The Write Way:
Be a Bezalel and Get Published
by Lisa Christine

As writers, there is usually something that motivates us to write, whether it is a deadline, hunger, inspiration, or publication. Although the creative Bezalel (BEZ-uh-lel) did not seek credit for his work, the Old Testament master craftsman provides us with tips on how to become published writers, and authors.

You may not be familiar with his name but Bezalel ("Bezaleel" in KJV) made his mark on history. God appointed him to build and design the earth's first tabernacle. While the Israelites were in the wilderness, God called Bezalel to oversee the construction of His holy dwelling.

Be Willing to Write (Exodus 35:30-35)

In order for God to pull off the construction project, the Lord equipped Bezalel with the skill and talent. In exchange Bezalel had to be willing to use these gifts for the glory of the Lord. God has gifted us with the desire and the ability to write. Like Bezalel we also need to readily accept the work He has for each of us to do, and ask God to anoint every word, sentence, and paragraph we compose.

To be a writer requires dedication, motivation, creativity, and knowledge. Without these, deadlines would not be met, or query letters sent. How can I write the next great novel if all I compose is a couple of paragraphs? What good will that do? All I'll have to show for my efforts are a few pages of incomplete thoughts ready for the recycle bin.

If I spent the day avoiding writing by watching television, shopping, or napping no one would be the wiser, but I would know I wasn't living a life of integrity. I wouldn't be using the gifts God gave me, doing what I believe He has called me to do: to write. It is easy to be sidetracked when writing. If we turn our attention to the distractions, the ideas may leave our minds and never find their way onto the page.

Be Resourceful (Exodus 31:1-11)

In order for Bezalel to complete God's mission, he had to be skillful and knowledgeable in a variety of tasks. Bezalel was a furniture maker, metalworker, wood carver, tailor, and jewel cutter. Why not try our hand at different writing forms such as poetry, song lyrics, greeting cards, or articles? By not limiting ourselves to one genre, it opens the door to additional writing and ministry opportunities, markets, and eventually more exposure.

Follow Guidelines (Exodus 39:32, 42-43)

Word count and format matter. Bezalel and the other workers followed God's blueprint exactly and didn't sway from His plan and specifications. When we adhere to a publication's guidelines it increases our chances of being published. When we submit according to our own terms, we may appear unprofessional and lazy in an editor's eyes, and that almost certainly guarantees a rejection.

Check Your Motives (Exodus 38:22, 2 Chronicles 1:5-6)

As Christian writers our purpose is to bring glory to the Lord, not to receive praise for our words. Bezalel did not rely on the appreciation of his peers as motivation to continue working. There is no Biblical account of Bezalel or his co-workers receiving praise for their work during their lifetimes. However, more than 400 years later, when King Solomon was preparing to build a temple in honor of the Lord, Bezalel was remembered for creating the sanctuary's bronze altar. Solomon himself offered a burnt offering on that very altar.

Commit to Persevere

As creative artists we are given a great platform to share how the Lord is moving in our lives. Getting published requires perseverance. While working to get published, we may encounter many obstacles along the way, including rejection. Yet, these should not deter us from the message God has given us to write. Instead, we must persevere, continually researching markets, sending out query letters, and praying that a harvest will come from God's anointed words.

Be a Bezalel

While Bezalel's instruments of choice were tools, our instruments of trade are the pen and the computer keyboard. Regardless of our chosen equipment, we should include God in all aspects of a project if we are to be successful.

Bezalel's commitment to the Lord and hard work ethic reminds and encourages us to remember our holy and creative creator. God entrusted us with the ability to write. We need to be obedient, responsible, and excited about the calling God has placed within us. Equally important? As modern-day Bezalels we need to follow the write path to publishing, the one that assures the works of our hands glorify God—continually.