Tag: Devotions for authors

How to Write an Obit.

Post author By Norma Poore - Managing Editor
Post date December 4, 2024
No Comments on How to Write an Obit.

Birth date. End date. And everything in-between.

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.

What would your obit say?

Reference:

* https://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Obituary

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers

A Man with a Plan

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, ideas, Organized Writing

Devotions for Writers

Teaming Up with God

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.

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devos, devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers

Devotions for Writers

Dishes and Despair

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
1 Corthians 10:31 (NIV)

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)

What’s your next step?

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, writing plan

Devotions for Writers

The Parable

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 a Market 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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, power of words, words matter

Devotions for Writers

PrePared

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, the unknown, writing advice

Devotions for Writers

Something New

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, marketing

Devotions for Writers

The Journey of a Writer

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers

Devotions for Writers

The Launch

My time has not yet come.
Jesus [John 2:4 9 (NIV)]

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 write a 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.”

What Big Idea will you launch?

Tags Article, Big Ideas, book, devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, launch, social media, step of faith

Devotions for Writers

Preach It!

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, encouragement for writers

Devotions for Writers

Get to Work!

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, get to work

Devotions for Writers

Perseverance in Tough Times

Post author By Sally Ferguson
Post date December 3, 2023
No Comments on Perseverance in Tough Times

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 blessings list? 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!

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags Blessings, Devotion, devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, grief, worship

Devotions for Writers

One

He chose our inheritance for us.
Psalm 47:4 NIV

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 of countless 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

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, inheritance, seeking God

Devotions for Writers

Variety is the Spice of Life

Post author By Sally Ferguson
Post date September 3, 2023
No Comments on Variety is the Spice of Life

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.

What flavor do you add to the world of words?

Reference:

*Flavors mentioned with thanks to What’s Poppin, NY!

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devos, devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, variety

Devotions for Writers

The Fugitive

“Nooooo,” she wailed. “It would hurt too much.”

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?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, Knowing God's will, writing for God's glory

Devotions for Writers

Do It Scared

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-old Graham 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.”
Joshua 1:9 NIV

Tags devotions, Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, prayer

Devotions for Writers

Embrace the Night

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

I have fought with sleep patterns my whole life and still end up being more alert when the lights are out. Maybe I should embrace the way I’m made—could everyone else just adapt?

As much as I want to rest with sunset…

I’ve wondered if the night hours are when the Lord best speaks to my quieted mind.

Electronics are stilled, the dishes won’t go anywhere, and all distractions are muted.

When do you find you’re most receptive to God’s voice?

Is it early morning, during your lunch break, or after the kids go to bed?

The boy, Samuel, heard God speak to him at night. At first, he thought it was his mentor, Eli, but after running in response to Eli three times, they both realized Someone bigger had called. (1 Samuel 3:1-10) What did Eli instruct the child to say?

“Speak Lord, for Your servant is listening.”
1 Samuel 3:9 NIV

What if I responded the same way when God knocks at my writer’s door? “Speak Lord, Your servant is listening.”

Wouldn’t the written words carry more impact because of the authority imparted? Yes, speak Lord, I’m listening.

Exercise:

Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15 AMP

Make a study of your work habits.

What time of day are you most alert?
What foods make you feel sluggish?
What meals boost your energies?
What kind of exercise do you enjoy?
What topics fuel your passion for writing?
What lessons have you learned from your experiences?

Let self-awareness equip you to be more alert to nudges from the Lord and to write at His leading.

Maybe your “night” is a dark time in your life? How can it bring new vulnerability into your prose? Our times of seeking God equip us to speak into the lives of others. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 says we can impart the comfort, encouragement and endurance we have received from the Lord.

“Comfort means to lessen someone’s grief or distress by giving strength and hope.”
Roget’s Desk Thesaurus

What comfort has the Lord brought to you in your darkness?

May your night bring light to others through the words you impart.

What would it mean for you to “embrace the night?”

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags best time to hear God, Devotions for authors, embrace the night, listen to God, work habits

Devotions for Writers

Articulate with Authority

Post author By Sally Ferguson
Post date March 3, 2022
No Comments on Articulate with Authority

But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Crist, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
John 20:31 NIV

How important is a word? A search in Webster’s Dictionary unveils deeper meaning behind the everyday use of what we say. Let’s take a look at “write” as our example.

Writ

A document that carries the authority of the author. Whether that authority is a monarch or a mason, it makes no difference—it is legally binding.

Write

“to compose, to communicate, to make a permanent impression of.” An author’s heart is wrapped up in the effort to convey thoughts.

Write in

“to insert in a document or text.” Possibly changing the outcome, a write in becomes part of the document.

Write-off

“a reduction in book value of an item.”

Write-up

“a deliberate increase in the book value of an asset.” If something written can affect the value of an item then doesn’t it reflect the authority of the one who assessed it?

In the Gospel of John, he says his book was written as a hinge to belief in Jesus as the Christ. (John 20:31) John’s words documented a life observed and he placed his full trust in knowing eternal life banked on that message.

Paul said in 2 Corinthians 3:3 the result of his ministry was hearts written in the authority of the Spirit of the living God. Not in pencil, not in chalk, but a life-impacting transformational encounter with the very Spirit of God.

Could research transform our words to make an impact as well? Once upon a time, back in high school, I had a notebook of Latin words we studied in class. The content has long since eluded me, but I do remember feeling connected to generations of communicators. Language has evolved, but its beauty remains. We have a responsibility to convey the meaning to our readers in the clearest manner possible.

Exercise:

Write out 2 Timothy 2:6-17.
Look up each word in the dictionary and jot down synonyms.
Did you learn anything new?
Use your new definitions to write out 2 Timothy 2:16-17 again.
How does the new rendering grant insight? (This exercise isn’t meant to manipulate Scripture, but to shed light on ways we gloss over the meaning.)

What words do you use flippantly? Verbalize competently!

Language has evolved, but its beauty remains.

How can your words add value to your reader?

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.

Visit Sally’s blog at sallyferguson.net

Tags Devotions for authors, devotions for writers, looking at the word "write"