Sometimes in writing, you have to edit. You might even ask, “Did Shakespeare has an editor?” And in executive editing, you cannot do wrong. Pursue excellence, not perfectionism. Imagine Michelangelo when he drew on the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling. He didn’t want any single mistake. For the Lord sees. That’s also what the authors or the translators of the Bible did. They could do no wrong.

We do this is to make our readers understand, not to stand under you. But, even if our writings are not perfect, pray first, so that our writings are excellent and we do no wrong. And in order to make readers understand, we shall understand them first. It’s hard, though. In Nehemiah 8:1-15, verse 2 and 3 (NKJV), to understand (Indonesia: mengerti) is put first, then being understood (dimengerti) in verse 8 (NKJV). And put explanations so that readers understand.

Tony Cowie suggests us, “To compose as well as to understand.” If you do not understand your own writings, how could your readers? In order to make our readers apply what they read, we should apply it first. I know it’s not easy. But, let’s be like Thoreau. Ken Kifer said something about Henry David Thoreau…

“Thoreau is being every bit as revolutionary and anti-capitalistic as Karl Marx. But his solution depends on the actions of individuals rather than on the actions of armies and mobs. If you want a Marxist revolution, you have to join with others to overthrow the present system. But if you want a Thoreauvian revolution, you need to change only your own life, not that of others.”

When we embody our writing, we know what to say. We know words to give comfort in season. And those words can touch others’ heart or give strength (v. 10-12). Now, there are two kinds of way of giving comfort in season. You touch their heart and give strength to be able to hang on and face their obstacles. Or, you can give comfort just to hear them and don’t want them to overcome their problems. But, sometimes listening is meaningful for those who are in troubles.

I know, when you are asking joy, God can allow you to sense grief. I do not know how my life’s friend, Dina Evariyana (Iva), who as a doctor, facing grievous patients every day? What strength does she have? I do not know how you face your circumstances which are mournful, but you strengthen others by your writings? Have hope. For the joy of the Lord is your strength.