Habakkuk 2:2 CEB: “Then the Lord answered me and said, write a vision, and make it plain upon a tablet so that a runner can read it.”

Jeremiah 30:2 CEB: “The Lord, the God of Israel, proclaims: Write down in a scroll all the words I have spoken to you.”

The spiritual gift of writing empowers you to express God’s grace, love and truth through written words in ways that are clear, meaningful and impactful for others around you. This gift enables you to translate your understanding of faith, Scripture and life into language that can encourage, instruct and strengthen those who encounter it. You often find that your words carry depth and intention, which helps faith come alive. Writing comes in many forms and often takes shape in letters, reflections, prayers, devotionals or everyday communication such as text messages, your words speaking life and truth into the lives of others.

At its core, writing is a creative gift of expressing faith through words. Writing is an act of both communication and creation. Those with this gift often feel a strong sense of calling to communicate ideas, insights and encouragement in ways that continue to reach others beyond the immediate moment. They are attentive to language, tone and meaning, crafting words that resonate with others in heart, soul and mind. Those with this gift may use the written word to share the good news, to share information or to encourage others. This gift lends itself to various areas of spiritual life but with a specialization in the written word. Writing assists communities in expanding their sense of God’s work and presence in the world by offering additional insight and depth through sharing new and creative written works.

Some ways in which the gift of writing might show up in your spiritual and communal life:

• Blogging your insights and interpretations of Scripture and current events.
• Writing poetry and prayers for your own use or for your community.
• Writing meaningful handwritten notes of appreciation to others.
• Submitting content to Living Lutheran, the magazine of the ELCA.

Looking for more opportunities? We encourage you to reach out to your local synod. Connect, collaborate and co-create with peers through the ELCA Leadership Network.