APTAT
How many times have you heard writers need a platform? Just the thought of platform makes me throw up in my mouth a little...or maybe that gag reaction is because in effort to increase my platform, I've agreed to a speaking engagement.
I'm a lot of things. Mom. Author. Tutor. Wife. Daughter of a King. Not necessarily in that order, mind you. But one thing I'm not is a speaker. So why did I agree to talk for an entire weekend at a women's retreat?
Platform.
I figured it would increase my visibility and/or, more importantly, God's visibility...which is a tall order for someone who'd rather be shut in a room with a computer all day than rubbing elbows with the masses. And, quite frankly, I'm scared to death about it.
So last Sunday's sermon was a Godsend. Literally. I'm pretty sure someone whispered my dilemma to my pastor and he developed a message to deal with my fear. It's a great concept that can apply to any anxiety causing dilemma like finishing a manuscript, querying an agent, or meeting with a publisher.
Simply put, it's APTAT.
A = Admit
Admit to God that you're not up to the task. In fact, if left up to you, you'd fail at whatever you set your hands to. In my case, I need to admit to God that unless he goes to the podium with me, I'll probably pee my pants.
P = Pray
Ask God to help you. He is, after all, master of the universe. He's overqualified and willing to help you with any of your 'little' troubles. In my situation, I'm asking him to give me loads of creativity to help encourage the women I'll be speaking to.
T = Trust
Dig into the Bible and find a rock to plant your feet on. The whole book is full of promises to you. Do you believe them? Personally, I'm going with "Fear not for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)
A = Act
This is where the rubber meets the road. I'll have to force my feet to cross over from audience member to the spotlight. What is it you need to act on? Parking your rear in a chair to finish that story? Stashing your pennies in a jar so you can attend a conference? Unless you act, you'll be stuck in limbo.
T = Thanks
Yes, you will have something to thank God for. He will act. He is faithful. Disclaimer: He might not act in the way you think He will. There's not always fireworks. In fact, on the outside, you might see nothing at all, or worse, disaster...as defined by you. God's always up to a gazillion things. He will use your actions for His purposes, and that's something to be thankful about.