I Googled to see if there was a template to follow in writing about my father’s life.
Dad had dementia and it was hard to see past the last fourteen years of confusion. But dementia is a disease, not a definition of a person’s worth, and there was more to his story.
When Dad came to live with our family, he found companionship in his Bible and in books. His own brain played tricks on him, but books gave him a way to connect with the world of words and ideas. His dementia got to the point where he wasn’t always able to express himself with words, but when we asked him to pray at mealtime something happened. Dad suddenly had clarity and was able to articulate what he wanted to say to his Heavenly Father. Because of Dad’s prayers, we were able to listen in to his direct line to the Father’s heart.
Many people were beneficiaries of Dad’s prayers. He loved people and showed a great interest in their lives. My sister and I often joked he was the man of twenty questions, looking for ways to connect the dots with the intersection of our paths.
Those paths took some twists and turns, but Dad clung to his faith in God and His plan. Dad can now say with Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV
Exercise:
What would your obituary say? Make a list of what you want included, with dates of highlights in your life. Who is special to you? What is important? What personal touches would you add? *
Maybe you’re not satisfied with what you see? It’s not too late to change your obit. Make a new list with passions from your bucket list. Paul says, “I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24 NIV
May our obituaries testify to the grace of God at work in our lives.
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work… is finished. 1 Chronicles 28:20 (NIV)
David had big plans. The Lord had stirred his heart and emotions to build a magnificent temple to honor God. He was so excited about the concept that he hired stonecutters and amassed materials for the job site. David donned his construction hat and tool belt and headed to work.
God had other plans. David was assigned the role of visionary, and Solomon the task of builder. David’s anointing and authority didn’t change, but his job title did.
Was David disappointed? He pivoted to follow the new blueprint and bring his son on board. He organized the leaders and cast the vision. David explained the succession route and conferred the plan, entrusting the vision into another’s hands.
Exercise:
1 Kings 5 says cedar and pine logs were commissioned and floated by rafts on sea from Lebanon. Chapter 6 outlines the details at the stone quarry and respect shown for the Lord by silencing tools while building on site. The temple was paneled, carved, and lavishly decorated. It took seven years to finish.
What idea has God entrusted to you? 1 Chronicles 28:2
Write down the details. 1 Chronicles 28:19
What pieces of the map do you need to organize? 1 Chronicles 28:1
Affirm your calling. 1 Chronicles 28:9
How will you rise to the challenge? 1 Chronicles 28:20
Whom will you enlist to help with the work—prayer warriors, beta team, cheerleaders? 1 Chronicles 28:21
Does your WIP feel overwhelming? The intricate designs of the temple must have been mind-boggling. Stone by stone, the shape formed into a building and the building became a wonderful sight to behold. You will see progress as your outline morphs into chapters and chapters into a book. You are a writer with a plan that will require all your resources. Be strong and courageous. Set your project into action and let the momentum of steps accomplished carry you forward. Do not let fear, dismay, or overwhelm sidetrack you, for the Lord your God is with you. He will not fail or forsake you but will equip you to finish the work He has established!
What is your next block to set into place?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28 (NIV)
Our local Fall Festival hosted a Horse Pull. Belgians and Percherons presented muscular bodies and fancy tack. The shaved manes produced a stately sight with harness buckles gleaming in the sun. We watched the massive beasts take their cue to move in line with the weighted sled. They pranced impatiently as their handlers hefted the bar to hook to the stone boat, starting at 2,000 pounds. With one word and a flick of the reins, the handlers strained against the jump when the animals sprang into action. 600 pounds were added to the sled after each round. Six teams narrowed down to four, then three, until the last teams competed for the most powerful title.
Exercise:
In Abba’s Child, Brennan Manning says, “It takes a profound conversion to accept that God is relentlessly tender and compassionate toward us just as we are—not in spite of our sins and faults (that would not be total acceptance), but with them.” (p. 3)
If we understood God as a teammate instead of a taskmaster would that change our approach to working with Him, instead of against Him?
The Black Team of Draft horses struggled against their harnesses and each other. They were jumpy, jittery, and jumbled in their pulls. The Chestnut Team flexed smoothly in unison. They heard their master’s prompts and functioned as one unit, resulting in a beautiful picture of cohesiveness.
The Black Team exhibited wild fear. The Chestnut Team displayed peaceful confidence. Which would you rather emulate?
Look up the following verses and respond.
Matthew 11:29-30. What does it mean to be yoked with God?
John 14:16-17, 26. How does God team up with us?
Hebrews 13:20-21. What will God equip you with?
2 Corinthians 9:8. What does God supply?
Do these verses refer to a tyrant or a tandem ally? Brennan Manning says, “My own journey has taught me that only when I feel safe with God do I feel safe with myself.” (p. 14)
The times when I jump ahead of the Lord’s plan, my self-sufficiency leaves me weary and worn.Instead, I am learning to trust the loving care of my heavenly Father to work in unison with Him, realizing a much better outcome in the daily pulls of life.
How will you team up with God?
Resource:
Abba’s Child: The Cry of the Heart for Intimate Belonging, by Brennan Manning. NavPress, 2015.
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
What do dishes and despair have in common? For author and speaker, Patsy Clairmont, doing the dishes became the first step out of depression. She recalls the time the Lord nudged her to tackle that one thing when everything looked overwhelming. And as the suds washed over each plate, Patsy felt the burden lift and the courage descend to tackle the next project.
I can relate to Patsy’s despair as I have struggled with depression for most of my adult life. It is hard to do anything when all is in overwhelm. So, I often tell myself to just do the next thing. When my To Do List says it will never be done, I remember Patsy and her sink full of dishes. If it helped Patsy to take the next step, then surely it can help me.
Exercise:
Does overwhelm attack your writing life? Experts tell us a myriad of things to add to our list to grow our online presence. Things like lead magnets to grow an email list. An email list to grow our customer base. A customer base to develop through online courses. Online courses to expand our reach. Whoa. Did the cart get ahead of the horse? What happened to the call to write and spread the message?
Look up the following verses and respond.
2 Peter 3:14. What are we to do?
2 Peter 1:5-8. What qualities will help us be effective and productive?
John 15:4-5. What happens when we stay connected to Jesus?
Titus 3:14. What must we learn, and why?
Ephesians 2:10. What’s on God’s To Do List for you?
How can you create a plan that will enable you to see the smaller, more doable step?
Break down the action needed to reach your desired goal.
Brainstorm scenarios to accomplish your objective.
Be proactive to celebrate the wins.
“Instead of pursuing every new opportunity, focus on what God has already given you. Take good care of it, and He will grow it.”
Coach Kristin Dronchi
Remember the call God laid on your writing and submit it back to Him for safe keeping. He will not abandon the work He began in you.
He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 (NIV)
A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.
Luke 8:5-8 (NIV)
People were coming in droves to hear Jesus preach. Some stories were puzzling, like this one. The disciples quizzed their Master and Luke 8:11-15 says the seed represented how the word of God is received in our hearts. Will we be unhearing, unrooted, immature, or quit?
Exercise:
A writer went out to sow his words. As he was submitting his work, some got lost in email; they were irretrievably lost in the world wide web. Some fell on the slush pile, and when it came up, the stories withered because they had no hook. Other WIPs fell among hard times when pub houses closed and took down unsuspecting authors. Still other articles fell to editors. They came to be published, shared, and reached a wide audience.
How will an author get noticed when so much can affect our work? C. Hope Clark says the secret is to “keep 13 in play.”When you keep thirteen submissions out at any time, you will be more prolific in producing and publishing your words.
Thirteen? Where will I come up with that many ideas? Have you bought aMarket Guide yet, or asked your reference librarian to help you find one? Writer’s Digest produces an annual Writer’s Market. Steve Laube has The Christian Writers’ Market Guide. There’s soil for fiction, non-fiction, children, and every imaginable genre. Use it to spark ideas and pursue new venues.
How to sow the seed:
Compilations. A call out for submissions will alert you to themed books. This genre will get your name in print and give you discounts on copies to sell to your friends.
Online opportunities. Most are not paid but provide writing credits for your resume.
Blogging. Exchange blog posts with another and expand the audience reach for both.
Paid gigs. Search the Market Guide for publications that pay for your words.
Books. Do you have a passion for a subject? Maybe it’s time to prime it!
Where will you sow your words?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
Shortly after entering the doors of the nursing home, I heard the announcement.
“Code Black.”
Not knowing protocol, I asked an aide about it.
“It’s the notice of bad weather and to move everyone into the hallway.”
By this time, the aisle was congested with people, walkers, and wheelchairs. Blankets were handed out and residents settled into chairs to wait. No one panicked. No one looked around anxiously. Life went on.
What caused this calm to rest on our heads? Outside, the storm raged. Inside, staff were prepared and levelheaded in their steps to safety. One checked names on her clipboard. Another checked rooms for occupants. All connected with needs in front of them. They were alert and knew what to do in the event of an emergency.
Exercise:
When might a writer be faced with an urgent need for words? A forgotten deadline, a new callout for submissions, or an email from an editor looking for a filler might all be possibilities.
How could a writer be prepared for the unknown?
You may already be doing this practice without realizing it helps you be ready. It’s known as a Tickler File (something tickles your fancy), Idea (a pop of inspiration), or Illustration File (stories to fill out your article). This spot has quotes that stuck out to you, stories jotted on a restaurant napkin, or scribbles from a middle of the night brainstorm. It might include newspaper clippings, photos, or something jotted in your journal. Whenever an idea sprouts, that’s the time to record it for later retrieval.
Designate a place for your own Tickler File. It can be in a composition notebook or on your computer, in a file cabinet or on your phone. Be an observer of life and write down what you see. Watch people and note characteristics. You’ll find your writing develop stronger themes and story arcs.
The Lord also encourages us to be alert to opportunities.
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”
2 Timothy 4:2 admonishes (NIV)
When we’re ready for the unexpected, then we’re ready for anything!
What will you add to your Tickler File?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
The motor roared to life when I put the key into the ignition, and I carefully backed out of the garage. The throaty sound always made me chuckle and feel a little self-conscious pulling out of the driveway. On my way to my first Cruise-In, I marveled at the bravado I felt. What on earth had possessed me to attend solo?
The car idled while I waited in line. I joined others in search of a parking spot and brought it to rest next to a restored Coupe. Muscle cars, souped up hot rods, motorcycles, and VW classics all gleamed with their spiffed-up paint jobs while owners chatted nearby. I had entered a new world of restored glory.
I popped the trunk and opened my box of books. The latest collaborative included three of my devotionals about road trips and boasted a cover with a VW minivan. What better way to debut my copies than out of the trunk of our 1965 Mustang?
Exercise:
Marketing can feel scary until you shift your perspective. When you focus on the message instead of the messenger it takes the spotlight off of you and turns it on to focus on what God wants you to share with the world. Take a cue from Jesus. He tailored His message to His audience:
Fishermen and _______ of men. Matthew 4:18-19.
Farmers and _______ the seed. Matthew 13:3-8, 18-23.
Shepherds and ______ sheep. Matthew 18:12-14.
What is your message?
How can you tailor it to your audience?
What kind of hook will draw attention to your theme?
Where does your audience like to hang out?
What is their perceived need?
How will you try something new to bring a fresh perspective to an old need?
“History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.”
(Ecclesiastes 1:9 NLT)
God said, “For I’m going to do a brand-new thing. See, I have already begun! Don’t you see it?” (Isaiah 43:19 TLB)
Who would you rather listen to? God has a design for your message and will inspire the way you wrap it to present it to the world. Don’t let the term, marketing, intimidate you. Think about what you would do to get your car ready for a show. My hubby washed ours, polished it, and vacuumed it out. He scrubbed the floor mats and shined the windows.
What will you do to get your message ready?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Wrapping up our Zoom call, my friend and I double checked our lists. The last hour and a half-included rehashing two retreat schedules, rehearsing staging, and measuring the grocery list. Even our lists were thoroughly vetted, and the timetables held up for scrutiny.
At last, we were satisfied we had done our best to prepare and said our goodbyes. Immediately thinking of two more things, I typed out the texts and set down my phone.
The details matter when events combine into a road trip. Airline schedules, event planners, and audiences flow around their own calendars. All must be organized in order to strategize.
In Ecclesiastes, Solomon said there is a time for everything. There is a time for planning so that the direction is mapped out. There is a time for preparation and attending to the details. Then there is a time to execute the plan and follow through to see the final product. Each step is necessary to travel to the destination.
Each step is a part of the journey of a writer.
Exercise:
Read Exodus 23:20. How does knowing the Lord goes before you encourage you to keep writing? What could He guard for safe keeping? What place or audience is prepared for your message?
Hebrews 13:5 in the NIV says, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Knowing God’s presence is with you as you write, contemplate, and muse, what assurance do you gain?
Read Isaiah 52:12. Are you writing in a hurry? Are your words coming with a fury? What does it mean to you that the Lord goes before you and comes behind you?
Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-15, 17. Write out your timetable and submit it to the Lord for safekeeping. He will let you know when the time is right to release your words.
Has the journey to being published left you exhausted? Take heart! David and his companions were weary from their travels. But they arrived and you will too. They found refreshment and you will too! (Check out 2 Samuel 16:14.)
The journey of a writer requires planning (mapping out the directions), preparation (attending to the details), and executing the plan (follow through to the finish).
May your travels be eventful and thoroughly scrutinized for the lessons yet to be gleaned.
Where will your words take you?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
A wedding launched Jesus’ ministry. His mom was there. His friends were there. None of them could have guessed what would happen that day. Maybe not even Jesus—He said He wasn’t ready. But His mom was persuasive. She asked for help and Jesus responded.
Has a need propelled you to writea post, an article, or a book?
Has it seized your imagination and compelled you to act? How have you launched that response into the stratosphere?
Jesus saw the jars used for ceremonial washing and had an idea. (Sometimes all it takes is an idea!) From there, the idea morphed into action and action produced the result that rocked the world.
How will your idea lead to action and change the course of events for another?
The thing that’s so interesting is His choice of vessel. What was used for ceremony and ritual, held what represented His blood, sacrifice, and atonement. No longer needing religious ceremony, we now come in relationship as we are cleansed by the blood of Jesus!
What vessel will you use to launch your product?
Maybe it is an everyday object like a post on social media, or something set aside for special use, like a Launch Party where you sign your books.
You may feel like you’re not ready. Is it time to step out in faith?
Exercise:
Read John 2:1-11
Be where you need to be. John 2:2. Are you connecting with other writers who can take the journey with you?
Identify the need. John 2:3.
Confront your obstacles. John 2:4. What is holding you back?
Take a step to solve the problem. John 2:6-7. What tools are available?
Involve others in the solution. John 2:7-8. Do you have a Prayer Team, a Launch Team, or a Dream Team? Each group has a specific function to help in your quest. Let them be a part of the solution. They will feel needed and celebrate the results with you.
Test your project and get feedback. John 2:8-9. Book reviews and endorsements help others know about your Grand Idea.
Trust the results in God’s hands. John 2:11. Your timing may not feel right but God’s timing is perfect. May we be ready to step out in faith when God says, “Go.”
Why are you in despair, my soul? And why are you restless within me? Wait for God, for I will again praise Him For the help of His presence, my God.
Psalm 42:11 (NASB)
Have you heard this one? Why did the preacher give a sermon on gardening? Because he wanted to talk about “soul”-ful planting.
My husband is a pastor, so I think we’ve heard every preacher joke. But taking care of yourself is not a joking matter. Have you ever considered we are all pastors to our own soul? In Psalm 42:11, David spoke to his soul and gave himself instructions to change his perspective. We speak to ourselves all the time. I’ve heard another say, “You idiot, why did you do that?” Or, “Duh. What a dumb thing to say!”
Our Women’s Bible Study Group is working through a book where Lauren Ibach says,
“When we continually preach the gospel to ourselves and seek Jesus through His Word and prayer, we are strengthened by Christ and our joy increases!”
The phrase, “preach the gospel to ourselves,” captured my imagination. What if we spoke life into ourselves instead of defeat? What if we encouraged our hearts like David instead of belittling our efforts?
Exercise:
Kathy Carlton Willis says, “The work that takes place in our souls is as important as measurable productivity.” How would you measure soul care? What goals could you set to work on the nurture of your inner life?
Edie Melson says, “Writing is an exhausting endeavor, and we cannot do it effectively when the well is dry.” What can you do to refill your well? What refreshes and energizes you?
Read Psalm 103:1. What did the author tell himself to do? How does praise change your focus?
Read Matthew 16:24-27. What does Jesus say we must do to preserve our soul? Why does relinquishment go against our natural inclination?
Read 2 Timothy 4:17. What are we to do? Who is with us? Where is He? How does He help? Why is this action important?
As we “preach the gospel to ourselves,” we are reinforcing the love God has for each of His children and the message He wants to share with the world. Let’s model the gospel to ourselves and fill up the well that it may overflow to others!
How do you tend your soul?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
I felt a slight movement behind me. The arrow split the air and sent shivers down my spine. Sanballat, Tobiah, and their cronies were relentless. They heckled us day and night as we reinforced and rebuilt the wall. We had some close calls in avoiding bloodshed, but the amazing thing was the response of the people. Instead of turning tail and running away, they dug into their resolve and hunkered down to work.
Exercise:
Read Nehemiah 4. Verse 1: the people were ridiculed. How about you? Do you second-guess yourself and the words God gives you to write?
Verse 5: the people were demoralized. Have you lost hope in the possibilities before you?
Verse 6: the people determined to work. Will you make up your mind to tackle the work before you?
Verse 7: the people carried on with the task. How will you persist through difficulty?
Verse 9: the people prayed and set up protection around themselves. How will you pray and guard your heart?
Verse 13: the people joined forces. Do you have a support system?
Verse 14: the people faced their fears and remembered the Lord. Will you confront your insecurities and remember God’s faithfulness?
Verse 15: the people returned to their own work on the wall. Have you neglected your manuscript?
Verse 16: the people surrounded their work with protection. Do you need to say no to distractions?
Verse 17: the people did double duty. Do you need to carry and defend/work and pray?
Verse 20: the people rallied for each other. How do you support other writers?
Verse 22: the people committed to 24-hour surveillance. Writing is thinking all the time. Are you ruminating on the nuances of your story?
“Our minds need rest between tasks, and you’ll face days when it seems you barely get any writing done. Allowing myself rest and time to engage in other activities lets me return to my work with a fresh mind, almost always pleasantly surprised at the work my subconscious has done on my project in the meantime.” *
Jerry B. Jenkins
Take note of the Jerusalem citizens and their decision to cooperate with Nehemiah’s plan. May it inspire you to guard your writing and cover it with prayer. The battle continues as we do God’s work. Let’s do it with resolve and persistence, knowing the Lord will fight for us.
Our God will fight for us!
Nehemiah 4:20 NIV
What can Nehemiah teach us about writing?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Zachariah said to the angel, “Do you expect me to believe this?”
Luke 1:18 MSG
Do you have a hard time believing what God’s Word says to you?
Imagine seeing an angel and still being incredulous. That’s what happened to a priest in the Temple. His once-in-a-lifetime turn sent him into the altar room to offer incense. An angel appeared and talked to Zachariah. The Message says, “Zachariah was paralyzed in fear.”
He caved to unbelief.
This was a guy who spent his whole life preparing to serve. Verse 6 says Zach was blameless and upright, so what soured his attitude? He wasn’t new to the faith or unschooled about God’s power. He sat under the greats learning about the wonders God performed to free their people in Egypt and how Elijah was transported to heaven. He knew about the powerful flood and the six days of creation. What was the sticking point? “I’m an old man and my wife is an old woman.” Luke 1:18 MSG
What does age have to do with God’s ability to bring a baby into the world? That baby, John the Baptist, was sent to prepare hearts for the Savior to come. Zach’s disbelief came at a huge cost. He had laryngitis for nine months.
Exercise:
1. Read the full story of Zachariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1:5-25. What observations do you make about his response to Gabriel. Look up different versions to find other clues.
What is the difference between disbelief, like Zach, and questioning, like Mary (Luke 1:34)?
2. Come with expectation. In Luke 1:8-12, Zach was startled. He wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary to happen. When you sit down to write, do you expect God to show up and enlighten your thought process?
How can you approach your writing time as an act of worship to the Author of words?
3. Know you have been heard. Luke 1:13 gives a sigh of relief to years of praying for a baby. How often did Zach and Liz think God had forgotten them? How do you pray for your WIP? How will you respond when God answers?
4. Take joy and delight in the message. In Luke 1:14, Gabriel says there will be much celebrating. How will you start a party over your book baby? How will your words point to the Messiah and prepare hearts for His second coming?
At what cost do you hold onto unbelief?
Has your pen stilled? Break the silence to proclaim the Good News!
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NKJV)
Sometimes I catch myself praying for God to change circumstances and behavior when what’s needed is for Him to change hearts—often my own. Negative actions and reactions, like symptoms, stem from, but may not identify the underlying problem. We need to treat the root, not the fruit, if we want true and lasting change. When God transforms hearts, the change spills out to influence circumstances and relationships.
Relationship problems arise from sin. Sin is the culprit—our own brokenness, the gap in our relationship with Christ—where we are, as opposed to where He would have us to be.
When I focus on my unmet needs to the detriment of others, I indulge in a self-serving pity party. If I want to see change, I must give Jesus the reins of my heart.
But to forgive the incessant provocations of life—to keep on forgiving the bossy mother-in-law, the bullying husband, the nagging wife, the selfish daughter, the deceitful son—how can we do it? Only, I think, by remembering where we stand, by meaning what we say in our prayers each night, ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those that trespass against us.’
Forgiving means wiping the slate clean, canceling the debt, and not retaliating.
I ponder. Will the tears ever stop? What if I dared to speak the words I’ve feared to utter—set them free from the captivity of silence? Would the chains of pain be broken, or would the weight of regret be too great to bear? Once let loose, I cannot call them back. “Lord…?”
God’s word reins me in.
“He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, And as a sheep before its shearers is silent, So He opened not His mouth.” (Isaiah 53:7)
“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3)
Oh, the power of our words, whether spoken or written, to bring harm or healing. Help me, Lord, to handle them wisely, to use them to serve even those who hurt me.
Extending forgiveness requires humility, putting aside my pride and errant emotions. It means valuing relationships and being right with God over enforcing my rights.
Life is too short, and eternity is too near to be easily offended by those I’m called to love. Keeping a record of wrongs embitters and enslaves us. The stony walls of offense I build to protect my hurting heart imprison me and keep Christ and His healing out. The sweet waters of forgiveness break through the barrier of bitterness and open the road to resolution.
As the lyrics to the spiritual goes, “It’s not my brother, not my sister, but it’s me, oh Lord, standing in the need of prayer.” Rather than try to fix others (which I can’t do) I need to fix my relationship with Christ.
Other’s wrong actions toward me do not excuse my sinful reactions. While we shouldn’t enable abuse or needlessly place ourselves in toxic situations, we must extend forgiveness, even if the other person is wrong and unrepentant.
To be Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because Christ forgave the inexcusable in you.
C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15)
Jesus didn’t die only for those who would accept Him. He paid the penalty for the sins of all those He knew would reject Him, too. The great I Am bore the sins of all humanity to provide forgiveness we do not deserve.
We must let go of unforgiveness if we want to receive the forgiveness Jesus offers.—We cannot hold on to both.
But forgiving is often beyond my natural ability.
To err is human, to forgive divine.
Alexander Pope, An Essay on Criticism
It helps me when I remember people mistreat others because of what’s broken in them. When I focus on their need for healing, the injustices I receive become much easier to handle. When I pray for someone, not just for my vindication or relief, I find God gives me the heart, the grace, to forgive them. And besides, I need forgiveness too.
Jesus wants us to bring our brokenness, shortfalls, and failures to Him so He can change and imbue us with His supernatural empowerment.
Regardless of the behavior of others, if I forgive and yield to Jesus’ refining of my heart and character through the circumstances in my life, He rewards. A right heart yields a closer relationship with Jesus and His unsurpassed peace.
I’m guilty, Lord. I fail, I fall. Remember I am dust. Help me.
God’s love for humanity drove Jesus to the cross to purchase our pardon. God commands us to love and to extend grace and forgiveness to others as He does to us. When I set my heart and mind to love and serve others as Jesus calls me to, even if it is unrequited, He fulfills me.
When we let Jesus overhaul our inward man, the core of who we are, many of our relationship problems resolve themselves. He is defender and restorer. We encounter struggles, pitfalls, and pain in life’s journey, but Scripture promises that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. (Romans 8:28) And the most important good is Christ formed in us. He is the Master Builder. There is joy and contentment when I focus on Jesus, rest my heart in His hands, and walk in His ways.
—————
The above is in response to requests to share the devotion mentioned in my article, The Absent Author.
Rachel M. Colby has a heart for reconciliation and a passion to uplift those who serve in tough places. She writes to connect cultures’ questions with Christianity’s answers, inspire faith, and motivate.
Rachael’s work has appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul, the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Blog, online publications,compilation books, and the Oak Ridger newspaper.
This Jamaican-born multi-genre award-winning writer, wife, and mom resides in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. She runs on chocolate and a lotta “Help me, Jesus.”
He who knows the way that I take; when he has tested me I shall come forth as gold.
Job 23:10 NIV
Job fell in a heap. Did he wish the ground would swallow him up before he received any more bad news?
Ten children. Dead.
500 teams of oxen. Stolen.
7,000 sheep caught in a wildfire. Dead.
3,000 camels. Stolen.
“A large number” of servants. Dead.
In the book about his life, Job 1:20-22 says he worshipped God.
I don’t know about you, but my first inclination in difficulty isn’t worship.
A submission for a book callout. Silence.
A children’s book trilogy. Rejected.
A book idea. Stalled.
Computer crash. Files lost.
How could Job worship the Lord when things looked so bleak? His secret was in refusing entitlement. Job 1:22 says, “I didn’t bring anything into the world when I was born, and I won’t take anything with me when I die.” (My paraphrase.)
When boils covered his body, Job said he found consolation in knowing he had not strayed from God’s Word. (Job 6:10)
Job clung to his integrity when questioned by his friends (Job 6:29) and humbled himself before God for mercy from judgment (Job 9:15). Job acknowledged his Creator and appealed to His kindness (Job 10:8-12). Job had hope for an advocate (Job 16:19-21) and a redeemer who would be victorious over suffering (Job 19:25).
In the end, God blessed Job (Job 42:11-16).
Exercise:
What can we learn from Job?Let’s take a look at what Peter had to say about endurance.
How much does God give us for life and godliness? 2 Peter 1:3
What knowledge aids us? 2 Peter 1:3
What two things do God’s great and precious promises equip us to do? 2 Peter 1:4
What seven things are we to put effort into adding to our faith arsenal? 2 Peter 1:5-7
What will those seven qualities equip you to do? 2 Peter 1:8
I gave you a list of some of my disappointments. Now, here’s a list of blessings.
Published in eight anthologies.
A children’s coloring book published.
Two retreat ebooks published.
Over 290 devotions and articles published.
My writing is stronger than ever!
Can we worship God when we get bad news? Absolutely. Peter reminds us we will see the victory when we persevere. (2 Peter 1:10-11)
What’s on your blessingslist? Count them and praise God!
His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness.
2 Peter 1:3 NASB
Count your blessings!
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Abraham was a seeker of God. His heart knew the truth of the one God and he sought to know that one God diligently.
Psalm 47 paints a picture of the results of one man’s faith – a whole nation reaped the benefits of God’s blessing. Psalm 46:4 calls it a delightful inheritance. 1 Peter 1:4 says that inheritance will never perish, spoil, or fade. The generations following were benefactors of Abraham’s relationship with God. They did not receive God’s favor because of their own merit, no, they were recipients of God’s grace and mercy because they were related to Abraham.
How are we kin to Abraham? Galatians 3:26-29 says we’re heirs to the promises he received, because of faith. Romans 11:17-24 uses the imagery of a branch grafted into a tree that receives nourishment from the roots. We are grafted into the family of God.
You, too, impact a whole generation who benefit from your relationship with God. When you are a faithful servant and steadfast in following the Lord, it encourages the faith of others. When you model, mentor, and mold a life of dedication to the Father, your legacy continues.
Will you be the one?
Exercise:
Read Psalm 47 and the following verses:
Model
Why don’t you have to be perfect in your own power? 1 Peter 5:10; Psalm 18:32
What is one purpose for persevering through difficulty? 2 Timothy 2:10
Who benefits from our trials? 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Mentor
Who do we teach? Why? Deuteronomy 4:9-10
What do we teach? Titus 2
How are we to teach? Titus 3:2
Mold
How do “we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience?” 2 Corinthians 4:2 NIV
What causes thanksgiving to overflow? 2 Corinthians 4:15
How do you mold a life? 1 Thessalonians 5:11
What will your life model? Who will you mentor? How will you mold another’s faith and the pursuit of grace?
Writers have the unique opportunity to visit the living rooms ofcountless readers while they peruse a magazine or ingest the words of a book.
We share a message of hope with a dying world,hungry for truth and justice. Whether we use fiction or nonfiction is not the issue. The importance is in the message and the clarity of presentation. Will you be the one to share the news of our glorious inheritance in Christ?
How will your writing model, mentor, and mold?
Sally Ferguson Bio
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
“Who has the capability to interpret an unknown language?”
King Belshazzar
The nobles couldn’t.
His family couldn’t.
The wisest men in the kingdom couldn’t.
But the queen said, “I know a guy.”
Daniel’s reputation got his foot in the door. From there, Daniel used wisdom and tact to stay in the room. (2:14)
What are the ingredients of a good reputation and how does one seek to build it?
Exercise:
Daniel 5:11-12 tells us about his qualities. Use your dictionary to see what each one entails.
Filled (with the Spirit)
Insight
Intelligence
Wisdom
Keen (mind)
Knowledge
Understanding
Ability (to interpret dreams)
Explain (riddles)
Solve (difficult problems)
Daniel gave credit to God for his abilities (2:27-30)
There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. Daniel 2:28 NIV
How about you? Do you need the Lord to help you interpret the writing on the wall? Maybe yours is a blackboard or a whiteboard or a bulletin board. Maybe it’s a computer screen or an x-ray machine. There are times when we are stumped by life and need insight.
What does James 1:5 say we can do?
What was God’s response when Solomon asked for discernment? 1 Kings 3:9-10
What is the bonus God gives when we ask for insight and understanding? Proverbs 2:3-22
Do you think this is connected to Daniel’s reputation? Why or why not?
In one of Daniel’s visions, the angel said he came in response to Daniel’s prayers. What other ingredients were a part of his petitions? Daniel 10:12
What does God call Daniel? Ezekiel 14:20
How does God feel about Daniel? Daniel 9:23, 10:11,19.
Why would your reputation as a writer matter to an editor?
Look back at Daniel’s qualities and interpret them in light of your writing. How would insight give depth to an article? How could you write smarter with the material you’ve produced and recycle it into more submissions? How accountable are you when it comes to deadlines?
Daniel and his companions were forced to move away from their homes and settle in a hostile land. (1:1-8) God repeatedly honored Daniel, His servant, in spite of opposition. (6:4)
What was Daniel’s habit? 6:10-11
How do you think that habit reinforced Daniel’s character?
How do you think it could assist your writing?
What would you ask God for today?
God reveals deep and hidden things.
Daniel 2:22
What part does prayer play in your writing life?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
All of you together are the one body of Christ, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.
1 Corinthians 12:27 TLB
I sit among six tables of gourmet popcorn, salivating at their tantalizing scents. Our Missions Team did a fundraiser and today I got the bags grouped for pickup and distribution.
I’m thinking about how the flavors of popcorn relate to writing, and how variety is necessary to fill up all the appetites of readers. Some like Cinnamon Candy Apple. Some prefer Parmesan Garlic. Others might seek out Snickerdoodle or Kettle Corn, while some play it safe with Movie Theater or Cheddar.* It’s a good thing a lot of people are sharing their words in order to satiate the audience. And the flavor of the day may not be the big seller tomorrow – we all need options!
Exercise:
Respond to someone who says, “There’s nothing left to write – everything’s already been said.”
Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-7. What is the goal of the gifts we’ve been given? (1 Corinthians 12:7)
Look at 1 Corinthians 12:8-11. What are the various ways we express these gifts through the written word?
Sift through 1 Corinthians 12:12-25. What are two goals for believers? (1 Corinthians 12:25)
Look in The Writer’s Market. List ten different types of articles to submit.
Pick one of those categories and jot down four angles to approach your subject.
Take one angle and write a paragraph to expand on it.
Go back to The Writer’s Market and look at the guidelines. Does your paragraph lend itself to one predominantly? Format it to their specifications. Add illustrations and examples.
Let it rest.
Edit and submit.
Let’s have a popcorn party and celebrate your work.
Pop some popcorn and let it remind you that you are an essential part of the body of writers. The words you use reflect the One you follow and impart “wise counsel, clear understanding, simple trust, healing the sick, miraculous acts, proclamation, distinguishing between spirits, tongues, (and) interpretation of tongues.” (1 Corinthians 12:8-10 MSG)
Your perspective is needed and helps us navigate life.
Did I mention popcorn is my comfort food? May the words you send out to your audience be seasoned with comfort and grace.
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
My eight-year-old granddaughter could not be convinced to soak her foot. I felt sure Epsom salts would ease the swelling from the bee sting. She was sure it was the worst possible torture.
“Do you trust me?” I asked.
“Yes, Gra’ma, but I don’t want to put my foot in the tub.”
“Have I ever done anything to intentionally hurt you?”
“No, Gra’ma, but it would hurt too much!”
Silently I pleaded with the Lord for help. Instead, I sensed Him respond, “I never force My will on anyone.”
Sorrowfully, I dumped the water in the sink and the sobs subsided. I couldn’t force my will either.
I had a nagging feeling this was about more than a stinger. I, too, had been running from God’s best for me—a book languished in my files and ideas lay unattended. I neglected my call to write.
Exercise:
Jonah was a runner. His book tells us he was even willing to pay money to get away from what God called him to do. (Jonah 1:1-3)
What have you been avoiding at great cost to your call?
Elimelech was a runner. He was willing to leave God’s best at the expense of his family. (Ruth 1:1-5)
How have you sacrificed your best for the convenient?
Have you been hiding from God’s call on your life? Maybe what He’s asked seems inconsequential? Isn’t a small obedience still obedience? In a parable about a servant, Jesus said being faithful in little things results in greater responsibility. (Matthew 25:14-29)
In what way will you accept responsibility for your writing?
What if our writing is a treasure entrusted for only a season? We have no guarantees as to how long our eyesight, health or memory will last. Just like I wanted to help my granddaughter, my Father wants to help me. I retreat into His embrace, and He renews, restores, and reaffirms His love.
God is for us. He has given us gifts that will grow our craft.
Instead of running away from what the Lord asks, let’s run toward His call—because the Father knows best.
“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (TLB)
Are you running from the words God has called you to write?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying.
Mark 2:3-4 NKJV
Could Jesus do the impossible?
The paralytic’s friends thought so, and they moved obstacles to make it possible. What had their journey entailed? What kind of friendship equipped their desperate trek? Did they have to overcome naysayers at home who thought they were on a fool’s errand?
Mark 2:1-12 tells their story, for indeed it is the story of four men and how Jesus rewarded their faith. Faith that was bigger than paralysis. Faith that was bigger than fear of failure. Faith that believed the impossible.
How about you? Has fear paralyzed your writing? Are there obstacles you need to overcome? Do you need help getting to the feet of the Master?
Take a look at what God has to say about fear.
Exercise:
What does God say to those who are anxious? Isaiah 35:4
What will be opened when God saves? Isaiah 35:5 Do you need God to do this for you?
What did Moses say the Lord would do? Exodus 14:13-14
In what way do you need the Lord to fight for you? Deuteronomy 1:30-31
What do you need Him to carry for you?
When problems are overwhelming, what does God say? 2 Chronicles 20:15
What will be your rally cry when God calls? Nehemiah 4:20
“I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all…
Mark 2:11-12 NKJV
What began as a four-man job ended in one man being able to handle.
Mark 2:12 says the man carried the bed out by himself. He was no longer paralyzed by his circumstances. Jesus broke that which had bound him and released him to live life as was intended by his Master.
Maybe you just need a friend to believe in God’s call on your life. Maybe your writer’s group could help you brainstorm your story arc to uncover the hidden healing. Will you step out in faith to break the bond of fear?
How can it lighten your load to share it with a friend?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:”
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)
Memorial Day ushers in a new season in our northern state. The blossoms on the apple trees have finished their fashion show and the buttercups appear along the fence row. The foliage of the hostas are rising to fullness and the weather welcomes sunshiny days. Our cold-starved land embraces the warmth.
What season are you in? Are you cultivating the soil of your writing or are you stalled in a barrenness of words?
Writing is like life in the ebb and flow of seasons. Imagine winter as a time of hunkering down to maintain routines and learn better processes. Spring represents digging into new projects. Summer is a time to weed out that which isn’t growing, and fall is the time of harvest. We could be in winter, spring, or summer for years, when we’re in a hurry to see the fruit of our labor. What does a writer do when it feels all is in delay?
Exercise:
Look at the acrostic ABIDE for an answer to waiting.
Allow God to have time to produce what is needed. He “The God who started this great work in you (will) keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish.” Philippians 1:6 (MSG).
Be all-in for the season you are in. Instead of wishing your life away, embrace where you are. “Work from the heart for your real Master,” Colossians 3:23-24 (MSG).
Invest in your writing life. Conferences, critique groups, and counselors who mentor writers can all increase your confidence in the craft. “Take good counsel.” Proverbs 15:22 (MSG).
Dig into God’s Word and let it saturate your words. He will equip you for the job He’s given. “Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (MSG).
Experience the joy of living in fellowship with the Lord. As you dwell in Him, He will infuse you with His words. “Your vibrant beauty has gotten inside us.” Psalm 89:15-17 (MSG).
When we abide with the Lord, He brings peace and purpose to our writing, and everything else falls into place in due season. May you bask in the light of His presence!
How will you live in the present as you look to the future?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
My grandfather walked away from the Lord. Once a pastor, Pappy left the ministry and held a few odd jobs thereafter. But something happened when the Asbury Revival of 1970 spread to South Meridian Church of God in Anderson, Indiana. Pappy knelt at the altar and rededicated his life to God.
My heart leaps at the news of revival happening again at Asbury and fanning out to other universities. People are bowing before the Lord in humble surrender and finding liberating forgiveness. What family story will it catapult into a new chapter? How will the generations to come be affected for good?
What does this have to do with writing? Writers can be an instrument for revival or for maligning others. We can exhort, entertain, explain, and educate. We compose, connect, and correspond. How will we communicate God’s gift of grace?
Exercise:
Revivals are known for repentance.
Consider your writing voice. What narrative do you use to lay out your thoughts? Is it preachy or condemning?
How can you seek God’s voice of love instead?
Write out a prayer based on Psalm 51.
Revivals are known for prayer.
Do you pray over the words you pen? Prayer can expand our comprehension and reveal the heart of God to our readers.
Write out a prayer based on 1 Kings 3:5-9.
Revivals are known for commitment.
How do you offer your prose to God? When we dedicate our words, they become God’s tools.
Write out a prayer based on Colossians 3:23-24.
Revivals are known for renewal.
A fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit refreshes all who sit in His presence. As we search out God’s direction for our own lives, it pours out into our writing lives. How can you wait on the Lord today?
Write out a prayer based on Psalm 139:14-18.
Revivals are known for love.
May love be a hallmark of our writings. May it slant and structure our thesis. And may it overflow and encircle others with a sense of God’s generous grace.
Write out a prayer based on Ephesians 4:11-16.
My grandfather’s act of humility that day at the altar still impacts me today. I may not know how my actions affect the next generation, but I can trust the One who does. He can use a keyboard, a pen, or even a post.
Lord, bring revival, and may it begin in me.
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Our evening was going smooth, or so I thought. My son and daughter-in-love were going out on a date, and I had the grands all to myself. After playing a game, supper was ready and then it was time to start the bedtime routine. Things began to unravel with brushing their teeth. What six-year-old doesn’t like to play in water? Faces washed, hands dried and pajamas donned, we settled in to read books. Seven-year-old Sophea began with a long story. Not to be outdone by his sister, six-year-old Graham wanted to sound out all of the words in his book, too. It just so happened to be about a little train that wasn’t sure it could get the train of toys across the mountain. We cheered each time he succeeded and found out he could!
After prayers and lights out, I sat in the stairway outside of their rooms to monitor little feet that couldn’t stay in bed. An hour later, the house was finally quiet, and I went down to clean up the kitchen. Guess who came down with his monkey? Yep, Graham said, “I’m scared.”
“Ok, I’ll finish wiping the table and will be up in five minutes.”
That was good enough for Graham and off he went to wait. Task accomplished, I went up to Graham’s room and found my grandson fast asleep in his bed. All he needed was a promise that I would be there.
Exercise:
What’s your bedtime/writing routine? Do you keep a record of submissions and a list of houses to query?
Who’s there for you? Who can you seek for assurance when you’re up against a deadline?
Anxiety dissipates when we know we’re not alone.
What will put your mind at ease? Are you patient or antsy while you wait for a response to your query?
What do you need to tackle even when you’re scared? Take a cue from six-year-oldGraham and rest easy.
After Moses died, his aide must have been worried about stepping up to lead. But God told Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 NIV)
Sure, rejection is painful, but we can wait confidently with a back up plan of next steps when we know we’re not alone in writing.
Who can you support so they can be confident they can, just like the little engine could?
Pull Quotes:
“The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Our cookie exchange fell flat. Usually boasting attendance of a baker’s dozen, one-by-one individuals backed out. Busy schedules, lack of Christmas spirit, and exhaustion from a hectic season all topped the list of reasons people didn’t come. But most interesting was the pronouncement of baking failures. Mine were included in that category—I tried a new recipe and was less than satisfied with the results.
“I’m not going,” I declared. “The caramel topping tastes burnt.”
“It’ll be good for you to go,” Hubby said, always my encourager.
At the last minute, I relented and grabbed packages of hot cocoa and candy canes to share.
Being with the other gals was just what I needed—we visited, munched on cookies, and worked a jigsaw puzzle together. It was a good reprieve and morale booster.
What if I had missed out by saying my contribution was not good enough?
Exercise:
What have you been labeling “not good enough?”
Could you tweak that WIP from a different angle?
Could you rearrange sentences or paragraphs to flow better?
What could you eliminate to make it more concise?
How do you demean your art when you place it in the “not good enough” category?
What is the difference between excellence and perfectionism?
Is “not good enough” an attack on your personhood?
How can you separate your disappointment in your words from disappointment in your worth?
Will you choose to look at who you are through God’s eyes?
Blessed. Psalm 139:5-6, You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. (NIV)
Secure. Psalm 139:9-10, If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (NIV)
Wondrous. Psalm 139:14, I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (NIV)
Still have doubts? Ask God for help.
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)
Avoid missed opportunities by giving your burnt offerings a chance to be redeemed!
Turn flops into fulfillment with fun.
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
Maybe you’re watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in person with three million of your closest friends, or online with 44 million others? Here come the marching bands in sparkly costumes and floats with colorful lights. Look there! There’s the first exhibit with 90 handlers hanging on tight to their 400-pound balloon. Which one will be your favorite this year?
Can you picture this procession led by singers, musicians, and young gals with tambourines? Look there! Here come the tribes of Israel, led by the youngest tribe of Benjamin. And there—here are the princes in their finest array. What will the anticipation be like when we see our awesome God?
We have been entrusted with a story to tell, and only a few more blinks of an eye to tell it.
Exercise:
Who can your words refresh?
Orphans. Psalm 68:5. Who do you know that has lost a parent recently? Grief is no respecter of seasons. Write a card to let them know you care, especially at the holidays.
Widows. Psalm 68:5. Is there someone on your street whose spouse has died? Bring a poinsettia and attach a note to let them know you’re available to lend a helping hand.
The Lonely. Psalm 68:6. We all know people who shrink from crowds. Send a handwritten invitation to a cookie party and offer to pick them up.
Prisoners. Psalm 68:6. Maybe you don’t know anyone in jail, but you do know someone who is a prisoner to a difficult circumstance. Could you send a word of encouragement along with a care package?
The Weary. Psalm 68:9. What is your go-to Scripture when you are worn down? Maybe it would lift another?
What can you say?
God daily bears our burdens. Psalm 68:19.
God provides out of His bounty. Psalm 68:10.
God gives power and strength to His people. Psalm 68:35.
You’re a writer.
You can figure out how to say you see them and care.
People need kindness and encouragement for the complicated journey of life. Have they heard the Good News of a Babe born in Bethlehem? Let’s link arms to get the word out—the King is coming and will dazzle us with the most magnificent parade, ever!
May our words draw others to the parade!
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
A visit with college buddies reminded me of the bonds we create over shared experiences. The photo album teased of younger days and adventurous ways. We laughed at hair styles and commiserated over the drama of life. What kept hearts united after thirty years of separation?
It’s that thing called community—the place where we invest in each other’s dreams and aspirations, celebrate successes and mourn losses.
When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours. Romans 1:12 NLT
Exercise:
1. Writers at all levels need a support system. Be a writer who champions other writers. (Almost an Author) Be their cheerleader. See how it returns to encourage you as well.
Encourage one another and build each other up. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV
2. Are you a part of a writers’ group? If yes, how do you speak life into the others? If no, why not start a group? Choose a location, time, and advertise. Have a dessert, a short lesson, a fifteen-minute writing exercise, and prayer. The effort of showing up results in a forged bond of friendship that celebrates words.
Let’s do it—full of belief, confident that we’re presentable inside and out. Let’s keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on. Hebrews 10:22-25 MSG
3. Pray for other writers. Ask God to inspire their words, provide creative outlets, and multiply their influence. Prayer banishes jealousy and pushes out competition. It affirms there is room at the table for all. Let prayer build your esteem for yourself and others. Let it embolden you to be God’s ambassador with your words
Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly. Ephesians 6:18-20 NIV
Your words matter. May they be used to build relationships, kinship, and prayer.
How will you create community for other writers?
Over 140 of Sally Ferguson’s devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). She’s also written for Light From The Word, Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum,Thriving Family, Upgrade with Dawn and ezinearticles.com. Prose Contest Winner at 2017 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.
Sally loves organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom in time away from the daily routine. Her ebook, How to Plan a Women’s Retreat is available on Amazon.
Sally Ferguson lives in the beautiful countryside of Jamestown, NY with her husband and her dad.
