Still Writing in the Margins

After my first traditionally published book was released, I remember going back to my typical Tuesday routine. 

I was steadily writing blog posts and newsletters. My laundry no longer lived in piles, and the toilets were cleaner than they’d been in months. But I found myself feeling a bit stuck. I was still writing in the margins.

The eight-week book launch season had come and gone. I had high hopes to make a big impact in the world. And yet there I was working in online ministry in much the same way that I had before the book launched. 

Except there were reviews that stung a bit. Opposition to kingdom work is real, and nobody quite prepares you for what it feels like when it shows up in your inbox. I’m going to be honest: ministry life felt so hard in that season that there were moments I wished I weren’t called to it. The reviews weren’t nearly as tough as the loneliness. 

I was reading 1 Kings and the story of Elijah last week, and it took me back to that 2015 post-book-launch season. 

Fire From Heaven, Then the Juniper Tree

Elijah had just watched God consume an altar with fire after pouring water over it all. The prophets of Baal had been silenced, and it was the kind of victorious moment that should carry a person for years, except for one thing. Jezebel was angry and sent her most vehement threats to Elijah. 

Fearful (and with good reason to be!) Elijah ran. He collapsed under a juniper tree and told God he was done. “It is enough. Take my life.” The man who called down fire from heaven and watched it burn up the altar didn’t want to keep going.

I’ve heard pastors and leaders teaching on this passage emphasize the angel and how Elijah needed the bread, water, and a good night’s rest. Yes, God met him there. But recently, while reading, I realized something. 

What came after the rest and the still small voice was an assignment: anoint Hazael, anoint Jehu, and find Elisha. Find the man who will walk beside you.

God was providing what Elijah needed after the rest. 

A little help, please. 

The Community I Wish I’d Had Earlier

When I found my people, other speakers, writers, and ministry leaders who felt the same way I did, ministry shifted.

I realized that doing work in the community, finding connections and collaborations, wasn’t just for a launch season. It was for ministry. The way Jesus intended.

That’s what I want for you. Speak Up Growth Groups are the community I wish I’d had in those early years of writing in the margins, reminding you you’re not alone and your efforts matter.

The Speak Up Conference is coming July 9–11, 2026. You can walk in already knowing people and feeling part of a supportive community.

Elijah didn’t find Elisha by accident. He was sent to him, just as God sends us to each other for support and growth. 

I feel the same about you.

Registration Is Open

Speak Up Growth Groups registration opened yesterday. Learn more and start building community at https://speakupconference.com/speak-up-growth-groups/

Question: What helped you the most during a season of loneliness or isolation, especially in your ministry? I look forward to your comments.

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