Calling Is Rarely a Straight Line

How God used interruptions, cancer, and quiet seasons to shape Jennifer Arrington's writing journey

In this episode of the Call to Write Chat, April Gardner sits down with author Jennifer Arrington to talk about the winding road of a writer’s calling.

Jennifer’s journey includes life as a missionary kid, years in the classroom as a teacher, a love of the outdoors, and two separate battles with breast cancer. Along the way, God repeatedly used unexpected seasons (including long stretches of forced rest and recovery) to draw her back to the stories He had placed on her heart.

Together, we discuss:

• How childhood experiences and a global perspective shaped Jennifer’s writing life

• The choice between writing to market and writing the stories God has given you to tell

• How personal suffering can become a source of hope for readers

• The importance of perseverance, rewriting, and continuing to grow in the craft

• Practical advice for new writers navigating the path to publication

One of the themes that stood out to me is that calling is rarely a straight line. Jennifer’s writing career developed through interruptions, setbacks, health challenges, and unexpected opportunities. Through each season, God continued to use her experiences to prepare stories that would encourage others.

If you’ve ever wondered whether God can still use your detours, delays, or disappointments, I think you’ll find both encouragement and wisdom in Jennifer’s story!

Find Jennifer and her books at BeachHouseBusiness.com.

April Gardner interviews Author Jennifer Arrington: Watch the chat here.