By Elizabeth Ludwig The theme in many of my books has been forgiveness–both giving and receiving. It seems fitting then, that that I talk about National Forgiveness Day. This year, it falls on October 29. Who knew? I certainly didn’t. It’s a good reminder that we all need to practice forgiveness. However should this be reserved for one day…or should …
The Joy of the Lord is My Strength
By Barbara J. Scott Joy? “What’s joy got to do with writing?” the Grinch would say. Aren’t writers supposed to pour their blood, sweat, and tears onto the page? Aren’t we supposed to suffer for our craft? I remember the first story I ever wrote for publication–The Milk Bottle Circus. I was in the fourth grade, and our teacher planned …
Moment to Moment
By Tanara McCauley I recently joined the ranks of writers who pen speculative fiction. While I’ve read it for years and tend to favor a well-written epic fantasy over any other genre, it wasn’t until I felt God’s leading in that direction that I decided to step out in obedience and try to write my own. I initially found myself …
Making Wise Investments
By John W. Tucker Balance in each day’s activities is something we all strive for. Full-time or part-time writers, we must plan ahead and stay focused when we write. Think of the potential activities a writer may be involved in: writing into an article or book daily, writing a blog weekly or biweekly, setting aside money toward a writer’s conference …
When You Feel Talentless
By Rondi Bauer Olson A few months ago I had a difficult time leaving behind the world of a book I’d read. I thought about the characters and plot for weeks, reread the book a couple of times, and journaled my favorite passages. At first, I just enjoyed the experience. I gained a better understanding of people from a certain …
Four Little Words to Help You Prep for the ACFW Conference
By Beth K. Vogt For those of your prepping for the upcoming conference, here are four words to guide you, and yes, I used the acronym A.C.F.W. Even if you’re not attending the conference, these four words apply to every writer’s journey: ADJUST your expectations. We pack a lot of things to bring to the annual ACFW conference, but one …
FREE HUGS at ACFW Conference!
By Teresa Tysinger You guys! Can you believe the ACFW Conference is just a few short weeks away? It’s like a trip to Disney World for Christian authors. (If you think that’s overstating, then you’ve obviously never been to one.) Like many of you, I’m working hard to prepare. Here’s a glimpse at my to-do list in progress: • Sketch …
The Dumbest Thing I Ever Did at a Writers’ Conference
By Cynthia Ruchti If this were survey results, and I’d polled hundreds of past conference attendees to ask their answer to the question, “What’s the dumbest thing you ever did at a writer’s conference?” your answer might show up on the list (If you’re a first time attendee, take heart!): • Brought two suitcases. I’d packed underwear in neither of …
Christmas In July
By Mary Manners When the subject of Christmas gifts comes up, most people think of packages wrapped in colorful paper and shimmery bows, sitting under the Christmas tree, just waiting to be opened. When I think of Christmas gifts, I think of my dad, who passed away fourteen years ago this holiday season. He was a man of many gifts, …
Belief for All Things
By Tanara McCauley “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It’s a verse I know well, and one I’m prone to lean on in trying times or when faced with difficult choices. I’ve only recently realized, however, that it’s a verse I never fully believed. I can do hard things through Christ. I can do good things …