Having one thing go wrong is easily shaken, but when one thing turns into two, into three on top of exhaustion and weary, rational thinking goes out the window. As I’ve shared over the last few weeks, I’m in a season of being still and resting. Thankfully I have plenty of writing projects happening right now, so I’ve got plenty to focus on.

            Last week, I wrote nine devotions for children’s camp. I planned on proofing them this weekend and when I plugged in my flash drive, nothing was there. I’ve tried everything and I can’t find my files. That same day, I was up most of the night with an upset stomach and headache that wouldn’t quit. My printer refused to cooperate. And plugging in the flash drive was the icing on the cake.

            Tears fell onto my chest. Frustration boiled to the top. And all the focus I needed to work on another writing project flew out the window.

            After I embraced the tears, I spent a few moments calming my mind and rationalizing with my ridiculous emotions. I could have a pity party and throw my sucker in the dirt, or I could refocus and work on the project I had not lost, which desperately needed my attention. I still had three weeks before the other devotions were needed, which would give me time to fix the flash drive or rewrite them. But wallowing wasn’t getting me anywhere.

            It’s hard to get back in the game when you get kicked in the gut. I could have easily quit. But one thing I’m learning: God can’t use what I don’t write. If it’s stuck in my head, then it’s benefitting no one. Even if I have to write and rewrite and rewrite again, it will be worth all my effort if I can point one person heavenward and encourage them onward. Don’t quit when things get hard. Regroup, and get back in the game.