The above words from Proverbs 30:8-9 came to mind when again thinking over the "Why write?" question. C. S. Lewis (see previous post) might have prayed something along those lines when dealing with the temptations of not having time to write. (In his usual thorough way, Matthew Henry expands on this line of thought in his commentary on Proverbs 30, by the way.)
In light of this, writers who believe their writing primarily ought be of use in God's kingdom might want to pray something like this:
"Lord, let someone out there read what I write and as a result be changed in ways that accord with Your will. I need to know that what I write makes a difference so that I will have the energy and desire to keep doing it.
"But, Lord, you also know how too much praise turns my head. I easily could become just another self-important author, spouting nonsense. So in this matter of of sales and success and positive feedback from my writing, please give me what I require--and no more. Amen."
