Chick-Fil-A, Writing, And The Word Of God

May 4, 2010

By Vonda Skelton

Posted in: Christian Living | Jesus

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?"

I heard him slap his leg as he laughed. "Ha! Ha! Elwee used to call Chick-De-Way, Chick-Er-Ray!"

Oh, how quick we are to see the errors of others, but we're so blinded by our own! In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. As the Pharisee stood proudly in the temple, he said, "God I thank you that I'm not like the other men--robbers, evildoers, adulterers-or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get."

Then Jesus described the tax collector, so ashamed, he wouldn't even look up to heaven. Instead, he beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

How many times have we been like the Pharisee--"Thank you, God, that I'm not like him!"

Several years ago, I was at a conference where one of the speakers passionately told her story of how God had taken her from a life of sin, including several abortions, and brought her to a point of cleansing through new birth. Later that day, I overheard two women talking. "Well, I don't think she should be up there speaking if she's had those abortions! How awful!"

Yes, it was awful. That was the point of the speaker's testimony. The lies of Satan lead us to do some awful things, but the good news is, God is awesome! He can take us from that dark, evil life, wash us up, and send us on our way to be witnesses of His power and glory!

I wish I had spoken up that day, but I didn't. My mind was reeling. Yes, this speaker had killed her babies, but how many people did Paul kill as he led the fight against Christianity? Hundreds? Thousands? I'm thankful God didn't consider Paul unworthy to be His spokesperson!

Those women at the conference were not alone. If we're honest, we have to admit we do the same thing. We look at others' sins, weigh them against our own, and make judgment. Brothers and sisters, that's not what we're told to do! We're told to be open and transparent, honestly sharing what God has done in our lives! Paul says he's the worst of sinners (I Timothy 1:15); Peter tells us to be ready to tell others what God has done for us (I Peter 3:15); and David admits his struggle with sin (Psalm 51).

When we stand in judgment at the confessed sin of others, we are taking glory in our own apparent goodness. We are boasting, "Thank you, God, that my sins do not compare to hers!" But Galations 6:14 says, May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . .

Now, the time may come when you have to address another's unconfessed sin. In that case, we are to lovingly address the issue. People often misinterpret the words of Jesus in Matthew 7, where He talks of judging others. If we look closely, we see that He doesn't say we aren't to confront their sin. Instead, He says, "First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." (Matthew7:5) He's telling us we must evaluate our own hearts first and confess any sin, including our motive. Then--and only then--can we sit down with another and address her sin. After all, that's what Christian friends are supposed to do for each other. (Thanks for encouraging me to clarify that, Paul!)

Writers, let's step away from the judgment seat and step into the role of advocate for the hurting and the lost. Whether we're listening to another's story, or telling one of our own, let's confess our own sin, and then use every opportunity to share His love and forgiveness with the world.

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Oops! I Spoke Too Soon!

I don't know what I was thinking, but this is isn't Kudos week, NEXT week is. So if you haven't already, be sure to send me your good news this week and we'll celebrate together next week!

God has been so good to our group since we started in 2008. In just a little over two years, we've had reports of 196 publications, contracts, new ministries, new websites, and media appearances! Way to go, gang!

And many of those who have found success found it right here--through our monthly Christian Writer's Den writing opportunities.

So...what are you waiting for?

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Only 6 Spaces Left for the Fall Writing Retreat!

Ladies, you don't want to miss this! October 21-24 in Todd, NC, near Boone. Four days, three nights of writing instruction, writing retreat, and lots of great food! And you don't have to cook or clean up! But space is very limited, so don't delay. Check it out the 2008 video here and get more info here.

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Are You Going To Blue Ridge?

Please let me know if you're going to the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference May 16-20. I'll post a list and we'll get to know each other while we're there! Edie and I will announce the Blue Ridge Christian Writer's Den lunch gathering day soon!

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And the Winner of Michele Huey's Book is...

Bren!!! Congratulations, Bren. Just send me your mailing address and your copy of Minute Meditations: Meeting God in Everyday Experiences will be on its way!

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Special Pricing on Bitsy Hardback Books!

Okay, here's the deal. I have a few hardbacks left of Bitsy and the Mystery at Amelia Island and I need the space! So, for a limited time, I'm offering the hardbacks for only $12--including tax and shipping! But you'll need to email me in order to get this special price.

And of course, I'll be happy to personalize them for you. :-)

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Ladies Near Greenville, SC...

I'll be at my home church, Westside Church, this Saturday, May 8 10am-12 and would love to have you join us. I'll be doing a new program, and let me tell you--I am so excited, I'm 'bout to bust! (For your northerners, that means I'm REALLY excited!) Email me if you're interested in more info.

PS: And you might want to bring your dancing shoes!

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And this week, as we write and speak, let's remember the words of Paul, spoken to his young mentee, Timothy:

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

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

Vonda