Blog Entries for: Christian Living

Owning Your Talent by Guest Blogger Marilyn Shipe

Do you know what today is? Yep--it's the fifth Tuesday, and that means it's guest blogger day! I'm thrilled to introduce my friend, Marilyn Shipe. Marilyn is an aspiring magazine freelance writer. She's a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and the CBI Clubhouse. She enjoys attending writers conferences and is currently working on an historical novel, a young adult mystery novel, and enjoys writing poetry. Marilyn is editor of three monthly newsletters. She also enjoys knitting, cooking, scrapbooking, and reading. Be sure to check out Marilyn's daily blog.

Welcome, Marilyn. Thank you for sharing your thoughts today!

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August 31, 2010 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give-Away with Author/Speaker Jan Coates

Happy Tuesday to you! Today I'm thrilled to introduce my friend, Jan Coates. God uses Jan as a Difference-Maker within His Kingdom to help others experience a new perspective filled with positive change from the inside out.

A non-denominational Christian, Jan has served in ministry for more than 25 years. She is a savvy, highly-respected sales/marketing/motivational professional with more than 20 years Fortune 500 experience as well as a Christian speaker and author.

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August 24, 2010 | 21 Comments | View or add comments

We're F.I.N.E.: Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic, and Emotionally unstable

When I was writing my women's book, Seeing Through the Lies, I created a survey for women about their fears. My friend, writer and speaker Robin Bryce, cracked me up with one of her answers. She wrote, "I'm okay. You're okay. We're all just FINE...really! (FINE--Freaked out, Insecure, Neurotic, and Emotionally unstable!)" Robin admitted the statement wasn't original with her, but she says there are days she certainly could have coined it.

How about you? How often do you say you're fine, when in truth, you're FINE? If we're honest, we all experience the feeling at one time or another. Why are we afraid to admit our need for help?

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August 3, 2010 | 21 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give-Away with Author/Speaker Laura Petherbridge

This is the fourth Tuesday, which means it's time for an author interview and book giveaway! Today it's a joy to introduce my friend, author and speaker, Laura Petherbridge. Laura is an international speaker who serves couples and single adults with topics on spiritual growth, relationships, stepfamilies, co-parenting, and divorce recovery. She's also the author of two books. Her first book, When "I Do" Becomes "I Don't"-Practical Steps for Healing During Separation and Divorce, was endorsed by Billy Graham's daughter, Gigi, and Multi-Dove Award winner Kim Hill. Her newest release, The Smart Stepmom, is co-authored with stepfamily expert Ron Deal and endorsed by Gary Chapman (Five Love Languages).

Laura has spoken at the Billy Graham Training Center, The Cove, in Asheville, NC and has been featured in Australia, South Africa, and England. She has appeared on many TV and radio programs, including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, and Moody Broadcasting, and is frequently published in top Christian magazines and websites.

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July 27, 2010 | 8 Comments | View or add comments

Hands for Soldiers and New DVD!

Since this is July 4^th week, it's only fitting that we talk about our military. But instead of talking generalities, I want to tell you about my young friend, Janey Turner and her Hands for Soldiers ministry. Janey does more than talk.

Janey has always had a heart for helping others, so when the eight-year-old wanted to send care packages to soldiers in foreign lands, her parents weren't surprised. She stood in the middle of her kitchen, holding a list of names. "I can only pick one soldier? But what about the rest of them?"

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July 5, 2010 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

To Blog or Not To Blog? By Guest Blogger Jean Matthew Hall

Well, today is a fifth Tuesday, which means it's Guest Blogger Day! Jean Matthew Hall is Coordinator of the planning team for the Write2Ignite Conference for Christian Writers of Children's Literature. I've had the joy of teaching and keynoting at Write2Ignite and highly recommend attending if you're interested in writing for children. Jean's credits include essays and poems published in Mature Living, Sasee, The Vision, Bible Advocate, The Christian Communicator; devotions published in Open Windows; and personal experience essays published in anthologies such as The Embrace of a Father, Whispering in God's Ear, Chicken Soup for the Chocolate Lover's Soul, The Ultimate Gardener, and Christmas Miracles.

Please join me in welcoming my friend and fellow writer, Jean Matthew Hall.

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June 29, 2010 | 16 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author/Speaker Pat Ennis

Many of you have heard me say that homemaking is not one of my spiritual gifts. And if you have any doubt about the truth of that statement, just ask my family. Well, today I'm talking with someone who truly knows what hospitality and homemaking is all about. And yes...I have a lot to learn!

It is a joy to introduce to you my friend, Pat Ennis. Pat is the author of Precious in the Sight of God, the Fine Art of Becoming a Godly Woman; co-author, along with Lisa Tatlock, of Becoming a Woman Who Pleases God, A Guide to Your Biblical Potential (Moody Publishers);Designing a Lifestyle that Pleases God (Moody); and Practicing Hospitality, the Joy of Serving Others (Crossway Publishers). She has also contributed to several anthologies. Becoming a Young Woman Who Pleases God (New Hope Publishers) will be released this fall. Pat taught Home Economics for the San Diego Unified School District before developing and establishing the Home Economics Department at Christian Heritage College located in El Cajon, California at the request of Dr. Tim LaHaye. She moved to The Master's College in 1987, at the invitation of Dr. John MacArthur, to establish the Home Economics-Family and Consumer Science Department that she currently chairs. She is the co-founder of the Royal Ladies' Tea Society, whose motto is, "Serving the world through Biblical hospitality one person at a time." And for more information about hospitality, be sure to visit Pat's blog Unfading Beauty.

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June 22, 2010 | 14 Comments | View or add comments

Submission is NOT a Four-Letter Word!

 

Forty-one years ago today I walked down the aisle to say "I do" to my high school sweetheart...and he's still my sweetheart today! In honor of our 41^st anniversary today, I want to share an important lesson I learned on marriage. And even though it's primarily written to women, I think you men will especially enjoy it. Gr-r-r-r-r.

First of all, I want to tell you I knew instinctively how to be the wife Gary needed, how to be his helpmate, how to relate to him in a way that would build him up as the leader in our home. That's what I want to tell you, but I can't--because it'd be a big fat lie! The truth is, the Lord took me kicking and screaming all the way to submission! And my marriage and my love for Gary has never been the same.

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June 1, 2010 | 9 Comments | View or add comments

Chick-Fil-A, Writing, and the Word of God

When my grandson, Cole, was about three, he had trouble pronouncing some of his words. His older cousin, Ellie, had had a similar problem at that age. But even though we sometimes had difficulty understanding what Cole was trying to say, it was clear as a bell to him.

One day as we drove by a Chick-Fil-A restaurant, I said, "Cole, did you know Ellie used to call Chick-Fil-A, Chick-Er-Ray?"

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May 4, 2010 | 7 Comments | View or add comments

Does It Really Matter?

As you know, the first week of each month we take a look at a spiritual truth and its application to us as brothers and sisters in Christ. In the past we've looked at the first two questions God gave me as He began the process of making me into a new creation. The questions, "Who is it about?" and "What is my motive?" brought us face-to-face with the continuous struggle we have with our hearts.

Today we'll look at the third question: "Does it really matter?"

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April 6, 2010 | 7 Comments | View or add comments

Food Fight? by Guest Blogger Jill Baughan

It's Guest Blogger Day and today's guest is Jill Baughan, an author and speaker who helps people unleash the power of play in their lives. Jill was born in Bluffton, Indiana, where she learned to laugh and throw up at the same time while riding the Tilt-A-Whirl at the annual Bluffton Street Fair!

Jill is no stranger to painful experiences, such as the sudden death of her father when she was ten, and a long battle with infertility as an adult. But even though the challenges of life have changed her, her innate wildness remains unshaken. "Though there are times when part of me mourns what's lost, sighs at what's here and trembles a bit at what's to come," she says, "I still want to hop onto a Harley, swing like Tarzan from a vine, and toilet paper somebody's house." (Jill sounds like my kind of girl!)

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March 30, 2010 | 5 Comments | View or add comments

Author Interview and Book Give Away with Kathy Howard

What a privilege to introduce my friend, Kathy Howard! Kathy is a Bible study author and speaker, and has been teaching the Bible for over 20 years. She's taught a wide range of topics to an even wider range of students - everything from basic Bible stories at a middle school to teacher training for church leaders. Kathy particularly enjoys speaking at women's events and retreats to encourage women in their faith. She has a Masters in Christian Education from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary and serves on a church staff in West Texas.

Kathy and her husband have three children and one son-in-law. When the family gets together there are also four dogs in the mix! Kathy says she writes to have something to do while drinking coffee (but I know better than that :-). Find out about Kathy's Bible studies and speaking ministry and get discipleship and leader helps at her website, www.kathyhoward.org. Find out more about God's Truth Revealed at www.godstruthrevealed.org

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March 23, 2010 | 15 Comments | View or add comments

Touching the Hearts of Children

Whether you write for kids or not, whether you have children or not, you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children.

This past weekend, I had the privilege of participating in the second annual Write2Ignite Conference for writers of children's literature. It was a glorious time of focusing on our calling as writers in the battle for kids' minds and hearts. As I prepared for my Friday night keynote, "Setting Children's Hearts Afire for Jesus," I recalled considering a similar thought when I was writing my book, Seeing Through the Lies: Unmasking the Myths Women Believe.

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March 2, 2010 | 7 Comments | View or add comments

Looking Out for Number One

In today's world, it's all about me . . . and it's all about you. It's all about what we want and what we need and what we'll do to get it. While game shows demonstrate how to wheel and deal our way to financial freedom, reality TV delivers a one-two punch of alliances and backstabbing. It's done in the name of entertainment, but if we're honest, we all secretly dream of being the top dog. Numero uno. The big cheese.   

Well, I hate to brag, but, well, I've been number one, and . . .let me tell you . . . it feels good! When I was ten years old, I won first place in the 4-H Talent Show for my rendition of the song, "Side-by-Side." My partner, an upside-down broom with a construction paper face, shared the spotlight. We won ten dollars together. It was a heady experience, and I was hooked.

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February 2, 2010 | 7 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Deborah Dunn

It's almost Valentine's Day, so love is in the air - or is it? According to my dear friend and southern sister, Deborah Dunn, it may not be love. In her book, Stupid About Men: 10 Rules for Getting Romance Right, Deb helps women learn how to make good choices in men. Deb is a licensed family and marriage therapist, as well as an author and speaker. She's also the founder of the Southern Christian Women's Conferences, and I'm honored to be part of the Southern Sisters Team!

Deb and her husband, Rick, live in NC and have been married since 1969. They have two children and a beautiful granddaughter.

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January 26, 2010 | 18 Comments | View or add comments

Is Your Doing of the Calling Getting Lost in the Doing of the Stuff?

The past few weeks we've been talking about starting again, whether that means starting over, pressing forward, or completely changing gears. But, as we've already discussed, the most critical thing to do is to Start.

Start something.

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January 19, 2010 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

So What Are We Waiting For?

Okay, let's be honest here. I have a feeling you're like me...and last year you had some great ideas. Some really great ideas. God ideas. Ideas that you knew you were supposed to share with others through writing and/or speaking. Your intentions were good.

And yet--for whatever reason--they're still just ideas. Ideas sitting in your computer...in your journal...or maybe even just in your head.

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January 11, 2010 | 13 Comments | View or add comments

The Sin That Hinders in 2010

My dear friend, Linda Shepherd, author, speaker, and founder of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, recently shared some words of wisdom with me. She has given me permission to share them with you.

"After a word from the Lord, [a friend] and I have been working hard to ‘remove the sin that hinders.' It's a good word, a word that requires a thorough search of one's heart. I've searched and I continue to do so. And as I've confessed revealed sins, I've seen God show up.

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January 5, 2010 | 14 Comments | View or add comments

Encouragement from Guest Blogger Linda Greer

Can you believe this is the last blog entry of 2009? I don't know about you, but for me, this year has flown by!

In addition to being the last blog post, this is a fifth Tuesday, meaning it's Guest Blogger Day, too. Please join me in welcoming Christian Writer's Den reader, Linda Greer, as she shares her thoughts with you. And be sure to check out Linda's blog, Spiritual Heartbeats.

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December 29, 2009 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Be a Writing Groupie

Several years ago, Edie Melson, Debbie Webster, and I met at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer's Conference and were thrilled to discover we lived only a few miles from each other. All three of us were new writers with perhaps one published article each. We'd heard about writer's critique groups and knew we needed to be part of one. We didn't know of such a group in our area, so we did what we needed to do. We started one ourselves.

That was eight or nine years ago. Today the three of us have been blessed with multiple writing credits and are actively working in the field of writing. Debbie, although no longer part of this group, continues to write magazine articles and run her ministry from Whispering Pines Stables. Edie is a novelist, freelance writer, and the managing editor of Centered Magazine. And I speak at women's events and writer's conferences and continue to write books and articles. I fully believe the writer's group was a huge part of our growth.

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December 14, 2009 | 3 Comments | View or add comments

'Tis the Season of Joy?

It's no surprise that many are struggling this December. The economy has taken a hit, resulting in joblessness, foreclosures, and financial ruin. In such an environment, it can be hard to be joyful this Christmas season. After all, what do we have to be joyful about?

I admit, when things are hard (like they've been for me this past year), it's easy to get focused on the hardship and be blinded to the joy God makes available to us. And to be totally honest, when things are really bad, I'm likely to be more comfortable resting in the hardship than finding the joy. 

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December 1, 2009 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Laura Leigh Harris

What a joy to introduce Laura Leigh Harris. Readers, believe me when I say you don't want to miss this interview. Laura Leigh is not giving away one book this week--she's giving away TWELVE! Yes, when you leave a blog comment, you will automatically be entered into the drawing for a full set of her books!

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November 24, 2009 | 13 Comments | View or add comments

Word Pictures: Out of the Mouths of Babes

The past couple of days, I've Twittered a few comments collected through the years from kids at my Writing is Fun workshops in schools. Our kids' and grandkids' statements are often good for a laugh, but could there be more to them than that? Honestly, could "MaMa, why is your arm like a water balloon?" assist me in some way as a writer and speaker?

If you've ever heard me speak, you know I use a lot of stories. After all, it's through story that we can grab the listener and then teach the message we feel called to share. I use this technique frequently, and I find it works especially well when the joke's on me.

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November 9, 2009 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

This Isn't What I Signed Up For!

Gary and I married young, right after my high school graduation. It was during the days of Viet Nam and Gary was in the Air Force. A year and a half later, we were anticipating the birth of our first baby. As a mature nineteen-year-old who had helped raise three younger siblings, I had a keen sense of maternal instinct. And that maternal instinct told me natural childbirth was the way to go.

Now, let me say right here and now, I know natural childbirth can work. As a matter of fact, I delivered our second baby naturally with the help of Lamaze breathing and relaxation techniques. But with this first pregnancy, I'd never heard of Dr. Lamaze. I didn't practice breathing-I mean, what was there to practice? I'd been breathing all my life without anybody's help, thank you very much! So, after minimal consideration and absolutely no preparation, I announced to Gary and the world that I was going to have a natural childbirth.

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November 2, 2009 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

The Journey to Becoming a Master Writer

My journey to publication was like that of many writers...filled with unexpected (and of course, undeserved) detours of rejection and denial. What were those editors thinking? Didn't my years as a high school newspaper reporter and editor of the literary journal count for anything? And what about all those A's I made in college English Comp class?

Yes, the day I placed my fingers on the keys of the blue and silver Selectric, I was confident I was embarking on a short trip to bestseller lists and six-figure royalties. Little did I know the long and winding road that lay ahead.

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October 19, 2009 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

Developing Beautiful Feet (It's a Message for Guys, Too!)

As many of you know, Edie and I just returned from our annual Christian Writer's Den Writing Retreat in the beautiful mountains of Todd, NC. The retreat consists of four days and three nights set in the midst of God's creation at Ann Wayne's lovely cabin with all the latest conveniences. The weekend is filled with sixteen women (Sorry guys, but we aren't able to invite you--at least not yet!), delicious food prepared and served by our own Theresa Garrett, cook and entertainer extraordinaire, praise and worship, teaching from God's Word, writing instruction, and hours of uninterrupted writing time. Yes, you read right--sixteen women remain totally quiet for hours at a time! 

Why? Because these women are committed to the call, to the Gospel, to the job of sharing the message of Jesus Christ. And that, my friends, is reason enough to be silent.

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October 5, 2009 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

Which Side of the Coin? by Guest Blogger Ray Simmons

This is the fifth Tuesday of the month--Guest Blogger Day. Please join me in welcoming Ray Simmons. Ray resides in the Atlanta area with his wife, author Cynthia L. Simmons. He holds a BBA in business with an emphasis in accounting from University of GA and works as Chief Financial Officer for SEI/Aarons. At Grace Community Church he serves as both elder and Bible teacher. He writes poetry and studies Hebrew, Greek, and philosophy. He and Cynthia have five children. Together, Ray and Cynthia offer a weekly tea party for friends or acquaintances who have questions in apologetics, philosophy, Scripture, or politics. In February of 2008 Ray was diagnosed with encephalitis. As a result of the infection he has experienced significant brain damage. While he still recovers from the impact of his illness, doctors are amazed at his recovery.

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September 28, 2009 | 3 Comments | View or add comments

Writer, Fear Not!

Okay, go ahead. Admit it. You know it's true, so just go ahead and say it: You like to write. You find joy in writing. You may even feel you've been called to write. The question is, why aren't you? Why aren't you writing?

I'll tell you why. You're afraid. I know...because sometimes I'm afraid, too. The truth is you and I and every other writer in the world experiences fear at times in our writing life. But what could possibly cause us to fear putting pen to paper or, as in most of our cases, fingertips to keyboard?

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August 31, 2009 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

Author Interview and Book Give Away with Sharon Fawcett

Have you ever struggled with depression? Does someone you love suffer with it? If you answered yes to either of those questions, you won't want to miss today's interview with author and speaker, Sharon Fawcett. Sharon and I met in the cafeteria line years ago when I was teaching at the Glorieta Christian Writers Conference (Now CLASS Christian Writers Conference) in New Mexico. Although Sharon is multi-published in magazines and anthologies, today we're going to discuss her first book, Hope for Wholeness: The Spiritual Path to Freedom from Depression (NavPress). And as you'll soon see, it's been quite a journey.

Vonda: Welcome to The Christian Writer's Den, Sharon. Thanks for joining us and sharing your message of hope. As a matter of fact, in HOPE FOR WHOLENESS, you combine your own story with solid advice for helping others find freedom from depression. What was your experience with depression like?

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August 24, 2009 | 19 Comments | View or add comments

A Diva Wannabe

I'm going to let you in on a little secret: Homemaking is not one of my spiritual gifts. Put me on a stage in front of two thousand people and I'll have a ball, but please, please, please don't ask me to pick out a rug or decorate a table. (I'm dead serious. Just ask Sandra, the former women's ministry director at my church. She made the mistake of doing that and . . . well . . . it wasn't a pretty sight--and I'm not talking about the table. I won't go into the gory details, but let me just say no one's had the nerve to suggest I be part of the decorating committee since.)

Now, for some women, this defect would drive them crazy and make them feel like total failures. And I admit, I do wish housework and organization and meal planning came easier for me. I'd love to be like my friend, Terri, who maintains a spotless, beautifully decorated home, or my friend, Carrie, who bakes homemade bread made from her own freshly ground wheat.

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August 3, 2009 | 17 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author Jennifer Schuchmann

It's an honor to introduce my friend, author and speaker, Jennifer Schuchmann. Today, we'll be talking about her latest release, Nine Ways God Always Speaks, co-authored with Mark Herringshaw and published by Tyndale (April 2009). In this book, the authors discuss several ways God speaks. Today Jennifer will tell us how God once spoke to her in an unexpected way.  And if you want a chance to win a copy of the book, simply leave a comment and you'll be entered for the drawing. Now, let's get started!

Vonda: Jennifer, in the beginning of your book Nine Ways God Always Speaks, you say that the first time you heard someone say that God spoke to him, you thought he was crazy. Tell us about that.

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July 27, 2009 | 16 Comments | View or add comments

Author Interview and Book Give Away with Cec Murphey

In the past few months, my sister has died of cancer, my mother has been diagnosed with cancer, and now this is the third author we're interviewing with a book on cancer. I never planned any of it. But I couldn't resist the opportunity to tell you about Cecil Murphey's new book and give you a chance to win a not only a free copy, but possibly a grand prize gift basket valued at $300! Check below for more details.

In When Someone You Love Has Cancer, Cec has written a loving inspirational book for cancer caregivers and family members. Cec is not only the author of 90 Minutes in Heaven and a seasoned ghostwriter of more than 100 books, but he's also a friend, mentor, and teacher to writers all over the world. Many of us here at The Christian Writer's Den have benefitted from his generous heart and it is an honor to have him with us today.

Cec's intimate care for his wife as she fought cancer is evident on the pages of this beautifully illustrated book. Prayers for difficult situations are scattered throughout the book and personal illustrations from cancer caregivers help validate and encourage readers. A gentle question and answer session is included. I know you're going to love hearing from Cec, so let's get started.

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July 20, 2009 | 26 Comments | View or add comments

Get Up and Go!

I don't know about you, but I'm tired. I'm tired of the sickness and the conflict and the hardship. I'm tired of rushing here and there, feeling that I don't have time to slow down and rest. I'm tired of the striving.

What about you? Do you feel called to write? Called to speak? Called to share words that will change hearts? I do. I know that I know that I know that I have a message to share. But I'm tired.

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July 6, 2009 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

Love by Guest Blogger Shelly Moran

Our guest blogger today is Shelly Moran of NC. Shelly and I met when I spoke at her church several years ago. She confessed she was interested in writing and the rest is history! I know you're going to enjoy Shelly's "...random musings and obscure scribblings as (she tries) to figure out God."

Love by Shelly Moran

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June 29, 2009 | 0 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Marybeth Whalen

I'm thrilled to introduce you to my friend, Marybeth Whalen. Marybeth is the wife of Curt and mom of six children, ages teen to toddler and they live outside Charlotte, NC. She's a member of the Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker team and a regular contributor to their daily devotions. She served as general editor of For The Write Reason and the upcoming book The Reason We Speak. Today we're going to hear about Learning To Live Financially Free: Hard-Earned Wisdom for Saving Your Marriage and Your Money, a recently released book she co-authored with her husband. Marybeth speaks regularly to women's groups and enjoys sharing stories from her daily adventures as a wife, mom, homeschooler, writer, and, most importantly, a follower of God. You can find her online at www.marybethwhalen.com.

Be sure to leave a comment and you'll be in the drawing for a free book!

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June 22, 2009 | 11 Comments | View or add comments

A Half-Truth is a Whole Lie

A half-truth is a whole lie. It's a recurring theme in a couple of my books.  Not that I've ever had a problem with stretching the truth or anything. No, not me. After all, my daddy WAS in the oil business and we really DID live near Paris--two impressive details for a ten-year-old who had just moved to a new town...in the middle of the school year...without her daddy.

(The facts are that Daddy's involvement with the oil business was limited to a huge hose and a big-bellied heating oil truck with the words "Be Sure With Pure" painted across the back, and our proximity to Paris was a tiny four-room house at the base of Paris Mountain in Greenville, SC--insignificant details that would have simply tarnished the new-kid-on-the-block's much-needed delusions of grandeur.)

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June 8, 2009 | 3 Comments | View or add comments

Conference Etiquette: Mind Your Manners

(Note: I'm posting this on Sunday night instead of Tuesday so those attending Blue Ridge will have an opportunity to apply these suggetions at the conference.)

I'm having a ball at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference this week! Sure wish you were all here with us!

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May 17, 2009 | 2 Comments | View or add comments

What is My Motive?

As you know, the first week of each month we take a look at a spiritual truth and its application to our writing lives. Last month the question was "Who Is It About?" This time we're asking, "What Is My Motive?" And oh, what a booger this is for us as writers!

The answer to that question is often complex, and I hate to admit it, but the battle is a life-long process. Even after years of evaluating my heart, I continually struggle to know my motives.

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May 4, 2009 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author Yvonne Ortega

Hi, writers! Today I'm honored to introduce to you, Yvonne Ortega. Yvonne is not only a speaker and author, but she's also a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, Clinically Certified Domestic Violence Counselor, and cancer survivor. She is the author of Hope for the Journey through Cancer (Revell) and a contributing author to The Embrace of a Father (Bethany House). (That book has my story about my daddy in it, too!) She has also been published in CBN.com, Spirit-Led Writer, The Secret Place, The Quiet Hour, The Virginia Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors VAADAC Views, and other magazines. You can find out more about her at her website.

Vonda: So now, let's get started. Welcome to The Christian Writer's Den, Yvonne.

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April 27, 2009 | 12 Comments | View or add comments

Who Is It About?

So many times, there are conflicts and disappointments in life because it's all about us. It's all about what we want, what we think, and how it will affect us. It's about our opinions, our goals, and our way of doing things.

When I began this journey of sincerely trying to be more like Christ (instead of just trying to follow rules), I found two verses that influenced my choices.

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April 6, 2009 | 8 Comments | View or add comments

Fellowship with the Word by Guest Blogger Jean Davis

Well, this is the fifth Tuesday of the month, so you know what that means--Guest Blogger Day! I'm thrilled to introduce you to writer and Christian Writer's Den reader, Jean Davis. Jean and I met several years ago when I was teaching at the Delaware Christian Writer's Conference. While we were getting to know each other, we discovered that both of us had stories about our dads in the anthology, Embrace of a Father. (How cool is that?) Jean's devotionals have been published in Devo’zine, The Upper Room, and Cup of Comfort Devotional for Women. She also has stories included in The Heart of A Mother and Whispering in God’s Ear. I hope you'll check out her blogs at www.iwitnesslife.com and www.writersadvance.blogspot.com. And if you'd like some copies of Embrace of a Father for Father's Day or for any man in your life, please visit my Bookstore! ;-)

I know you're going to enjoy Jean's blog today. It's a message we all need to hear!

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March 31, 2009 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Jo Franz

Hi Gang! Please help me welcome Jo Franz. Jo is an award-winning author and national speaker for women's conferences, retreats, banquets, etc., and a speaker for colleges, universities, and association and business events. She has inspired audiences since 1984, and she gives God all the glory! She has stories in numerous books and contributed to the writing of several others before writing her memoir. Her newest book is for college students and high school seniors. I had the joy of meeting Jo several years ago at her booksigning at the International Christian Retail Show in Atlanta. I'm blessed to call her my friend!

You can reach Jo and read more about her and her ministry through these links:

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March 23, 2009 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

It's a Wonderful LIfe?

(This is a picture of my mother, my sister, Laura, and my sister, Gail, taken at my mother's 75th birthday party.)

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March 2, 2009 | 9 Comments | View or add comments

Encouraging Words

I love to sing. I admit, I'm not all that good at it-certainly not recording artist material-but I love it. You should hear me in the car when I'm all alone and the music is turned up loud. I sing with abandon, and praise God with my whole heart. I know He thinks my voice is beautiful!

But it's a different story when I'm in front of the church. I want to sing with abandon, I want to praise God with my whole heart. But instead, my throat tightens, my voice trembles. And even though I know I shouldn't, I remember the day they laughed.

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February 3, 2009 | 1 Comment | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Linda Rooks

Please welcome my friend, author and speaker, Linda W. Rooks. Linda is the author of Broken Heart on Hold, Surviving Separation. Together with her husband, she ministers to those in marital crisis. Linda's credits include Chicken Soup for the Beach Lover's Soul, Focus on the Family, HomeLife, Light and Life, The Lookout and many other national and local publications. She writes regularly for Tapestry, a Walk Thru the Bible devotional magazine and will soon be featured in Today's Christian Woman. Linda is listed in Who's Who and has participated in numerous TV and radio shows across the nation.

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January 28, 2009 | 8 Comments | View or add comments

The Best Laid Plans

Okay, here's the scoop. My life of caring for my sister has taken over. I praise God for the opportunity to show her my love and the love of her Savior during this time. But I'm also realizing I can't keep up with everything I need to do. Most things related to my writing and speaking ministry are currently delayed. Some things are even falling through the cracks. But I'm learning--yet again--that God is in control and I'm praying that He will protect what He truly has for me to do. (Photo taken at my mother's 75th birthday party, 8-9-08. Mother, sister Laura, and sister Gail.)

Please forgive me if I've let you down. That is never my intent! If you've emailed or called with a request, please resend it. I promise to get to everything as soon as I can. And if it's truly urgent, please write "Urgent" in the subject line and I'll try to get right on it. (I'm serious about that!)

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January 21, 2009 | 16 Comments | View or add comments

Smoke Signals

I hate tobacco smoke. I hate the way it smells, the way it permeates my clothes and hair, and especially the way it kills. But in this season of my life as a caregiver, cigarette smoke has taken on a new and positive role-as a way to communicate with my terminally-ill sister, Gail.

The doctor gave us the bad news six days before Christmas. There was nothing more they could do and my sister had "weeks to months" to live. Three days later my sister and mother moved in with my husband and me. Together, we would love Gail and care for her and make her final days as comfortable as possible.

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January 6, 2009 | 27 Comments | View or add comments

My Isaac

This is a fifth Tuesday week, so that means it's Guest Blogger Day! Today's guest is my friend, Nancy Foss, mother of two adult children and now a recent grandmother. She has been married to Dave for almost 29 years. Nancy is a retired elementary school teacher and works part time as a waitress where she loves to meet people from her small town of Wake Forest, NC. She just recently started her own business selling maple butter, a recipe handed down from her grandmother. You can check out her website at www.fossgourmetfoods.com. When she's not busy working she loves spending time with her granddaughter, Avery Morgan. Nancy also works with the teen girls at her home church and is active ministering in her neighborhood.

My Isaac by Nancy Foss

Gen. 22:2 Take your son, your only son, yes, Isaac, whom you love so much and go to the land of Moriah. Go and sacrifice him as a burnt offering.

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December 29, 2008 | 5 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Linda Gilden

What a great week to introduce you to my friend, Linda Gilden. Linda and I met years ago when we were both students at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and she's been a real gift to me! (Don't forget to leave a comment and you could win the gift of one of her books!)

Linda has written numerous articles, contributed to many books, and speaks regularly at writers' conferences and women's events around the country. She's also a freelance editor who enjoys helping people discover and improve their writing talents. So, let's get started!  

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December 22, 2008 | 17 Comments | View or add comments

What Will You Do With Your Gift?

December 1, 2009

Merry Christmas! Yes, I know it's only December 1, but I couldn't wait to give you a gift of encouragement from writer and speaker, Mary McKenzie. So what makes Mary so special? Well, besides being a devotional writer, novelist, and speaker, Mary is only 18 years old!

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December 1, 2008 | 5 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Sharon Hoffman

I first met Sharon Hoffman at CLASServices speakers' training in Knoxville, TN, where she was a faculty member. I was immediately drawn to her welcoming smile, but it didn't take me long to realize Sharon didn't just have a beautiful smile, she was the real deal!

I can't wait for you to hear about her latest book, but first let me give you a little background. Sharon is a popular speaker and the author of four books. She and her husband, Rob, live in Maryville, TN, where Rob is the pastor of Victory Baptist Church. They've been married forever and have two adult daughters and six grandchildren. (Yeah, I know. She doesn't LOOK like a grandma, does she?) Visit Sharon's website for more information on her writing and speaking ministry.

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November 24, 2008 | 21 Comments | View or add comments

God and the Telemarketer

November 4, 2008

You may not believe this, but I know it for a fact: God talks on the telephone.

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November 3, 2008 | 3 Comments | View or add comments

The Window: A Glimpse of God's Calling

 

September 30, 2008

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September 30, 2008 | 1 Comment | View or add comments

The Writer's Fruit of the Spirit

September 2, 2008

There's a saying that goes something like, "The fruit doesn't fall far from the tree." Hmmm...

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September 1, 2008 | 12 Comments | View or add comments

Scams. Shams, and Flim-Flams

August 19, 2008

I'm so excited about all the writing opportunities I have for you this week! But before we get to those, I'd like to take a few minutes to share some warnings.

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August 18, 2008 | 7 Comments | View or add comments

I'm So Proud of My Humility

August 4, 2008

As a little girl, I recognized the power in achievement. I wanted to be the best, to be noticed and appreciated for my skills and abilities. And even as the shortest student in my class, I fought for-and often won-a place in the hierarchy of leadership. Kids usually wanted me on their team.

I knew God would want me on His team, too. So, when I was nine or ten years old, I walked down the aisle of my church and announced my plans to become a missionary. Even though I had no idea what salvation was, I promised God I would go anywhere and tell others about Him if he would just do one little, itsy-bitsy thing-let my hamster, Snowball, live.

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August 5, 2008 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

Successful Life and Leadership

July 29, 2008

I'm so excited to introduce our guest blogger, my friend, author and speaker, Robin Bryce. Robin and I met years ago in Knoxville, TN, when we both attended a CLASServices seminar for speakers. She currently lives in Huntsville, TX as a pastor's wife and mother of three blessings. I hope you'll connect with Robin at www.RobinBryce.com or visit her Facebook page.

Welcome, Robin!

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July 29, 2008 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Michelle Cox and John Perrodin

July 22, 2008

Whew! I'm back from the International Christian Retail Show in Orlando and am so ready to get back to work! But one of the highlights of the yearly convention is having the opportunity to connect with old friends and catch up on what God is doing in their lives.

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July 22, 2008 | 13 Comments | View or add comments

Have No Fear!

July 1, 2008

I said, "Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest--I would flee far away and stay in the desert; Selah Psalm 55:6-7

There have been times in my life when I could have written that verse. I have a feeling you know what I'm talking about. I have a feeling you're like me, and you know what it's like to want nothing more than to fly away and be at rest. And we wouldn't even need wings or an airline ticket. A moped would be fine . . . just as long as it could take us away!

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July 1, 2008 | 5 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author Shellie Tomlinson

June 24, 2008 

I knew I'd found a friend the day I found Shellie Rushing Tomlinson. She's not only the owner and publisher of All Things Southern, a website that celebrates "...the charm and heritage of the South," but she's also NOT a girly-girl. And that makes us practically sisters!

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June 24, 2008 | 17 Comments | View or add comments

Hook 'Em!

June 17, 2008

The query letter, written by an eager new writer, was penned with hope and enthusiasm. But hope and enthusiasm were eliminated as soon as the editor read these deadly words: "I know it starts off a little slow, but..."

By the time the editor finished reading those nine little words, the decision had already been made. The rejection letter was on its way. The eager writer might as well have written, "Whatever you do, please don't publish my book."

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June 16, 2008 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

The Red Pen

June 3, 2008

Well, it's been a little over a week since I returned from the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, and my inbox is full. The response has been everything from "Now I know how to make my writing better" to "I quit--I must not be a writer."

I can't help but smile. I could be reading my own words, spoken at different times in my writing journey. Of course, most of you are much better students than I was when I started out! I hate to admit it, but when I first began this journey, I thought anyone who saw a need for improvement in my writing was just . . . well . . . wrong!

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June 2, 2008 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author/Entertainer Dena Dyer

May 27, 2008

I'm so excited to welcome my friend, Dena Dyer. We initially met online at The Writers View, a site for professional and advanced writers (The Writers View 2 is for beginners, so be sure and sign up for the one that best fits your needs). Then we met in person when we were both on faculty at the Glorieta Christian Writers Conference in New Mexico a few years ago. Dena is an amazingly talented woman and I'm honored she agreed to be with us today!

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May 27, 2008 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

God's Good, Pleasing and Perfect Will

May 6, 2008

I can't tell you how many times I've begged God to give me a clear sign so I'd know His perfect will for my life--you know, something really Biblical, like a message written across the sky, with fireworks exploding around it. But when I gaze up into the vast blue beauty, all I see is a white puffy cloud that looks like a hamburger. Am I supposed to give up this writing thing and work at McDonald's? (Don't laugh. I'd certainly make more money flipping burgers!)

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May 6, 2008 | 18 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Allison Bottke

April 29, 2008

The SWAT team left a horrible mess in their wake...Glass cracked under my feet like ice on a frozen pond, ready to break and suck me down...The rancid smell of alcohol and stale cigarette smoke hung in the air...Assaulted and plundered, the house was in ruins--my heart not far behind.

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April 29, 2008 | 17 Comments | View or add comments

Going Fishin' by Guest Blogger Renae Brumbaugh

April 22, 2008

Vonda here: Welcome, friends! As promised, we're pretending today is the 5th Tuesday. After all, we're writers, and writers can make it whatever day they want, right? Next week we'll have a wonderful interview and book give away with author Allison Bottke and we'll pretend it's the 4th Tuesday. Totally confused? Good! That means I'm not alone! ;-)

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April 22, 2008 | 5 Comments | View or add comments

Teaching Biblical Truth Through Secular Fiction

April 8, 2008

Today's fictional children are invincible. They're smart and calculating and wise beyond their years. They're totally independent and answer to no one. They nab the bad guy and save the planet and solve the world's problems through their ingenuity and insight. And where are today's fictional adults while all this is going on? They're standing in the corner, picking their noses--inept bystanders in the crises of life.

Truth is, real kids need us adults. They need us to listen and understand and offer guidance. Lesson #1: Fictional kids need adults, too.

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April 8, 2008 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

Waiting in the Fast Lane

April 1, 2008

Waiting is hard for me. I read of Sarah waiting for Isaac, Anna waiting for the Messiah, and Elizabeth waiting for John, and I'm amazed. I mean, can you believe Sarah waited about thirty years for a baby? Thirty years? I have a hard time waiting for my nails to dry!

But God's Word is clear that we're to wait, to be still, to remain in Him.

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April 1, 2008 | 10 Comments | View or add comments

Interview and Book Give Away with Author Virelle Kidder

March 25, 2008

I pray this Easter season has found you encouraged and excited because of the promise we have in Jesus Christ. We serve an awesome God! But what if you're not excited? What if you're weary and tired and ready to call it quits?

Lesson #1: You're not alone.

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March 25, 2008 | 16 Comments | View or add comments

Happy All the Day?

March 4, 2008

Do you remember the old song that includes a line about Christians being happy all the day? The idea is that once we've accepted the Lord as our Savior, our lives will always be happy. Although I understand the writer's intent, those words may be sending the wrong message. In our zeal to lead others to Christ, we sometimes inadvertently spread a lie--a lie that says the Christian life is always wonderful.

It's not. Just ask Paul.

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March 4, 2008 | 4 Comments | View or add comments

John Riddle: Encourager

February 26, 2008

Last week, I told you about my first foray into the writing world--a three line poem I wrote in first grade. The feedback and encouragement I received from my teacher was life-giving. I was hooked! When I was in 9th grade, my English teacher, Mrs. Rabb, read my story, "Requiem," to the class and used it as an example of good writing. That catapulted me on to becoming editor of the high school literary journal and newspaper reporter. English comp classes in college confirmed my calling. There was no question about it--I was going to be a writer one day.

Then the rejections came. I wasn't so sure anymore. I almost gave up.

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February 26, 2008 | 13 Comments | View or add comments

Begin at the Beginning

February 19, 2008

I knew I wanted to be a writer after I wrote my first poem in first grade. In high school I worked on the newspaper and the literary journal and in college I knew that one day I would write a book. The next thing I knew, I was forty.

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February 19, 2008 | 11 Comments | View or add comments

Three Little Words

February 12, 2008

Okay, be honest--you think this is just another sappy essay about Valentine's Day and the meaning of love, right? Wrong. Believe me, I'm not writing about dating, marriage, or conversation hearts. The three little words I'm talking about today are powerful.

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February 12, 2008 | 9 Comments | View or add comments

DON'T Write What You Know!

February 5, 2008

If you've been writing for any length of time, you've probably heard the adage, "Write what you know." I understand the reasoning behind the statement, but I'm afraid I have to disagree. Now, before you post nasty comments and threaten to cancel your RSS feed, please hear me out.

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February 5, 2008 | 6 Comments | View or add comments

A Positive Rejection

January 29, 2008

In order to protect the not-so-innocent, we'll call him John. He was tall, handsome, and athletic. The desire of every eighth grade girl. Oh, if only he would chose me as his partner--my life would be perfect!

Well, you know the story. I lined up, alongside three-fourths of the female eighth-graders, and applied for the role of John's girl. But he said I wasn't a good fit. I wasn't his type.

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January 29, 2008 | 8 Comments | View or add comments

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