Edie Melson's Blog, page 364
October 4, 2015
Watch Your Language
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24
As a writer, I love words. In fiction, I love finding just the right words for my character to use when they speak to each other.
But one thing I discovered.
I wasn't as careful when I chose the words I said to myself. I realized that I said things to myself that I wouldn’t allow even the most evil character use. And that negative self-talk was having a huge negative affect on me. Unfortunately, I was beginning to believe the things I said to myself, and it was pulling me under.
Maybe you do the same thing.
“I’m so stupid.”“I should just quit, I’ll never amount to anything.”“I’m ugly.”“I don’t know why anyone would want to hang out with me.”“I can’t do anything right.”
Statistics tell us that when we speak negative things to someone close to us, it takes anywhere from eight to sixteen positive things to outweigh one negative remark. This holds true when we talk to ourselves.
The truth is, each of us is unique and precious to God.
He paid the ultimate price to bring us back to Him. How can we denigrate what God esteems? Think about how different your outlook might be if you spoke respectfully to yourself?
Join me today as I make the decision to watch my language
TWEETABLESpeaking negatively to ourselves can have a huge impact -@EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. Proverbs 16:24
As a writer, I love words. In fiction, I love finding just the right words for my character to use when they speak to each other. But one thing I discovered.
I wasn't as careful when I chose the words I said to myself. I realized that I said things to myself that I wouldn’t allow even the most evil character use. And that negative self-talk was having a huge negative affect on me. Unfortunately, I was beginning to believe the things I said to myself, and it was pulling me under.
Maybe you do the same thing.
“I’m so stupid.”“I should just quit, I’ll never amount to anything.”“I’m ugly.”“I don’t know why anyone would want to hang out with me.”“I can’t do anything right.”
Statistics tell us that when we speak negative things to someone close to us, it takes anywhere from eight to sixteen positive things to outweigh one negative remark. This holds true when we talk to ourselves.
The truth is, each of us is unique and precious to God.
He paid the ultimate price to bring us back to Him. How can we denigrate what God esteems? Think about how different your outlook might be if you spoke respectfully to yourself?
Join me today as I make the decision to watch my language
TWEETABLESpeaking negatively to ourselves can have a huge impact -@EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
October 3, 2015
The Truth Inside the Lie
I love the dichotomy of this quote from Stephen King. So often we're able to explore truth when we write fiction.
Fiction is the truth inside the lie. -Stephen KingBe sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
I invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLE
Fiction is the truth inside the lie - Stephen King #quote on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Fiction is the truth inside the lie. -Stephen KingBe sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below.I invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLE
Fiction is the truth inside the lie - Stephen King #quote on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
October 2, 2015
One Writer's Love Affair with the Keyboard
by Bruce Brady @BDBrady007
I’ve failed miserably. And I’m not ashamed to admit it.
Some of you know that I struggle with a health challenge that kept me from writing anything for several months.
was in such pain that I couldn’t sit long enough to write. And when I tried a standing desk, I discovered I couldn’t remain in one place without those annoying pains forcing me to move. And just to add to my woes, I suffered the emotional pain of not being able to express myself through the written word.My solution was to try writing with voice recognition software. I tried. Honest I did. Okay, I tried for a couple of hours. But I couldn’t give up my keyboard.
I love the experience of my fingers dancing merrily across the keys. Perhaps because I type so much faster than I used to. Or maybe because there’s something about the feel of the keys. I’ve also noticed I seem to be more creative when typing. I’m not sure why, and don’t know if it matters. The mere sensation of my fingertips lightly floating from side to side over the smooth plastic surface of those little buttons gives me inexplicable pleasure.
I tried to slough it off as a crazy notion. But whenever I can’t sit down and tickle the ebonies, I feel I’ve missed something. So I’m sure it’s not just a passing fancy. It’s been going on nearly four years now.
I’m grateful that God has blessed me with a desire to write—to entertain and educate others through the written word. I appreciate His giving me a love for not only the readers, but other writers, teachers, and publishing professionals who live to help authors succeed. I’m also thankful He has favored me with an indescribable joy from the simple process of gently tapping my fingers on the keys.
I’ll continue to strive for proficiency in the use of speech to text writing because I understand it’s more productive. And pray He will give me equal delight from that process, and even hope my creative thoughts will flow more freely. Yet in the final analysis, I know I’ll continue to write by using a keyboard. Maybe I’ll only use it for edits. But I’ll use it. I can’t help it. I just can’t give up my romance with a keyboard.
Now it’s your turn to confess. What do you find most pleasurable in your writing process. Please share. Let’s keep the conversation going.
TWEETABLE
One Writer's Love Affair with the Keyboard - @BDBrady007 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Bruce Brady is an author, writer and playwright. His work has appeared in Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, www.ChristianDevotions.us, and on stage. Currently, Bruce is working on a Young Adult Novel about a boy who must deal with the death of his dad, being bullied, and helping his mom through her grief. His first five pages took third place in the ACFW South Carolina Chapter’s “First Five Pages” contest.
When he’s not writing, Bruce spends time learning from and helping other writers. He serves as Mentor of Word Weavers International’s Online Chapter, and as a member of Cross ‘N’ Pens, The Writer’s Plot, ACFW’s National and South Carolina Chapters.
“My dream is to entertain my readers and give them hope as they travel the rocky road of life.”
I’ve failed miserably. And I’m not ashamed to admit it.Some of you know that I struggle with a health challenge that kept me from writing anything for several months.
was in such pain that I couldn’t sit long enough to write. And when I tried a standing desk, I discovered I couldn’t remain in one place without those annoying pains forcing me to move. And just to add to my woes, I suffered the emotional pain of not being able to express myself through the written word.My solution was to try writing with voice recognition software. I tried. Honest I did. Okay, I tried for a couple of hours. But I couldn’t give up my keyboard.
I love the experience of my fingers dancing merrily across the keys. Perhaps because I type so much faster than I used to. Or maybe because there’s something about the feel of the keys. I’ve also noticed I seem to be more creative when typing. I’m not sure why, and don’t know if it matters. The mere sensation of my fingertips lightly floating from side to side over the smooth plastic surface of those little buttons gives me inexplicable pleasure.I tried to slough it off as a crazy notion. But whenever I can’t sit down and tickle the ebonies, I feel I’ve missed something. So I’m sure it’s not just a passing fancy. It’s been going on nearly four years now.
I’m grateful that God has blessed me with a desire to write—to entertain and educate others through the written word. I appreciate His giving me a love for not only the readers, but other writers, teachers, and publishing professionals who live to help authors succeed. I’m also thankful He has favored me with an indescribable joy from the simple process of gently tapping my fingers on the keys.I’ll continue to strive for proficiency in the use of speech to text writing because I understand it’s more productive. And pray He will give me equal delight from that process, and even hope my creative thoughts will flow more freely. Yet in the final analysis, I know I’ll continue to write by using a keyboard. Maybe I’ll only use it for edits. But I’ll use it. I can’t help it. I just can’t give up my romance with a keyboard.
Now it’s your turn to confess. What do you find most pleasurable in your writing process. Please share. Let’s keep the conversation going.
TWEETABLE
One Writer's Love Affair with the Keyboard - @BDBrady007 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Bruce Brady is an author, writer and playwright. His work has appeared in Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family, www.ChristianDevotions.us, and on stage. Currently, Bruce is working on a Young Adult Novel about a boy who must deal with the death of his dad, being bullied, and helping his mom through her grief. His first five pages took third place in the ACFW South Carolina Chapter’s “First Five Pages” contest.When he’s not writing, Bruce spends time learning from and helping other writers. He serves as Mentor of Word Weavers International’s Online Chapter, and as a member of Cross ‘N’ Pens, The Writer’s Plot, ACFW’s National and South Carolina Chapters.
“My dream is to entertain my readers and give them hope as they travel the rocky road of life.”
October 1, 2015
On Your Left—A New Perspective on the Writing Journey
by Lynn Blackburn @LynnHBlackburn
A new perspective on the writing journey.A few weeks ago, my family and I rode the Virginia Creeper Trail. Built on an old railroad bed, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers a unique biking experience. 17 miles.
Downhill.
Really.
It’s an amazing ride. The scenery is stunning and the trail is open to cyclists of all experience levels. As you head down the mountain, you see professionals wearing their padded bike shorts, wild little boys on their 20” bikes peddling as fast as their legs can go, infants snoozing in their bike seats, and parents cruising along with their toddler behind them on a tagalong.
For the most part, the cyclists are respectful of the trail and their fellow cyclists. There’s a real sense of camaraderie. After all, we’re all on the same trail, headed in the same direction. We all want to achieve the same thing—to get to the bottom safely and have a great time doing it.
With such a variety of skill levels, it would be boring if you had to start down the trail and ride in single file. Fortunately, that’s not how it works. There may be a bit of bunching up at the top, but before long everyone finds their own rhythm. The faster riders start calling out the standard warning, “On your left!” as they pass the riders taking the trail at a more leisurely pace.
I heard, "On your left!" a lot.As I rode with my 4-year-old on the tagalong, it didn’t take long for me to hear someone behind me call out, “On your left!” moments before they sailed past me. Over the course of our ride, there were plenty of cyclists who passed me and I never saw them again.
Some passed me, and then I passed them, and then they passed me and we went back and forth like that the whole time, depending on whose kids needed a break or how long we paused to check out a waterfall or take pictures of some red barns.
I heard, “On your left!” a lot on the ride and that was okay.I wasn’t in a hurry. I wanted to enjoy the experience. I was with my family and the pace had to work for all of us.
When I heard, “On your left,” there was no sense of frustration or jealousy. I felt no aggravation at the pace the passing cyclist had set or the progress they had made. I harbored no secret desire to swerve over and block their progress or impede their journey.
Why? Because it wasn’t a race.
I’ve been hearing, “On your left,” a lot on my writing journey as well.
You know what I’m talking about, don’t you?
Those writers you started out with? They are signing with agents, signing with publishers, and signing books with their name on them.
You might think that being able to call yourself a published author would eliminate that sense of being passed or left behind.
Um…no.
When will it be your turn?You see the pictures of authors at national conferences while you’re at home in yoga pants with your hair in a ponytail, no makeup, and a sink full of dishes. You watch an awards ceremony and see names of people you know flash across the screen. You clap and cheer for them and you really are happy. For them.
But for you?
You start wondering when it will be your turn. If it will ever be your turn.(This is all hypothetical of course…)
So, hypothetically, should this happen to you, maybe it would help to remember . . .
It’s not a race.
Your journey down the trail won’t look like anyone else’s.
Some people on the trail will leave you in the dust.Some of the people on the trail, well, they are going to leave you in their dust. That’s okay. Let them go. Realize that they are writing at a pace you cannot sustain. Not yet. Maybe when you’ve been on the trail longer you’ll build up the endurance and expertise to keep pace with them. For now, enjoy reading their books and tell your friends to read their books. Send them emails and leave them great reviews.
Most of the people on the trail are people you’ll be experiencing this ride with for years. You’re going to see them at conferences and hang out with them on-line, and sometimes they’ll pass you and sometimes you’ll pass them, and if you’re very blessed, they’ll become friends and your journey will be sweeter for them. Show up at their book signings and help them brainstorm. If they get tired or life forces them to take a break, don’t forget about them.
And whatever you do, always remember that there are kids on this trail. They are fresh and young and they have no idea what they are doing. They need advice. At some point, you’ll have an opportunity to call out, “On your left!” — or pull over and help them pump up a tire (or plot line). Don’t forget what it was like during your first years on this journey. Every now and then, take the time to help the newbies out.
Finally, take a deep breath and look around.
Is there anywhere else you’d really rather be?
No?
Then keep pedaling.
It’s an amazing ride.
Share some of your stories from the journey of writing? Don't forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLES
#Writing & #Publishing—It's a journey, not a race - @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
A New Perspective on the #Writing Journey - via author @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love.
She’s passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don’t make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul.
She lives in South Carolina with her true love, Brian, and their three children. You can follow her real life happily ever after at http://www.lynnhugginsblackburn.com.
A new perspective on the writing journey.A few weeks ago, my family and I rode the Virginia Creeper Trail. Built on an old railroad bed, the Virginia Creeper Trail offers a unique biking experience. 17 miles.Downhill.
Really.
It’s an amazing ride. The scenery is stunning and the trail is open to cyclists of all experience levels. As you head down the mountain, you see professionals wearing their padded bike shorts, wild little boys on their 20” bikes peddling as fast as their legs can go, infants snoozing in their bike seats, and parents cruising along with their toddler behind them on a tagalong.
For the most part, the cyclists are respectful of the trail and their fellow cyclists. There’s a real sense of camaraderie. After all, we’re all on the same trail, headed in the same direction. We all want to achieve the same thing—to get to the bottom safely and have a great time doing it.
With such a variety of skill levels, it would be boring if you had to start down the trail and ride in single file. Fortunately, that’s not how it works. There may be a bit of bunching up at the top, but before long everyone finds their own rhythm. The faster riders start calling out the standard warning, “On your left!” as they pass the riders taking the trail at a more leisurely pace.
I heard, "On your left!" a lot.As I rode with my 4-year-old on the tagalong, it didn’t take long for me to hear someone behind me call out, “On your left!” moments before they sailed past me. Over the course of our ride, there were plenty of cyclists who passed me and I never saw them again.Some passed me, and then I passed them, and then they passed me and we went back and forth like that the whole time, depending on whose kids needed a break or how long we paused to check out a waterfall or take pictures of some red barns.
I heard, “On your left!” a lot on the ride and that was okay.I wasn’t in a hurry. I wanted to enjoy the experience. I was with my family and the pace had to work for all of us.
When I heard, “On your left,” there was no sense of frustration or jealousy. I felt no aggravation at the pace the passing cyclist had set or the progress they had made. I harbored no secret desire to swerve over and block their progress or impede their journey.
Why? Because it wasn’t a race.
I’ve been hearing, “On your left,” a lot on my writing journey as well.
You know what I’m talking about, don’t you?
Those writers you started out with? They are signing with agents, signing with publishers, and signing books with their name on them.
You might think that being able to call yourself a published author would eliminate that sense of being passed or left behind.
Um…no.
When will it be your turn?You see the pictures of authors at national conferences while you’re at home in yoga pants with your hair in a ponytail, no makeup, and a sink full of dishes. You watch an awards ceremony and see names of people you know flash across the screen. You clap and cheer for them and you really are happy. For them.But for you?
You start wondering when it will be your turn. If it will ever be your turn.(This is all hypothetical of course…)
So, hypothetically, should this happen to you, maybe it would help to remember . . .
It’s not a race.
Your journey down the trail won’t look like anyone else’s.
Some people on the trail will leave you in the dust.Some of the people on the trail, well, they are going to leave you in their dust. That’s okay. Let them go. Realize that they are writing at a pace you cannot sustain. Not yet. Maybe when you’ve been on the trail longer you’ll build up the endurance and expertise to keep pace with them. For now, enjoy reading their books and tell your friends to read their books. Send them emails and leave them great reviews. Most of the people on the trail are people you’ll be experiencing this ride with for years. You’re going to see them at conferences and hang out with them on-line, and sometimes they’ll pass you and sometimes you’ll pass them, and if you’re very blessed, they’ll become friends and your journey will be sweeter for them. Show up at their book signings and help them brainstorm. If they get tired or life forces them to take a break, don’t forget about them.
And whatever you do, always remember that there are kids on this trail. They are fresh and young and they have no idea what they are doing. They need advice. At some point, you’ll have an opportunity to call out, “On your left!” — or pull over and help them pump up a tire (or plot line). Don’t forget what it was like during your first years on this journey. Every now and then, take the time to help the newbies out.
Finally, take a deep breath and look around.
Is there anywhere else you’d really rather be?
No?
Then keep pedaling.
It’s an amazing ride.
Share some of your stories from the journey of writing? Don't forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLES
#Writing & #Publishing—It's a journey, not a race - @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
A New Perspective on the #Writing Journey - via author @LynnHBlackburn on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Lynn Huggins Blackburn believes in the power of stories, especially those that remind us that true love exists, a gift from the Truest Love. She’s passionate about CrossFit, coffee, and chocolate (don’t make her choose) and experimenting with recipes that feed both body and soul.
She lives in South Carolina with her true love, Brian, and their three children. You can follow her real life happily ever after at http://www.lynnhugginsblackburn.com.
September 30, 2015
Idea Starters for Writers—Calendar Days—October’s Crazy Holidays & Special Occasions
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Idea Starters for Writers—Calendar DaysAre you looking for a unique article idea to pitch to a magazine? What about a different blog post or a social media update that gets everyone's attention? Today may be just what you're looking for—it’s time again for Calendar Days. These aren't just fun to read. They’re also a great way to jumpstart our creativity and a fun writing prompt idea.
In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, especially when two contrasting holidays fall on the same date or if you can personalize them to someone you know. Here are some that stood out to me this month:
I can't help but giggle at the holidays that fall on the same date this month, like October 30 has Create a Great Funeral Day and Frankenstein Day . That just hits me as ironic. And personally, I think of Cathy Baker, a wonderful poet, on October 1, Poetry Appreciation Day, Lisa Jordanon October 3 for Card Making Day , and finally, I can't help but remember Julia Tomiak on October 16, Dictionary Day . I just love her Diary of a Word Nerd blog!
October Holidays, Special Days & Downright Crazy Days
October is:International Drum MonthNational Diabetes MonthLupus Awareness MonthNational Vegetarian MonthAmerican Pharmacist MonthNational Pizza MonthAdopt a Shelter Dog MonthNational Popcorn Popping MonthSarcastic MonthDomestic Violence Awareness MonthNational Bullying Prevention MonthClergy Appreciation MonthBreast Cancer Awareness MonthFair Trade MonthCookie MonthComputer Learning Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:Customer Service WeekGet Organized Week
Week 2:Pet Peeve WeekGreat Books WeekFire Prevention Week
Week 3:Pastoral Care WeekFreedom From Bullies WeekNational Friends of Libraries Week
Week 4:Red Ribbon WeekInternational Magic Week
Daily CelebrationsOctober 1CD Player DayPoetry Appreciation DayWorld Vegetarian DayLace DayInternational Coffee DayOlder Peoples Day
October 2National Custodial Worker DayName Your Car DayInternational Day of Non-violenceWorld Smile DayFarm Animals Day
October 3Virus Appreciation DayCard Making DayInternational Frugal Fun DayTechies DayWorld Card MakingBoyfriends Day
October 4Improve Your Office DayShip in a Bottle DayNational Golf DayNational Frappe DayNational Taco Day
October 5Country Inn Bed & Breakfast DayDo something Nice DayWorld Day of Bullying PreventionWorld Teachers Day
October 6Mad Hatter DayCome and Take it DayPhysician Assistant Day
October 7Bathtub DayFrappe DayWalk to School Day
October 8World Sight DayWorld Octopus Day
October 9World Egg DayNational Pro-Life Cupcake Day (http://cupcakesforlife.com)Curious Events DayFire Prevention DayLeif Erikson DayMoldy Cheese Day
October 10World Porridge DayHug a Drummer DayWorld Homeless DayCake Decorating DayHandbag DayUniversal Music DayNational Angel Food Cake Day
October 11It’s My Party DayClergy Appreciation Day
October 12Old Farmer’s DayColumbus DayWorld Arthritis DayNative American DayMoment of Frustration DayCookbook Launch Day
October 13Face Your Fears DayAda Lovelace Day (Read about the first female computer programmer, daughter of Lord Byron)International Skeptics Day
October 14Bring Your Teddy Bear to Work & School Day World Maths DayEmergency Nurses DayBe Bald and Free DayNational Dessert Day
October 15Chicken Cacciatore DayConflict Resolution DayWhite Cane Safety Day
October 16Boss’s DayDictionary Day (Julia Tomiak)Steve Jobs DayFeral Cat Day
October 17Sweetest DayBridge DayWear Something Gaudy DaySpreadsheet DayMulligan Day
October 18Chocolate Cupcake DayWorld Toy Camera DayWorld Menopause DayNo Beard Day
October 19Clean Your Virtual Desktop DayEvaluate Your Life Day
October 20Information Overload DayBrandied Fruit DayInternational Sloth Day
October 21Apple DayCount Your Buttons DayNational Pumpkin Cheesecake DayReptile Awareness Day
October 22Caps Lock DaySmart is Cool DayNational Nut Day
October 23iPod DayTV Talk Show Host DayNational Mole Day
October 24United Nations DayMake a Difference DayNational Bologna Day
October 25Sourest DayMother-in-Law DayInternational Artists DayPunk for a Day DayWorld Pasta Day
October 26Howl at the Moon DayNational Mincemeat Day
October 27Black Cat DayNational Tell a Story Day (in Scotland and the UK)Navy Day
October 28Plush Animal Lover’s DayAnimation Day
October 29Internet DayHermit DayNational Frankenstein Day (Different from Frankenstein Friday)National Cat Day
October 30Create a Great Funeral DayChecklist DayFrankenstein FridayNational Candy Corn Day
October 31National Caramel Apple DayNational Magic DayCarve a Pumpkin DayHalloween
Now let's do a little brainstorming for next month. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
Need a unique article or #blog post - Calendar Days is the answer - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Need a unique #socialmedia update? Look no farther than Calendar Days - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Idea Starters for Writers—Calendar DaysAre you looking for a unique article idea to pitch to a magazine? What about a different blog post or a social media update that gets everyone's attention? Today may be just what you're looking for—it’s time again for Calendar Days. These aren't just fun to read. They’re also a great way to jumpstart our creativity and a fun writing prompt idea.
In addition, calendar days are great conversation starters for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, especially when two contrasting holidays fall on the same date or if you can personalize them to someone you know. Here are some that stood out to me this month: I can't help but giggle at the holidays that fall on the same date this month, like October 30 has Create a Great Funeral Day and Frankenstein Day . That just hits me as ironic. And personally, I think of Cathy Baker, a wonderful poet, on October 1, Poetry Appreciation Day, Lisa Jordanon October 3 for Card Making Day , and finally, I can't help but remember Julia Tomiak on October 16, Dictionary Day . I just love her Diary of a Word Nerd blog!
October Holidays, Special Days & Downright Crazy Days
October is:International Drum MonthNational Diabetes MonthLupus Awareness MonthNational Vegetarian MonthAmerican Pharmacist MonthNational Pizza MonthAdopt a Shelter Dog MonthNational Popcorn Popping MonthSarcastic MonthDomestic Violence Awareness MonthNational Bullying Prevention MonthClergy Appreciation MonthBreast Cancer Awareness MonthFair Trade MonthCookie MonthComputer Learning Month
Weekly CelebrationsWeek 1:Customer Service WeekGet Organized Week
Week 2:Pet Peeve WeekGreat Books WeekFire Prevention Week
Week 3:Pastoral Care WeekFreedom From Bullies WeekNational Friends of Libraries Week
Week 4:Red Ribbon WeekInternational Magic Week
Daily CelebrationsOctober 1CD Player DayPoetry Appreciation DayWorld Vegetarian DayLace DayInternational Coffee DayOlder Peoples Day
October 2National Custodial Worker DayName Your Car DayInternational Day of Non-violenceWorld Smile DayFarm Animals Day
October 3Virus Appreciation DayCard Making DayInternational Frugal Fun DayTechies DayWorld Card MakingBoyfriends Day
October 4Improve Your Office DayShip in a Bottle DayNational Golf DayNational Frappe DayNational Taco Day
October 5Country Inn Bed & Breakfast DayDo something Nice DayWorld Day of Bullying PreventionWorld Teachers Day
October 6Mad Hatter DayCome and Take it DayPhysician Assistant Day
October 7Bathtub DayFrappe DayWalk to School Day
October 8World Sight DayWorld Octopus Day
October 9World Egg DayNational Pro-Life Cupcake Day (http://cupcakesforlife.com)Curious Events DayFire Prevention DayLeif Erikson DayMoldy Cheese Day
October 10World Porridge DayHug a Drummer DayWorld Homeless DayCake Decorating DayHandbag DayUniversal Music DayNational Angel Food Cake Day
October 11It’s My Party DayClergy Appreciation Day
October 12Old Farmer’s DayColumbus DayWorld Arthritis DayNative American DayMoment of Frustration DayCookbook Launch Day
October 13Face Your Fears DayAda Lovelace Day (Read about the first female computer programmer, daughter of Lord Byron)International Skeptics Day
October 14Bring Your Teddy Bear to Work & School Day World Maths DayEmergency Nurses DayBe Bald and Free DayNational Dessert Day
October 15Chicken Cacciatore DayConflict Resolution DayWhite Cane Safety Day
October 16Boss’s DayDictionary Day (Julia Tomiak)Steve Jobs DayFeral Cat Day
October 17Sweetest DayBridge DayWear Something Gaudy DaySpreadsheet DayMulligan Day
October 18Chocolate Cupcake DayWorld Toy Camera DayWorld Menopause DayNo Beard Day
October 19Clean Your Virtual Desktop DayEvaluate Your Life Day
October 20Information Overload DayBrandied Fruit DayInternational Sloth Day
October 21Apple DayCount Your Buttons DayNational Pumpkin Cheesecake DayReptile Awareness Day
October 22Caps Lock DaySmart is Cool DayNational Nut Day
October 23iPod DayTV Talk Show Host DayNational Mole Day
October 24United Nations DayMake a Difference DayNational Bologna Day
October 25Sourest DayMother-in-Law DayInternational Artists DayPunk for a Day DayWorld Pasta Day
October 26Howl at the Moon DayNational Mincemeat Day
October 27Black Cat DayNational Tell a Story Day (in Scotland and the UK)Navy Day
October 28Plush Animal Lover’s DayAnimation Day
October 29Internet DayHermit DayNational Frankenstein Day (Different from Frankenstein Friday)National Cat Day
October 30Create a Great Funeral DayChecklist DayFrankenstein FridayNational Candy Corn Day
October 31National Caramel Apple DayNational Magic DayCarve a Pumpkin DayHalloween
Now let's do a little brainstorming for next month. What are some of your favorite days from the list and how do you propose using them?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie
TWEETABLES
Need a unique article or #blog post - Calendar Days is the answer - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Need a unique #socialmedia update? Look no farther than Calendar Days - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
September 29, 2015
9 Ways to Support Your Writing Spouse
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
Kirk wrote the book on how to support your writing spouse!Today I wanted to share 9 ways to support your writing spouse. Writing is a tough industry, and the support of a spouse can be the difference between success and failure.This isn’t really a post from what I wish had happened, but ways that Kirk has supported me—all without my prompting.
Truthfully, I would not be where I am today without his constant encouragement, prayers, and support.9 Ways to Support Your Writing Spouse
1. Let the writer talk it out with you—even when it makes no sense! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve solved a writing problem just by Kirk listening to me. There’s just something about working through a problem out loud that makes it easier to solve. It’s also so much easier to do when you’re not alone.
2. Share the successes. A big part of the reason I even have success is because of Kirk’s encouragement and it means so much when he celebrates with me.
3. Share the successes. No, this isn’t a repeat of the previous number. I mean shout those successes from the rooftop. When I had an article published, Kirk was on the phone to his family and friends, bragging about my success. Now that we’re both on social media, I catch him doing the same thing, and it means the world to me.
Become a cheerleader.4. Become a cheerleader. I know what you’re thinking, I wish I could have gotten a picture of Kirk with pom-poms, too! But you’re just going to have to use your imagination. Trust me, Kirk is the best cheerleader there ever was. And this writing thing is, more times than not, won or lost in your mind. Kirk’s atta-girl encouragement has definitely made the difference between success and failure for me—many times.5. Give your spouse the respect he/she deserves. Every writer is following a dream, and that’s a gutsy thing for anyone to do. They need to be respected for taking a chance and putting it all on the line.
6. Help your writing spouse find the time to write. I don’t care if your writer spouse is retired or a stay-at-home-mom, finding time to write is tough. Help them carve it out of the family schedule so they don’t have to add guilt to the load they’re carrying.
Become a gatekeeper.7. Act as a gatekeeper. When I’m on deadline, and even when I’m not, I have certain times of the day blocked off to write. Kirk fields phone calls and runs interference for me during those times so I can be free to work.8. Help your writing spouse find the money to improve their craft. This means helping with expenses for conferences, classes and organizations. I used to worry about spending family money on my dream, but Kirk gave me a different way to look at it. He told me that neither one of us would begrudge the other money to go back to college. And he said that was how he viewed my writing conference expenses. To him, that was my college, and as I became more successfully, my continuing education credits.
9. Follow your writer spouse’s blog. I don’t care if you ever comment, but surely you can keep up with what’s being written. This is a big deal. I talk to writers almost every day who are amazed and just a tad bit jealous that Kirk follows my blog—without me ever needing to ask him to!
Now I’d like to hear from you. How has your spouse supported you? How would you like for them to support you?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLES
9 Ways to Support Your #Writing Spouse - via @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
A supportive spouse can be the difference between #writing success & failure - @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
September 28, 2015
How Fast Should a Blog Grow—Blogging for Writers, Part Five
by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
How fast should a blog grow?There are lots of exceptions to how fast a blog can grow. All I’m giving you is reasonable expectations for blog growth.
We can all find examples of blogs that have grown incredibly fast, but we should never judge the growth of our own blogs by the exceptions.
That said, I do believe there are reasonable expectations. That growth is predicated on certain variables:The predictability of blog posts—A blog that's posted regularly will grow much faster than one that is posted sporadically.The frequency of blog posts—A blog with fresh content on a daily basis will usually grow faster than one that only offers new content once a week.The consistent use of social media—If you regularly Tweet and post on Facebook abut your blog more people will hear about it.The interaction with your audience—It's critical to answer comments and take time to comment on the blogs of your readers.I’m a huge fan of growing your blog organically, through relationships and targeted social media. Frequently this will cause your blog to grow slower during the first year or so, but this will give you a solid base of readers and tend to speed growth in the following years.
Stage one is the time to
build a strong foundationStage OneIn this day and time, networking can usually jump start a blog with 20 – 40 followers at the startup. These followers are your first foundation, but not all of them will be part of your permanent foundation. These are friends and associates who want to help a fellow entrepreneur get started. They’re a great help because they’ll spread the word to their friends and associates who will comprise your foundation.
This means your first six months to a year will see little forward momentum. You’ll gain new followers, and loose some of the original ones. It will feel almost like two steps forward and three steps back. But this is a critical time because you’re cementing the core of your audience. I think of this as gathering the snow and solidifying it into a snowball.
During this time, many bloggers get discouraged from the slow growth because they don’t understand what’s happening. When I talk with someone in the first year of their blog, I try to give them insight into this process so they can watch for it and rejoice as it happens.
Stage TwoAfter stage one comes six to nine months of small but consistent growth. Your blog has enough history at this point to have a proven track record of consistent, valuable posts. This makes your core group more willing to share your site with others.
During this stage is a good time to search out valuable guest posts. Find people you respect and invite them to write a post or ask permission to repost one of their old posts. This stage is like beginning to roll your snowball through the snow, gathering a more solid ball that will hold together when you roll it down the hill.
Stage ThreeThis is when your blog really starts to take off. Your blog’s audience begins to grow a lot faster and you’ll begin to spend less tie promoting yourself on social media because other’s will be doing it for you. They’ll be talking about your blog because it’s valuable to their followers and friends, not just because they like you personally.
Now the fun is beginning, you’ll find yourself asked to guest post on other blogs, and you’ll be asked permission to repost your older blog posts. I think of this stage as when you push your snowball off the top of the hill and it begins to gain momentum on it’s own.
The interim stages you'll see up and down progress.Interim StageDuring this downhill stage you’ll still hit road blocks and times when you have to give your snowball a push. The key is to stay flexible, continue to listen to your audience and don’t let up on the interactions.
As I said at the beginning, this is an organic process and these stages are just loose guidelines of how the growth of a normal blog should be measured. If you’re neglecting one or more of the following things in your blog plan, your blog will probably see slower growth.A regular posting schedule, with a minimum of one post per week.The consistent use of Social Media, especially Facebook and Twitter.Constant interaction between you and your audience by answering comments and visiting their blogs and living comments.
Now I have a couple of questions for you.Have you seen this kind of growth in your own site?Where are you in the blogging process, Stage One, Two or Three?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLES
How fast a blog should grow? #Blogging expert @EdieMelson shares her insight (Click to Tweet)
Healthy blog growth isn't straight up - #Blogging expert @EdieMelson breaks it down (Click to Tweet)
If you've missed the previous posts in this series, here are the direct links:
Blogging For Writers
Part 1 - Blog or Website, Which Does a Writer Really Need
Part 2 - So What Do I Blog About
Part 3 - The Dos & Don'ts of Blogging
Part 4 - How Fast Should a Blog Grow
How fast should a blog grow?There are lots of exceptions to how fast a blog can grow. All I’m giving you is reasonable expectations for blog growth. We can all find examples of blogs that have grown incredibly fast, but we should never judge the growth of our own blogs by the exceptions.
That said, I do believe there are reasonable expectations. That growth is predicated on certain variables:The predictability of blog posts—A blog that's posted regularly will grow much faster than one that is posted sporadically.The frequency of blog posts—A blog with fresh content on a daily basis will usually grow faster than one that only offers new content once a week.The consistent use of social media—If you regularly Tweet and post on Facebook abut your blog more people will hear about it.The interaction with your audience—It's critical to answer comments and take time to comment on the blogs of your readers.I’m a huge fan of growing your blog organically, through relationships and targeted social media. Frequently this will cause your blog to grow slower during the first year or so, but this will give you a solid base of readers and tend to speed growth in the following years.
Stage one is the time to build a strong foundationStage OneIn this day and time, networking can usually jump start a blog with 20 – 40 followers at the startup. These followers are your first foundation, but not all of them will be part of your permanent foundation. These are friends and associates who want to help a fellow entrepreneur get started. They’re a great help because they’ll spread the word to their friends and associates who will comprise your foundation.
This means your first six months to a year will see little forward momentum. You’ll gain new followers, and loose some of the original ones. It will feel almost like two steps forward and three steps back. But this is a critical time because you’re cementing the core of your audience. I think of this as gathering the snow and solidifying it into a snowball.
During this time, many bloggers get discouraged from the slow growth because they don’t understand what’s happening. When I talk with someone in the first year of their blog, I try to give them insight into this process so they can watch for it and rejoice as it happens.
Stage TwoAfter stage one comes six to nine months of small but consistent growth. Your blog has enough history at this point to have a proven track record of consistent, valuable posts. This makes your core group more willing to share your site with others.
During this stage is a good time to search out valuable guest posts. Find people you respect and invite them to write a post or ask permission to repost one of their old posts. This stage is like beginning to roll your snowball through the snow, gathering a more solid ball that will hold together when you roll it down the hill.
Stage ThreeThis is when your blog really starts to take off. Your blog’s audience begins to grow a lot faster and you’ll begin to spend less tie promoting yourself on social media because other’s will be doing it for you. They’ll be talking about your blog because it’s valuable to their followers and friends, not just because they like you personally.
Now the fun is beginning, you’ll find yourself asked to guest post on other blogs, and you’ll be asked permission to repost your older blog posts. I think of this stage as when you push your snowball off the top of the hill and it begins to gain momentum on it’s own.
The interim stages you'll see up and down progress.Interim StageDuring this downhill stage you’ll still hit road blocks and times when you have to give your snowball a push. The key is to stay flexible, continue to listen to your audience and don’t let up on the interactions.As I said at the beginning, this is an organic process and these stages are just loose guidelines of how the growth of a normal blog should be measured. If you’re neglecting one or more of the following things in your blog plan, your blog will probably see slower growth.A regular posting schedule, with a minimum of one post per week.The consistent use of Social Media, especially Facebook and Twitter.Constant interaction between you and your audience by answering comments and visiting their blogs and living comments.
Now I have a couple of questions for you.Have you seen this kind of growth in your own site?Where are you in the blogging process, Stage One, Two or Three?
Don’t forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLES
How fast a blog should grow? #Blogging expert @EdieMelson shares her insight (Click to Tweet)
Healthy blog growth isn't straight up - #Blogging expert @EdieMelson breaks it down (Click to Tweet)
If you've missed the previous posts in this series, here are the direct links:
Blogging For Writers
Part 1 - Blog or Website, Which Does a Writer Really Need
Part 2 - So What Do I Blog About
Part 3 - The Dos & Don'ts of Blogging
Part 4 - How Fast Should a Blog Grow
September 27, 2015
Kindness Leads to Joy
by Brenda McGraw @BrendaMMcGraw
Kindness leads to joy.Because of her kindness, she saw Jesus.
Have you ever heard of Joanna of the Bible?
She is not preached about, nor am I aware of any books referencing her story; however,God felt she was important enough to be mentioned in His Word. He apparently thought her kindness deserved a note in the scriptures.
Would you like to know more about this mysterious woman? Let’s see what the Bible says:
Joanna was the wife of Chuza. Well, that doesn’t tell us anything. Who was Chuza? He was a steward or manager of Herod Antipas, a position of wealth and renown. Therefore we can be pretty sure Joanna had wealth. (Luke 8:3)
Joanna had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. (Luke 8:2)
Joanna was a follower of Jesus and followed Him from Galilee. (Luke 8:1-2 and 23:49)
Joanna helped support Jesus out of her own means. (Luke 8:3)
Joanna was at the crucifixion of Jesus.Joanna was at the crucifixion of Jesus. (Luke 23:49)
She saw Jesus’ body prepared and laid in the tomb.(Luke 23:55)
Joanna prepared spices and perfumes for Jesus’ body. (Luke 23:56)
She rested on the Sabbath in obedience to God. (Luke 23:56)
Joanna was among the women who went to the tomb the morning of the resurrection. (Luke 24:1)
Joanna saw the stone rolled away and the empty tomb. (Luke 24:2 - 3)
She saw the two men who appeared to be angels telling, “He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:6)
Joanna, along with other women, met Jesus on the road and fell down and worshipped Him. (Matthew 28:8-9)
Joanna had a precious encounter with Jesus and chose to follow Him, along with His disciples. I assume she was a friend of Mary Magdalene, and Mary, Jesus’ mother, because she was hanging out with them more than once in stories of the life of Jesus.
Many times we read a name in the Bible and forget these were real people, with real emotions, problems, dreams, talents, and beating hearts. Joanna’s heart beat for Jesus. She knew Him. She touched Him. She heard Him pray and teach. She saw Him die. She saw Him rise again. She worshipped Him.
Joanna was a friend of Jesus.Because of Joanna’s love for Jesus, she was kind. She was a friend of Jesus. When He lived she walked in His inner circle. She believed in Him and gave her heart and life to follow Him. Joanna offered her wealth and talents. She bought whatever was needed to prepare the perfumes and spices. She devoted her time to go see Him at the crucifixion and at the tomb.
Due to the devotion and kind heart of this woman named Joanna, she experienced Jesus in a way many others never knew. Once she saw the tomb was empty,she was filled with joy, even beyond the fear of the unknown. (Luke 24:8)
Maybe God wants us to experience Him in a way that fills us with indescribable joy. He wants our hearts to be devoted to Him. He wants our kindness to be spread throughout not only our inner circle, but throughout the enlarged territory that He has given us. We have been chosen and He wants us to truly see Jesus, so we will fall at His feet and worship Him.
When we hang out with Jesus, and He is in our inner-circle, He appears and reveals Himself face to face.
“ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, NIV)
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”(Colossians 3:12, NIV)
Kindness leads to joy and Jesus. Jesus gives kindness and joy.
Can you name one way that someone has been kind to you recently that brought you joy? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Brenda McGraw is an author and speaker who reveals how to discover joy beyond the clutter of life. She draws from her own life experiences in the #1 Amazon Best seller, “Joy Beyond, 28 Days to Finding Joy Beyond the Clutter of Life”. She is the founder of Ask God Today Ministries where she has a team of writers sharing truth and hope with others.
Brenda currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, Jeff and three of their five children. She is a survivor of breast cancer and a heart attack.. Despite the challenges she has endured, Brenda found peace through her relationship with Jesus Christ.
You can connect with Brenda at:Website - http://www.askgodtoday.com Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-McGraw/e/B00GOIE7AG Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BrendaMMcGraw
Kindness leads to joy.Because of her kindness, she saw Jesus. Have you ever heard of Joanna of the Bible?
She is not preached about, nor am I aware of any books referencing her story; however,God felt she was important enough to be mentioned in His Word. He apparently thought her kindness deserved a note in the scriptures.
Would you like to know more about this mysterious woman? Let’s see what the Bible says:
Joanna was the wife of Chuza. Well, that doesn’t tell us anything. Who was Chuza? He was a steward or manager of Herod Antipas, a position of wealth and renown. Therefore we can be pretty sure Joanna had wealth. (Luke 8:3)
Joanna had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. (Luke 8:2)
Joanna was a follower of Jesus and followed Him from Galilee. (Luke 8:1-2 and 23:49)
Joanna helped support Jesus out of her own means. (Luke 8:3)
Joanna was at the crucifixion of Jesus.Joanna was at the crucifixion of Jesus. (Luke 23:49)She saw Jesus’ body prepared and laid in the tomb.(Luke 23:55)
Joanna prepared spices and perfumes for Jesus’ body. (Luke 23:56)
She rested on the Sabbath in obedience to God. (Luke 23:56)
Joanna was among the women who went to the tomb the morning of the resurrection. (Luke 24:1)
Joanna saw the stone rolled away and the empty tomb. (Luke 24:2 - 3)
She saw the two men who appeared to be angels telling, “He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:6)
Joanna, along with other women, met Jesus on the road and fell down and worshipped Him. (Matthew 28:8-9)
Joanna had a precious encounter with Jesus and chose to follow Him, along with His disciples. I assume she was a friend of Mary Magdalene, and Mary, Jesus’ mother, because she was hanging out with them more than once in stories of the life of Jesus.
Many times we read a name in the Bible and forget these were real people, with real emotions, problems, dreams, talents, and beating hearts. Joanna’s heart beat for Jesus. She knew Him. She touched Him. She heard Him pray and teach. She saw Him die. She saw Him rise again. She worshipped Him.
Joanna was a friend of Jesus.Because of Joanna’s love for Jesus, she was kind. She was a friend of Jesus. When He lived she walked in His inner circle. She believed in Him and gave her heart and life to follow Him. Joanna offered her wealth and talents. She bought whatever was needed to prepare the perfumes and spices. She devoted her time to go see Him at the crucifixion and at the tomb. Due to the devotion and kind heart of this woman named Joanna, she experienced Jesus in a way many others never knew. Once she saw the tomb was empty,she was filled with joy, even beyond the fear of the unknown. (Luke 24:8)
Maybe God wants us to experience Him in a way that fills us with indescribable joy. He wants our hearts to be devoted to Him. He wants our kindness to be spread throughout not only our inner circle, but throughout the enlarged territory that He has given us. We have been chosen and He wants us to truly see Jesus, so we will fall at His feet and worship Him.
When we hang out with Jesus, and He is in our inner-circle, He appears and reveals Himself face to face.
“ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, NIV)
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”(Colossians 3:12, NIV)
Kindness leads to joy and Jesus. Jesus gives kindness and joy.
Can you name one way that someone has been kind to you recently that brought you joy? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Brenda McGraw is an author and speaker who reveals how to discover joy beyond the clutter of life. She draws from her own life experiences in the #1 Amazon Best seller, “Joy Beyond, 28 Days to Finding Joy Beyond the Clutter of Life”. She is the founder of Ask God Today Ministries where she has a team of writers sharing truth and hope with others.
Brenda currently lives in South Carolina with her husband, Jeff and three of their five children. She is a survivor of breast cancer and a heart attack.. Despite the challenges she has endured, Brenda found peace through her relationship with Jesus Christ.
You can connect with Brenda at:Website - http://www.askgodtoday.com Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Brenda-McGraw/e/B00GOIE7AG Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BrendaMMcGraw
September 26, 2015
The Comparison Trap
I was at the ACFW conference this past week and through all the amazing speakers and bits of wisdom, one simple quote stuck out the most to me. It was something that author Rachel Hauck shared during worship. I thought I'd share it with you today.
Thank you, Rachel!
Someone Else's Success does not Insure Our Failure - Rachel HauckBe sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
I invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLE
Don't fall into the comparison trap in life or in #writing - wisdom from @RachelHauck (Click to Tweet)
Thank you, Rachel!
Someone Else's Success does not Insure Our Failure - Rachel HauckBe sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below.I invite you to use this image any way you like online. Post it to your blog, share it on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, anywhere you'd like. All I ask is that you keep it intact, with my website watermark visible.
Don't forget to join the conversation!Blessings,Edie
TWEETABLE
Don't fall into the comparison trap in life or in #writing - wisdom from @RachelHauck (Click to Tweet)
September 25, 2015
Write Hard and Pray Harder
by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2
Jackie lives a charmed life. Writing opportunities fall into her lap, she wakes up with creative thoughts, and she always seems to be in the right place at the right time when publishers are looking for a new project.
Seth is the same way. Big name bloggers invite him to guest blog. Focus on the Family magazine calls him for article ideas, and people line up to promote his book. Like a modern-day Midas, everything he touches goes viral.
Other writers, however, sing the chorus of the old Hee Haw song about bad luck.This disparity begs the question, does God love some writers more than others? Like a first grade teacher, does he select a few pets on whom to bestow special lunch privileges and confine the rest to eraser duty?
The apostle Paul belongs to the ranks of Jackie and Seth. An apostolic hot shot, he hit the ground running after his dramatic conversion. Although he was late coming to faith, he quickly superseded the other apostles. Rising through the ranks like a Fortune 500 apprentice, he soon became known as ‘the apostle to the Gentiles.” He replaced frontrunner Peter and traveled the world sharing the Gospel.
Did God bestow a special measure of grace and favor on Paul? And on Jackie? And on Seth?
First Corinthians 15:10 sheds some light on the question. Listen to Paul’s words:
“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.”
Yes, God bestowed grace on Paul. He plucked him from the hopelessness of Pharisaical unbelief and planted his feet firmly on the Gospel of faith. He discipled him, sanctified him, and sent him out to evangelize the world. This was God’s responsibility—performing supernatural acts in Paul’s life.
But what was Paul’s responsibility?
“. . . No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”
Paul worked hard—constantly, tirelessly, unselfishly. Jackie and Seth work hard, too. Jackie writes late into the night while her friends are scrolling through Facebook and reality TV. Seth attends writers conferences, helps promote others’ books, and submitted to Focus on the Family 16 times before his first article was accepted. Jackie and Seth are people of faith, but they don’t use their faith as an excuse to be lazy.
In response to their efforts, and to their faith, God bestows grace upon them. It’s a mystery, this symbiotic relationship between working hard and resting in God, but it’s the only way to live a productive Christian life.
There are at least two dangers, however, and both are extremes. The first is the mistaken notion that God does it all, and we are free to sit back and receive his gifts like a king accepting tribute from his subjects. This makes us God and him our servant.
The second is the equally false belief that it’s all up to us. We work hard. We create opportunities. Our efforts determine our success. Like the first danger, this mindset also places us on the throne, only instead of God doing all the work and us reaping all the benefits, God’s not in the picture at all.
Paul, Jackie, and Seth understand the symbiosis—that a believer is to work hard while simultaneously trusting God to lead, guide, and bless his or her efforts. A hearty dose of sweat and effort, combined with earnest, humble faith produce a grace-filled life that God is pleased to bless.
The next time you’re tempted to think another person’s writing success just fell into his or her lap, look a little closer. I bet you’ll find a whole lot of effort behind the grace they are enjoying. And if you’re looking for a success model to chart the course of your life, why not adopt Paul’s?
“I worked harder than all of them-- yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me” (1 Cor. 15:10).
How have you see work and prayer come together and bear fruit in your life or those around you?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLESWrite Hard & Pray Harder - thoughts from @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Overnight #writing success usually carries years of work & prayer behind it - @LoriHatcher2 (Click to Tweet)
Lori Hatcher is the editor of
Reach Out, Columbia
magazine and the author of two devotional books. Her second book,
Hungry for God…Starving for Time, 5-Minute Devotions for Busy Women
released in December. A blogger, writing instructor, and women’s ministry speaker, her goal is to help women connect with God in the craziness of life. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog,
Hungry for God…Starving for Time
. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@LoriHatcher2), or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
Jackie lives a charmed life. Writing opportunities fall into her lap, she wakes up with creative thoughts, and she always seems to be in the right place at the right time when publishers are looking for a new project. Seth is the same way. Big name bloggers invite him to guest blog. Focus on the Family magazine calls him for article ideas, and people line up to promote his book. Like a modern-day Midas, everything he touches goes viral.
Other writers, however, sing the chorus of the old Hee Haw song about bad luck.This disparity begs the question, does God love some writers more than others? Like a first grade teacher, does he select a few pets on whom to bestow special lunch privileges and confine the rest to eraser duty?
The apostle Paul belongs to the ranks of Jackie and Seth. An apostolic hot shot, he hit the ground running after his dramatic conversion. Although he was late coming to faith, he quickly superseded the other apostles. Rising through the ranks like a Fortune 500 apprentice, he soon became known as ‘the apostle to the Gentiles.” He replaced frontrunner Peter and traveled the world sharing the Gospel.
Did God bestow a special measure of grace and favor on Paul? And on Jackie? And on Seth?
First Corinthians 15:10 sheds some light on the question. Listen to Paul’s words:
“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect.”
Yes, God bestowed grace on Paul. He plucked him from the hopelessness of Pharisaical unbelief and planted his feet firmly on the Gospel of faith. He discipled him, sanctified him, and sent him out to evangelize the world. This was God’s responsibility—performing supernatural acts in Paul’s life.But what was Paul’s responsibility?
“. . . No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”
Paul worked hard—constantly, tirelessly, unselfishly. Jackie and Seth work hard, too. Jackie writes late into the night while her friends are scrolling through Facebook and reality TV. Seth attends writers conferences, helps promote others’ books, and submitted to Focus on the Family 16 times before his first article was accepted. Jackie and Seth are people of faith, but they don’t use their faith as an excuse to be lazy.
In response to their efforts, and to their faith, God bestows grace upon them. It’s a mystery, this symbiotic relationship between working hard and resting in God, but it’s the only way to live a productive Christian life.
There are at least two dangers, however, and both are extremes. The first is the mistaken notion that God does it all, and we are free to sit back and receive his gifts like a king accepting tribute from his subjects. This makes us God and him our servant.
The second is the equally false belief that it’s all up to us. We work hard. We create opportunities. Our efforts determine our success. Like the first danger, this mindset also places us on the throne, only instead of God doing all the work and us reaping all the benefits, God’s not in the picture at all. Paul, Jackie, and Seth understand the symbiosis—that a believer is to work hard while simultaneously trusting God to lead, guide, and bless his or her efforts. A hearty dose of sweat and effort, combined with earnest, humble faith produce a grace-filled life that God is pleased to bless.
The next time you’re tempted to think another person’s writing success just fell into his or her lap, look a little closer. I bet you’ll find a whole lot of effort behind the grace they are enjoying. And if you’re looking for a success model to chart the course of your life, why not adopt Paul’s?
“I worked harder than all of them-- yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me” (1 Cor. 15:10).
How have you see work and prayer come together and bear fruit in your life or those around you?
Don't forget to join the conversation!
TWEETABLESWrite Hard & Pray Harder - thoughts from @LoriHatcher2 on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)
Overnight #writing success usually carries years of work & prayer behind it - @LoriHatcher2 (Click to Tweet)
Lori Hatcher is the editor of
Reach Out, Columbia
magazine and the author of two devotional books. Her second book,
Hungry for God…Starving for Time, 5-Minute Devotions for Busy Women
released in December. A blogger, writing instructor, and women’s ministry speaker, her goal is to help women connect with God in the craziness of life. You’ll find her pondering the marvelous and the mundane on her blog,
Hungry for God…Starving for Time
. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter (@LoriHatcher2), or Pinterest (Hungry for God).
