and ideas that shape evangelical life, thought, and mission.