I'm not a huge sports fan, but every once in awhile I enjoy a good baseball game. I like going with my family to the ballpark where we proudly sing the National Anthem, eat hot dogs, munch on peanuts, yell "Hey, batter, batter! Swing!" and stand up for the 7th Inning Stretch. I also like the CRACK of the baseball bat as it makes contact with the ball, sending that leather globe out to the stands where eager fans (like my kids and I) are waiting to catch it.
I like to take the binoculars along so I can watch everything up close. It's fun to observe the pitcher and the catcher, working the signals to figure out the best pitch to strike the batter out. Sometimes the pitcher will throw a curve ball. The batter is expecting the ball to come right across the plate, but at the last moment, and often in the midst of the swing, the ball will go down and across, causing the umpire to yell, "Strike!" Many great ball players have struck out on curve balls, particularly because the change in direction was so unexpected.
Life has many curve balls. Our days are going along great, then suddenly a friend is sick, or someone lost his job, or there has been an accident. It is in those curve ball moments that our faith is truly tested. We are challenged to hold onto the promises of God, but sometimes the pain and the tears are more than we can bear.
Jesus experienced sorrow and pain when He was here on earth. He understands our fears and frustrations far more than we can imagine. He will not abandon us in our moments of need, even in those times when we don't "feel" His presence.
Deuteronomy 31:6 says, "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear or be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you."
What a comfort it is know that God is with us and will not leave us, especially in the midst of our sorrows.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Dry Spells
Recently a friend asked me (in an indirect way) if I ever experienced dry spells in my writing. Absolutely! There have been periods when I had no clue what to write next. I would stare at a blank piece of paper (or at the sheen of the computer screen), and it would stare right back at me. Ideas that were once abundant dried up like a desert arroyo in the summertime. I was left parched, wondering how to get a refreshing drink of inspiration.
I think it would have been more frustrating if I didn't know I was called to write. My efforts and energies would have felt wasted. I can find motivation now because I know this is God's plan for me. I just need to keep praying, keep moving, keep working. Eventually the dry spell will end, and the ideas will start flowing again.
One thing that has helped is journaling. I keep a medium sized notepad near my bed, and just before it's time to turn out the light and catch some Z's, I will enter my thoughts about how the day went, etc. I have even written prayers to the Lord about how I'm feeling at that particular moment. Then when I'm done, I open my Bible and read a few passages. Sometimes God has chosen to make a particular Scripture jump out and minister to me at that moment. Other times He has given me verses to be shared with other people. And sometimes nothing special happens and I just enjoy reading God's Word.
The great thing about this kind of journaling is that my focus turns to God. Even if my day went sour, I have Him to comfort me. I have found that when I take my eyes off the problems or concerns or doubts, He fills me with hope and eventually inspiration.
Isaiah 58:11 says it best:
The Lord will guide you continually,
And satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones;
You shall be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
Are you looking for the end of your dry spell? Turn to the Lord for refreshment!
I think it would have been more frustrating if I didn't know I was called to write. My efforts and energies would have felt wasted. I can find motivation now because I know this is God's plan for me. I just need to keep praying, keep moving, keep working. Eventually the dry spell will end, and the ideas will start flowing again.
One thing that has helped is journaling. I keep a medium sized notepad near my bed, and just before it's time to turn out the light and catch some Z's, I will enter my thoughts about how the day went, etc. I have even written prayers to the Lord about how I'm feeling at that particular moment. Then when I'm done, I open my Bible and read a few passages. Sometimes God has chosen to make a particular Scripture jump out and minister to me at that moment. Other times He has given me verses to be shared with other people. And sometimes nothing special happens and I just enjoy reading God's Word.
The great thing about this kind of journaling is that my focus turns to God. Even if my day went sour, I have Him to comfort me. I have found that when I take my eyes off the problems or concerns or doubts, He fills me with hope and eventually inspiration.
Isaiah 58:11 says it best:
The Lord will guide you continually,
And satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones;
You shall be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
Are you looking for the end of your dry spell? Turn to the Lord for refreshment!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
A Heavenly Declaration
With all the recent rains we've been having here in California, my family and I have witnessed a few rainbows. They haven't been the puny half rainbows we often see. These have been the full bow, reaching from one point and arching colorfully to another. What a beautiful sight against the dark storm clouds. What a wonderful sign of God's love.
The news often talks about Mother Nature and how it attributes anything about the weather to that pagan legend. When we saw the latest beautiful rainbow, my husband mentioned that the news will probably again refer to it as a gift from Mother Nature. The world will do all it can to recognize a mother because they can't stand to bear witness to the true Father of Heaven and Earth.
Every aspect of nature declares God's glory: the delicate patterns on a leaf; the intricate designs of a spider web; the numerous stars in the sky; the homing instinct of bees. The list goes on and on. There are too many uniquenesses in nature to make them accidents that came out of some primordial ooze.
Romans 19:20a says, "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen.." The hand stamp of the Creator of the Universe is very apparent to those willing to look. Are your eyes open to the wonders of God?
The news often talks about Mother Nature and how it attributes anything about the weather to that pagan legend. When we saw the latest beautiful rainbow, my husband mentioned that the news will probably again refer to it as a gift from Mother Nature. The world will do all it can to recognize a mother because they can't stand to bear witness to the true Father of Heaven and Earth.
Every aspect of nature declares God's glory: the delicate patterns on a leaf; the intricate designs of a spider web; the numerous stars in the sky; the homing instinct of bees. The list goes on and on. There are too many uniquenesses in nature to make them accidents that came out of some primordial ooze.
Romans 19:20a says, "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen.." The hand stamp of the Creator of the Universe is very apparent to those willing to look. Are your eyes open to the wonders of God?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Faithful
This past Sunday morning on our way to church, I noticed that the moon was still visible in the sky. It was not a usual sight, so I pointed it out to the kids. We started talking about why this happened, and I explained a few things about the rotation of the earth and moon.
It's funny how we talk about the sun rising or setting, when actually it is the earth that is moving. It made me think about God. He is always in the midst of life, shining brightly and shedding His warmth and love. We, on the other hand, often wonder where God is. We don't always see Him because we have changed our point of view.
I am thankful for God's faithfulness. Sometimes in those rough times of life it is hard to detect His presence. We feel we are walking in the dark, unable to see the path ahead. But just like the sun, God is waiting to shine His light. He wants to give us the hope and strength we need.
It's funny how we talk about the sun rising or setting, when actually it is the earth that is moving. It made me think about God. He is always in the midst of life, shining brightly and shedding His warmth and love. We, on the other hand, often wonder where God is. We don't always see Him because we have changed our point of view.
I am thankful for God's faithfulness. Sometimes in those rough times of life it is hard to detect His presence. We feel we are walking in the dark, unable to see the path ahead. But just like the sun, God is waiting to shine His light. He wants to give us the hope and strength we need.
"Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
'The LORD is my portion,'
says my soul,
'Therefore I hope in Him!'"
Lamentations 3:22-24
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Friday, January 25, 2008
Up, Up, and Away!
When I was very young, I started reading comic books. I was fascinated with Superman, and I would save my allowance or birthday money to buy the various issues that featured the Man of Steel. I have fond memories of going to the supermarket and flipping through the revolving racks, or going to the bookstore to glance through all the newest editions. I would sit and read them on the couch or in my favorite tree, and I would fly off with him on many adventures. It was through comic books that I wanted to learn to draw. I even created my own team of super heroes.
I collected comics for years, even taking subscriptions so that the issues would come directly to me. I liked Superman because he had a deep sense of right and wrong, he had integrity, and he put others before himself. I admired his desire to stand for truth, justice, and the American way. He was my ultimate hero.
I stopped collecting shortly after I personally asked Jesus Christ into my heart. The hero I grew up with had changed over the years. Little by little the values that he stood for became eroded. The writers even began creating supernatural enemies, so the stories became dark and ugly. I couldn't read them with the same pleasure anymore.
I still have my comics and the other Superman collectibles I accumulated over the years. They are just sentimental things now. Their value has dropped in my eyes because now I value a true hero: Jesus.
I'm glad Jesus never changes. He stand for truth, justice, and freedom. He never lies or takes bribes. He has more strength than Superman ever will, and He sacrificed His life completely so that others may live. Not even a Man of Steel can compete with that!
I collected comics for years, even taking subscriptions so that the issues would come directly to me. I liked Superman because he had a deep sense of right and wrong, he had integrity, and he put others before himself. I admired his desire to stand for truth, justice, and the American way. He was my ultimate hero.
I stopped collecting shortly after I personally asked Jesus Christ into my heart. The hero I grew up with had changed over the years. Little by little the values that he stood for became eroded. The writers even began creating supernatural enemies, so the stories became dark and ugly. I couldn't read them with the same pleasure anymore.
I still have my comics and the other Superman collectibles I accumulated over the years. They are just sentimental things now. Their value has dropped in my eyes because now I value a true hero: Jesus.
I'm glad Jesus never changes. He stand for truth, justice, and freedom. He never lies or takes bribes. He has more strength than Superman ever will, and He sacrificed His life completely so that others may live. Not even a Man of Steel can compete with that!
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Enjoying the Rain
I'm sitting at my computer listening to the rain. Yes, listening. I love the sound rain makes: dull thuds on dry dirt; a pitter patter on the sidewalk; dings on a metal roof; a splish splash of drops cascading from the eaves; the roar of a heavy downpour.
When it rains, I think about warm houses and cookies baking. I think about snuggling on the couch with a good book. I think about cinnamon toast and hot cocoa.
I also think about how much we need the rain. It stocks up our reservoirs and waters the plants. It turns the dry ground green by bringing forth new growth. Rain is a blessing from God.
Thank you, Lord, for the rain!
When it rains, I think about warm houses and cookies baking. I think about snuggling on the couch with a good book. I think about cinnamon toast and hot cocoa.
I also think about how much we need the rain. It stocks up our reservoirs and waters the plants. It turns the dry ground green by bringing forth new growth. Rain is a blessing from God.
Thank you, Lord, for the rain!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Starting the Morning Off Right
When I was a little girl, I would sometimes sleep over at my grandmother's house. I would wake to the smell of bacon frying and coffee perculating on the stove. Those were such wonderful smells, especially the coffee brewing.
Many people use coffee to stimulate themselves in the morning. I've heard many people say they can't start their day without a steaming cup. Despite my love for the aroma, I've never been a coffee drinker. In fact, I don't think I've ever had more than a sipful or two of coffee in my entire life. I just don't like the taste.
I have found that the thing I use to get my mornings off to a good start is my devotional time with the Lord. Before I even get out of bed, I pray and then I grab my One Year Bible and read the assigned passages for the day. Usually within minutes of turning on my light, my bed is filled with expected visitors: my children who love our routine of reading the Bible together. We all snuggle as I read. I think it is a great bonding time, especially since it reinforces the wonderful way God fills us with hope and encouragement and strength to face the challenges of our day.
How do you start your mornings? Maybe you need to pour yourself a cup of hope from God's Holy Word.
Many people use coffee to stimulate themselves in the morning. I've heard many people say they can't start their day without a steaming cup. Despite my love for the aroma, I've never been a coffee drinker. In fact, I don't think I've ever had more than a sipful or two of coffee in my entire life. I just don't like the taste.
I have found that the thing I use to get my mornings off to a good start is my devotional time with the Lord. Before I even get out of bed, I pray and then I grab my One Year Bible and read the assigned passages for the day. Usually within minutes of turning on my light, my bed is filled with expected visitors: my children who love our routine of reading the Bible together. We all snuggle as I read. I think it is a great bonding time, especially since it reinforces the wonderful way God fills us with hope and encouragement and strength to face the challenges of our day.
How do you start your mornings? Maybe you need to pour yourself a cup of hope from God's Holy Word.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Perfect Timing
With four kids we cannot afford huge birthday parties, so we usually allow each child to invite one or two friends over on his/her birthday. This past year, my oldest son wanted to invite his best friend over for a full day of fun that included some time at the arcade.
Most of the arcade games now dispense tickets after you play in order to redeem the tickets for prizes. It was no surprise that after a very short time each child was looking for the games that would offer the most tickets for their money. One such game had a spinning wheel with various size slots cut into it. The object was to time the release of the token so it could roll down the ramp and enter one of the slots. The thinner the slot, the more tickets you would receive. It wasn't an impossible game; it just took perfect timing, especially to get the token into the thinnest slot. Needless to say, and many tokens later, the kids failed to get the biggest prize and they moved on to something else.
It is amazing how timing plays a major role in our lives. Have you ever had a day where you were feeling down and a friend just "happened" to call or you opened the mail to get an encouraging note or card? Or maybe you just missed getting into an accident or maybe you walked into the store and were the hundredth customer. Everything around us involves perfect timing.
But sometimes we want to be the orchestrators of time. Yes, we need to be punctual to school and work, but sometimes we don't want to wait the time it will take to develop an idea or to mature in our characters. We are so used to a "get it now" attitude that we forget the value of waiting and growing.
Writing is definitely a career that needs perfect timing. It takes time to develop this craft and hone the fine edges of our skill. It doesn't come by rushing. It comes by dedication, persistence, and lots of rejections. But in time our efforts pay off and an article or even a book is accepted.
The timing of course is God's. I know for a fact He called me to write. My efforts and hard work to improve upon this talent will eventually be rewarded. He would not have opened the doors He has opened for me if this were not so. I need to trust Him and His perfect timing and not be impatient with the process.
Are you trusting God with the timing of your life?
Most of the arcade games now dispense tickets after you play in order to redeem the tickets for prizes. It was no surprise that after a very short time each child was looking for the games that would offer the most tickets for their money. One such game had a spinning wheel with various size slots cut into it. The object was to time the release of the token so it could roll down the ramp and enter one of the slots. The thinner the slot, the more tickets you would receive. It wasn't an impossible game; it just took perfect timing, especially to get the token into the thinnest slot. Needless to say, and many tokens later, the kids failed to get the biggest prize and they moved on to something else.
It is amazing how timing plays a major role in our lives. Have you ever had a day where you were feeling down and a friend just "happened" to call or you opened the mail to get an encouraging note or card? Or maybe you just missed getting into an accident or maybe you walked into the store and were the hundredth customer. Everything around us involves perfect timing.
But sometimes we want to be the orchestrators of time. Yes, we need to be punctual to school and work, but sometimes we don't want to wait the time it will take to develop an idea or to mature in our characters. We are so used to a "get it now" attitude that we forget the value of waiting and growing.
Writing is definitely a career that needs perfect timing. It takes time to develop this craft and hone the fine edges of our skill. It doesn't come by rushing. It comes by dedication, persistence, and lots of rejections. But in time our efforts pay off and an article or even a book is accepted.
The timing of course is God's. I know for a fact He called me to write. My efforts and hard work to improve upon this talent will eventually be rewarded. He would not have opened the doors He has opened for me if this were not so. I need to trust Him and His perfect timing and not be impatient with the process.
Are you trusting God with the timing of your life?
Monday, January 21, 2008
In the Midst of Noise
I don't know how I did it. When I first started to write, I was still homeschooling three of my four young children. My computer was (and still is) in the living room of our small house, so when I had to type up stories, I was always in the midst of noise. Thankfully I was able to block out some of it so I could concentrate on content. To this day I am amazed that I was able to do as much as I did under the circumstances.
The kids are now all attending school. My weekdays are full of quiet opportunities to sit and reflect and pray about my writing, and then sit and type (in quiet) at my computer. It is so nice to have this noise-free zone that I rarely play any music or have any other sound (except the washing machine and the hum of the refrigerator) going on. I enjoy these peaceful moments.
But I do get those occasional days (like this Martin Luther King Jr. holiday) where all the kids are home and as noisy as ever. I love my kids, and with four healthy children I am thankful they can be noisy. I can still write with all the clamor, but it's not as easy as when I first started years ago. But when I feel that tug of inspiration, such as writing this blog, then I need to sit down and write -- even in the midst of noise.
The kids are now all attending school. My weekdays are full of quiet opportunities to sit and reflect and pray about my writing, and then sit and type (in quiet) at my computer. It is so nice to have this noise-free zone that I rarely play any music or have any other sound (except the washing machine and the hum of the refrigerator) going on. I enjoy these peaceful moments.
But I do get those occasional days (like this Martin Luther King Jr. holiday) where all the kids are home and as noisy as ever. I love my kids, and with four healthy children I am thankful they can be noisy. I can still write with all the clamor, but it's not as easy as when I first started years ago. But when I feel that tug of inspiration, such as writing this blog, then I need to sit down and write -- even in the midst of noise.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Weekend Reflection
Here's a Scripture to think about over the weekend. It's from Matthew 17:7 --
"But Jesus came and touched them and said,
Arise, and do not be afraid."
Friday, January 18, 2008
There's Nothing Left to Do But Pray
Have you ever watched a movie where someone has gotten into a bad accident or is really sick and the doctor comes out and says, "There's nothing left to do buy pray"? I understand they are trying to say that the outcome is in God's hands, but I don't like how it sounds to me. To me it cheapens prayer.
First of all, prayer should be our first response, not just our last resort. The moment a crisis occurs, we should pray: for peace in our hearts so we can think clearly, for those who are working on a solution, and for a chance to pray with those who are hurting.
Secondly, prayer is powerful. It is our direct link with the Creator of the Universe. It is our hotline without the delay and with much clearer reception. Talk about connections!
One day a friend of mine was having a very difficult time. There was no way I could possibly help the situation beyond giving a hug. But I knew I could pray. I knew God would hear my request and work out the rest according to His will. He could grant my friend the comfort and the peace that was beyond my abilities. He knew exactly what my friend needed and the perfect timing to give it. I was powerless; He was not.
Don't underestimate the power of prayer. God always hears. Trust Him to move.
First of all, prayer should be our first response, not just our last resort. The moment a crisis occurs, we should pray: for peace in our hearts so we can think clearly, for those who are working on a solution, and for a chance to pray with those who are hurting.
Secondly, prayer is powerful. It is our direct link with the Creator of the Universe. It is our hotline without the delay and with much clearer reception. Talk about connections!
One day a friend of mine was having a very difficult time. There was no way I could possibly help the situation beyond giving a hug. But I knew I could pray. I knew God would hear my request and work out the rest according to His will. He could grant my friend the comfort and the peace that was beyond my abilities. He knew exactly what my friend needed and the perfect timing to give it. I was powerless; He was not.
Don't underestimate the power of prayer. God always hears. Trust Him to move.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Wild Winds
We had a terrible windstorm last night. It was so strong that it blew apart two of our tarp-covered carports. My husband had to run outside to cut some of the tarps so that they wouldn't blow the pipes they were attached to into the neighbor's yard.
Our TV antennae was being wildly tossed to and fro on its long pole. We have a skylight in our bathroom, and every so often we would get up and look to see if our antennae was holding up. We feared two things: that it would crash into the skylight or that it would crash down into our other neighbor's yard where their nice new car was very close to our brick wall.
Thankfully, the antennae held, and except for the tarps and a few roof pieces flying away, we came out pretty well. As I drove the kids to school this morning, we were able to see other damage. Small trees were torn in two. Tarp carports had been lifted over houses. A few large trees had uprooted and crashed onto a fence, and in one case, over a car. Palm fronds were everywhere.
During the night, while my girls were shivering in my bed from fear of the noise outside, I thought about the strength of the wind. I couldn't help but think of Jesus on the Sea of Galilee with His disciples. He had fallen asleep on the boat as they were crossing the sea, and a fierce windstorm came up. It tossed the boat so wildly that even the seasoned fishermen on board were afraid. They woke Jesus up and He rebuked the wind and the waves, saying, "Peace, be still!" Immediately there was calm. The disciples were amazed and remarked, "Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!" (see Mark 4:35-41)
It's hard for my young ones sometimes to realize that God is in control despite our surrounding circumstances. As Christians our lives are God-filtered, meaning that the things we encounter have first gone through the screening process of the Creator of the Universe. The windstorm last night was no surprise to God. He was watching over us every single second.
Are you afraid of those sudden storms in life that come charging at you from out of nowhere? Remember, God is in control, and He wants to be your life-filter.
Our TV antennae was being wildly tossed to and fro on its long pole. We have a skylight in our bathroom, and every so often we would get up and look to see if our antennae was holding up. We feared two things: that it would crash into the skylight or that it would crash down into our other neighbor's yard where their nice new car was very close to our brick wall.
Thankfully, the antennae held, and except for the tarps and a few roof pieces flying away, we came out pretty well. As I drove the kids to school this morning, we were able to see other damage. Small trees were torn in two. Tarp carports had been lifted over houses. A few large trees had uprooted and crashed onto a fence, and in one case, over a car. Palm fronds were everywhere.
During the night, while my girls were shivering in my bed from fear of the noise outside, I thought about the strength of the wind. I couldn't help but think of Jesus on the Sea of Galilee with His disciples. He had fallen asleep on the boat as they were crossing the sea, and a fierce windstorm came up. It tossed the boat so wildly that even the seasoned fishermen on board were afraid. They woke Jesus up and He rebuked the wind and the waves, saying, "Peace, be still!" Immediately there was calm. The disciples were amazed and remarked, "Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!" (see Mark 4:35-41)
It's hard for my young ones sometimes to realize that God is in control despite our surrounding circumstances. As Christians our lives are God-filtered, meaning that the things we encounter have first gone through the screening process of the Creator of the Universe. The windstorm last night was no surprise to God. He was watching over us every single second.
Are you afraid of those sudden storms in life that come charging at you from out of nowhere? Remember, God is in control, and He wants to be your life-filter.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Being Crowned
It seems as if I made January my "Let's take care of all my medical and dental appointments" month. I had my physical a week and a half ago, I just had some dental work done, and my mammogram is tomorrow. My mindset hadn't been on taking care of my health issues the first month of the year; it just worked out that way.
But I'm actually glad I'm doing all this now as the new year begins. I had put off my physical for 2 years (I honestly didn't realize it had been that long), and my dental appointment consisted of fitting me for a crown which I had postponed a few months because of insurance billing.
This was my first crown. I had been feeling a little sensitivity in my upper molar, and the dentist knew it was from a slight fracture that my tooth had developed over time. It needed to be covered so the molar could be protected from any further decay.
What a process! Impressions, shots, drilling, shaping, more impressions, and then the reshaping of the temporary crown. Surprisingly it only took about 30 minutes from start to finish. I get my permanent crown in 2 weeks.
I like the fact that a crown fits tightly over my tooth like a glove, providing that all important protective layer. It reminds me of the Holy Spirit that indwells believers and covers us with the holiness of God. Alone I am weak and vulnerable like my teeth. But with Jesus I can be strong and bold because He is in my heart.
Are you covered by Jesus? It is never too late to ask Him into your heart. His coverage is free and lasts beyond this lifetime.
But I'm actually glad I'm doing all this now as the new year begins. I had put off my physical for 2 years (I honestly didn't realize it had been that long), and my dental appointment consisted of fitting me for a crown which I had postponed a few months because of insurance billing.
This was my first crown. I had been feeling a little sensitivity in my upper molar, and the dentist knew it was from a slight fracture that my tooth had developed over time. It needed to be covered so the molar could be protected from any further decay.
What a process! Impressions, shots, drilling, shaping, more impressions, and then the reshaping of the temporary crown. Surprisingly it only took about 30 minutes from start to finish. I get my permanent crown in 2 weeks.
I like the fact that a crown fits tightly over my tooth like a glove, providing that all important protective layer. It reminds me of the Holy Spirit that indwells believers and covers us with the holiness of God. Alone I am weak and vulnerable like my teeth. But with Jesus I can be strong and bold because He is in my heart.
Are you covered by Jesus? It is never too late to ask Him into your heart. His coverage is free and lasts beyond this lifetime.
A Little Bit of Encouragement
Once a month from September to June I meet with a wonderful group of women writers. We bring up to ten pages of our most recent projects, and we read to one another so our work can be critiqued. The rules are simple: you must be encouraging, and you must be nice in your constructive criticisms. I look forward to this group each month (and sorely miss it in the summer), because they are so loving and supportive.
We all feel good when we are encouraged. Kind words lift up our spirits and make us more productive and hopeful. It tends to give us that extra bit of energy we need to finish the job; and to finish it with a smile.
It doesn't take much effort to be encouraging, either. "You're doing a great job!" or "I like how you did that!" can go a long way to brighten a person's day. Unfortunately, we get so bogged down with our own busy-ness that we forget that others need to feel that their efforts are worthwhile, too.
Take a moment to encourage someone. The smile you receive back will make you feel encouraged, too.
We all feel good when we are encouraged. Kind words lift up our spirits and make us more productive and hopeful. It tends to give us that extra bit of energy we need to finish the job; and to finish it with a smile.
It doesn't take much effort to be encouraging, either. "You're doing a great job!" or "I like how you did that!" can go a long way to brighten a person's day. Unfortunately, we get so bogged down with our own busy-ness that we forget that others need to feel that their efforts are worthwhile, too.
Take a moment to encourage someone. The smile you receive back will make you feel encouraged, too.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Shortcuts
I sometimes watch how my kids tackle their chores. You would think that the execution of a simple task would be pretty straight forward. For example, dusting the furniture should mean you pick up and dust the objects on the shelf as well as wipe off the shelf itself. Instead, I get more of the "I'll just dust the edges so I can finish sooner." The kids really try to shortcut their work.
Shortcuts can be good, though. Frank Gilbreth was an efficiency expert in the early 1900's. He would observe a technique and figure out how a company could reduce wasted steps and increase efficiency and productivity. He was remembered in the book, "Cheaper by the Dozen" (which was a great movie in 1950, but was poorly redone several years ago) where we can read how he would try many of his time-reducing methods on some of his twelve children. He was a master of shortcuts for the benefit of those he helped.
Unfortunately, we cannot take shortcuts in our relationship with God. There is no streamlined way to improve our interaction with Him. In fact, I have found that the less time I make with the Lord, the more distant from Him I feel. Quality time with God is made by quantity time: through prayer, worship, Bible reading, and fasting.
James 4:8a says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." If I want a closer relationship, then I need to make the time to build and develop it. If He is my Lord, I need to put Him first. Does that mean I ignore my family when they need me? No, but it does mean that if I have to get up earlier to pray and read my Bible before the others wake up, then that is what I'm to do.
Taking shortcuts with God will only make your distance with Him greater. Instead, invest your time with Him, and you will be amazed at the rewards and benefits you will receive.
Shortcuts can be good, though. Frank Gilbreth was an efficiency expert in the early 1900's. He would observe a technique and figure out how a company could reduce wasted steps and increase efficiency and productivity. He was remembered in the book, "Cheaper by the Dozen" (which was a great movie in 1950, but was poorly redone several years ago) where we can read how he would try many of his time-reducing methods on some of his twelve children. He was a master of shortcuts for the benefit of those he helped.
Unfortunately, we cannot take shortcuts in our relationship with God. There is no streamlined way to improve our interaction with Him. In fact, I have found that the less time I make with the Lord, the more distant from Him I feel. Quality time with God is made by quantity time: through prayer, worship, Bible reading, and fasting.
James 4:8a says, "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." If I want a closer relationship, then I need to make the time to build and develop it. If He is my Lord, I need to put Him first. Does that mean I ignore my family when they need me? No, but it does mean that if I have to get up earlier to pray and read my Bible before the others wake up, then that is what I'm to do.
Taking shortcuts with God will only make your distance with Him greater. Instead, invest your time with Him, and you will be amazed at the rewards and benefits you will receive.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Weekend Note
I will be attending a conference this weekend, so I will not have any posts for a few days. Enjoy your time with family and friends!
Friday, January 11, 2008
The Birth of Ideas
People have asked how I get ideas for the stories and articles I write. I tell them it is through much prayer. It is God who gave me and has helped me develop this talent; therefore, I trust Him to inspire me. And inspire me He has. I will be praying and a thought or storyline will pop into my head. I will be sleeping, having asked Him to speak to me when I went to bed, and a phrase or Scripture will impress itself upon my thoughts. When I wake up I will jot a few notes down so I can develop them later. It's a great partnership.
Sometimes, though, I will pray and nothing happens. I write quarterly articles and draw a comic strip for the Women's Ministry Newsletter of my church. I am sent the theme for the next edition about three months before publication. Usually I have about two to three weeks to prepare my article and cartoon. There have been times that I have prayed and waited for the Lord to respond. Sometimes I have waited up until a few days before the deadline with no inkling of what I am to do. Then all of a sudden an idea is stirred inside my head. I take that idea, sit down with either a piece of paper or my computer keyboard, and begin to work.
I am thankful that the Lord works with me like this. In the early stages of my writing career, I would get a little nervous when a deadline was approaching and no thoughts were transpiring. Now I have learned that the inspirations will come in God's perfect timing. I am just to pray and wait. I have never been disappointed.
Sometimes, though, I will pray and nothing happens. I write quarterly articles and draw a comic strip for the Women's Ministry Newsletter of my church. I am sent the theme for the next edition about three months before publication. Usually I have about two to three weeks to prepare my article and cartoon. There have been times that I have prayed and waited for the Lord to respond. Sometimes I have waited up until a few days before the deadline with no inkling of what I am to do. Then all of a sudden an idea is stirred inside my head. I take that idea, sit down with either a piece of paper or my computer keyboard, and begin to work.
I am thankful that the Lord works with me like this. In the early stages of my writing career, I would get a little nervous when a deadline was approaching and no thoughts were transpiring. Now I have learned that the inspirations will come in God's perfect timing. I am just to pray and wait. I have never been disappointed.
"Commit your works to the LORD,
And your thoughts will be established."
Proverbs 16:3
Thursday, January 10, 2008
UFP's
Are you suffering from UFP's? Have you ever felt restlessness mixed with that gnawing feeling that there is something you are supposed to do? Then you have experienced UFP's.
UFP stands for UnFulfilled Potential. It is a phrase that my friend and I coined several years ago. I first discovered that I had UFP when my friend asked me, "If you could do anything with your life, what would it be?" I had a really tough time answering, mainly because I had put aside any dreams or aspirations to raise my family. In a sense I had stopped developing my potential. This started me really praying to see what it was that God wanted me to do.
I was still supposed to be a loving and supporting wife and mother, but God did not want me to crawl into a hole and lose myself. He had given me gifts to use, and although I was using some of them at that time as a homeschooling mom, I knew in my heart that there was something else that was not getting accomplished.
I turned my UFP into a FP (Fulfilled Potential) after seeking the Lord through prayer and Bible reading over a period of time. I started thinking about the talents He had given me, and I began to see a pattern in those skills. When my friend shared that she wanted to write children's books, I thought about how easy writing was for me and how family members would often call on me to help write letters. I never considered writing as a career. It was just something I was good at. Over time I knew that I had found my FP.
Each one of us has been designed by God. We have been handcrafted with individual personalities and specific skills. We are as unique as our fingerprints. But unless we seek to discover how we are to use this uniqueness, we will always feel unfulfilled. Start seeking the Lord's will for you. In time you will turn your UFP's into FP's.
UFP stands for UnFulfilled Potential. It is a phrase that my friend and I coined several years ago. I first discovered that I had UFP when my friend asked me, "If you could do anything with your life, what would it be?" I had a really tough time answering, mainly because I had put aside any dreams or aspirations to raise my family. In a sense I had stopped developing my potential. This started me really praying to see what it was that God wanted me to do.
I was still supposed to be a loving and supporting wife and mother, but God did not want me to crawl into a hole and lose myself. He had given me gifts to use, and although I was using some of them at that time as a homeschooling mom, I knew in my heart that there was something else that was not getting accomplished.
I turned my UFP into a FP (Fulfilled Potential) after seeking the Lord through prayer and Bible reading over a period of time. I started thinking about the talents He had given me, and I began to see a pattern in those skills. When my friend shared that she wanted to write children's books, I thought about how easy writing was for me and how family members would often call on me to help write letters. I never considered writing as a career. It was just something I was good at. Over time I knew that I had found my FP.
Each one of us has been designed by God. We have been handcrafted with individual personalities and specific skills. We are as unique as our fingerprints. But unless we seek to discover how we are to use this uniqueness, we will always feel unfulfilled. Start seeking the Lord's will for you. In time you will turn your UFP's into FP's.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
While You Wait
Have you ever watched people in a waiting room? Have you noticed how uncomfortable they become the longer they have to wait? I've noticed feet tapping, constant shifting of positions, random perusals of magazines, repeated glances at watches (sometimes several within a minute), and the very audible sighs of the extremely impatient.
I've also noticed the exact opposite: the person absorbed in the latest novel, a grandmother knitting a baby blanket, an old man snoring softly, and a business executive working on his laptop. We all handle waiting differently.
I try to be productive in my waiting. I have learned over the years that it does me no good to murmur and complain. There are many situations beyond my control, so why should I get stressed while I wait? Do I really need to worry about this doctor's visit or the fact that the delay will cause me to make a late dinner? I find I better make the best use of my time now, because, frankly, sometimes I have so very little of it.
When I wait, I try to work on writing deadlines or on a plot for my latest novel. Or I will grab that magazine that has been sitting in my "To Read" file so I can move it to the "Round File" (a.k.a. the trash can). For the times that I've forgotten to bring something to do, I know I can always pray silently for family and friends or I can just sit and listen to what the Lord has been trying to say to me all day.
Turn waiting into productivity. Turn it into a joy. The results will be worth the wait.
I've also noticed the exact opposite: the person absorbed in the latest novel, a grandmother knitting a baby blanket, an old man snoring softly, and a business executive working on his laptop. We all handle waiting differently.
I try to be productive in my waiting. I have learned over the years that it does me no good to murmur and complain. There are many situations beyond my control, so why should I get stressed while I wait? Do I really need to worry about this doctor's visit or the fact that the delay will cause me to make a late dinner? I find I better make the best use of my time now, because, frankly, sometimes I have so very little of it.
When I wait, I try to work on writing deadlines or on a plot for my latest novel. Or I will grab that magazine that has been sitting in my "To Read" file so I can move it to the "Round File" (a.k.a. the trash can). For the times that I've forgotten to bring something to do, I know I can always pray silently for family and friends or I can just sit and listen to what the Lord has been trying to say to me all day.
Turn waiting into productivity. Turn it into a joy. The results will be worth the wait.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
A Measure of Success
How do you measure success? Is it by the car you drive or the fancy phone with all the latest gadgets? Is it by the number of friends you have or by the number of sales you made at the office?
A family friend once told me, "You are going to be successful." That was over 20 years ago. My perceptions of success have greatly changed over the past two decades.
At one time I had dreams of driving a convertible and living in a mansion with horses. I never achieved any of those (not even close!); frankly, I'm glad I didn't. So how do I measure success now? I measure it by using the gifts God gave me to the best of my ability by actively calling on Him to bless them according to His will.
God has gifted everyone with at least one skill or talent. Are you good at drawing? Are you a great cook? Do people come to you for financial or personal advice? A person is a success when they properly use their talents because they then become a blessing to those who are touched by those gifts.
Five years ago I realized that my gift was in writing. I may never be a world success like J.K. Rawlings (and I know I would not want to follow in her footsteps), but if I use my gift to bring goodness, hope, love, and encouragement to even one person, then I have been successful with what God has called me to do.
How should you measure success? The best way is God's way.
A family friend once told me, "You are going to be successful." That was over 20 years ago. My perceptions of success have greatly changed over the past two decades.
At one time I had dreams of driving a convertible and living in a mansion with horses. I never achieved any of those (not even close!); frankly, I'm glad I didn't. So how do I measure success now? I measure it by using the gifts God gave me to the best of my ability by actively calling on Him to bless them according to His will.
God has gifted everyone with at least one skill or talent. Are you good at drawing? Are you a great cook? Do people come to you for financial or personal advice? A person is a success when they properly use their talents because they then become a blessing to those who are touched by those gifts.
Five years ago I realized that my gift was in writing. I may never be a world success like J.K. Rawlings (and I know I would not want to follow in her footsteps), but if I use my gift to bring goodness, hope, love, and encouragement to even one person, then I have been successful with what God has called me to do.
How should you measure success? The best way is God's way.
"And may the Lord our God show us His approval
and make our efforts successful.
Yes, make our efforts successful."
Psalm 90:17
New Living Translation
Monday, January 7, 2008
Up Scale
I don't mind going to the doctor's for my physical. I know it's something I must do each year or so to maintain my health and make sure that my body is not hiding any surprises. But the one thing I don't like (besides the usual boring wait in the waiting room) is having to step on that scale.
I really think those scales are rigged. I always come off weighing more that I know I weigh. This time it was even worse. I purposely weighed myself at home after I showered. Then, being winter, I dressed in the lightest of my warm clothes. I figured that with my shoes I probably was carrying an extra three pounds. So when I stepped on that scale (and I made sure my jacket and purse did not touch that big black stand), I was really amazed that within a space of two hours I weighed ten pounds more than my scale had read!
That weight is now on my permanent record; and I had just lost a few pounds, too. Talk about frustration.
God's scales, however, are perfect and true. He takes my life and measures it by His holiness. On my own, I will always be overweight and out of balance. No amount of exercise or changes in diet on my part can ever change that. But through Jesus, my imbalance is changed into Christ's perfection. God looks at me as if I am standing on evenly balanced scales, and as long as I have Jesus in my heart that will never change. What a wonderful mark to have on my permanent eternal record!
I really think those scales are rigged. I always come off weighing more that I know I weigh. This time it was even worse. I purposely weighed myself at home after I showered. Then, being winter, I dressed in the lightest of my warm clothes. I figured that with my shoes I probably was carrying an extra three pounds. So when I stepped on that scale (and I made sure my jacket and purse did not touch that big black stand), I was really amazed that within a space of two hours I weighed ten pounds more than my scale had read!
That weight is now on my permanent record; and I had just lost a few pounds, too. Talk about frustration.
God's scales, however, are perfect and true. He takes my life and measures it by His holiness. On my own, I will always be overweight and out of balance. No amount of exercise or changes in diet on my part can ever change that. But through Jesus, my imbalance is changed into Christ's perfection. God looks at me as if I am standing on evenly balanced scales, and as long as I have Jesus in my heart that will never change. What a wonderful mark to have on my permanent eternal record!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Sunday Morning Reflection
Being Sunday I thought it would be appropriate to set aside my normal banter and leave a verse from the Bible for personal reflection.
"Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD.
Each morning I bring my requests to you
and wait expectantly."
Psalm 5:3
New Living Translation
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Going Gray
I found another gray hair this morning. For the last year or two I have seen a few crop up sporadically. Thankfully I still have enough natural highlights in my hair so I can pull each strand out before it becomes too obvious to all. I know that inevitably my efforts will be futile and the gray will eventually take over, but at least now I can fool myself into thinking that I am not getting older too quickly.
I guess we get ourselves into thinking that once we get past a certain age, our usefulness diminishes. The world is so full of ads geared to the youth, showing vibrant people with terrific bodies running down the beach or playing sports and having the time of their lives. Even though we know better, we sometimes get pulled into that way of thinking when it comes to our productivity.
Then I look into God's Word. I see that the Lord called both Jeremiah and Samuel at very early ages in their lives, but He also called Abraham (then known as Abram) at the age of 75 and Moses at the age of 80. God did great works through these men over a long period of time. They didn't stop because they got old; they kept going because they were following after God.
God didn't call me to start writing until I was forty. To a person who finished college and had a career going before getting married at the age of thirty, forty was late for a career change. But I don't question God's timing. The first forty years of my life were preparatory. God knew I would need something to write about and kids I would need to write for.
Don't let age be the judge of your usefulness. God can show you the value of your life. Just ask Him and wait for His response.
I guess we get ourselves into thinking that once we get past a certain age, our usefulness diminishes. The world is so full of ads geared to the youth, showing vibrant people with terrific bodies running down the beach or playing sports and having the time of their lives. Even though we know better, we sometimes get pulled into that way of thinking when it comes to our productivity.
Then I look into God's Word. I see that the Lord called both Jeremiah and Samuel at very early ages in their lives, but He also called Abraham (then known as Abram) at the age of 75 and Moses at the age of 80. God did great works through these men over a long period of time. They didn't stop because they got old; they kept going because they were following after God.
God didn't call me to start writing until I was forty. To a person who finished college and had a career going before getting married at the age of thirty, forty was late for a career change. But I don't question God's timing. The first forty years of my life were preparatory. God knew I would need something to write about and kids I would need to write for.
Don't let age be the judge of your usefulness. God can show you the value of your life. Just ask Him and wait for His response.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Operation Orange
(One of my goals for 2008 is to start a website so I can post some of my stories and articles. Until then I will post an article or two every now and then. I wrote this one several years ago after the Lord inspired me in the wee small hours of the morning. It is still one of my favorites.)
Have you taken time to look at an orange? It is roundish in shape; not a perfect sphere, but close. It is firm. It is fragrant. It has promise of something wonderful inside.
But in order to get to the fruit, there must be some dramatic changes. We have to peel away the flesh in order to expose what lies beneath. We have to get our fingers dirty and stained as we struggle to remove that often stubborn skin. We may get a spritz from the orange peel as we pull it away, and it may take time to remove the entire outer layer since sometimes it sticks to the fruit. But once we are done, we have a marvelous, refreshing treat that sates the palate and strengthens the body with vitamins and nutrients.
We are like an orange waiting to be peeled. We have a storehouse of talents that the Lord has given us that lies beneath our surface, waiting to be revealed. Oftentimes we don’t want to take the time to remove the layer of protection. We don’t want to expose ourselves to our fears and vulnerabilities since once we peel away our skin, we are left raw and naked. We don’t want the world to see our weaknesses, and we don’t want to expend the physical, emotional and spiritual energy it takes to reveal our true selves. Yet, without the exposure, we lose out on the true beauty of the fruit.
Let’s look at our orange again. If we leave it sitting around, it either becomes shrunken as it breaks down on the inside, or it gets moldy and rotten. Either way, what lay beneath the outer skin is no longer there. It has wasted away. Its purpose no longer exists because it now cannot be eaten and enjoyed.
If we don’t make the effort to get our nails dirty in order to delve into the gifts God gave us, we will be like that old orange. We will become useless instead of useful. We will be wasting away instead of fulfilling our purpose of glorifying God. We may not end up in the trash or the compost pile like a rotten orange, but we will know deep in our hearts that something was lacking; something was left undone.
Risk the exposure. Risk the time. Because when we correctly use those special talents the Lord has individually given us, we will one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant…” (Matt. 25:21a).
Have you taken time to look at an orange? It is roundish in shape; not a perfect sphere, but close. It is firm. It is fragrant. It has promise of something wonderful inside.
But in order to get to the fruit, there must be some dramatic changes. We have to peel away the flesh in order to expose what lies beneath. We have to get our fingers dirty and stained as we struggle to remove that often stubborn skin. We may get a spritz from the orange peel as we pull it away, and it may take time to remove the entire outer layer since sometimes it sticks to the fruit. But once we are done, we have a marvelous, refreshing treat that sates the palate and strengthens the body with vitamins and nutrients.
We are like an orange waiting to be peeled. We have a storehouse of talents that the Lord has given us that lies beneath our surface, waiting to be revealed. Oftentimes we don’t want to take the time to remove the layer of protection. We don’t want to expose ourselves to our fears and vulnerabilities since once we peel away our skin, we are left raw and naked. We don’t want the world to see our weaknesses, and we don’t want to expend the physical, emotional and spiritual energy it takes to reveal our true selves. Yet, without the exposure, we lose out on the true beauty of the fruit.
Let’s look at our orange again. If we leave it sitting around, it either becomes shrunken as it breaks down on the inside, or it gets moldy and rotten. Either way, what lay beneath the outer skin is no longer there. It has wasted away. Its purpose no longer exists because it now cannot be eaten and enjoyed.
If we don’t make the effort to get our nails dirty in order to delve into the gifts God gave us, we will be like that old orange. We will become useless instead of useful. We will be wasting away instead of fulfilling our purpose of glorifying God. We may not end up in the trash or the compost pile like a rotten orange, but we will know deep in our hearts that something was lacking; something was left undone.
Risk the exposure. Risk the time. Because when we correctly use those special talents the Lord has individually given us, we will one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant…” (Matt. 25:21a).
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Spousal Support
Two days after Christmas my husband found out he had high cholestrol. He was suddenly told, after a holiday filled with much feasting, that he had to change his diet and lose weight. No more of my Mom's stuffed baked potatoes. No more flour tortillas. No more ice cream! I'm sure it was tough news to hear, but he decided that this course of action was much better than taking the medication the doctor was suggesting.
I think this was a blessing in disguise. I had been worrying about his weight problem, knowing that the extra pounds put much stress on the body. Of course I would have loved it if he would have listened to my advice months ago, but at least he is now listening to his doctor.
I've decided to give him lots of spousal support. I will eat similar foods, and I'm pulling out my cookbooks, searching the net, and finding out tons of information on healthier alternatives. No more white flour and white sugar for him. No more chips and no after dinner snacking. I even made him whole wheat flour tortillas (which were so good the kids even liked them).
The other day we went to lunch at In-N-Out, a local chain of delicious hamburgers here in California. They can make you a Protien-style burger, which is essentially a burger wrapped in lettuce instead of the bun. It was very good! I think I'm going to enjoy this new search for better foods.
I think it is very important to support your spouse. It makes them feel that they are not in this struggle alone. It makes them feel loved and encouraged. It may be a little inconvenient sometimes for us to support them wholeheartedly, but it will strengthen your relationship and it will be much better for everyone in the end.
I think this was a blessing in disguise. I had been worrying about his weight problem, knowing that the extra pounds put much stress on the body. Of course I would have loved it if he would have listened to my advice months ago, but at least he is now listening to his doctor.
I've decided to give him lots of spousal support. I will eat similar foods, and I'm pulling out my cookbooks, searching the net, and finding out tons of information on healthier alternatives. No more white flour and white sugar for him. No more chips and no after dinner snacking. I even made him whole wheat flour tortillas (which were so good the kids even liked them).
The other day we went to lunch at In-N-Out, a local chain of delicious hamburgers here in California. They can make you a Protien-style burger, which is essentially a burger wrapped in lettuce instead of the bun. It was very good! I think I'm going to enjoy this new search for better foods.
I think it is very important to support your spouse. It makes them feel that they are not in this struggle alone. It makes them feel loved and encouraged. It may be a little inconvenient sometimes for us to support them wholeheartedly, but it will strengthen your relationship and it will be much better for everyone in the end.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Why a Blog?
One of the things I have learned as a Christian is that it is very wise to pray about every decision I have to make. When I thought the Lord was calling me to write, I wanted His confirmation. I prayed and read my Bible, asking the Lord to speak clearly. A theme kept coming up in the Scriptures I received. The New Living Translation of 1 Chronicles 16:24 says it best: "Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does."
While I was praying, my friend and I kept coming up with great story ideas that we eventually wrote out. These stories carried the underlining theme of God's great love for us through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. We felt very strongly about these stories, especially since we felt that even kids needed the hope of the Lord in their lives. We sent out some of these to publishers, but we received many rejections letters.
In the meantime, I became convinced that God had called me to write. I began to write inspirational articles and stories that have since been published or are in the process of being published. I have also written stories for the secular market, one of which will be published in picture book form in the near future.
The last several months, though, I kept getting the same theme again in my Bible reading. I was to publish to all the nations the wonderful things God has done, but how? Didn't the stories and articles I wrote count? The stories my friend and I did still remain unpublished, so how was I supposed to accomplish this? I began to pray again. I could build a website, but that took money and technical know-how. I am pretty techno-savvy, but the process to learn was taking a bit too long. Then my friend, Nancy, started a writing blog and I had my answer.
A blog is easy. It can go directly to your e-mail account through a RSS feed, so when a new posting is listed you will have immediate access to it. It is free, which helps out in a tight budget, and I can build an audience so that when I do finally launch my website I will have people who will want to visit. So my number one resolution for 2008 was to start a blog. I can check that resolution off my list.
Will my postings only be about things of God? Not necessarily, but I cannot separate my faith from who I am. Jesus Christ is in my heart; therefore, my actions must reflect the light that is now in me whether directly or indirectly. I can just as easily reflect that light in a story that has good moral value even if I never mention God in it. This blog is not for Christians only. It is for anyone who wants encouragement and hope and inspiration. Of course, the only way I can truly share that is to show what God has done for me and others in my life.
While I was praying, my friend and I kept coming up with great story ideas that we eventually wrote out. These stories carried the underlining theme of God's great love for us through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. We felt very strongly about these stories, especially since we felt that even kids needed the hope of the Lord in their lives. We sent out some of these to publishers, but we received many rejections letters.
In the meantime, I became convinced that God had called me to write. I began to write inspirational articles and stories that have since been published or are in the process of being published. I have also written stories for the secular market, one of which will be published in picture book form in the near future.
The last several months, though, I kept getting the same theme again in my Bible reading. I was to publish to all the nations the wonderful things God has done, but how? Didn't the stories and articles I wrote count? The stories my friend and I did still remain unpublished, so how was I supposed to accomplish this? I began to pray again. I could build a website, but that took money and technical know-how. I am pretty techno-savvy, but the process to learn was taking a bit too long. Then my friend, Nancy, started a writing blog and I had my answer.
A blog is easy. It can go directly to your e-mail account through a RSS feed, so when a new posting is listed you will have immediate access to it. It is free, which helps out in a tight budget, and I can build an audience so that when I do finally launch my website I will have people who will want to visit. So my number one resolution for 2008 was to start a blog. I can check that resolution off my list.
Will my postings only be about things of God? Not necessarily, but I cannot separate my faith from who I am. Jesus Christ is in my heart; therefore, my actions must reflect the light that is now in me whether directly or indirectly. I can just as easily reflect that light in a story that has good moral value even if I never mention God in it. This blog is not for Christians only. It is for anyone who wants encouragement and hope and inspiration. Of course, the only way I can truly share that is to show what God has done for me and others in my life.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Beginnings
I never considered writing as a career option when I was growing up. I started as an engineering major in college and graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Cinema with an emphasis in cinematography. Although I did dabble in that industry for awhile, God had other plans for me. Of course, it took me many years to figure that out.
About six years ago my friend, Gaby, told me she dreamed of writing children's books, but she struggled with grammar. I was very good at grammar, so I decided to help her develop her writing skills. But in helping her, my interest in writing increased. I started to enjoy putting words down onto paper to create a story or to develop an idea, especially as I felt the Lord giving me the ideas to write about. Within about two years I knew in my heart that writing was my calling in life (besides being a full-time wife and mother).
I first became published in 2003 in the women's ministry newsletter of our church. I also had a cartoon published in that issue (I draw comic strips as well, which I will put on this blog every once in awhile). Ever since then I have been a quarterly contributor of both inspirational articles and cartoons. I first got paid for my work in 2004 when a few of my stories were accepted for a private school's reading program. The Lord has opened many doors since then, including publication of non-fiction and fiction articles in some national children's magazines. Currently I am negotiating a contract for my first non-fiction picture book (more of that in the future).
Gaby still desires to write. She is a wonderful idea person and we have collaborated on several projects that we are still trying to get published. You may see her adding a few posts here and there because she has amazing insight and is a great encourager, and you will be blessed by what she has to say. In fact, it was she who originally said we are Riding God's Coattails, hence the name of this blog.
Thanks for stopping by. There will be more to come as the days and weeks progress, so come back often!
About six years ago my friend, Gaby, told me she dreamed of writing children's books, but she struggled with grammar. I was very good at grammar, so I decided to help her develop her writing skills. But in helping her, my interest in writing increased. I started to enjoy putting words down onto paper to create a story or to develop an idea, especially as I felt the Lord giving me the ideas to write about. Within about two years I knew in my heart that writing was my calling in life (besides being a full-time wife and mother).
I first became published in 2003 in the women's ministry newsletter of our church. I also had a cartoon published in that issue (I draw comic strips as well, which I will put on this blog every once in awhile). Ever since then I have been a quarterly contributor of both inspirational articles and cartoons. I first got paid for my work in 2004 when a few of my stories were accepted for a private school's reading program. The Lord has opened many doors since then, including publication of non-fiction and fiction articles in some national children's magazines. Currently I am negotiating a contract for my first non-fiction picture book (more of that in the future).
Gaby still desires to write. She is a wonderful idea person and we have collaborated on several projects that we are still trying to get published. You may see her adding a few posts here and there because she has amazing insight and is a great encourager, and you will be blessed by what she has to say. In fact, it was she who originally said we are Riding God's Coattails, hence the name of this blog.
Thanks for stopping by. There will be more to come as the days and weeks progress, so come back often!
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