Day 4 Topic: Wisdom in decision making for the Executive Board as they meet before the conference Verse: Romans 15:5–Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus. Dear Heavenly Father, We come to you with hearts of gratitude and to pray for those who …
Making Time for the Work You Love
by Mary Ellis Most readers imagine authors pounding away at their computers, then taking long walks on the beach to renew their inspiration. A writer’s life must be solitary, introspective, and perhaps a bit tragic. Although there are some writers enjoying that lifestyle, most juggle other jobs too. If wish to add author to your day job and family responsibilities, …
40 Days of Prayer: Day 5
Day 5 Topic: Travel Safety Verse: Psalm 121:3b-4–He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Merciful Father, Almighty God, You are so awesome. You are always awake, always watching over us, always alert to every tiny action we make, every syllable we speak, every thought that zips through our heads. Nothing …
A Neophyte is Going To Indy
by B.J. Young In four days I’m going to get into my car and drive to the ACFW Conference in Indianapolis. My initial stop on Friday morning will be the orientation for first time attendees. To say I’m excited, and a little nervous, is an understatement. In the world of writing, I am a novice. I’ve only been doing it …
40 Days of Prayer: Day 6
Day 6 Topic: For worship pleasing to God Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:9-Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him. Lord, as we meet each day for a time of worship, help us to come together in unity and harmony. We lift up the musicians who will lead us in song and …
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
by Anne Mateer I’m not a bold person. I rarely talk to strangers. Even if I need something. So the idea of asking someone–a living, breathing person–for help in researching what would become my first published novel, terrified me. I mean, even if I could muster the courage to ask for assistance, who would take the time to answer questions …
40 Days of Prayer: Day 7
Day 7 Topic: Health for all attending the conference Verse: Psalm 139:14a–I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Dear Lord, we pray that You put Your hand on all those traveling to the conference who have health issues. Touch them and bring healing. Sustain them as they plan for the conference. Be with them …
Conference Packing Tips
by Denise Hunter With the ACFW Conference a week away, here are some timely tips on packing, gleaned from 8 years of packing for ACFW. If you plan ahead, you can avoid ironing, tedious decisions (you’ll have enough to make once you’re there), and wasting precious time that could be spent gabbing with writing friends and schmoozing editors and agents. …
40 Days of Prayer: Day 8
Day 8 Topic: For a smooth registration Verse: Romans 8:28–And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Lord, you are a God of administration. You planned the world before You began! We ask for the plans and purposes of ACFW’s conference …
Writing Historical Novels, Part One
By Carrie Turansky In January of 2012 I had a short conversation with an editor and I asked her, “What are you looking for?” She smiled and said, “I wish I could find a novel set England at the same time as the popular British TV series Downton Abbey, with a brooding hero and a loving governess heroine, giving the …