Edie Melson's Blog, page 142

What to do When We’re Empty

by Martin Wiles @LinesFromGod
When my stomach talks, I listen. Sometimes, too often. 
When I wake up early in the morning, it’s talking. About two hours later, it speaks again. Then we carry on another conversation around 11:00 that morning. A couple of hours later, and we’re at it again. Then again around 6 p.m. And yes, before bedtime, it’s yelling again. 
I once ate as often as my stomach talked. But that was when my youthful nature still reigned, and my metabolism ran in high gear. I could eat all I wanted—and as much of it—and not gain a pound. Around forty, that changed—and it is still changing. My stomach still speaks as often as it always did, but now I either ignore it for a few hours or fill it with some healthier foods that won’t cause weight gain since age has slowed my metabolism. 
I’ve also learned through the years that filling my stomach with certain things has unwelcome consequences—gaining weight not included. I’ll either end up with a stomachache, or I’ll make several trips to the bathroom. Something I might not have time for, especially if I’m teaching a class at school, preaching a sermon, teaching a Sunday school lesson, or speaking at a conference. 
Jonah discovered a little about the stomach too—the stomach of a big fish. Whether the fish was a whale or matters little. Whatever it was, the fish was large enough to swallow him. I don’t know what Jonah heard, smelled, or saw in the belly of that fish, but I do know he wanted to get out because he was running on empty. 
“I called to you from the land of the dead, and Lord, you heard me (Jonah 2:2 NLT)!
Fortunately, God heard his cry of repentance and instructed the fish to vomit him on dry land. Jonah then decided he’d do what God had instructed him to do to begin with: preach to the wicked Ninevites. 
Our stomachs talk when they’re empty, and Jonah was empty. Empty because he had disobeyed God. Empty because he wanted to go his way rather than God’s way. Empty because he was running from God’s plan for him. Empty because he forgot God traveled with him everywhere he voyaged. Empty in all respects.
Life has a way of mimicking our stomachs when they’re empty. We hit rock bottom with no way to look but up. Maybe we’re there because of bad decisions we’ve made or because someone else made them for us. Perhaps, we’re there because we pursued our plan rather than God’s. Like the gas needle hovering near empty, we feel as if we only have a few miles to go before we’re out of fuel. Our stomachs are talking and we’re listening, but we don’t know where to turn. 
And writers aren’t immune to these empty spells. We hear the little voice that tells us we have nothing more to contribute, that no agent could want to represent us, that our manuscripts are trash—not worthy of anyone reading—that we’ll never make the best-seller list or be able to attach award-winning to our name. We stare at the page—or computer screen—and can’t manufacture one good word or thought. Our enemy tells us to throw in the towel. 
God says differently. Our answer is the same as Jonah’s: cry out to God. He knows where we are, how we got there, and where the answer lies. He will deliver if we ask. Looking for other stuff to make our stomachs stop growling won’t work. Only a close relationship with our Creator, as well as following His plan for us, will fill our empty spot. 
And when we ask, God will fill our stomachs with what truly satisfies us. Our stomachs—our minds, wills, and emotions—will stop growling for the things that won’t satisfy. And God will vomit us onto a clean stunning beachfront where life will deliver the peace He wants us to enjoy.
If you’re empty, turn to the stomach filler.
TWEETABLEWhat to do When We're Empty - encouragement from martin Wiles, @LinesFromGod on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Martin Wiles is the founder of Love Lines from God (www.lovelinesfromgod.com) and serves as Managing Editor for Christian Devotions, Senior Editor for Inspire a Fire, and Proof Editor for Courier Publishing. He has authored six books and has been published in numerous publications. His most recent book, DON'T JUST LIVE...REALLY LIVE, debuted in October of 2021. He is a freelance editor, English teacher, author, and pastor.

Choose to Celebrate Your Imperfect Writing Life

by Beth K. Vogt @BethVogt
“You can’t let praise or criticism get to you. It’s a weakness to get caught up in either one.” John Wooden (1910-2010), American basketball player & coach
I want to tell you one thing today: You did a good job this year.
You—yes, you!—did a good job this year.
I realize you’re probably in the middle of all the holiday rush, but may I ask you to stop for just a moment?
Thank you.
Now look back over your shoulder at the past 12 months. Focus on your writing life and recall things you did as the clock ticked off minutes and hours and days and weeks and months:Words you wroteWords you revisedDays you stared at a blank page or a blank computer screenDeadlines you met Deadlines you missedContests you entered Synopses you wroteWriters you mentored Success you achieved – small ones, big ones, unexpected onesDisappointments you persevered throughHealth challenges you facedTimes you heard yes … and times you heard noMaybe 2021 was everything you hoped it would be … and more. 
Maybe 2021 was a dance of disappointments and you would have preferred to decline the invitation.
Still, I’m repeating one thing today: You did a good job this year.
Let’s choose to sift through all the circumstances of our lives and find the good. It’s not wrong to want to have accomplished more, but in the longing for more, we can overlook all the different ways we’ve been blessed, all the “not as good as we’d hoped for” results that still add up to something good.
During this season when people are singing, “all I want for Christmas,” give yourself the gift of choosing to celebrate an imperfect writing life. 
How do you do that?Forgive yourself when you didn’t live up to your expectations. Truth is, we tend to expect too much of ourselves. We set goals for ourselves, signing ourselves up for a virtual writing marathon rather than being more realistic and admitting we should have signed up for a 5k.Look for opportunities to learn. Want to up your writing game? You can’t do that on your own. Be willing to invest time and yes, money, in books and workshops and conferences to improve as a writer.Don’t drag 2021 into 2022. When the ball drops declaring it’s a new year, let last year go. What’s done is done. Don’t weigh down the coming year with any regrets from the past 12 months—you’ll only hold yourself back. I’m going to say it again: You did a good job this year. The best gift you can give yourself as you finish 2021 and set your sights on 2022? The gift of grace … add a lavish amount of grace to your remembrance of this year. 
Embrace this year. 
Release this year. 
And then move on into the new year with hope.
TWEETABLEChoose to Celebrate Your Imperfect Writing Life, wisdom & encouragement from @BethVogt on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Beth K. Vogt believes God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” Having authored nine contemporary romance novels and novellas, The Best We’ve Been, the final book in Beth’s Thatcher Sisters Series with Tyndale House Publishers, releasers May 2020. Other books in the women’s fiction series include Things I Never Told You, which won the 2019 AWSA Award for Contemporary Novel of the Year, and Moments We Forget. Beth is a 2016 Christy Award winner, a 2016 ACFW Carol Award winner, and a 2015 RITA® finalist. An established magazine writer and former editor of the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth blogs for Learn How to Write a Novel and The Write Conversation and also enjoys speaking to writers group and mentoring other writers. Visit Beth at bethvogt.com.

The Promise of Christmas for Writers

by Joshua J. Masters @JoshuaJMasters
As many of us toss our normal writing routines aside like the wrapping from a toddler’s Christmas present this month, let’s be sure we take time to reflect on the Christmas story in our lives.
With hope waning under the Roman government’s oppression, the Jews waited for the fulfillment of a promise penned by Isaiah seven-hundred years earlier: 
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6 NKJV)
A Messiah came into this world to bring restoration and healing to our brokenness. And the power of that promise is so great, it should affect every aspect of a Christian’s life, even their writing.
Let’s explore how each of these titles for Jesus can encourage us in our writing careers and offer prayers for each one as we embrace the promise of Christmas. 
WONDERFUL COUNSELORAs writers, we all know the importance of a properly placed comma. So, I should confess there’s disagreement among biblical translators whether they should render this verse, “Wonderful Counselor” or “Wonderful, Counselor.” But whether “Wonderful” is a stand-alone title of the Messiah or a description of His role as our counselor, the promise remains the same.
The Hebrew word for wonderful in this verse means amazing or miraculous deeds. 
And the word for counselor is tied to the concept of encouragement through wise advice. How would you like to see miraculous acts in your writing career? How would you like your writing to be fueled by unending encouragement and wisdom?
Yet, we so often rely on our own wisdom and actions to make things happen. Do we want the full promise of a Wonderful Counselor, or do we just keep Him on retainer for moments of writer’s block or looming deadlines?
What if we rededicated the entirety of our craft and career to His wisdom and path for our writing this Christmas?
PRAY THISWonderful Counselor, You are my source of hope and wisdom. You have declared a wise path for me and my writing. Teach me to lean on Your counsel and the wonderful deeds You’ve planned for me, so I might experience the wisdom of Your ways. Amen.
MIGHTY GODThe promised Messiah was more than a human child. He was (and remains) the Mighty God of creation. The word mighty in Hebrew refers to strength, courage, and military skill. It’s most often translated in the Old Testament as mighty warrior. In other words, the promise of the Messiah is that He will be your strength and fight for you.
Don’t you tire of battling to make things happen in your writing? Sometimes I exhaust myself trying to be a Mighty Josh when I should lean into the Mighty God who’s already declared victory for me. 
God called you to be a writer, and He wasn’t wearing blinders when He spoke that over you. A Mighty God created you for a mighty purpose. He has a courageous path forged for you—a purpose-filled plan far better than your personal goals.
The promise of the Messiah is that He’s greater than your obstacles and has already developed a strategy for your life. Rely on His strength rather than your own. 
PRAY THISMighty God, You are the maker of the heavens and earth. I know You’ve created me for a purpose that reveals Your strength, even in my weakness. Allow me a glimpse of your power as I surrender my life and craft to Your sovereignty. Reveal Your glory by what You do in and through me. Amen.
EVERLASTING FATHERThe greatest promise of Christmas is an eternal Father who offers eternal life through Christ’s sacrifice. 
Many writers struggle with a march of rejection that casts a shadow over them like a giant balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. A difficult critique or an unaccepted manuscript can make an author feel unloved and unwanted. 
But our Messiah, who is one with the Everlasting Father, loves you unconditionally. Our heavenly Father is one who never abandons, never leaves, and never harms. His love endures forever (see Psalm 136). So, another promise we receive in the gift of Christmas is an identity rooted in His unchanging love rather than the fickle acceptance of a writing career or this world.
How would it transform your approach to writing (or the way you live) if you walked in complete confidence, feeling absolutely loved and entirely accepted? That’s what our eternal Father is offering.
PRAY THISEverlasting Father, teach me to live and write in the hope of Your eternal promise rather than the broken promises of this world. Show me how to anchor my identity in Your love, embracing who You say I am rather than believing the lies this life has taught me about myself. Amen.
PRINCE OF PEACEHave you ever paced back and forth, uncertain how you’ll meet a deadline? How many anxiety-fraught nights have you spent waiting for the elusive response of a publisher? When we reject the perfect timing of our Wonderful Counselor, forge ahead in our own strength rather than our Mighty God’s and seek the love of this world over the love our Everlasting Father offers, it’s impossible to have any lasting peace.
But the Prince of Peace broke through the chasm between our sin and God to be born as a humble slave (see Philippians 2:6-8), so He could rescue us from the curse and sorrow of this broken world. His desire is for you to have peace. He said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NIV).
You can have peace in your writing and in the life that surrounds that career.
PRAY THISPrince of Peace, I’ve faced struggles and anxieties in this world and in my writing. I want to experience the unyielding peace of your victory. Lead me in a way I sense your calming presence, knowing you offer peace beyond human understanding. Amen.
The promise of Christmas is greater than a writing career, of course. But it should permeate every aspect of our lives. As we become discouraged, let’s remember that the Messiah came to give us an abundant life here on earth (see John 10:10), followed by a perfect life in eternity.
For unto us a Child is born. Unto us a Son is given. Merry Christmas.
TWEETABLEThe Promise of Christmas for Writers, encouragement from @JoshuaJMasters on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Joshua J. Masters is a pastor, author, and speaker with a heart for encouraging others. His book on prayer, AMERICAN PSALMS, was a Serious Writer’s Book of the Decade finalist. He’s been featured on CBN Television, HIS Radio, the Light Radio Network, and worked in the film industry as a member of SAG-AFTRA performer. He is a regular teacher and speaker for large groups. A self-proclaimed sci-fi and comic book geek, Josh loves film, pop culture and is known in some circles as THE BAT PASTOR. Joshua was raised in the White Mountains of New England and now serves as a pastor in South Carolina where he lives with his wife, Gina, and their miniature poodle, FRANKLIN THE PUP, who is the subject of his latest book. Josh would love to connect with you on his website, JOSHUAJMASTERS.COM

How to Wait Well as a Writer

by Julie Lavender @JLavenderWrites
I’m not a patient waiter. How ‘bout you? 
As writers, we’re often in a state of waiting. Waiting for the next conference, so we can fellowship with our like-minded comrades and meet new author friends, too. Waiting to hear back from a query. Waiting to hear from a publisher. Waiting for just the right agent to give us a nod of approval. 
Waiting for the launch of our latest book. Waiting for friends and family to review that latest book. Waiting for an idea for another book or article or blog. 
Writers write. And then, writers wait. 
For over half a year now, I’ve anxiously awaited the launch of my next book. Amazon announced the launch date of Children’s Bible Stories for Bedtime, published by Penguin Random House, as November 23. About six weeks ago, I watched the date change to November 30, and my marketing rep at Penguin said, “Supply chain and printer capacity issues might delay the launch further.” 
Soon, the release date changed to December 14, then to December 21. I’d hoped that was the last change, because I hoped parents and grandparents and other adults who love children would want to purchase my book for the little ones in their lives. 
But, alas, the date moved again to January 11, 2022. 
I’ll admit – my emotions got the better of me, and I was deeply distraught by the changes. I’d anxiously awaited the release of my book for so long, and now, apparently, I’d have to wait even longer. 
My head didn’t have a problem recognizing that “God’s timing is perfect” and “His ways are higher,” but my heart was disappointed, nonetheless. 
After a bit of moaning and complaining and pouting (mostly either to my husband or in a conversation with myself or in my morning walk with God), I decided to do what I should’ve done in the first place. I turned to the Bible to see what lessons I could learn while waiting. 
Have you ever noticed how often God calls us to wait? 
Abraham and Sarah waited many, many years to become parents. Even after God revealed his promise to them, the couple waited a long time for Isaac’s birth. Genesis 15:6 says, “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” 
Abraham trusted God’s promises. His faith led him to believe, and I believe waiting on the Lord increased his faith infinitely. Waiting a few extra weeks for my book to release will certainly be worth it to me, if I spend that time trusting God’s promises and leaning into my faith, rather than moaning or complaining. I’ll trade a mere six weeks for a stronger faith any day!
Jacob worked and waited for years to become Rachel’s husband, and because of a conniving father-in-law, Jacob worked seven more years to earn the wife he thought he was getting in the first place. Jacob’s waiting seemed to amplify his love for Rachel. I’m praying the wait time will grow my affection for my writing project more deeply, also. It’s my desire to work even harder to bring about awareness for my book, praising the Lord continuously for the book contract he bountifully bestowed upon me. For, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows,” (James 1:17). 
Publication dates may change like shifting shadows, but not the Giver of good and perfect gifts. Extra days of waiting give me ample time to remember that a book contract from Penguin Random House is an extra-special gift to me, one that I can work hard for and praise Him often for, too.
Joseph longed for freedom for years, waiting first as a slave and then as a prisoner. Yet he continued to worship the Lord during that time. And, he continued to excel at the tasks he was given, whatever those responsibilities entailed. As we writers are so often told at conferences, I can continue to work on other projects during my wait-time, putting forth my best efforts on every article or blog post or query letter I type. Joseph’s situation reminds me that “God intended it all for good” (Genesis 50:20), and that I should “not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). 
Simeon waited with absolute certainty and great expectation on the Christ Child. Each day, Simeon awakened with one thought on his mind –“Is today the day Jesus comes?” The Bible uses two words to describe Simeon in Luke 2:25 – devout and righteous. This story reminds me that Simeon lived a life that reflected His Father in heaven and actively anticipated the coming of Christ. May Simeon be an example for me on how to wait well!
Anna waited on the Christ-child, too. While she waited, she “worshiped night and day, fasting and praying….[and] gave thanks to God” (Luke 2:37-38).
The centurion Cornelius, having had a vision from the Lord, waited for more insight from Peter. I wonder if Cornelius ever doubted that Peter would come to his home upon his request? How I love to read the words that followed, when Peter arrives and says, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34-35). While I’m waiting, I can share the good news with anyone I come in contact with, from every nation, without any favoritism.
Peter waited in prison and had no idea what fate beheld him. He boldly spoke of the Lord’s goodness, and it subsequently landed him in prison. And with his miraculous escape, Peter exclaimed: “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and recued me …” (Acts 12:11). God’s timing is always, always perfect. And I can remember to give Him all the glory, for His ways are best. 
From just a cursory exploration in God’s word, I found seven opportunities of waiting well as a writer. 
W – Walk with the Lord with a growing faith each day. 
A – Appreciate and praise God for the gifts He gives me.
I – Invest in other projects God allows me to take part in. 
T – Transform my life into one that reflects Christ to those around me.
I – Incorporate worship and thanksgiving in my life, night and day. 
N – Nurture a relationship with Christ with those I come in contact with.
G – Glorify God in everything I do, even when my timing ideas differ from His perfect ones.
Thank you, God, that YOU know the plans for me. Thank you, God, that those plans are always, always good. 
What about you? Is waiting hard for you? What helps you wait well as a writer? 
TWEETABLEHow to Wait Well as a Writer, encouragement from @JLavenderWrites on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Julie Lavender is waiting—patiently, on most days—for her newest book, Children’s Bible Stories for Bedtime, published by Z Kids/Penguin Random House to launch into the world in early January. What she’s most excited about is knowing that little children, like her three-year-old grandson, will learn more about God from the words He gave her to write for this new project. Connect with Julie on social media and julielavenderwrites.com.

Collaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else—Publishing as a Second Language, Part 4

by Linda Gilden @LindaGilden
The best way to avoid problems when initiating a collaborative partnership is to make sure both parties know from the very beginning what is expected of them now and in the future. And the best way to do that is to have everything in writing. Yes, a written contract can avoid a lot of misunderstanding and hard feelings between writing partners. If you have everything in writing with a signature from each party, then you have already agreed upon the way things should be handled both now and in the future. And if one party questions that, you just refer to the contract.
What should be included in a written agreement? Here are a few things to get you started.
1. Who will own the project? Will it be owned jointly? Whose name will be on the copyright? 
2. Who will handle what part of the project? If you have already figured out who will be responsible for what part of the project, this one should be easy.
3. How will the Authors be listed on the front of the book? Alphabetically is one way. If one of the authors is the primary writer, his or hers may be first. Just remember you are co-authors and there is no “as told to” or “with.”
4. Each author represents to the other that any material written or provided by him or her in connection with the work is not in any way a violation of a copyright or common law or right of privacy.
5. How will the royalties be handled? Will the publisher send a separate check to each of the co-authors?
6. If one of the authors orders book for an event, what happens to the proceeds? 
7. If either author voluntarily decides he or she cannot complete the book, the other may finish the book alone or with another co-author. 
8. Will a deceased co-author continue to appear on all credits and future volumes? How will future royalties be handled? 
9. What happens if prior to the completion of the work, either author shall voluntarily withdraw from the collaboration? 
10. If expenses are incurred of any kind in relation to the creating, marketing, entering contests, or publicizing of the work, how will they be handled? 
11. Each author agrees to keep the other fully apprised of all matters regarding the work. 
12. In the event a dispute arises between the authors and cannot be settled amicably between them, a third party unrelated to the authors, will be consulted to settle the dispute.
These are just a few things you should consider. You will think of others. When creating a written agreement, be safe and include everything that may come into question. You will be glad you did.
TWEETABLECollaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else—Publishing as a Second Language, Part 4 - @LindaGilden on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Don't miss the other posts in this series!Collaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else - Part 1Collaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else - Part 2Collaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else - Part 3Collaboration: Tips for Writing with Someone Else - Part 4

Linda Gilden has coauthored 11 books with 5 different coauthors and has #12 and #13 coming out in 2022, adding a new co-author to the list. She loves every one of her coauthors and enjoys collaborating on interesting projects with them. She also has written many books on her own and realizes what a treasure and blessing a good co-author is.

Tips to Create a Worthy Opponent in Fiction & Nonfiction

by PeggySue Wells @PeggySueWells
Story happens when a character faces a seemingly invincible opponent standing between the character and his/her great need. Opponents can be human or nonhuman, a person, place, or thing, or combination of these. 
Side note: Writing nonfiction? Use these essentials to share the event in story form. 
An opponent is deemed worthy when the opponent appears insurmountable. A worthy opponent requires the character we care about—our hero—to reach beyond proven abilitiespushes our hero beyond imagined potentialbrings out the worst in our herounleashes the best in our herois a catalyst for the hero’s transformative character arc Having multiple opponents places your character into a page-turning suspense. 
Non-Fiction 1. Yearly, two winning football teams vie for the Super Bowl championship. Two proven quarterbacks strive to outmaneuver and out strategize one another. Only one team will earn the trophy. Only one team will wear the striking Super Bowl ring, one of the three most recognized rings in the world including the West Point ring, and the MIT Brass Rat. 
Add into the drama a debilitating vision-stealing migraine for Bronco leading rusher, Terrell Davis during the key play in Super Bowl XXXII. Set the game outdoors in 39 degree weather for the coldest game on record, Super Bowl VI. Each Super Bowl is a story as worthy opponents include competition, injury, and weather to bring out the worst and best in one another.
2. World War II is a last clear case of good versus evil which makes the time and event an inviting setting for story. For the winsome countries and people being overtaken by the German machine, their big needs includedLifeLibertySecurityLoveHitler’s goals stood diametrically opposed to the goals of most of the people on the globe. Hitler’s power, disregard for others, and hunger for control made him a worthy opponent.
Fiction1. While not the first fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes is arguably the best known. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle gave the brilliant Holmes a worthy opponent in the criminal mastermind of Professor Moriarty. 
2. When the Superman character debuted, his superpowers made him invincible. Readers lost interest in a character certain to master every challenge. 
The writers reignited interest in the Superman story when they gave the superhero a powerful opponent in the form of kryptonite. Suddenly, Superman’s success was no longer guaranteed. Combine a criminal mastermind wielding deadly kryptonite and Superman had a worthy opponent. 
Worthy opponents for characters can beSelfGodThe character’s destinyAnother characterEnvironmentThe unknownMachineCulture or societySituation or circumstance The best worthy opponent is several of these combined. For instance, in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, hero Frodo, battles all these worthy opponents during his story, often several simultaneously. 
How can you up the ante and give your character several worthy opponents? 
Can you add a time pressure such as a ticking bomb?
What are your top five stories? List the opponents that stand between the hero and their great need. What story had the most obstacles? Which story is the most suspenseful? What worthy opponents can you add into your work in progress?
TWEETABLETips to Create a Worthy Opponent in Fiction & Nonfiction, tips from @PeggySueWells on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Tropical island votary and history buff, PeggySue Wells parasails, skydives, snorkels, scuba dives, and has taken (but not passed) pilot training. Writing from the 100-Acre wood in Indiana, Wells is the bestselling author of twenty-eight books including The Slave Across the Street, Slavery in the Land of the Free, Bonding With Your Child Through Boundaries, Homeless for the Holidays, and Chasing Sunrise. Optimistic dream-driver, PeggySue is named for the Buddy Holly song with the great drumbeat. At school author visits, she teaches students the secrets to writing, and speaks at events and conferences. Connect with her at www.PeggySueWells.com, on Facebook at PeggySue Wells, and Twitter @PeggySueWells.

5 Safety Tips to Prevent Writer Burnout this Christmas

by Kristen Hogrefe Parnell @khogrefeparnell
Artificial or real tree? It’s one of the many choices we have during the “most wonderful time of the year.” I’ve been in both camps, and while most of us focus on the beautiful decorations, we can’t ignore the potential fire hazards our trees present. 
The holidays present a related hazard for writers: burnout. Let’s walk through a checklist for Christmas tree safety that also applies to writers, and learn how to enjoy the holidays without going up in smoke.
5 Safety Tips to Prevent Writer Burnout
#1: Make sure your tree is fresh.If you prefer a live tree, you want to choose one that is as fresh as possible. Florida girls like me can’t drive down the road to a Christmas tree farm, but our local stores offer pop-up tent collections. Either way, check the needles to see if they’re green or browning, because you want the healthiest one.
Fellow writer, today marks the first full week of December. We know what’s coming, because our calendars look like a three-year-old scribbled over them. But how can we be intentional about staying fresh?Get enough sleep. Are you anywhere near the eight-hour goal?Guard your mental health. Don’t get trapped in consumerism or comparison.Remember to take care of yourself. Exercise and eating well can easily fall to the wayside during the busy holidays.Set aside time for writing, even if it’s less than usual. Progress of any kind will help you stay focused on deadlines and keep the creativity flowing.#2: Keep your tree well-watered.Most of us love the fragrance of a fresh fir, but we can easily forget to water the tree. It’s not a hard chore, but it must be an intentional one if your tree is going to last until January.
How do you water yourself over the holidays? The best place to start is by prioritizing time with Jesus, the whole reason for this season. I realize we are all in different stages of life, and quiet time may be harder to find for some of us than others. But if you’re not in the daily habit of being in God’s Word or wish you had a more regular time with Him, what better month is there to start? 
Many ministries even offer a daily devotional delivered right to your email. Some I have used in the past include:Solid Joys, a daily devotional with John Piper through DesiringGod.orgJoni & Friends daily devotionalA friend of mine suggested an Advent devotional, and I’m going to dive into that book this December. What practices help you to stay “watered” during this busy time? 
#3: Guard your tree from heat.This tip seems like a no-brainer, but we shouldn’t put the tree right next to the fireplace (even though that’s where it appears on Christmas cards).
Heat takes other forms for writers. Personally, I have a love/hate relationship with December. I love the extra time with family and friends, but I easily burn out under too many demands for my time. Hear me, friend. It’s okay to decline a few party invitations. It’s okay to set limits on how many white-elephant gift exchanges you’ll attend.
Instead of worrying we’ll disappoint people, let’s communicate what we can do and respectfully set boundaries. 
#4: Shake your tree.Shaking the tree seems counterintuitive, but it reveals if your tree is dehydrated. If lots of needles fall to the ground, your tree needs more water. The drier the tree, the more likely it poses a fire hazard.
Now is a good time to give yourself a shake as well. Do a stress check. Are you snapping at the smallest aggravation? Is your temper running short over trivial inconveniences? If so, your tank is dry. Go back and give yourself some water.
#5: Turn off your tree’s lights.We know better than to leave the Christmas lights plugged in all night or for extended periods of time. The longer the lights are plugged in, the more likely the bulbs are to become hot and increase the potential for something going wrong. The key is to plug lights in when you’re enjoying them and immediately unplug them when you leave the room.
Writers, we need to unplug ourselves too. Unplug from social media. Unplug from over-commitment. Unplug from hurry for hurry’s sake. If possible, I like to take a few weeks off in December from any posting or social media. This break helps me savor the special time with family, focus on gratitude, and plan without distractions for the new year.
What tip can help you fight burnout this holiday season, or do you have your own practice you’d like to share? 
TWEETABLE5 Safety Tips to Prevent Writer Burnout this Christmas from @KHogrefeParnell on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Kristen Hogrefe Parnell writes suspenseful fiction from a faith perspective for adults and teens. Her young adult dystopian novels, The Revisionary and The Reactionary, both won the Selah for speculative fiction, and she signed with Mountain Brook Ink for a new romantic suspense series, coming December 2022. Readers can learn more about her upcoming release and receive a free novella by joining her newsletter at KristenHogrefeParnell.com. She and her husband live in Florida and enjoy sharing their lake home with family and friends.

The Gift of Possible for Writers

by Audrey Frank @AudreyCFrank
What is impossible for mere humans is possible with God (Luke 18:27).
There are so many reasons camels couldn’t possibly walk through the eye of a needle. For one, they are clumsy and awkward. Even if the eye of the needle was the sizem of aedieval city gate, the gangly camel would have to be cajoled, pulled, and coaxed to make it through the opening. And then he would probably just stand there, impersonating a stubborn mule.
Camels also have this little problem called a hump. Their necks might fit through a gigantic Jack and the Giant-sized needle easily enough, but then how would their humps pass through without getting stuck?
Every camel I know, and I’ve known a few (my favorite was Sand-Bob, named by my four-year-old son), would rather squat in the sand and make rude noises from both ends than get going anyway. One look at a strange, shiny needle-eye would be a sure excuse to keep sitting and, shall we say, making music.
Camels don’t lift their feet very high either. Just barely enough to saunter through Sahara sands. And I have never seen one jump. One more reason a camel can’t possibly make it through the eye of a needle.
Jesus knew how ridiculously impossible this metaphor sounded to his camel-dependent listeners the day He used it to describe how hard it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. They were gobsmacked. If those with wealth and connections couldn’t enter the kingdom of heaven, then who could?
He replied, “What is impossible for mere humans is possible for God.” 
Since we are entering the season of camels and wise men, perhaps we should pause today and consider what this metaphor might say to us.
I remember sitting shy and shell-shocked at my first writers’ conference, aware of how few connections I had. How little money I had to create an impressive website. How impossible it seemed to make time to write a book with three young children at home.
All I possessed, really, was fire in my bones and faith. These didn’t seem to be much under the dazzling lights of book tables lined with books written by accomplished, well-networked authors sitting all around me.
But my God does marvelous things with just a little faith.
Jesus gave the crowds a gift that day. He gave them the gift of Possible.
I hope the rich young man, sincere of heart but shackled by wealth, was not too far away to overhear. I hope he heard Jesus’ words penetrate the air, zipping like arrows to his ears. The true-story teller in me wants his story to end in hope.
It sure ends in hope for you and me. 
Jesus gives us the gift of Possible this Christmas and every day. 
What camel are you staring at right now? Stinky, rude, and impossible, he stands there, refusing to budge. You want to give up.
Maybe you just can’t seem to get around to writing that book. If you bring your impossible schedule to Jesus, He will open time where you didn’t know you had it.
What are you waiting on to attend your first writer’s conference? Ask God to build a network in your life and help you step outside your comfort zone to meet others in the industry.
Maybe physical pain or limitation makes your dream seem impossible. Authors like Joni Eareckson Tada and Vaneetha Rendall Risner have shown us that God makes writing possible against all odds.
Who, then, can be a writer? 
You and I can. For what is impossible with mere human effort is possible with God’s help.
Each time you see a camel this holiday season, remember the gift of Possible. It’s yours for the taking, with just a little faith. Merry Christmas!
Lord, I bring to you my impossible this Christmas season. Transform it and transform me. Amen.
TWEETABLEThe Gift of Possible for Writers, encouragement from @AudreyCFrank on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Audrey Frank is an author, speaker, and storyteller. The stories she shares are brave and true. They give voice to those whose words are silenced by shame, the hard things in life that don’t make sense, and the losses that leave us wondering if we will survive. Audrey and her family have spent over twenty years living and working among different cultures and world views, and she has found that God’s story of redemption spans every geography and culture. He is the God of Instead, giving honor instead of shame, gladness instead of mourning, hope instead of despair. Although she has three different degrees in communication and intercultural studies, Audrey’s greatest credential is that she is known and loved by the One who made her.
Audrey is the author of Covered Glory: The Face of Honor and Shame in the Muslim World (Harvest House Publishers), an outpouring of Audrey’s heart to introduce others to the God of Instead. Shame is not unique to the developing world, the plight of the women behind veils, young girls trafficked across borders; shame is lurking in hearts everywhere. Through powerful stories from women around the world, Covered Glory illuminates the power of the Gospel to remove shame, giving honor instead. Available at favorite booksellers: BARNES & NOBLE , BOOKS A MILLION, AMAZON.

4 Ways to Overcome Writer’s Block When Your Characters Go Silent

by Tim Suddeth @TimSuddeth
Lately, I seem to be going through a case of writer’s block. Not like when I can’t decide where to set a scene or why my characters are gathering for coffee/tea/burger/ballgame. But life has taken me away from my writing for a while, and now I can’t get back into it.
I asked our pharmacist. There’s not a vaccine. (She wasn’t smiling.) And supplements don’t seem to be helping.
My characters have left the building. And they don’t seem to want to return unless I promise to pay them more attention.
Maybe writer’s block boils down to a lack of trust.
So, what can I do to earn back my characters’ trust?
1. Be open to changes in the story.Are your characters want to show new sides to their personalities? Are they suggesting a different motivation or even a new character?
Maybe your setting has gotten old, and they need to go somewhere besides the same old coffee shop? A new cliche is friends always gathering in the same coffee shop. That might have worked for the TV show, Friends. And it might even be realistic. I do have my favorite places, but you lose such a great opportunity to show different parts of your character by always setting them in the same places.
Writing is not theater or TV. New settings don’t cost anything. But they can add so much to your story.
While I’ve been spending time rethinking my story—the scenes I’ve written and the new scenes I’ve planned—some changes that have come up surprise me. They’re not big changes, just subtle ones that make the story richer.
2. Look at the world around you.Often writer’s block comes down to having an empty creative gas tank. One of the best ways to refill is to get off the page, get away from the computer, and get back into real life. Whether that means taking a walk through nature, meeting with friends, or enjoying the arts, take some time away so you can return with a refreshed mind.
Now I believe what I’ve just written, but I also remember the writer (If you know his name, please tell us in the comments.) who said something like he wrote whenever his muse appeared, and she appeared every morning when he went to his desk.
Hmm. Maybe a deadline is the vaccine I need.
3. Work on something else. Temporarily.One of the great things about being a writer is that we have all kinds of toys in our toy boxes. Even though I’m stuck on my manuscript, I’m still working on my blog, doing guest posts, and thinking about the plot of another book.
Now be careful with this. This is a trap I’ve seen many writers fall into. It’s easy to get distracted with all the shiny things spinning around us, squirrel, that we can’t focus. I have friends who are more talented than me, but they can’t stay on one task to get focused.
And they don’t get it finished.
But if you are having problems connecting to your story, maybe you should take some time to work on something else. Our brains are such awesome creations., Even when we aren’t aware of it, they will often continue to work on the first story. This might lead to an eureka moment where you realize you’ve answered a problem that had your stymied.
4. Believe.It is so easy to lose faith in ourselves. To think that the present circumstance will never change. This week, a friend told me that there is nothing new under the sun. Yet, life is always changing. No matter what you are going through, it will change with time.
When the plans we’ve made either don’t happen, like we have planned, or something else takes priority, we wonder if the work is worth it. Or even possible.
There are so many cliches about this. Rome wasn’t built in a day. You eat an elephant or buffet bar one bite at a time. They have become silly, but the truth is still there.
Writing. Good writing. Takes time. You only get there by giving it the time that it needs. That means putting in the effort to learn the craft and do the work. You can’t rush it (although I often try), but with effort you can do more than you thought you could.
Earning your characters’ trust. It can be frustrating and take time. But we all know the pleasure of writing a story when the characters are leading. 
I’ve got to tell you what just happened. I’d taken a break and was walking through my neighborhood, letting my mind roam, when it settled on my story. I haven’t been able to write the next scene because, well, it’s boring. It seemed like it just filled time until something important happened. Then the idea popped into my head. Skip it. I’m telling a story, not detailing a day in someone’s life.
I think it was Leonard Elmore who said don’t write the parts your readers will want to skip.
That sounds so easy. I knew that. Yet, to me, that was an eureka moment. This week, I’ll reach my word count. Because even though I haven’t seen any progress in a while, I didn’t give up on my characters. And now I know they’ll come back.
They have a story to tell.
TWEETABLE4 Ways to Overcome Writer’s Block When Your Characters Go Silent, tips from @TimSuddeth on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Tim Suddeth is a stay-at-home dad and butler for his wonderful, adult son with autism. He has written numerous blogs posts, short stories, and three novels waiting for publication. He is a frequent attendee at writers’ conferences, including the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference and a member of Word Weavers and ACFW. He lives near Greenville, SC where he shares a house with a bossy Shorky and three too-curious Persians. You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, or at timingreenville.com.

What to do When You're an Exhausted Writer

by A.C. Williams @ACW_Author
Being creative is fun, isn't it? Inventing characters for stories is an exercise in stretching our imaginations. Building worlds that only exist on paper, using only words to breathe them into being, is a time-intensive process that can absorb all our focus. Developing the individual voices of multiple unique people so clearly that readers can identify them by what they say or how they say it requires intentional research.
But isn't it amazing?
As storytellers, we use words to frame and create a whole world, a host of characters, and captivating cultures. And readers? Readers take those words and understand them, hook up their imaginations to your vision, and dream along with you. 
I don't believe in magic, but I do believe in miracles. And the creative process of storytelling is miraculous.
Do you know what it also is? Exhausting. 
Making beautiful things is tiring. Yes, it can be fulfilling and even fun, but any investment of time, energy, and focus will drain you. Even if it's something you love doing. 
I have a lot of stories to write. A lot of concepts that my readers are begging for. But I'm only one author, and as much as I would love to do nothing but write my books, I have other income streams that need attention. (You'll find that most career authors these days have multiple income sources, especially if they are the sole income producer for their family.) And while it's refreshing at times to work on other projects, it splits my focus. And it exhausts me further. 
If you've ever had to build a website for one client, design a social media strategy for a second client, and still hit a manuscript deadline all at the same time, you know the mind-numbing weariness that sneaks up on you. Sometimes it masks itself as perfectionism or as anxiety, but I am beginning to believe that all of it stems from a lack of true rest.
When was the last time you let yourself rest?
When was the last time you took a day to not work intentionally, even if you felt like you needed to?
Have you ever done that?
It’s tempting to believe that writing isn’t work. It’s not like you’re getting your hands dirty or exerting yourself physically in any way. But is it fair to say that writing isn’t work? 
Not at all. Telling stories is a complex process within the mind that draws on every area of expertise and combines it with the art and skill of communication in order to help others understand a deeper theme or message. 
I may be biased, but I believe storytelling is a superpower. And if you’re trying to tell stories that make a difference in peoples’ lives, you must do it from a healthy heart.
Mental, emotional, and spiritual health is vital to storytellers. It's beyond important that we care for ourselves. Otherwise our perspectives will suffer, and the shift to an unhealthy outlook on life will bleed into the stories we're telling. Or we'll even walk away from storytelling altogether. 
I don't know if you're an organized person or a seat-of-your-pants person, but whether you plan your life or don't plan anything, you must make purposeful space for rest. Especially when you feel like you don't have time for it. 
Rest is something you have to be intentional about. If you don’t make space for it, you won’t do it. You'll keep working until you burn out. 
Set aside time to not work, to do something that refreshes you and restores your soul. Whatever that is. You'll be shocked at how much more creative you will be after you give your mind and heart a moment to breathe. 
Work is important, yes, but if we’re too tired to do our work well, no one wins.
Do you feel like you don’t have time to rest? Maybe you don’t, but you still should. Prioritize this. It won’t change until you change it. If you can’t take a whole day, take a half day. If you have to say no to something, say no.
Remember that we’re coming off two of the most stressful, exhausting years in recent history. At the beginning of the year, I recommended that we all leave space for grace in our writing goals, because life happens. But now, as we approach the end of the year, we also need to remember to leave margin for rest. 
Your writing deadline isn’t worth your health. Your readers may love you and desperately want your next story, but here’s the truth, my friend: Your readers would rather you be healthy so that you can write the story after this one. 
Shut down your computer. Switch off your phone. Give your brilliant, miraculous brain room to breathe. Make time for rest.
TWEETABLEWhat to do When You're an Exhausted Writer, tips and encouragement from A.C. Williams, @ACW_Author on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Award-winning author, A.C. Williams is a coffee-drinking, sushi-eating, story-telling nerd who loves cats, country living, and all things Japanese. She’d rather be barefoot, and if she isn’t, her socks won’t match. She has authored eight novels, two novellas, three devotional books, and more flash fiction than you can shake a stick at. A senior partner at the award-winning Uncommon Universes Press, she is passionate about stories and the authors who write them. Learn more about her book coaching and follow her adventures online at https://www.amycwilliams.com.