It was early March and I felt uneasy. The editor of my first book had retired and the manuscript for my second book was now in the hands of a new editor. Change is always hard and I couldn’t help being concerned that some detail or mistake would be missed in the manuscript.
These thoughts were on my mind as I took some time to visit a friend on the east coast. He had invited me to participate in a weekend he was hosting on faith and leadership. On one of the mornings my friend asked me to salt some ice on the front porch of his condo. While I was sprinkling the salt I met his neighbor.
As we chatted, I learned she is a an editor and that she was trying to start her own editing business. Suddenly a thought popped into my head. I asked her if she would be interested in reviewing the manuscript for my second book. She agreed and that afternoon I emailed a copy of my book to her and asked her to look for inconsistencies or problems with the plot.
A few weeks later, after I returned home, my friend’s neighbor emailed me her comments about the manuscript. I was floored by the level of detail and the things she found that had been missed in the draft manuscript. It was a ready reminder to me about God’s provision. I was in awe about how God connected me with this editor and helped calm my concerns.
Ultimately I had to decide to delay the publication of the book by a month in order to take enough time to revise the manuscript to correct some plot issues. I had to trust that it was all part of God’s plan and His timing. It pointed out to me that I had initially failed to take my concerns to the Lord in prayer—to trust His provision. It was a good reminder to me that any writing project should begin with prayer and a focus on seeking God’s guidance for our words, as well as all that we do.
Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. – John 16:31-34, NASB
140 Character Christian 
Blessings Chris. I appreciate you sharing your renewed focus with your manuscript. When God invites us to pause, He has a very good reason.
Yes, when He invites us to pause, we need to be ready to listen to Him. Thanks for the comment. Blessings.