Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 20

Amazon Launch of "Letters to God on a Prodigal Son" by Anita Estes

Tired of not knowing how to handle your troubled teen or prodigal? Anita Estes' book, Letters to God on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer, can help guide you through these troubled waters. Buy it TODAY only, Tuesday Nov. 8th  on Amazon and receive lots of  FREE gifts and a chance to win  FREE gift cards. For details see: http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html

Addiction is rampant in our country, seizing our children and adults alike, dragging them into the darkest pit. In this book, Letters to God on a Prodigal Son, God's hand is not so short that He cannot pull anyone from the deepest pit of despair of addiction and set them free. A triumphant story of faith tested in the fire of affliction, this book is recommended for anyone with a family member struggling with the stranglehold of addiction.
Letters to God on a Prodigal Son not only shares insights into the spiritual realm and explains the war that is waged against our children's souls, but Author Anita Estes teaches, how through prayer, faith and worship, one can be victorious over the powers of evil that hold our children in bondage. This journal accompanied with the lessons learned is a powerful tool for any parent finding themselves in similar circumstances.

This practical book will lift your faith and encourage you in your fight for your child's life. Throughout the entries, faith-filled prayers are included that are based on the scriptures to assist you in your battle. Understanding the spiritual realm, this mother shares how prayer and worship are some of your most powerful weapons to be waged in this war.

About the Book:

Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer is the poignant, true story of a parent's journey through the minefield of her adult child's addiction. This book will help you find peace in the midst of your tsunami and the secret to victorious prayer! Letters to God is a powerful journal packed with prayers, practical advice and key spiritual insights. It will help unlock the secrets to successful prayer, not only for those dealing with prodigals, but for anyone facing their own storm.

Estes' writing is straightforward, fluent and easy to read, so much so that I was tempted to rush through the book (it's a page turner) without taking time to grasp the seriousness and depth of the narrative. The final outcome is proof positive that God does answer prayers, but not before Estes, her husband, who himself is battling self-esteem issues, and their two other children come out of denial and face the reality that their loved one is a drug addict and needs to be treated with the tough love that eventually helps in Ben's recovery.
 "This book should be required reading in schools to help parents and students recognize the dangers of alcohol as a gateway to harsher drugs, a fact often overlooked." Yyonne Pat Wright, Author of "From Spice to Eternity"


     Tell us about your newest book, Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer
      This power packed journal and guide was birthed from the painful passage I experienced while navigating the minefield of my son's addiction. I kept a diary that contained many insightful prayers, letters, and scriptures that I thought would help others navigate the turbulent waters of a prodigal's addiction, so I worked on transforming it into a book. I added two sections, Lessons Learned and Suggestions that I thought would further help others to avoid some of the pitfalls I experienced, while offering a lifeline of hope. At the time my son was going through this terrible ordeal, I couldn't find any Christian books on the subject that gave practical and spiritual, not textbook, advice.  Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son was designed to fit this need. It's filled with the heart-felt letters and prayers of a mother, key spiritual insights and practical advice. My desire in writing this book is to help others and minister to them though this true life story.  
What are some of the pitfalls you experienced in dealing with your son's addiction and in writing this timely and powerful book?It is sometimes very difficult for a parent to recognize the warning signs of an addiction in their teenager, especially in this culture today when drinking is so accepted. This was my downfall. I kept thinking my son was just going through a stage, especially because he would repent when something bad happened, like losing his license for a year or failing out of college. He would turn back to God and do what was right for a while, but then he'd fall again.One of the pitfalls in writing the book was trying to figure out a way to take my personal experience and help others learn from it. I didn't want to offer just another informational or book of advice on addiction, so I kept it in a journal format. I wanted others to see that God held me thought this very difficult time and that He can do the same for them. I also wanted to be very honest and real because as Christians we sometimes think we need to cover up our pain and even try to keep it from God and fellow believers. I wanted to show people that you can show God your pain, cry out to Him and go through different stages with Him right alongside. The last thing you should do in a crisis is stay mad at God and stop taking or communicating with Him.What did you learn from this experience?I learned that God is faithful even when we're not, even when we get mad at Him and don't understand what he's doing. God wants us to draw near to Him and cast ALL our concerns, cares, worries and anxieties on Him. He has very big shoulders to carry our burdens and for us to lean on and even weep upon. I also learned that God is true to His word. You can believe His promises as long as you understand them, have faith and continue to trust God with the outcome. I also learned that it's very important to surrender your prodigal to God.  That's the best place for them.

About the Author:
Anita Estes resides in the beautiful Hudson Valley of upstate New York with her husband and son. She is an art teacher, freelance writer and avid gardener. As an educator, she has been honored  in "Who's Who of American Teachers" for 2000 and 2005. Her work appears in several compilations including God Allows U-Turns, A Cup of Comfort, Deliver Me and Adams Media books. Her devotions have been published in Penned from the Heart, "Upper Room" and on-line. She is the author of When God Speaks: 40 Days of His Promises, Transformed—Inspiring Stories of Freedom and Letters to God on a Prodigal Son —Overcoming Addiction through Prayer.  Her passion is encouraging others in their Christian walk, by calling the church to intimate and honest communication with God. She desires to help others break the bonds of addiction and pain through an understanding of God's promises.  Visit her at http://www.anitaestes.com and http://anitaestes7.blogspot.com/

Remember - TODAY ONLY - Tuesday Nov. 8th - is Anita's Book Launch for Letters to God... and you'll be able to get a lot of FREE GIFTS when you purchase the book from Amazon.  You can find out more about the launch on this direct link 
http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html  





Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Zacchaeus - The wee little man sure knew how to climb!

Jesus had just healed Bartimaeus on the way to Jericho.  The multitudes were ecstatic and praised God for all they had seen.  As Jesus passed through that famous area – the one in which the city walls had miraculously collapsed – there were many citizens and visitors who just wanted to catch a glimpse of the renowned teacher and healer.  There was still skepticism about whether or not Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah.

Jesus had told a parable earlier about the rough and hilly road to Jericho.  In it He had shared how a good Samaritan had gone out of his way to care for a total stranger.  Now as He was passing through the city, the crowds were growing as He made His way down the main road towards Jerusalem.  He had a divine appointment that day – one which was set in motion at the very beginning of time itself. 
Zacchaeus was a wealthy tax collector.  He was in charge of collections for the entire region – and a man of substantial personal holdings.  As was the custom under Roman rule, the tax collector often exacted taxes in excess of that required, and the remainder was kept by him. The Jews hated those from among their brothers who made a living from the extortion and theft that was their livelihood.   Zacchaeus most likely didn't have many friends.
Luke chapter 19 tells us that Zacchaeus was short in stature.   He was desirous of seeing Jesus, but he had difficulty in finding a place from which to observe Him as He neared the city.  There was a sycamore tree within sight, sturdy and high enough for him to climb, so Zacchaeus made his way there and was sitting on a branch as Jesus passed underneath.  A sycamore in Biblical times was a fig tree, bearing fruit like the ordinary fig – directly on the stem - but was inferior in quality and unfit for consumption.  The tree's wood was durable and highly valued.
The fig tree was symbolic of God's blessings, prosperity and peace over His chosen people. However, the books of I Kings, Hosea, Jeremiah and Revelation all speak of the wickedness, baroness and judgment that the fig tree represented when Israel rejected God and His Sovereign rule.   
When Jesus cursed the fig tree on the road into Jerusalem it was because the tree displayed leaves – a rightful expectation of blossoming figs - but there was no visible fruit.  The nation of Israel appeared righteous outwardly, but they were inwardly corrupt and spiritually dead.  Jesus came to them expecting to find fruit – but was met with empty words as they professed their coming Messiah.  Jesus condemned the religious leaders in Matthew 23:25 saying, "Woe to you, scribed and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence."
Back to Zacchaeus… The text reveals that Jesus looked up and beheld him at the very moment He passed by. Imagine his surprise when Jesus said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house." What was going through his mind as he heard the invitation?  Was his heart racing?  Did he worry about his reputation and what the crowds surrounding him would think?  The text in Luke doesn't tell us any of those details, but what is clear is that Zacchaeus responded quickly and purposefully.  Verse 6 tells us, "So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully." 
Those that followed Jesus and others in the throng began to grumble about Him going to the house of a sinner – namely a despised tax collector.  But Zacchaeus stood in their midst and said to Jesus with conviction and resolve, "Look, Lord, I give half of my good to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore four fold."  Jesus then said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."   But what is salvation?

His encounter with Zacchaeus is a picture of our invitation to accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior   Zacchaeus' actions are a metaphor for responding to the Gospel message. Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God."  Keeping that in mind, this is how Jesus interacted with His new friend:     
Zacchaeus was "called by name" and invited to enter into "fellowship" with Jesus.  He joyfully obeyed and became convicted of his sinful past.  His heart motive was revealed when he announced he would restore what was taken from his fellow countrymen in an ill-gotten manner and surrendered his life over to Jesus.  He was pronounced by Jesus to be a son of Abraham – brought into the Kingdom of God through his public confession and acceptance of Him as Lord.  And finally, he embraced his new found salvation with the demonstration of "good works" by the changed lifestyle he displayed.
Don't miss the chance to have a personal encounter with Jesus.  I waited until I was thirty-three years old before I "climbed up" to see Him.  I was desperate to make a profound change in my life. 
The question is, "How well do you climb?"

   




Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Zacchaeus - The wee little man sure knew how to climb…

Jesus had just healed Bartimaeus on the way to Jericho.  The multitudes were ecstatic and praised God for all they had seen.  As Jesus passed through that famous area – the one in which the city walls had miraculously collapsed – there were many citizens and visitors who just wanted to catch a glimpse of the renowned teacher and healer.  There was still skepticism about whether or not Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah.

Jesus had told a parable earlier about the rough and hilly road to Jericho.  In it He had shared how a good Samaritan had gone out of his way to care for a total stranger.  Now as He was passing through the city, the crowds were growing as He made His way down the main road towards Jerusalem.  He had a divine appointment that day – one which was set in motion at the very beginning of time itself. 
Zacchaeus was a wealthy tax collector.  He was in charge of collections for the entire region – and a man of substantial personal holdings.  As was the custom under Roman rule, the tax collector often exacted taxes in excess of that required, and the remainder was kept by him. The Jews hated those from among their brothers who made a living from the extortion and theft that was their livelihood.   Zacchaeus most likely didn't have many friends.
Luke chapter 19 tells us that Zacchaeus was short in stature.   He was desirous of seeing Jesus, but he had difficulty in finding a place from which to observe Him as He neared the city.  There was a sycamore tree within sight, sturdy and high enough for him to climb, so Zacchaeus made his way there and was sitting on a branch as Jesus passed underneath.  A sycamore in Biblical times was a fig tree, bearing fruit like the ordinary fig – directly on the stem - but was inferior in quality and unfit for consumption.  The tree's wood was durable and highly valued.
The fig tree was symbolic of God's blessings, prosperity and peace over His chosen people. However, the books of I Kings, Hosea, Jeremiah and Revelation all speak of the wickedness, baroness and judgment that the fig tree represented when Israel rejected God and His Sovereign rule.   
When Jesus cursed the fig tree on the road into Jerusalem it was because the tree displayed leaves – a rightful expectation of blossoming figs - but there was no visible fruit.  The nation of Israel appeared righteous outwardly, but they were inwardly corrupt and spiritually dead.  Jesus came to them expecting to find fruit – but was met with empty words as they professed their coming Messiah.  Jesus condemned the religious leaders in Matthew 23:25 saying, "Woe to you, scribed and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and self-indulgence."
Back to Zacchaeus… The text reveals that Jesus looked up and beheld him at the very moment He passed by. Imagine his surprise when Jesus said to him, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house." What was going through his mind as he heard the invitation?  Was his heart racing?  Did he worry about his reputation and what the crowds surrounding him would think?  The text in Luke doesn't tell us any of those details, but what is clear is that Zacchaeus responded quickly and purposefully.  Verse 6 tells us, "So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully." 
Those that followed Jesus and others in the throng began to grumble about Him going to the house of a sinner – namely a despised tax collector.  But Zacchaeus stood in their midst and said to Jesus with conviction and resolve, "Look, Lord, I give half of my good to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore four fold."  Jesus then said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."   But what is salvation?

His encounter with Zacchaeus is a picture of our invitation to accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior   Zacchaeus' actions are a metaphor for responding to the Gospel message. Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God."  Keeping that in mind, this is how Jesus interacted with His new friend:     
Zacchaeus was "called by name" and invited to enter into "fellowship" with Jesus.  He joyfully obeyed and became convicted of his sinful past.  His heart motive was revealed when he announced he would restore what was taken from his fellow countrymen in an ill-gotten manner and surrendered his life over to Jesus.  He was pronounced by Jesus to be a son of Abraham – brought into the Kingdom of God through his public confession and acceptance of Him as Lord.  And finally, he embraced his new found salvation with the demonstration of "good works" by the changed lifestyle he displayed.
Don't miss the chance to have a personal encounter with Jesus.  I waited until I was thirty-three years old before I "climbed up" to see Him.  I was desperate to make a profound change in my life. 
The question is, "How well do you climb?"

   




Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Halloween - Can You Still Participate As A Christian?

Do you participate in Halloween activities in your neighborhood?  Is there an opportunity for you to start a dialog with your neighbors and their kids about what Halloween really represents?  Can you focus on death and use it as a witnessing tool?  
No doubt you can answer those questions in several ways. In case you don't know the history of this "holiday" - here's a brief overview of the origins of  Halloween. 
Halloween is a culturally popular holiday observed on October 31st. It was a Celtic pagan festival, and then became the Christian holiday - All Saints' Day , but today is a secular celebration.  Halloween activities include trick-or-treating, wearing costumes, carving Jack-o'-lanterns, apple bobbing, visiting haunted attractions, committing pranks, telling ghost stories or other frightening tales, and watching horror films.

Wikipedia, the on-line encyclopedia, has this to say about Halloween:  "The word Halloween is first attested in the 16th century and represents a Scottish variant of the fuller All-Hallows-Even ("evening"), that is, the night before All Hallows Day.  Although the phrase All Hallows is found in Old English (ealra hálȝena mæssedæȝ, the feast of all saints), All-Hallows-Even was not attested until 1556.
In traditional Celtic Halloween festivals, large turnips were hollowed out, carved with faces and placed in windows to ward off evil spirits.  The carving of pumpkins is associated with Halloween in North America where pumpkins are both readily available and much larger – making them easier to carve than turnips. Many families that celebrate Halloween carve a pumpkin into a frightening or comical face and place it on their doorstep after dark.  The practice of dressing up in costumes and begging door to door for treats on holidays, dates back to the Middle Ages.  Trick-or-treating resembles the late medieval practice of souling, originating in Ireland and Britain.  Poor folk would go door to door on Hallowmas (November 1st), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls Day (November 2nd).
The early Christian church moved a festive celebration called All Saints' Day from May to November 1 and renamed it All Hallows' Eve, from which we get the word Halloween. This was an overt attempt on the part of believers to infiltrate pagan tradition with the truth of the gospel.  It was a bold evangelistic move designed to demonstrate that only the power of the resurrected Christ could protect men and women from the destructive ploys of Satan and his demons.
An article posted on ChristianityToday.com in 2009 cited a Barna Research study which had this to say:
"The majority of American Christians do not believe that Satan is a real being or that the Holy Spirit is a living entity, the latest Barna Research survey found. Nearly six out of ten Christians either strongly agreed or somewhat agreed with the statement that Satan "is not a living being but is a symbol of evil," the survey found.  40 percent strongly agreed with the statement while 19 percent of American Christians somewhat agreed.  In contrast, about 35 percent of American Christians believe Satan is real.  20 percent strongly disagreed with the statement that Satan is merely symbolic and about one-tenth (9 percent) somewhat disagreed. The remaining 8  percent of American Christians responded they were unsure what to believe about the existence of Satan."
What can we as believers do to counter-balance a society that deems Halloween "harmless?" For starters, we can have an open door for evangelism and education. The deception of a holiday such as Halloween, with its witches, vampires, demons, skeletons, and overall theme of evil, can become an opportunity to demonstrate the dynamic power of Christ to redeem us from death.  Halloween distorts the reality of true spiritual warfare, and glorifies the dark side of the spiritual world.  However, we can tell them about the One who triumphed over evil, and who came to give us a purpose, and a God-given destiny.
If you allow your children to trick-or-treat, focus on costumes that are based on Bible characters, animals, cartoon characters, historical people, and other "non-horror" themes.  We need to be careful not to add to the "feeding frenzy" of horror movie characters, demons, witches, ghosts, goblins, the devil, and other evil beings.  We often decorate our house with scary "nature things" like spiders & webs, lizards, snakes, mice, birds, bats - and not "death and demon" related items most often found in Halloween-themed stores.  We carve real pumpkins or put out the plug-in type.  We hand out candy or tiny Christian toys and witnessing tracts that are family-friendly.  For the past couple of years (as an empty-nester) I take my two dogs out and walk the neighborhood, visiting with those we meet. You can make October 31st a night to talk about death, eternity, and how Jesus laid His life down for them.     Dying and decay are eminent; however, evil and the grave has been defeated by Jesus through His death on the cross.  
We are more than conquerors over the powers of darkness, demonstrated by Jesus' resurrection (Colossians 2:15), and the Holy Spirit's power in us as believers (Ephesians 6:11-17).
Use Halloween as a teaching tool and an opportunity to witness.  Share the good news of Christ.   
                        R. I. P.    (Rest in His Presence)

"For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus… For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God.  And the dead in Christ will rise first."  (I Thessalonians 4:14; 16)










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Book Showcase for "Lonely Hearts" by Amanda Stephan

One lonely mother. Two matchmaking kids. Three eligible bachelors, and some very yummy apple pie!

When widow Becky Callis moves to a new town, she thought it would be easier to start over in a place where she's not reminded of her dead husband. Her kids on the other hand, take it as a chance to help their mother start over romantically. The only problem is, there seems to be quite a few eligible bachelors they can choose from! They soon realize it's easier to find someone to like their mother than it is to figure out which man is best for her.

Even though this handsome cowboy is younger than Becky, Scott makes his interest plain and starts courting her almost immediately to the delight of both kids.

Jack and Becky have been friends since childhood. When they're reunited years after their lives have taken very different paths, this lonely preacher begins to wonder if God has brought her back into his
life for a reason. 

Pearce Morgan is a single parent raising his young daughter after his wife deserts them soon after Emily's birth. Divorced and disillusioned, an unlikely friendship arises between him and Becky when his shy daughter decides she loves Becky and her kids.
True love is harder than it looks!

An Interview with Amanda: Hi Deborah, thank you for having me here today. It's nice to connect with you and your readers!
Tell us a little about your background. My background is a little boring, but it'll have to suffice. I'm a Christian romance author and homeschooling mother. Most people ask if I've always aspired to be a writer, and to be quite honest, I'd have to say no. I've never lain in bed at night and dreamed of being an author, or hitting the New York Times Bestsellers list (although it would be nice!) I've just always written. It was a form of therapy to me. If I couldn't find a book that I wanted to read in the library, I would simply write my own. I still have stories from my high school and college days. No, I don't let anyone read them, either!  
What inspired you to write your book? My inspiration for writing is my children. I want to teach them so many things, but only too often the words escape me at the moment. Its always been easier to write my thoughts down than to actually express it aloud, but yet I hate to journal. Go figure. In my first book, The Price of Trust, the point I wanted to get across was that abuse of any kind is wrong and should never be accepted. In my second novel, Lonely Hearts, I wanted to show people just how wonderful, and fleeting, family life can be. I see people around me that take so many things for granted, and I wanted to perhaps get someone to stop and look around at the blessings they already have in their lives.
What kinds of reactions has the book generated thus far? The Price of Trust has mixed feelings, which is to be expected. Most are very positive, but some, not so much. Because it's about an abused young woman, some people seem to think the heroine should never get past her pain and should have terrible issues in regards to loving someone. Fortunately, I'm living proof that with trust and faith in God, true love and happiness is indeed possible. God doesn't want His people to be continually beat upon and discouraged, but encouraged, and thriving. Lonely Hearts, which is my newest release, has been getting positive results that actually were surprising to me. Initially, I was going to throw that particular story out as I like books with more suspense in them, but I never could bring myself to do it. Then, when my publisher said she was interested in it, I figured God had a plan for it as well. 
What's the main message that you'd like readers to take away from it? When a reader finishes Lonely Hearts, my hope and prayer is that they don't take so much for granted, like their children. Those kids are only going to be home for so long, so try to make your regrets as few as possible and cherish each moment you have with those you love. No one is promised a tomorrow.
What's next for you? The next thing on my agenda is working on my Christian romantic suspense series that my publisher just picked up. It's a series of three books (possibly four) that chronicle the life of Kyle & Deirdre Slade. It was supposed to be just one novel, but it became so large I had to break it down into a series. I think each book right now is at 70,000 to 80,000 words, so it was a must! I never thought I'd write a series, but guess what. Never say never…    
Any final thoughts you'd like to share? One thing I'd like to say is, remember that with God, all things are possible. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. ~ Philippians 4:13 If this were totally up to me, I would have never gotten this far in my publishing journey. Truly, God has a plan for each of our lives and I want Him to use me for His honor and glory. And if that means writing books that glorify Him, praise God!

About the Author:
Amanda Stephan is just a normal, everyday country girl. She resides near Columbia, TN with her husband and children, three cats, one dog, and multiple roosters that love to roost under their bedroom windows. She loves to laugh and have a good time, and loves to read a good book.
She finds writing to be an opportunity to share God's love for others in a fun and entertaining way. Her first novel, The Price of Trust, was published in May of 2010, her second novel, Lonely Hearts, is due for release at the end of October, 2011, and her Slade series was just picked up by TreasureLine Publishing.

If you were to ask her to share one thing about herself that most people don't know, she'd have so many to choose from that she'd probably hesitate for a moment. Not quite a recluse, she's rather camera shy, doesn't like to be in the spotlight, and absolutely LOVES to have her feet tickled. But she would say her most interesting accomplishment is that she laughs like Scooby Doo.

How can our readers learn more about you and contact you directly?  I love to meet new people. I'm a people junkie. You can find me lurking in so many places, that I'll just give you a few of them here. Thank you for asking! 
You can find me on Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/amandastephan Facebook Fan page - http://www.facebook.com/creativehomemomma Facebook personal page - http://www.facebook.com/amanda.stephan1Website – http://www.booksbyamanda.comBlog – http://www.thepriceoftrust.com
Thank you again, Deborah, for having me here today. Your kindness is greatly appreciated!
The official Amazon launch date for Lonely Hearts is November 1st - 
Please visit:  Amanda's Website   for a chance to win a Nook,  Kindle,  &  i-Pod Shuffle 








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

It's Sunday Morning Again... Can You Relate?

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It's Sunday morning again.  You get into your car and drive to church – again – alone.
I attend a couple's class at our church.  I used to be in a women's Bible study group years ago, but since I have been attending my current church, my husband has attended services on occasion with me. He is comfortable with our pastor and is familiar with some couples that we knew from another congregation.  I say all that to say this: Then why do I feel so out of place in church?
When our son was young, or when he was older still living at home, it seemed easier to go to church and not get distracted by couples sitting in the pews.  Now that we are empty-nesters – it seems that I have become increasingly more aware of the fact that we are not worshiping together.  We're not even sitting in church together – much less worshiping together.  I struggle with wandering and sometimes inappropriate thoughts.

In II Corinthians 10:4-6 Paul tells us, "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled."

 To my husband's credit – he does attend services with me on occasion.  He has joined me in attending a class social or couples dinner outing – albeit reluctantly.  He just doesn't have a desire to fellowship with believers or be in a church setting.  I have stopped trying to play Spiritual Shrink or Holy Ghost Investigator when it comes to "why?"
Truth be known, it was somewhat easier for me in years past when I attended a women's only Bible study because we supported each other in prayer, in fellowship and in mentoring.  It was more comfortable to be surrounded by other women who didn't have spousal spiritual support.  Now I find myself feeling like a fish out of water, or you could say – out of "living water".
I often feel like a salmon, swimming furiously upstream – trying to leap over the rapids of "happily married couples" and the rocks of "you can be happy too!" mentality in my quest to reach safety.  I know in my mind and heart that God loves me and I press into Him all the more when I feel discouraged.  But there are times during the church service when I struggle to keep my focus on the preacher's message – and simply look around at all the "couples" in church.  Please, tell me I'm not alone…
Back to II Corinthians 10:  in a spiritual sense - I shake my head and gather my thoughts once again. I sit and re-evaluate what's going on in my mind and feelings, and give it over to God. 
I take time to thank God for my salvation and thank Him for such a good man He gave to me 30 years ago for a husband – though I didn't come to accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior until 7 years into this marriage.  
 I regain my focus as I tune-in to my pastor's sermon and re-adjust my thinking to align once again with what God's Word tells me about my situation at home.
I recall to my mind I Peter 3:1-4, and how it is my "inner" woman that will attract my husband to Jesus Christ.  The years of seeking to know God better, attending church, working on my Bible studies, praying, helping others and living out my faith – that is what is drawing him closer to the Savior.  My Spirit woman will draw him nearer to the God who created him for fellowship. 
I consider what I Corinthians 7:13-14 has to say concerning the unbelieving spouse, and how they are sanctified by the believing spouse. If the unbeliever desires to stay in the marriage, the believer is obligated to dwell with them in love and devotion – as unto the Lord.
This verse in I Samuel speaks to me regarding the above scenario: "Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice" (vs. 22).  The Lord spoke to my heart that my obedience to Him in loving and being devoted to my husband – regardless if he is a believer or not – is better than my "sacrifice" of living in an unequally-yoked marriage.  
 I do not have the right to play the victim and feel sorry for myself.  I do not have the right to hold it against him.  I must love him with the love of Christ and let God move in his heart and mind.  I must concentrate on my obedience to what God has for me to do as a godly wife and helpmeet.  I must keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and not on my circumstances or feelings.

(Here is an excerpt from  MISSION POSSIBLE  Chapter 6 - In the Meantime, Serve)

Beware, that while you are busy serving and waiting, often the enemy will delight in torturing you with thoughts of defeat. You'll be sitting in church, watching the other couples and think, "Lord, what about them?" "They've got each other, Lord…" "When is it going to be my turn?"

 And the Lord would answer me, "What is that to you? You follow me." The Apostle Peter questioned the Lord about John and Jesus told him, "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow me" (John 21:21-22). We need to have an attitude of gratitude and not question God's authority and sovereignty. We are human and we will have days when we're discouraged and down, but we must encourage ourselves in the Lord as David did in Psalm 42:11, "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God." If we never had anything else to praise God for except our salvation, we should be a most grateful people!

This past Sunday was no different than many previous Sundays, except for the fact that I caught myself doing exactly what I mentioned earlier in this article.  But this time I looked around and said to myself, "It sure will be great to sit here with my husband, Lord, and worship You together. So glad You're working in his life and heart." 
What a relief it is to give it all to HIM…






Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Autumn is Here - The Harvest is Ripe

While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest , and cold and heat, and winter and summer, and day and night, shall not cease.  (Genesis 8:22)
In the New Testament, Jesus related the harvest to those He taught, healed, and ministered to.  He was moved with compassion for them, equating them to sheep without a shepherd. He told the disciples and others who followed Him that there was a need for workers in the Kingdom of God - to labor for a harvest of souls.  He says the same thing to us today:
In Matthew 9:37-38 He declared, "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest." 
And in John 4:35 He said, "Do you not say, 'There are still four months and then comes the harvest? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!"
A little history about harvesting - 
In agriculture, the harvest is the process of gathering mature crops from the fields.   Reaping is the cutting of grain for harvest, typically using a scythe, sickle, or reaper.   The harvest marks the end of the growing season, or the growing cycle for a particular crop,
The end of the summer ushers in the beginning of fall, a time marked by crops and their harvest .  For the Hebrew people, as for those in any agricultural district today, the harvest was a most important season (Gen 8:22; 45:6).  The three principal feasts of the Jews corresponded to the three harvest seasons (Ex 23:16; 34:21,22).  They were: 
1.  The feast of the Passover in April at the time of the barley harvest (Ruth 1:22). 
2.  The feast of Pentecost (7 weeks later) at the wheat harvest (Ex 34:22). 
3.  The feast of Tabernacles at the end of the year (October) during the fruit harvest.   

The Feast of Pentecost was a harvest festival through which the people expressed thanksgiving to God for the grain harvest and other crops (Numbers 28).  The feast was also known as the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Firstfruits.
Many precise laws were instituted regarding the harvest . Gleaning was forbidden (Lev 19:9; 23:22; Deut 24:19).  And the first-fruits were required to be presented to Yahweh (Lev 23:10).
In present day Israel, the harvest festival is celebrated in the form of the Succoth; Succoth has historical roots which date back to the time when the Hebrews traveled to Israel (Canaan) and set up living booths along the way. A booth was known as a succah and people ate and worshiped in this space; farmers also lived in a succah at harvest time and gave thanks for the harvest .  Today, the Succoth festival lasts for seven days, in September/October, and it is still traditional to build a shelter where families gather to give thanks, share meals and live together for the time of the Succoth festival.  A simple succah is built from tree branches, flowers and fruits and decorated with gold and blue material, leaving one side open. The Succoth is also known as the Jewish Harvest Festival.  Sowing and reaping is an eternal principle. 
Jesus taught that the one who sowed and the one who received wages for reaping, together rejoiced over the harvest.  He revealed this truth to His disciples after the encounter with the Samaritan woman by the well telling them, "For in this the saying is true: 'One sows and another reaps.'  I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors" (John 4:37-38). 
The Apostle Paul encourages us to continue in our efforts of sowing into God's Kingdom.  In Galatians 6 he states, "Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.  For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.  And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."
Revelation 14:14-15 tells us, "And I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and on the cloud sat One like the Son of Man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle.  And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, 'Thrust in Your sickle and reap, for the time has come for You to reap, for the harvest of the earth is ripe."
The prophet Jeremiah proclaimed this in response to his heartache over the nation of Israel's unrepentant hearts: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved!"  (Jeremiah 8:20)
Lord Jesus, harvest our hearts for Your work in the fields of a lost world.  
As we continue to stand in the gap for our unsaved spouses , may we also continue to sow in the Spirit using prayer, the Word of God, and our good deeds to plant in the garden of their souls. 
Do you want to display a bounty of spiritual fruit to your mate?  Then begin preparing the soil of your heart to receive the Godly tools necessary to plant those tiny seeds and nurture them as they sprout.
In order to reap a harvest of ripe, juicy, attractive fruit – we need to sow the seeds of those fruits: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control.

The harvest in our marriage will be the unity in the Spirit that we have always longed for...

Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness,
Sowing in the noontide and the dewy eve;
Waiting for the harvest, and the time of reaping,
We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.
  Refrain: Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves,
We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves;
Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves,
We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.
 Bringing in the Sheaves by  Knowles Shaw, 1874   (Psalm 126:5-6)




 

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Book Launch - Fit for Faith by Kimberley Payne

TODAY - October 11th marks the launch of Kimberley Payne's e-book    Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health.  As a special promotion, today's buyers will get free gifts for each copy of Fit for Faith   that they purchase.
For details on the book, launch, and promotions please visit: http://kimberleypayne.wordpress.com  
An Interview with Kimberley PayneAuthor of Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health
Are you looking for balance in your life? Believing that prayer, Bible study and journal writing are to the spirit what exercise, healthy eating and stretching are to the body, this workbook unites spiritual health and physical health through a 7-week program to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. This workbook is a motivational tool to empower women to improve their health to live balanced, whole and joyous lives that glorify God.   1. How was the idea for the book born?   Although I was born and raised within the church, it wasn't until I attended a Christian women's retreat that I realized how much I had compartmentalized my life: family in one corner, work in another; finances here, health there, faith over there. I began to see that my faith shouldn't be kept partitioned off from the rest of my life. Instead, it needed to be intertwined with all the parts of my life. If I was going to follow Him as my Lord, God wanted me to include Him in everything and that included my health and fitness.  2. What authority do you have to write this book?  I certified as a Weight Instructor through the YMCA, then went on to certify as an Aerobics Instructor through A.C.E., then went on to certify as a Personal Fitness through Can-Fit-Pro.  3.  There are many fitness books on the market. How is Fit for Faith any different?   Fit for Faith makes no assumptions about the reader's spiritual walk. All levels, whether a new Christian or a mature Christian, can benefit from this program. It is a program for a new Christian who wants to learn about prayer, journal writing and Bible study in the comfort of their own home, but a mature Christian can still be refreshed in their faith and re-commit to a daily relationship with God. It is motivating with inspiring reflections included each day and Christian truths set forth in a non-threatening manner.   Fit for Faith makes no assumptions about the activity level of the reader. All levels, whether a sedentary individual or a seasoned athlete, can benefit from this program. It emphasizes overall health, not just weight loss. Expertise and professionalism are provided throughout the program in easy-to-read "fit tips" and goal-planning assistance. The program includes strategies that empower people to make small changes in their daily routines to improve the quality of their life. 
Fit for Faith is a well-rounded balanced program that follows the stages of change and so inspires confidence and builds esteem.            4.  What is your purpose in writing this book?

The purpose in writing is to share knowledge from the health and fitness field and to demonstrate that partnership with God always leads to success, in every area of life. It is designed with the message of the gospel at its heart.

5. What is involved in the 7-week program?
The Fit for Faith program starts with developing an action plan that includes exploring benefits and success strategies of exercising, healthy eating, and stretching the body and the spirit. Then, the reader moves into implementing the plan through a daily program of prayer, Bible study and tracking of healthy habits. Each week is capped with a review that is a natural lead into the next week.  6. Can the book be used in a group setting?   Fit for Faith is a simple workbook to support a person through their day. It is designed for individuals to participate on their own at any hour, and anywhere.  However, the workbook is extremely versatile and has proven success as a group program. Leader's Notes are available to work within a group setting that can also be used as an outreach program within a church or workplace.  7. What are the benefits of the program?   It's like having your own personal trainer, without the cost. There is a ton of useful information that helps the reader wade through the myths and misconceptions that are out there. It's an awareness program. The reader is accountable to record their activities, and this helps to recognize where their strengths are and what areas they need to improve. It's a lifestyle change. Over the 7 weeks, the reader will gain habits that last a lifetime.  8. Do you offer workshops/presentations based on the book?

Yes, my main three presentations are:
Fit for Prayer
Learn how to fit prayer and physical activity into your daily routine
This workshop unites physical health and spiritual health to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. In this highly interactive session, you will gain insight into how to incorporate prayer and fitness into your daily round.
Food for thought
Find out how to nourish your body and spirit through healthy eating and Bible study
Just as eating healthy foods nourishes your body, Bible study nourishes your spirit. You will learn practical suggestions and scriptural guidance to achieve your goals. Feel the joy of a healthier and more spiritually fit life.
Flex your Spirit
Discover a new way to express yourself with God through journal writing and stretching
Taking care of yourself physically is one way to honor God with your body. Your thoughts and emotions directly influence your physical health. Learn how to recharge your physical and emotional health through stretching activities for your body and spirit. 

[image error] 9. Where else can we find you on the Internet?

Website: www.kimberleypayne.comBlog: www.fitforfaith.blogspot.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/#!/FitForFaithFacebook: Kimberley Payne, author & speaker http://tinyurl.com/3fymrmpYouTube: Fit4Faith channel http://tinyurl.com/3jnjpkp
Bio for Kimberley Payne:
Kimberley Payne is a motivational speaker and author of Fit for Faith – 7 Weeks to Improved Spiritual and Physical Health. Her writings relate raising a family, pursuing a healthy lifestyle, and everyday experiences to building a relationship with God. Through her work, Kimberley hopes to inspire women to live happier, healthier lives that glorify God. Kimberley is a former personal trainer and has worked in the designing and counselling fields of weight control, stress management, self esteem improvement and wellness programs. She enjoys recreational activities with her husband and two children near Peterborough, Ontario. You can visit her website at http://www.kimberleypayne.com/
Don't forget - TODAY ONLY October 11th  buyers will get free gifts for each copy of Fit for Faith   that they purchase.
The details on the book, launch, and promotions are here: http://kimberleypayne.wordpress.com
Fit for Faith on Amazon
To your health!  
    
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Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Can You Hear His Heartbeat?

Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask who it was of whom He spoke. Then, leaning back on Jesus' breast, he said to Him, "Lord, who is it?"   (John 13:23-25)
Can you imagine hearing the Lord's heartbeat?  Jesus was fully man and fully God.  His heart beat like any other man's – pumping at a resting beat as He reclined at dinner.  On that memorable night John no doubt reflected back on all he had seen, heard and felt in those short three years with the Messiah. Do you suppose John actually heard the heartbeat of his Savior?  I'd like to think so…
John was thought to be the youngest disciple of the twelve.  He and James were known as the "sons of thunder".   John was juvenile and impetuous when he first met Jesus. Later on he would be one of the three disciples that Jesus referred to as His inner circle.  John had a unique relationship with Jesus and wrote some of the most intimate passages in Scripture.  He was cherished by the Creator of the universe with a depth of love that could not be adequately measured or put into words.  He never got over that feeling of unconditional love.
John was present at some of the key moments in Jesus' life:
~ he saw Jesus bring Jairus' daughter back to life ~ he watched the miracle feeding of thousands in the hills of Galilee~ he saw whatever it was that mysteriously happened at the Transfiguration ~ he was with Jesus during their last supper in the upper room~ he witnessed the resurrection of Jesus' dear friend Lazarus~ he was present when the soldiers came for Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane ~ he stood near the foot of the cross as Jesus died in horrifying agony~ he outran Peter to enter the tomb of Jesus on the third day after His death
In response, Jesus entrusted his young friend with the care of His mother Mary.
What do we do when we're overwhelmed with life?  How do we deal with our broken hearts and dreams? If you could physically lean against your Lord – placing your head on His chest in sorrow - could you hear His heartbeat?  
That heartbeat reminds us of His eternal care and comfort.  As a baby reacts to his mother's heartbeat when placed upon her breast, we too are enveloped in His love and eternal security.

When...
You just lost a loved one in a tragic accident.  You never had an opportunity to say "good-bye".   You're angry and hurt.  You just wanted to tell them you loved them.  It just isn't fair – you miss them so much. "Why now, Lord?"   Lean on Him.  Rest in His love.   
Your spouse just told you they didn't love you anymore.  They want "out" of the marriage.  You didn't even see it coming – you were blind-sighted.  You though everything was okay.  What happened to the vows you took years earlier?    Lean on Him.  Rest in His faithfulness. 
Your son or daughter just phoned you from jail.  Your heart begins to ache and you've got a lump in your throat.  You thought the conversation you had just the other day would make a difference.  Now what do you do?   Lean on Him.  Rest in His sovereignty.
The doctor just called you and needs you to come in for further testing.  Your routine check-up seemed to go just fine, but now you're worried.  Maybe the results got mixed up with someone else, right?   Lean on Him.  Rest in His mercy.
There will be times when you'll have to deal with tragedy or heartbreak alone.  Others won't be able to comfort you or change the outcome.  That is when you need to press into your faith and call out to your Savior.  Lean on Him. Rest in His compassion.
Be still - Lean on Him and listen… can you hear His heartbeat?








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

Author Showcase - Diane Tatum & her book "Gold Earrings"

Daughter of a bordello madame and an Italian  captain of the seas, Angelina Mercy longs for a new life, free from the  condemnation associated with her mother's home in Boston. A former navy man,  Jonathan Thomson has accepted God's call and become a minister of a small  congregation.  Adrift from his Yankee heritage in the Missouri plains, Jonathan longs for a family of his own. Pursuing Alice, the daughter of the town's wealthy patron, Jonathan believes he can tame her wild ways and accomplish more as a preacher once so established.  When Angelina's guardian and Jonathan's seminary professor learns of Jonathan's misguided intentions, he seeks out a solution to aid both individuals, providing a new home for Angelina in St. Joseph, and Angelina and Jonathan are brought together with a strong initial attraction. Can Jonathan ignore Angelina's Gold Earrings, a constant reminder of the implications of her less than pristine parentage? And will Alice succeed in keeping Jonathan from Angelina? 

This is a brief glimpse into Diane Tatum's new book "Gold Earrings".  This touching novel is set in the rural heartland and has all the charm of a quaint small town. The resilient heroine - Angelina - will inspire you in this touching tale of love against all the odds.


Here's a Brief Interview with Diane:
Tell us a little about your background. I grew up in a Christian home in north St. Louis County.  I hold two degrees, BS-Business Administration and a Masters of Teaching-Language Arts. I taught Middle School language arts for 11 years in Tullahoma City Schools. I have two sons and two daughters-in-law. My husband Ken is an aerospace engineer at Arnold Engineering Development Center.
What inspired you to write your book? One rainy day on the school bus to high school, the germ of Gold Earrings came to me. I wrote the short story that week. I've worked on the novel ever since, off and on. I finally finished it prior to returning to school for my master's and teaching certificate.
What kinds of reactions has the book generated thus far? One kind reviewer suggested that it should be a Hallmark movie! Everyone seems to love it, says it's a fast read, and that they cannot put it down until they get to the end.What's the main message that you'd like readers to take away from it?No one should judge others by their appearance or their family background.
What's next for you? I've almost finished a 2nd Christian historical novel that occurs during the Civil War. It's called A Time to Choose.
Any final thoughts you'd like to share? I am so excited to see Gold Earrings finally in print! I'm also so excited to be working with the John 3:16 Marketing Network to spread the word about Christian books!!
How can our readers learn more about you and contact you directly? Email: tatumlight@gmail.comWebsite: http://dianeetatumwriter.weebly.com

Author Bio Diane E. Tatum began writing in grade school with short mystery stories, a play performed by her sixth grade class, and a dictionary of supernatural beings.  High school found her writing serial fiction with her friends, including developing characters and plot lines through hand-written notes.  Gold Earrings is an outgrowth of a short story written in a high school creative writing class, More historical Christian novels are in the works; most are part of an historical series.                 Diane has written many assigned pieces for Lifeway, including curriculum, devotions, and assigned articles for leadership magazines.  She has also branched out into freelance publication including poetry, leadership articles, a story for teens, and helps for parents.  In addition to her writing career, Diane taught middle school language arts for 11 years.  She has worked as a church youth group leader and worker since 1981. Her recent "retirement" from teaching allows her to focus on her own writing. She is loved and supported by her husband, Ken, and their 2 sons and daughters-in-law.
Please visit Diane's Blog: http://tatumlight-tatumsthoughts4today.blogspot.com/ 
You can purchase Diane's book on Amazon here:  Gold Earrings









Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com