Latest Blog Posts

Love by Guest Blogger Shelly Moran

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By Vonda Skelton | June 29, 2009

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

In the penultimate expression of all that is, we find LOVE. That's it, and we know it, the total expression and aspiration of everything. We hear that God is love, and our brain boggles, we hear there is no fear in love, yet we can't comprehend what that means.

So we wrap our arms around it and squeeze with all our might, and we strap it to our chests and loins with furor. We shake our fists at the misunderstandings, and leap toward our versions of paradise, until scalded and pierced we lie fallow, and panting, wondering how love still eludes us.

Yet IT stands. Not our murky impersonations and gilded thorns, but the truth: that God is love, that without God there can be no love, and within that love there can be no fear.

I want to grasp that: the seeming impossibility of reciprocal relationship, a circle of love and trust. To walk in the heat, and cool, and shadow, and light of God, and take it as a daily offering to my brothers in this endless race.

Why do we not see this? Why do we not run toward God's love and rest in it, holding His hand and staring in the depths of His face?

Because we cannot accept that ALL is according to His purpose.

That ALL is His unrivaled attempt to LOVE us.  

That he will take our wretched and selfish choices, that leave us gasping and grasping toward security–that he will take the evil that's visited upon us, that leaves us writhing and staggering from agony–and teach us to let go of fear, and hurt, and power, and glory. That He will orchestrate this supreme dance to its finest point and pinnacle, in spite of our vainglorious, ignorant strivings, and love us, fully bleeding, into freedom.

TRUST ME, He says, and we say, I CAN'T. LOVE ME, He says, and we say, I DO, but we don't. I CAN'T TRUST YOU, we say, BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW YOU, BECAUSE I CAN'T SEE YOU, BECAUSE I WON'T COME CLOSE ENOUGH, BECAUSE I DON'T TRUST YOU.

Because, honestly, we cannot step outside our wretched perceptions of ourselves, to believe that with no further ascension or merit, we could be that authentically LOVED.

Vonda: Thanks, Shelly. Great job! Guest bloggers fill in on the fifth Tuesdays and are free to write on anything they wish. Would any of you like be a guest blogger here on The Christian Writer's Den? All you have to do is let me know and I'll put your name on the list. Thanks!

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Who Wins Marybeth Whalen's Book, Learning to Live Financially Free?

Lesia Glick! Congratulations, Lesia. All you have to do is send me your mailing address and your free book will be on the way!

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Writer's Conferences: An Integral Part of the Writing Life

What a wonderful week in PA at the St. David's Christian Writer's Conference! It was my first time to be there and what a blessing to visit with old friends and make new ones.

I'll be at three more writers' conferences this year and would love to see you!

  • Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference, August 6-8, Langhorne, PA
  • Write at the Start: AnAuthor World Kick-Off Conference, August 15, Greenville, SC
  • North Texas Christian Writer's Conference, September 11-12, Keller, TX
  • And I had planned to be at CLASS Christian Writer's Conference (formerly Glorieta CWC) November 4-8 in Abiquiu, NM, but because of my daughter's and grandson's birthdays that weekend, I've decided I just won't be able to go. But I do hope you'll consider attending. I know it'll be a great conference!

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thecabincovesmallThe Fall Writing Retreat is full, but the waiting list is still open. It's October 1-4 in the beautiful mountains of Todd, NC. Simply send completed registration to Edie. NOTE: You don't have to send a deposit to be placed on the waiting list. Check out the 2008 video and you'll see why writers love it so much!

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While I was at the St. David's Conference this past week, I often heard writers say something like, "I'm sorry I'm so new at writing." Well, you know what I say to that? Don't apologize! Remember, all of us were new to writing at one time. And although most beginners have much to learn, that doesn't mean the messages aren't worthy and applicable. After all, even if our writings aren't yet publishable, God can still use those early words to encourage our churches, our friends, and our families. I encourage you with these words written by Paul as young Timothy began his ministry:

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.                                                  1 Timothy 4:12

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda

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Interview and Book Give Away with Author and Speaker Marybeth Whalen

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By Vonda Skelton | June 22, 2009

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

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

Vonda: Okay, let's get started. What prompted you to write about your own financial life lessons?

Marybeth: My husband, Curt, and I learned that sharing our story is helpful to other people who are struggling. There's so much shame and hiding attached to issues with money. We decided that the best thing we could do is to just be honest and real about the mistakes that we've made and the lessons we've learned. People need to know they aren't the only ones struggling with these issues.

Vonda: You wrote this book as a couple. Why, and what were the challenges?

Marybeth: I love to write, but I am not a financially minded person. Since my husband takes care of the bills and has lots of experience with financial counseling, it was a natural fit for me to have him involved with this project. I can tell stories, but he brings the nuts and bolts of financial management to the equation. As far as the challenges, it was not that bad. Mostly I had to learn to be patient with him while he juggled working fulltime and writing the parts of the book I needed from him. I had to not cross the line between "asking" and nagging. We are already brainstorming our next book so I would say it was a good experience overall.

Vonda: As the mom of six children, what advice can you give to mothers about spending?

Marybeth: Number One–cook at home. When Curt does financial counseling with families he often discovers a huge portion of their monthly spending is for eating out. This is a easy to fix. I encourage moms to make a meal plan and then create a grocery list based on the needed ingredients for those meals. I usually do all of this on weekends. I sit down in my kitchen with some favorite cookbooks and begin writing down meals and what I will need to make them. (I do this in the kitchen so I can easily hop up to check what we need.) After I am done, it's time for a grocery run with my list in hand. I might spend 1.5-2 hours doing this on a weekend, but I don't have to think about dinner again all week–and that's a big relief to my stress level and our budget. No last minute pizza or takeout runs because I forgot to plan dinner! I post all our meals on a write on/wipe off board on the side of our fridge and each morning I look at the choices to see if I need to take meat out to thaw or start something in the crockpot.

For menu planning inspiration, check out Organizing Junkie where you'll find a roundup of menu plans every Monday and many people include recipes too. It really helps to see what a weekly menu looks like for other moms, especially if you've never done it before.

Vonda: What a great tip! Okay, here's a tough one. How can mothers teach their children about living financially free?

Marybeth: By putting as much of the spending decisions as you can into their hands. We give our kids money for certain jobs, but we also have them use that money for things they want. Want to go to the movies? Sure! If you have the money. Want a milkshake? Did you bring your money? They quickly see where their money goes… and how fast. It's so much more impactful than if you are constantly doling out money. It's funny to see how quickly some of those things they used to beg for become not so important when it's their money. That's a lesson you want them to learn early on– the difference between needs and wants, and delayed gratification.

Vonda: What made you re-evaluate your family finances?

Marybeth: We were expecting our sixth child and were $95,000 in debt. We knew we were on a slippery slope and the reality of her arrival was weighing on us as we took on that additional responsibility. We sat in our car one night and dreamed of what it would be like to be debt free. Our dreams took shape as we plotted out what it would take to get out of debt once and for all. We were unified in our approach for the first time in our marriage and able to support each other as we took those first tentative steps. We knew it would be a long haul… and it was. It took us 4.5 years but now we are debt free except for our house.

Vonda: What's the first thing that families need to do to get a handle on their finances?

Marybeth: Set up a budget that your household runs on. Stick to that budget no matter what. Some people hate even hearing the word budget but we have learned that for our finances to work, it's a necessary thing that, in the end, can be quite freeing.

Vonda: Living frugal often has a negative connotation. What is the most rewarding thing about living financially free?

Marybeth: Being able to do things we've never been able to do before… and pay cash for it. We have to think ahead and make sure it's in the budget, but once we determine those things we can go out and make our purchase without that nagging feeling that we've just made a mistake like we used to.
 
Vonda: Show us a glimpse of the life in the day of a writer, speaker, and mom of 6.

Marybeth: No day is ever the same as the one before it. With school ending, we are looking forward to the lazy days of eating popsicles, going to our neighborhood pool, riding bikes, and catching fireflies. My oldest is driving now and will probably be working. On a good day, I get in a workout on the treadmill and get some writing done, too. Oh, and there's always meals to be cooked and laundry and dishes to be done!

Vonda: How can we find out more about your book, and where to connect with you?

Marybeth: My personal blog, Cheaper By The Half Dozen, can be found at

Curt and I have started a blog dealing with financial issues at We answer questions there and also post ideas for saving money.

Vonda: And Learning To Live Financially Free: Hard-Earned Wisdom For Saving Your Marriage and Your Money, is available at my Amazon store or at Proverbs 31 Ministries Thank you for being with us, Marybeth.

And readers, don't forget to leave a comment. You know you want this book. It could save your marriage and your money

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The CWD Fall Writer's Retreat Waiting List is Up and Running!

The last spot has been taken, but don't despair! It's easy to get on the waiting list. Simplly fill out the registration and mail it to Edie at the address noted. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SEND A DEPOSIT TO BE ON THE WAITING LIST! Names will go on the list as registrations are received. If an opening becomes available, we'll notify you in order of registration. We usually are able to take one and sometimes several from the waiting list. Remember, it's October 1-4 in Todd, NC. Be sure to check out last year's video and then get registered!

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I'm having a wonderful time this week at the St. David's Christian Writer's Conference in Pennsylvania. It's not only a wonderful conference, but it's held at Grove City College, an amazingly beautiful setting that confirms our God as Creator and Lord. Just another reminder that God speaks through His creation.

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda

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Following Up with Agents and Editors

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By Vonda Skelton | June 16, 2009

This is a crazy week. I'm taking my mother to three doctors appointments, teaching three writing classes for kids at libraries, emceeing at VBS every night, and our 10-year-old granddaughter is here for her special week with PaPa and MaMa (including, but not limited to: water park, "Up" movie, Gatti-Town, pottery, swimming with cousins, bowling, and getting our nails done)! All that to say, today's segment will be quick and to the point!

grabbinghandsNow that several weeks have passed since the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, I thought it would be a good time to cover a few points about submitting to agents and editors. Perhaps you've been busy rewriting chapters, tweaking proposals, or finalizing query letters. Some of you may have even sent material in.

But wherever you are on the timeline, I hope you'll take note of these observations, collected from 16 years of submitting my stuff:

  1. Regardless of how much the agent or editor liked your work, he is most likely NOT sitting at his desk, wondering why you haven't sent it yet. Whatever you do, don't send it in before it's ready. Be sure you've done everything you can possibly do to make it as good as it can be. You usually get only one chance to submit a specific piece to a specific house. Don't waste your chance by submitting less than your best.
  2. In follow-up to #1, most faculty members are open to receiving your material 6-9 months after the meeting, some even longer. So take the time to make it right.
  3. If you met the individual at a conference, be sure to mention that in your cover letter or if contacting by email, put something like "Submission from Blue Ridge" in the subject line. Of course, if you DIDN'T meet at a conference, don't say you did. Besides the fact that that'd be a big fat lie (see last week's entry), editors and agents are pretty smart people. 😉
  4. In your note, thank the person again for meeting with you and inviting you to submit your material. 
  5. Don't expect her to specifically remember you, what you look like, what you write, or what suggestions she made to you. Remember, you met a handful of instructors. She met hundreds of conferees.
  6. Don't bug them to death about a response. Instructors receive gobs of submissions after each conference, and they usually attend multiple conferences a year–sometimes flying directly from one conference to the next. If the website says to allow 3-4 weeks for a response, don't send a follow-up letter after three weeks and one day. 
  7. Be patient. I know this is hard to do when the person is holding your baby, but that agent or editor may have a hundred such babies he's holding. It's physically impossible to get to each one in a few weeks. 
  8. Don't call the agent or editor unless you were specifically told to call.
  9. While waiting to hear back, continue to send your material out to others or work on new material. Don't put your life on hold waiting for a response. 
  10. Know that editors and agents are sincerely looking for quality material to publish. But that doesn't mean that a rejection is necessarily a reflection of your writing ability. It may be that they recently published or signed a contract for something similar, that they've already reached their limit for that type of book this year, or that they've decided the market isn't big enough for that particular book. Remember, a rejection letter is not a rejection of you.

I hope these guidelines help you as you continue this journey called writing. What an awesome journey–to pen words that can change hearts!

(Hands photo compliments of ChristianPhotos.net)

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Kudos!

The Christian Writer's Den was well-represented at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Awards Banquet! I wish I had a list of everyone who won from our group, but I don't. However, these responded to my call-out for winners. Congratulations to all!

  1. Erin Vick Franklin: "The Ranch" (2nd Place Poetry) and "Worthy of the Prize Sports Camp" (3rd Place Non-Fiction)
  2. Jeanne Styles: "Delivered from Evil" (life story of Kimberly Scott) won second place in the non-fiction book category.  Marianne Jordan of recorded an interview with Kimberly and Jeanne during the conference.  It will be aired soon.
  3. Ben Styles: "The Great Adventure: Journey through the New Testament" won second place in the Bible Study category.
  4. Beth Forbus: 2nd place for Article–"God in My GPS" and 1st place for Bible Study–"Surviving Infertility-An In-Depth Study of God's Word."
  5. Darlo Gemeinhardt: 1st Place Poetry for "The Untame" and  2nd Place in Children's Stories and Books for middle grade novel, Everything that Glitters."

In addition, I know there were others. If you won an award and it's not listed, please email me and I'll include it in next month's kudos. Congratulations to all the Blue Ridge winners!

But Blue Ridge isn't the only area in which The Christian Writer's Den members are shining. Here are lots of other winners from our group who've reached another milestone on the journey. Let's join them in celebrating!

  1. Robin Bryce: Capture Me!, Robin's second IGetItLife women's conference in Texas, is off and running. You can read about it here and watch an entertaining video here. I'll be there and would love to see you and your friends!
  2. Marie Senter: Two of Marie's short stories were used in the Museum Reach of River Walk in San Antonio, TX. This was a secular event, and yet Marie was able to share The Word.
  3. Vanessa Ore: Vanessa's film, Purpose Driven, was a finalist in the Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival short film contest.
  4. Cindy Rooy: Received a contract from The Upper Room for a devotional scheduled to appear in the May/Jun 2010 issue. She also has had the opportunity to speak in three churches recently: Henard's Chapel Baptist Church in Rogersville, TN, Kingsport United Methodist, and Fordtown Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, TN.
  5. Pam Zollman and Tim Davis: Pam and Tim have joined efforts to open a new facility for artists and writers. AnAuthor World will be celebrating its grand opening today, June 16, 3-9 pm, in Greenville, SC. Check out the website for more info regarding writing classes and upcoming events. And if you live in the area, you'll want to be sure to mark your calendars now for their first writers conference, August 15. 
  6. Cheryl Barker: Has had an article accepted by War Cry; Blue Mountain Arts has accepted ANOTHER piece, this time for a Valentine's Day card for daughters; and her article, No More Lone Ranger, is in the June issue of Christian Communicator.
  7. Jo Rae Johnson: Her new book review is up at Thomas Nelson. Check it out! 

    8. Cynthia Lovely: Remember a while back when I posted an opportunity for a contest on Age of Elegance? Well, Cynthia entered and won a Runner-Up award! You can read her essay here. She also had an article published recently in the Penecostal Herald.

  8. Cherise Bopape: Cherise was recently interviewed by Maria Keckler at WritingtoServe.net.
  9. Norma Vera: Norma's article, Obedience is Not an Option, will be published June 22 in the Family Focus section of The Christian Pulse.
  10. Elaine Carr: Elaine's article, Think Ahead, has been accepted for a fall issue of The Secret Place.
  11. Sheri Levy: Clubhouse Magazine, a Focus on the Family magazine for kids, has accepted Sheri's article, Heaven Scent.

Congratulations!  Wow! What an awesome collection of blessings! Thank you for allowing us to celebrate with you. God is definitely at work among us. I hope you're all encouraged by what He's doing–I know I am! And if you ever wonder if there's any chance that God can use your words, I hope you'll remember our monthly kudos. Every writer you read about started out as a newbie. But they didn't stay there–because they were willing to invest in their writing and do what it takes.

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Ladies: Don't Miss Out on the Christian Writer's Den Writing Retreat!

Only two spots are left for this amazing retreat, and then we start a waiting list. Food, lodging, classes–all for only $200–and you don't have to cook or clean up! What a deal! Here's the info and here's the video. You won't want to miss it!

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Abi…Please contact me.

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And now, as we continue our assignment on this writing life, let's listen and take to heart these words to King Asa:

But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded. 2 Chronicles 15:7

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda

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Urgent! Please Send Me Your Blue Ridge and Gideon Conference Kudos!!!

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By Vonda Skelton | June 13, 2009

I know it's not Tuesday. But there were many award finalists and winners from our group at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and the Gideon Media Arts Conference and Film Festival, and I don't want to miss the opportunity to let everyone know!

So, if you were any kind of winner (okay, I know we're ALL winners, but you know what I mean) at Blue Ridge or if you were a finalist or winner at the Gideon, would you please email me ASAP? I want to include them in the kudos and I'll be working on it this weekend! 

 Hope you're having an awesome week!

Blessings,

Vonda

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A Half-Truth is a Whole Lie

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By Vonda Skelton | June 8, 2009

sttlcover100px 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, bitsy_hilton_head_cover_100px 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.)

But even now, as an adult who loves the Lord and is committed to truth, it would be easy to get caught up in the world's culture of half-truths. Even in the world of Christian publishing.

Let's face it, publishing is a competitive business, and especially now with the current state of the industry. So regardless of what we're pitching, the representative will most likely verbalize that dreaded 7-letter word: platform. The powers-that-be want to know what else we can bring to the table that to help sell the book. If we're not careful, that's when much-needed delusions of grandeur can take over…and we can find ourselves speaking the language of half-truths.

"How many times did you speak last year?" Six, we write with confidence. (No one needs to know the total included three monthly devotionals to our ladies SS class, or that we spoke to hundreds…as treasurer of the PTA.)

"How many positive reviews have you obtained for the book?" Five. (Mom, grandma, brother, daughter, and granddaughter all said it was great!)

"What associations will you ask to partner with you in the promotion of this book?" 1)The AARP (after all, I've been paying my dues since 1998), 2)Focus on the Family (I did write that one filler for them one time), and 3)The Christian Writer's Guild (I took their course–doesn't matter that I didn't finish it. They got my money. The least they can do is advertise my book.)

"Who do you know that you can ask to endorse the book?" 1)Beth Moore. (I went to one of her simulcasts.) 2)Cec Murphey (I'm a member of The Writer's View and he's a panelist. Isn't that what he's supposed to do?) 3)Mary Higgins Clark. (I've read all her books and she writes like me.)

Okay, I admit, some of them are goofy, but you get the idea. Yes, we might be able to respond with those answers, but are they really true in the truest sense of the word? Or are they half-truths that follow the letter–but not the intent–of the law? Are they claiming the true half of a half-truth, knowing its goal is to deceive? If ever our words are manipulated to mean something other than the total truth, it's a whole lie.

One of my most profound "aha moments" of life was when I realized that I couldn't manipulate God. Regardless of how well I tiptoed around the bottom line; regardless of how true the true half was; regardless of the well-chosen words that came from my mouth or my pen or my computer keys…God knew my heart and my intent. I couldn't manipulate Him.

And I can't expect Him to bless my writing efforts if I try to manipulate the circumstances through well-chosen, well-placed, deceit-intentioned words.

And that, my friends, is the whole truth!

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Writing Opportunities 4 YOU!

I know this is supposed to be Kudos Week, but I had two great opportunities with a June 15 deadline and wanted to share them with you, so I decided to reverse weeks. Hope you don't mind having an early door of opportunity! 😉

1.    Guideposts is publishing another series of books (this one on prayer) and is looking for writers! But note: DEADLINE IS JUNE 15! Details here. This is a paying market.

2.    ANOTHER JUNE 15 DEADLINE! Are you songwriter? Cloud Ten Pictures is looking for your music inspired by their film, Saving God. All types of music considered. Details here.

3.    Ta-Dah Mom is a new online community for moms and the editor is looking for writers. Check it out here.

4.    MindFlights is a Christian-based online fantasy/sci-fi site. They are currently looking for poetry and will resume accepting submissions for other works within a few months.  

5.    Churchmouse Publications supplies content for churches and other Christian Groups and is seeking producers (writers). They need a variety of content, including articles, drama, Bible studies, puzzles, trivia, and much more. Lots of opportunity! Paying market.

6.    Author Jeanne Dennis is looking for articles from published book authors for her monthly newsletter, Faith Roots and Shoots. The articles have to relation to growing deeper in faith or passing faith on. She will promote your book along with your article. Reprints from your books are acceptable. If you qualify, please contact Jeanne at .

7.    Author Susie Larson needs help with her next book, Growing Grateful Kids: Teaching Them to Appreciate an Extraordinary God in Ordinary Places. Guidelines here. Hurry! Deadline is July 15. And please note: She will contact you if your story fits. Please don't send follow-up emails.

Well, I think that does it for another month. Aren't these great opportunities? Now, let's get to work! I continue to praise God for His blessing through these published opportunities. One of these days we'll take a poll of how many have been blessed with publication through this listing. I know there've been many! Thank you for your faithfulness to follow His leading in your writing life!

(Door photo compliments of Erica Swaringen–Thanks, Erica!)

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Only a few slots left for the 2009 Christian Writer's Den Writing Retreat!
Don't delay! It's not too late-yet!
Information and registration here.

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 And the winner of Thelma Wells' new boo
k is…
Jean Hall! Congratulations, Jean. Email me your mailing address and the book will be on its way!

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And now, as we come to the close of our time together, I want to share a passage God showed me this morning. It's not because of us and our goodness, but because of Him and His love.

We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. Daniel 9:18b

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda

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Interview and Book Give Away with Thelma Wells

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By Vonda Skelton | June 1, 2009

Thelma Wells needs no introduction. You've known her for years as the first black member of the core speaker team with Women of Faith, the author of gobs of books, and a businesswoman and entrepreneur. She's been married to George for over 45 years and has three children, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

We're together today to talk about Thelma's new book, Don't Give In…God Wants You to Win! And you can win a copy of her book by leaving a comment. The winner will be announced next week, so don't forget to check back.

(And yes, I know this isn't our usual author interview week, but this amazing opportunity came along and I just couldn't resist!)

Vonda: Now let's get started! Thelma, thanks for joining us at The Christian Writer's Den.

Thelma: I'm delighted to be here today to visit with you and your readers, and share about a topic that's dear to my heart.

Vonda: Well, I'll just jump right in. You've had a successful banking and corporate career. You've spoken all over the country and around the world, done a lot of radio interviews, had your own television show, and written a lot of books. Many of our readers will be familiar with you from the Women of Faith conferences. It seems you've "done it all." So when you left Women of Faith in February 2008, what was it that you were leaving them to do?

Thelma: Actually, I really didn't fully understand what I was going to do. I was simply following the very clear instructions of God that it was time to go. I had a few speaking engagements on my calendar but certainly not enough to make ends meet. My total dependence was on God and waiting to see what He had in store for me.

Vonda: You told me that your new book, Don't Give In…God Wants YOU to Win!, is based on a real life experience. Will you tell us a little of that story?

Thelma: I was in elementary school when one of my friends told people she was going to beat me up. I couldn't understand why but it was real. After school for two days I faced a crowd hungry to see a fight and a girl who I thought was my friend hit me and frighten me to tears. On the second day of my fighting ordeal my great grandmother who raised me gave me some strong advice, "Thelma, the only way to deal with a bully is to fight them. You better fight her tomorrow and beat her up. If not, you're going to get a whipping when you get home." That was the determining factor. My Granny who had taught me that ladies don't fight had just reversed the instruction to "fight the bully."

I did fight her the third day and hit her hard, so she ran home, not me. I learned that when we are faced with the bully, the adversary, the enemy of our souls, the devil himself, the only way to win is to fight him with all the ammunition we have, the Whole Armor of God.

Vonda: This book is about spiritual warfare, demons, the Holy Spirit, and some pretty heavy-duty areas. Why write on this topic?

Thelma: In this day and age when all around us seems to failing like our economic system, the government, relationships, health, self-worth, business and workplace situations, the church, wayward children, divorce and so much more, it is imperative that people have something sturdy and reliable to hold on to. Everyday we are fighting some kind of battle small, great or tremendous. When we don't know how to fight against the disappoint, heartache, confusion, depression, and all the emotional and spiritual fall-out from these issues, we become desperate, violent, vicious and vile. John 10:10 tells us that the thief comes to kill, steal and destroy us. But, Jesus has come to give us life and that life more abundantly than the feelings of no hope. This book teaches about the only hope we have and how to use that hope physically, emotionally and spiritually with a guarantee that we are winners when we do.

Vonda: You've been known as the BEE lady, but it seems you're evolving into more than that. Where do you see your ministry heading in the future?

Thelma: God has so many surprises for me that my heart is overflowing. I have a teaching and preaching anointing that has made my ministry one of integrity and worth. God is doing great things in my life and reinventing some vital things that will be seen by everybody in a few weeks. He has guaranteed me that the international travel I've done over the past thirty years, the seeds I've sown over my lifetime, the barriers and tough times I've overcome are about to pay off in many different ways. He has put Christian people in my life that have and are changing the course of my life in great and wonderful ways. I will be taking a group to Israel next November, on other Ready to Win tours throughout the world, working with World Vision in their child sponsorship program, presenting mini Ready To Win Conferences throughout the world, and whatever else the Lord assigns me to do.

Vonda: Congratulations on your first Ready to Win Conference. I heard you had an awesome weekend in Garland, TX with a great group of speakers, musical artists, and attendees. Having done so many conferences in the past, why do another conference?

Thelma: This isn't just another conference. This Ready To Win Conference does not just excite people or create positive thinking, it gives everyone, saved and unsaved, the winning weapons to fight off all the wicked in this world. People are not only encouraged to win the war against the evil one, they are given easy to understand tools that they have reported are so vivid in their minds that they can apply every day in every situation. Coming together in a group and learning these tried and true skills is so much easier to understand than writing it in a book or seeing it on DVD. The reports have been that this works because they were able to see it, hear it, feel it, and use it instantly and forever. In today's world, another conference is not what we are about. We are about people joining together from different denominations, ethnicities, geographic locations, languages, and thought systems and getting insight and instruction that can bring people of all walks of life together to become a mighty army against the forces of evil.

Vonda: As a follow up, how can people get the Ready to Win Conference to their area?

Thelma: People all over the world can contact me at and we will get back with them with the details of how the Ready To Win Conference can come to their area.

Vonda: Spiritual warfare and putting on the armor of God is a daily activity for you. Is this because you're a nationally known Christian speaker and author, or is this something that everyone should be aware of?

Thelma: Spiritual warfare is the state of our lives whatever and whoever you are. We fight against anger, gluttony, smoking, frustration, and everything else that can make us less than our best. The warfare that we're in daily is because we live in a fallen world where Satan thinks he has power. Each and everyday he tries to
confuse us into thinking that things are unfixable, out of control, etc. He is the greatest liar of all times and he lays tricks in our minds, if we let him. From the moment we were born until the day we die we will be fighting spiritual warfare. However, the good news is…people who have accepted Jesus as their Savior never have to fight alone. The end of the story is that Jesus and His people win and the devil is a number one loser!

Vonda: Thelma, this book was released at the perfect time. So many people are struggling just to survive. They've lost jobs, money, health, marriages, and more. Many just want to give up! What can we do if we are in those situations to prepare for victory in the battle of life?

Thelma: When you're in a battle these are the things that must be done in order to win:

  • Put on the helmet of salvation to cover your thought life.
  • Put on the breastplate of righteousness to guard your heart against the devil and sin.
  • Put on the girdle of Truth so that you will be able to understand what real truth is and be able to use the Sword of the Spirit (The Word of God – the Bible) in every situation as Jesus did when He was tempted by the devil in the mountain.
  • Put on the shoes that have prepared you with the preparation of peace so you can march and stay fit as you tell other people about the goodness and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • Hold up the shield of faith believing that God will keep every Promise He made for our good.
  • Pray for each other and for ourselves by asking God for what we need, seeking His perfect will in all we do and knocking continually until we know God has answered our prayers. We must realize that God does not answer all our prayers the way we want Him to but whatever way He answers them, they are for our good and for His glory.
  • Praise God with thanksgiving for all He has done and will do for us. The worship of God brings us into an atmosphere of being able to fight the good fight of faith and WIN.

Vonda: So, where/how does "submitting to God and the devil will flee from you" fit into spiritual warfare?

Thelma: God asks us to do a simple thing, trust Him enough to give Him all of us. That's hard to do when you try to control your life yourself. It really amounts to us (you and me) worshipping ourselves instead of worshipping God. When we live in humble submission to God, Satan will try to attack but God is our Protector. This is not a one-time submission to God. Everyday and sometimes during the day we must ask Him to lead us not into temptation and to protect us from evil because evil is always near. We are told to pray without ceasing. This means that we must stay in the attitude of prayer 24/7. It's simple but it presents a challenge for us because we are so distracted by our day, our desires, our dreams, our relationships, etc. that we often forget that none of this would be possible were it not for the Lord who grants it. Submission means to let God be the driving force and the guiding force in our lives and trust Him that He will do exceedingly abundantly over and above what we can ask or think according to His power that works in us. The most peaceful, contented condition of my life is when I actually and earnestly turned my entire life over to the direction of God. I can now recognize when Satan tries to tempt me, confuse me, and drive me into doing or saying things I should not. It has come about with trust in God and practice of His word. Satan will attack but God will counter-act.

Vonda: Most of us are familiar with the list of spiritual weapons available for us to use as listed in Ephesians 6. I love your way to remember these that might be more relevant to today's woman – as a mom, wife, business woman, etc. Will you share these five things with us that you do daily when you're getting "dressed" in the morning? 

Thelma: Sure. Here it is! 

Vonda: Thelma, it seems you're all over the Internet these days. Anyone can find you on your web site, Facebook , Twitter, web casts, a blog tour, the You Go Girl Network, and other cutting edge things with technology. Why is it important for you to use all these various methods to spread your message? 

Thelma: Technology is the way God planned for us to get His message to the world according to Matthew 28:19.

Vonda: How did you get the name, Mama T? 

Thelma: A young lady in my church named me that because she thought that was a fitting name for me and it has become a loving name for the ladies in my mentoring groups.

Vonda: So what's next for Mama T and Ready to Win?

Thelma: My website (ThelmaWells.com) is being reinvented to a teaching tool for people to learn more and more about how to win the battles of life. There'll be powerful tools available, I'll be personally speaking with people and many other changes that will enlighten, encourage, inform, influence and empower people to fight the good fight and win.

Vonda: Where can our readers buy your new book and register for the webcast? 

Thelma: On my web site, which is ThelmaWells.com. They can click on the July RTW On-line Web cast button to learn more or register for the next series of web casts that start on July 7.  You can also watch this video to learn more…click here .

My new book, Don't Give In – God Wants YOU To Win! is also available online and at local bookstores such as, Family Christian Stores, Lifeway Christian Stores, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble Book Stores, Mardel's, Anchor Distributors, Christianbook.com, and many other stores and vendors throughout American and the United Kingdom.

Vonda: You can also order it here, through my website. 😉 Now Thelma, before we go, Is there anything that we didn't ask that you'd like to share with us?

Thelma: In all we've said, we need to remember that Jesus loves YOU and has a plan for your life. This plan includes you living a life free from worry and anxiety. God is in control of everything. When we trust in Him, give Him our lives to guide, seek the will of the Father, ask Jesus to be the Lord and Master of our lives, and accept the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we are winners and nobody or nothing can take that away from us!

Vonda: Good advice, Thelma. Thanks.

Thelma: Thank you, darling, for having me today on your blog. I hope you and your readers will visit my web site at ThelmaWells.com. And remember always be READY TO WIN!

Vonda: Now readers, don't forget to leave a comment for Thelma and you could win a free copy of her new book, Don't Give In…God Wants You to Win! Be sure to check back next week to see if you won!

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thecabincovesmallHurry! Five Openings Left for the 2009 Christian Writer's Den Writing Retreat!

October 1-4 in Todd, NC–all for only $200! Don't let this opportunity slip by. Info and registration here. Watch last year's video here. We'd love to have you join us!

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And the winner of a free Janet Thompson Face-to-Face book is…

Ann Wayne! Ann, email me with your mailing address and the book will be on its way!

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Next Week is Kudos Week!

Email me with your successes–publications, contracts, book releases, new websites/blogs–anything! We want to celebrate with you!

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For those who haven't heard, my mother almost died after breast cancer surgery this past week. But our awesome God protected her. Thank you, dear Lord, thank you!

And although it was a total shock to us, let's remember that nothing takes God by surprise:

All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:16

I pray God's blessing on the work of your hands and your hearts,
Vonda

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