Write His Answer

“Test the waters!” I’ve often told writers. You’re probably wondering what that means.

 As some of you may know, the first book I wrote was “returned” (I learned not to call them “rejections”) by 42 publishers over a six-year period. It would have been easy to believe the evil one’s accusations that God must not have called me to write, but the fact that I had already been published numerous times in Christian periodicals proved him to be a liar. Still, I have to admit that I struggled with the Deadly Ds of disappointment, discouragement, and doubt. When an article based on the book was published in first one and then three different periodicals with a combined readership of over one million, I was encouraged to keep on keeping on.

During the process of looking for a publisher for my next three books I “tested the waters” by submitting portions to periodicals. The encouragement I received when these short pieces were printed helped me persevere. The message I felt called to share obviously was publishable and was being read.

Writing for periodicals is an exciting way to impact lives as you grow your writing credits. And this year’s GPCWC provides more opportunities than usual.

Do you have a story to tell of Christ’s power for life? That’s essentially why Power for Living started in 1943, and that’s why today more than a quarter of a million readers still find it lives up to its name. Power for Living ministers to a broad adult readership from a variety of churches and age groups—from the many individuals in Sunday school to the tens of thousands of adults receiving it through a Christian outreach, like church-to-home contacts, convalescent ministries, and prison ministries. Catherine DeVries, the managing editor, is eager to meet with you.

Do you enjoy reading and writing devotionals? Catherine also will be representing The Quiet Hour, a daily devotional magazine that is 100% freelance written. Do you want to reach the world through the Internet? Cindy Sproles, editor of ChristianDevotions.us, welcomes submissions from published authors, seasoned writers, and aspiring writers. You’ll find tips and guidelines on the conference website at www.writehisanswer.com/Philadelphia/2011_periodical_editors.htm.

Have you taught Sunday church school, perhaps developing your own curriculum? Urban Ministries, Inc. is sending Dr. Cheryl Clemetson, Vice President of Editorial, and Janet Grier, editor of Preschool Playhouse (ages 2-5) and Primary Street (ages 6-8). UMI principally serves an urban, African American audience. David C. Cook’s African-American curriculum line, Echoes, also will be represented by Catherine DeVries.

Perhaps you write short stories and poetry. Rowena Kuo of Harpstring will want to meet with you. And these are just some of the opportunities at this year’s GPCWC to “test the waters” through writing for periodicals.

Remember the earlier you register, the better opportunity you have to get your top picks for your free 15-minute one-on-one appointments.

Father, thank You. Thank You for all the ways You have encouraged me as I have sought to “write Your answer” and all You will do for this year’s conferees.