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More than a conference

March 17, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Johnsons

More than a Conference
Anne Johnson
Guest Blogger

The Colorado Christian Writers Conference isn’t just a writers conference, it is a family and a home.

I have attended the conference for over 12 years. Each year I learn more about my writing craft and take away nuggets of truth about God’s will for me and my writing.

I have worked closely with the conference director, Mrs. Marlene Bagnull, and have been a recipient of her overwhelming grace and generosity. When I didn’t have the money to come to the conference one year, she asked if I would help with registration, and thus I was given a working scholarship. Then next year she asked me to return and help with registration again. I have been blessed to be asked to lead morning devotions and help in other areas as well.

In 2000, I called Marlene and told her that I wouldn’t be able to come because I had a six month old daughter, Moriah, and she would probably be in the way. Marlene said, “Oh by all means, bring that special baby with you.” And so Moriah became the youngest conferee to attend CCWC. Since then, Marlene has welcomed my son, Christopher, to the conference as well. And collectively we adopted Marlene into our family as our surrogate aunt.

This year finances once again threatened to keep my children and I home. However, my children began to think of creative ways to earn money to attend the conference. We began in January selling old home school books on e-Bay. I worked a few extra shifts at work. Instead of spending their paper route paycheck the kids put it in our CCWC fund. We shoveled snow for some neighbors, watered plants and house-sat when friends went out-of-town, and the list continues.

When we approached my husband with the news that we had earned almost half of our money for the conference at the beginning of March, he was astonished. He asked the children why they wanted to attend the conference.

“The conference is like my family,” twelve-year-old Moriah said. “I can’t imagine not going. And attending Teens Write helps me to have a renewed and refreshed fire to write in the coming year.”

Then Christopher, our ten-year-old son, stated, “I love the people at CCWC. I have made many friends and would miss seeing them. And I feel encouraged to continue to write my stories and songs.”

A legacy, that is what CCWC is to my family and me. A family of believers brought together with a common goal–to serve God using the gift of writing to reach the lost and the dark world around us.
__________

Children and teens are more than welcome at CCWC.  Each year we’re blessed with about 30 teens in Teens Write. A growing number of them opt to attend the entire conference. (Teens get 60% off the conference registration fee.) And yes, CCWC is like family for me, too. Really it’s a family reunion, spiritual retreat, and incredible networking and learning experience rolled into 3-1/2 memorable days in the breathtaking grandeur of the Colorado Rockies. Thank You, Father, for the privilege and joy of 19 years directing this conference.

for web site with elk

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference | Leave a Comment »

Overcoming Procrastination

March 14, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Possible And Impossible Keys Show Optimism And Positivity
Procrastination is a sin;
it brings me endless sorrow.
I know I should stop doing it.
I think I’ll start tomorrow!

 

No doubt you’ve seen this poem or something similar. I checked the Internet to attribute it and found 4,390 entries! Obviously procrastination is a hot topic that, like the old game of hot potato, we quickly toss (pass the blame) to someone or something else. Really, isn’t it easier to blame someone else for causing us to procrastinate or to move to another task to avoid doing the thing(s) we know we need to do?

While no one is immune from procrastination, I think writers are especially prone. I’m not pointing an accusing finger at you – I’m pointing it at myself. Despite the chapter on “Overcoming Procrastination” that I wrote for my book, Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers, I struggle with procrastination as much or perhaps more than others. How else could I have written that chapter? I’m an expert! If you’re curious about what I’m learning (but sadly not always applying), click here to read the chapter online.

I especially struggle with procrastination when it comes to planning the Colorado and Greater Philly Christian Writers Conferences. I know Father has entrusted these conferences to me. Watching Him work and do Ephesians 3:20 things each year (it’s now 32 years for Philly and 19 for Colorado) is one of my greatest joys. It’s just the getting started that’s hard. Well, okay, the entire process is hard! I know I’ll face computer challenges and overwhelming to-do lists and time pressures that will stretch me far beyond my abilities, my limited IQ (it’s amazing how dumb my computer and smart phone can make me feel), my wisdom, my strength . . .

And that’s the problem! I procrastinate when I focus on me – on my self-doubts and feelings of inadequacy rather than trusting the Lord to enable me to do what I can never do on my own. Although the world says depending on anyone or anything but ourselves is weakness, like the apostle Paul I’d rather embrace my weaknesses knowing that “when I am weak, then I am strong – the less I have, the more I depend on him” (2 Cor. 12:10 TLB). God-confidence is far better than self-confidence!

for web site with elkUpdate – May 13-16
Colorado Christian Writers Conference

The last day to register at the early price is Sunday, March 15. Don’t delay, especially if you want to be one of the first 100 conferees and receive a free bonus 5th appointment if you register for all three days. Bios of our 55 faculty members are now online as well as editorial needs. Thank You, Father, for helping me to get the website updated.

 

Update – Juy 29-August 1Banner 2015 GPCWC
Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference

Although the website doesn’t yet show the progress that’s been made, the faculty is almost finalized. I’ll let you know via the conference Facebook page when I start updating the website in preparation for opening online registration April 1. That will be a challenge with all the work surrounding the Colorado conference. Thank You, Father, for making possible what often feels impossible.

 

 

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, God's promises, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Overcoming self-doubts, Pondering Biblical Truth | 2 Comments »

When Words Don’t Come | News You Can Use

March 11, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

pen & inkwellWhen Words Don’t Come

Guest post by
Starr Ayers

If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. Habakkuk 2:3 NLT

Staying in tune with God can be difficult … especially when we don’t hear anything. As I drove my daughter, who has Down Syndrome, to an appointment, she listened to her favorite station through her headphones. Before long, she huffed and began thumping on her radio.

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

She gave no reply but continued to thump her radio in frustration.

“What’s wrong? Isn’t your radio working?”

“No.”

“How long has it not been working?” I asked.

No answer.

“Did it work yesterday?”

“No.”

“Did it work the day before?”

“No.”

“Did you wear your headphones at work anyway?”

“Yes.”

My heart broke. After my daughter’s appointment, I stopped at the store for batteries, replaced the old ones in her radio, and drove her back to work. When I left, she was wearing her headset and was working to the beat of the music once more. As I climbed into my car, God whispered, “She didn’t hear anything, but she kept on listening. You should too.”

Once again, my daughter was the teacher. I was the student. Sometimes, God is silent. During those times, the temptation to change the channel is great. We want to remedy the situation ourselves. Search in other directions. Fill the dead air with the sound of our own voice or the voices of others, or simply “thump” in frustration.

Although the words of today’s text may not be the words we want to hear, they do give us some much-needed insight. Listen. Keep watch. Remain steadfast. Live in expectancy. God will speak. He won’t remain silent forever. Although He may not rush in with His answer as quickly as I supplied the batteries for my daughter’s radio, His timing will be perfect.

Don’t grow weary and lose heart, my friend. Keep on listening. God’s words will come, and you’ll be dancing to the rhythm of His beat once more.

 

StarrAyers

Starr Ayers is a third-generation artist, writer, and speaker. The mother of a daughter with Down syndrome, her heart is to encourage the acceptance of those with life-challenging disabilities and to inspire others to embrace their own uniqueness in Christ. Starr is a contributor to the book Hopelifter: Creative Ways to Spread Hope When Life Hurts and is published monthly in Thrive magazine. Connect with Starr at http://bringinglifeintofocus2.blogspot.com, or starrayers@triad.rr.com.

First appeared in www.christiandevotions.us. Used with permission of Christian Devotions Ministries.

Thank you, Starr, for this important reminder of the verse that comes before Habakkuk 2:2, the theme of the Colorado and Greater Philly Christian Writers Conferences. And thank you, Cindy Sproles, for your ministry through http://www.christiandevotions.us and giving me permission to reprint this. You can meet Cindy at the July 29-August 1 Greater Philly conference and the co-founder of Christian Devotions Ministries, Eddie Jones, at the May 13-16 Colorado Christian Writers Conference. I want to encourage you to subscribe to these daily devotions and to check out their helpful guidelines for writers.

 

News You Can Use

Set of multicolored big buttons made of glass or plastic with metallic borders

Leading Hearts Magazine

ASKS:

“Is God Calling You to Write?”

Wish You Had Your Own Writing Coach?

Now that could make THE difference to help you answer your call. Right?

This is exactly is why authors Angela  Breidenbach and Linda Evans Shepherd are presenting a live webinar called Secrets to a Successful Writing Career. And the best news is that even if you can’t make it to the live class — if you sign up, you will automatically get a recording of the class.  To Register: Click HERE.

The class will cover:

The big picture – What you need to know – to embark on the journey to publishing and readership.

  • Which key tools do you need to help you in your journey?
  • How do you get, find, and keep an editor or agent?
  • Finding a publisher and other publishing ops.
  • What is ‘platform’ and how do you build one?
  • What do you need to be writing now?
  • How do you write like a pro anyway?  What do you need to do in order to create excellence in your work?

We will cover this and a lot more to help you not only get published, but build an audience and an enduring readership – so you can answer your call to write.

Webinar Details:

When:  Thursday, March 12

Time:  9:00 pm EST, 8:00 pm CST, 7:00 pm MST, 6:00 pm PST

Where:  Watch our live Webinar on your own computer; or sign up and you will automatically get the replay to watch at your convenience.

NOTE:  Students will receive handouts plus, Angie and Linda will be live, in person, to answer your questions.

To Register: Click HERE.

About our Presenters:Angela Breidenbach

Angela Breidenbach is a captivating speaker, coach, and author. Angela serves nationally as the Christian Author Network’s (CAN) president. With a volume of appearances online and on television, stage, and radio Angela loves to share her knowledge to build up others. (And yes, she’s Writer in the #Muse & Writer comedy duo.)

linda shepherd hi res 2 from we bLinda Evans Shepherd is an award-winning, best-selling author of over 30 books.  She’s the president of Right to the Heart, the publisher of Leading Hearts Magazine, an international speaker as well as the director of Instant Writers Conference and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA). Linda will give a keynote, “Write, and Speak, His Answer . . . Prayerfully” at the May 13-16 Colorado Christian Writers Conference. She will also teach the continuing session, “Reaching Women through Writing and More.”

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Pondering Biblical Truth, Publishing journey, Uncategorized, Writer's Life | Leave a Comment »

Need ideas to market your book?

March 10, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Karen Whiting from FB 3Always Think Marketing

Guest post by
Karen Whiting

 

Marketing should begin before you write your proposal and continue through long after the book’s release. When you first have an idea that’s the time to think how you can grab the attention of readers.

Example: With my first book, on finger puppets, I thought of how I could use it in teaching puppetry at regional festivals and what might get vendors who carry books to purchase it. I brainstormed jingles and phrases and came up with I incorporated into the proposal, “Let your fingers do the teaching.” That ended up on the back cover of the book.

Results: I applied and got on faculty at a puppet festival. As I taught there, another person on the faculty loved what I did and said she wanted to take the book with her on a 60-city tour where she was teaching Sunday School leaders. I gave her sample puppets too. A vendor who chose to carry the book told me he did Sunday school conventions and ministry conventions all over the country. That launched the book.

So how do you think marketing? Think in each direction that marketing reaches readers:

  1. Media – Think of short pitches that would interest a listening audience. They like humor, stories, and tips. What are the stories behind your book or in it? What did you learn that could be put into 3 top tips?
  1. Speaking – What topics can you fit into a 45-minute talk or workshop? I wrote a book on time management and that can sound a bit boring. But, I used principles from creation and decided to title a workshop, Created for purpose and beauty. That grabs attention better, as it gives hope and meeting planners can see how they can add in some fun, like including a fashion show or flower arranging as a side workshop.
  1. Articles and blog posts – What are some key ideas you want to convey to your audience? Those are ones to build articles on that relate to the book. So, for my time book I’ve done articles on accountability partners, get out of time debt, different time zones (personality and time), etc. Some expanded on ones I only used in sidebars of tips while others reinforced a larger section of the book.
  1. Social networking – As you write the book, can you sum up what you cover each day? The summaries could make great tweets. Can you jot down a few lines related to what you thought as you wrote? These could be blog posts or short FB post.Whiting Nature Girl
  1. Print – This includes freebies on your website, handouts, promotional material, etc. As you envision your idea, what do you see? These images can be great to capture for print. Can you create a handout of what you’d cover in a daylong or weekend retreat? These would be good for flyers for meeting planners. I created one on last year’s release (Nature Girl) for scout leaders. Last month I transformed it a bit for camp directors and did a mass mailing to Christian camps with the handout plus a few supplies for doing activities in the book. Next month I’ll put it on my website as a free handout. I created a fun quiz for a time I would be at a bookstore Mother’s Day weekend. It was part of launching a book for women and I did a quiz on a man’s laundry personality. The men loved the quiz, laughed, and I sold a ton of books that day.

I love helping others brainstorm and think  of unique ways to market their books and catchy phrases to use as a basis of marketing. Ideas are limitless!

______________

Thanks, Karen, for sharing such great ideas. You really are the “idea queen.” I’m so glad to have you on faculty at both the May 13-16 Colorado Christian Writers Conference and the July 29 – August 1 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference.

Among other things, Karen is offering a 30 minute paid consultation to “Develop a Unique Marketing Plan for Your Book.”  She will help you create realistic and workable plans to reach your audience building on your strengths. To learn more about Karen visit her website at www.karenwhiting.com.

Karen is the queen of creativity, the master at innovative ideas, and an expert
in transforming an insight into a tangible and powerful marketing tool.
During a recent writer’s conference, I attended her marketing sessions.
As we sat in a circle, she took the focus of each book,
gave each author ideas, examples, and practical steps to market each book.
They all evoked an “Ah!” from the participants.
The skill Karen has to craft a powerful marketing tool
from a mere concept is a gift few possess.
Janet Perez Eckles
Author & International Speaker

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Promotion | Leave a Comment »

Conference updates and winter’s last hurrah!

March 7, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

HopeIt’s been an exciting and busy week!

I’ve spent a good bit of time working on the website for the May 13-16 Colorado Christian Writers Conference. It’s not yet been proofread, so if you find mistakes, please overlook or, better still, let me know so they can be corrected. The major amount of time was spent making certain I had added all the faculty interested in doing paid critiques to the Paid Critiques page and to their bios. (There were a lot of additions, and there still may be a few more.)

I really appreciate all the faculty who have volunteered to do these. Considering what they would typically be paid outside the conference setting, it really is a labor of love for them to review your manuscript pre-conference and then sit down with you for 30 minutes. This can be one of the most valuable aspects of the conference and a huge help in strengthening your manuscript. I encourage you to do at least one paid critique. I do not, however, encourage you to have more than one faculty member critique the same manuscript. You’re likely to get differing opinions that may just confuse you.

Sandy Quandt has written a helpful blog post, “Critique, or Not? That Is the Question.” If you’ve not read it, I urge you to do so. You’ll find it right before this blog.

I was interviewed on Patti Shene’s blog talk radio show Lit(erally) Speak(ing) this week. I think you’d enjoy learning more about what’s behind the conference – rather WHO. Patti is hosting a drawing for a free copy of my books, Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers or My Turn to Care – Encouragement for Caregivers of Aging Parents. The drawing closes this coming Monday, March 9, at 8:00 pm MST. (Don’t forget to move your clocks forward tonight.) Here’s the link to enter the drawing and listen to the interview: http://ow.ly/IqBuf. Patti will be at the conference and available to talk to you about her show or beginning your own show on blog talk radio.

I’ve been primarily focused on the Colorado conference, but next week I must finalize the faculty and program for the July 29-August 1 Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference so I can open online registration April 1 – no fooling! Spring really is coming – also no fooling! I am so eager for warm (not hot!) days and to be able to again work in my back porch “office.”

Thank You, Father, for Your promise:

“Oh, that we might know the Lord!
Let us press on to know him,
and he will respond to us
as surely as the coming of dawn
or the rain of early spring.”
Hosea 6:3 TLB

 

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Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference | 1 Comment »

Critique, or not?

March 6, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Grumbling face croppedCritique, or not?
That is the question.

Guest post by
Sandy Quandt

Picture the following scenario with me, if you will. Two individuals are engaged in a deep conversation. One of the individuals becomes aggravated. Defensive. Begins making excuses. Questions the other’s authority. Pouts. And finally sulks away disgruntled.

Now, which of the following do you believe was the unhappy participant in the conversation?

  1. A) Toddler who hit his brother
  2. B) Teen who missed curfew
  3. C) Writer receiving a critique

If you chose C, you are correct.

Receiving a critique is sometimes difficult for those of us who call ourselves writers to endure, wouldn’t you agree? Especially for those of us in the beginning stages of our writer’s journey.

We’ve written the next best seller. Why is it so difficult for others to see that? We may have read several books on the craft of writing. We might have participated in an on-line discussion group, webinar, workshop or conference. We know what we are doing. If the so-called experts can’t see that, then who needs ‘em?

While I am guilty of thinking this way, may I suggest that it is NOT the correct attitude for us to have at any stage of our journey?

The first time I got the courage to actually submit my freshly written darling for a critique at a Society of Childrens Book Writers and Illustrators conference, I was disappointed I was not able to speak with my first choice editor of a major New York publishing house. Instead, a multi-published author in my genre had the privilege of reading my best seller.

She was kind in her critique and complimentary of my efforts, but when she told me my story, Mandee the Manatee, started off slow, I knew she didn’t know what she was talking about. Of course it starts off slow. Have you ever seen an actual manatee swim?

It did not take me long, though, to realize my critiquer was correct. Mandee the Manatee was not ready for publication. It sits in a drawer of my desk.

I followed that critique with a brand new novel, In the Valley of the Shadow of Death, for an appointment at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference with James Scott Bell. You know, the guy who’s written tons of best sellers and all those Writers Digest how-to-write books. Surely he’d know what he was doing and be able to recognize quality work when he saw it. Maybe even ask for a full to send to an editor he knew.

When Mr. Bell told me he found it difficult to read the dialogue I’d written in the appropriate dialect to reflect the area of Appalachia where my historical novel was set, I balked. What did that guy from California know about the way people in Appalachia speak?

Next.

Figuring out that maybe the dialect was a bit too difficult for the average reader, I did away with it, but left enough distinctive words to reflect the region. With that done, I submitted my baby to a super-star editor at another major New York publishing house during another SCBWI conference.

She was complementary. She loved my voice. She enjoyed reading the sample. By this time, I was ready to hand her the full manuscript I’d brought with me that was sitting on the floor board of my car. But . . . she felt it wasn’t edgy enough. Now, if I’d change my historical middle grade novel to a young adult vampire romance, she’d be more interested. This after telling me my title, In the Valley of the Shadow of Death, was too morbid. Seriously?

There have been other critiques and appointments. One editor at an American Christian Writers Conference even went so far as to take my one sheet, proposal, and three sample chapters of Valley back to her superiors, only to be told historicals weren’t selling in the children’s market.

Although I never enjoyed being told my writing really wasn’t where it needed to be, and I still don’t, with each and every critique I’ve improved. That is the point after all, is it not? To keep improving. To keep striving to make our writing the best it can be. To write as unto the LORD?

2015 CCWC Banner

 

Will you be heading to the CCWC this May? If so, might I suggest you get those writing samples polished until they shine. Sign up for appointments and critiques. Believe the person sitting opposite you has your best interest at heart, even when their words hurt and sting. They want you to succeed. Really, they do. They are professionals who know what they are talking about. Trust them.

Here are a few things I’m learning through my mistakes which I’d like to share with you for this writing journey we’re on.

  • Bite your tongue if you have to, but don’t argue.
  • Don’t make excuses.
  • Don’t question the critiquer’s judgment.
  • During the appointment take notes whether you agree with what is being said, or not.
  • Take a breath when you feel like your dreams are crashing around you.
  • Take a walk and talk with God until you can get your feelings under control.
  • Take your time once you return home to reassess your writing. Look at it with fresh eyes after letting it sit for a week or two.
  • Reread your notes. It might surprise you how much wisdom that critiquer had after all.

______________

Thanks, Sandy, for sharing your hard-won wisdom. Sandy weaves “words of encouragement and hope” on her Woven and Spun blog at http://www.sandykirbyquandt.com/.

Father, please give us teachable spirits. Help us – help me – not to fall in love with our words but to listen, to learn, and to seek You for the words we write.

Check out the list of critiquers and genres for the May 13-16 Colorado Christian Writers Conference (http://colorado.writehisanswer.com/paidcritiques).  Meeting for 30 minutes with one or more of these professionals who will have read your manuscript pre-conference is a great opportunity to make your writing the best it can be.

Banner 2015 GPCWC

Paid critiques will also be available at the July 29 – August 1 Greater Philly conference. I’m working to finalize the faculty and program and with the Lord’s help plan to open online registration April 1.

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Craft of writing, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Writer's Life | 1 Comment »

Pray for Israel

March 2, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Israel Prayer Alert Mar 2Emergency Prayer Alert to Christian Friends of Israel Around the WorldFor if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14, NIV)

Christian Friends of Israel – Jerusalem is posting this special prayer alert around the world [reprinted with permission] to motivate Christians everywhere to pray for a much-loved Prime Minister of Israel. He has just departed for the United States on a difficult, but extremely important mission, where he will walk into the Chamber of the US Congress with a message on his heart similar to that of Queen Esther when she knew she had to speak out on behalf of her people. Someone said “who knows whether he was elected so that he may be ready in such a time as this?” The Bible story of Esther shows that Mordechai the Jew refused to bow before Haman, and came from the tribe of Binyamin. It is reported he was a descendant of Binyamin, son of Jacob, who refused to bow to Esau. Benjamin is the English name for Binyamin in Hebrew. The Israeli Prime Minister will have the weight of centuries on his shoulders as we hope he will speak the words of Esther and allow his voice to echo to all corners of the world. He cares for the nation of Israel, for the United States and the world and will go only to warn of the danger of a nuclear Iran for the entire world; as Iran’s primary goal is the elimination of the Jewish state.

Recalling the story of Esther, we read also that the Jews of Shushan were supposed to have been executed. It was Haman’s desire as he carried within him the hatred for the Jewish people as did his ancestors, the Agagites. Every year on the 13th of Adar Israel observes the Fast of Esther. She entered the dangerous arena of the king’s court without being invited. When the tables were turned, the Jews received permission from King Ahasuerus to gather and defend themselves, on the 13th of Adar. They struck only those who had risen to kill them–and they succeeded. It will actually be on the 13th of Adar, in the year 5775 (2015) that the “man of the hour”, the messenger for the nation of Israel, her Prime Minister, will be accompanied in spirit by 8,000,000 hearts – the citizens of Israel. There will also be millions of Christians around the world who stand with and pray for this beloved nation and people, going with him in spirit.

This historical speech will be broadcast in Israel, with a five-minute delay. One Israeli stated, “Jewish people from across time and space will be watching and waiting for him to raise his hand and say. A report in Israel this past week stated “It is this Haman that is our adversary and most wicked enemy” (Esther 7:6); that Bibi tells them 4-year-old Adele Biton did not just die of pneumonia, but her death was the result of a murderous stone-throwing attack; that the Jews at the kosher supermarket in France were not murdered because “zealots randomly shot a bunch of folks in a deli in Paris,” as Obama stated, but because they were Jewish.” May he also state unashamedly the truth that centrifuges in Iran are spinning at a rapid pace to commit eventually commit genocide against God’s Chosen People.

We call upon our Christian friends of Israel around the world and ask that as Esther solicited her people to pray and fast on her behalf, that we would also do the same and fast and pray for Prime Minster Netanyahu. Esther chose to disregard protocol in the face of possible extermination of her people. She succeeded in averting an evil decree. As a result, Jewish people to this day around the world celebrate the Festival of Purim. It is no coincidence that “the most remarkable serendipitous aspect of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s speech is that it is scheduled for the very day before Jews will be observing the Fast of Esther and Purim this year, to recall a time when a heroic Queen decided that the survival of her people took precedence over protocol. (Rabbi Benjamin Blech, Aish.com, 2/22/2015).

“Religious leaders are warning that the United States is nearing a day of judgment based on its treatment of the nation of Israel. What’s more, they say, signs in the heavens are coinciding with what is shaping up to be an unexpectedly controversial address by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on March 3 and… Pastor Mark Biltz of El Shaddai Ministries warns that “our nation will be judged” based on whether the United States sides with or against the Jewish state. Biltz believes signs in the heavens and correlations with feast days on the biblical calendar show such a judgment may be coming soon.” “When Netanyahu speaks before Congress on March 3, this is the day before the Fast of Esther when the enemies of Israel, specifically Persia (Iran) had planned to destroy the nation of Israel, he said. “The next day is Purim, which celebrates the day Israel achieved victory over Iran. The timing significance of this is just as important as the timing of the blood moon.” Pastor Ray Bentley of Maranatha Chapel in San Diego, California, enthusiastically agrees with Biltz and warns that Christians need to be “praying like they never prayed before”… As Biltz puts it, “God says He will divide the sheep from the goats, one nation from another, and He will do it on the basis of those who supported Israel and those who didn’t.”  (World Net Daily, Saturday, February 28, 2015).

On September 27, 2012, Prime Minister Benjamin (Bibi) Netanyahu addressed the General Assembly of the United Nations. He spoke about the danger Iran and radical Islam poses to the world. He also clearly presented the Jewish claim to the Land of Israel by quoting the Bible. At that time he showed  how close to the redline Iran is before it completes Stage 2 of the uranium enrichment process. He made his case to the world on a chart with a drawing of a bomb on it that the entire western world faces if Iran is allowed to succeed.

Let’s Enter the Throne Room and Pray:

·         Pray that Prime Minister Netanyahu, will receive strength and courage from God not to bow or back down. May his trip to Washington be one of truth in order to awaken those who slumber in dark and dangerous times.

·         Cry out to the Lord fervently that he will not come under attack (as Mordecai also came under attack by some). Mordecai was held in high esteem by many of his brothers but not “all” of them. (Esther 10:3).

·         Ask the Lord to keep politics from prevailing and that only truth will prevail during this important historical speech.

·         Intercede for for the US Congress to welcome the Prime Minister and that he might move the hearts of all those with righteous hearts and consciences in the political realm today in America. “I cried unto the Lord with my voice; with my voice unto the Lord did I make my supplication.” (Psalm 142:1, KJV).

·         Beseech the Lord  for wisdom and knowledge (Proverbs 8:11, 35) to come forth from the lips of the Prime Minister and that he will know he doing the right thing for his nation and people, not wavering in his decision to speak truth at this time to the world arena of nations. “How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver”  (Proverbs 16:16).

·         Pray for his safety, security and protection at all times and that no harm or danger come near him at anytime.

·         Pray that the Lord will be with him from the time of departure from Israel until he returns home to Israel.

Please feel free to send this email to your family, friends, pastors, churches and lovers of Zion on every continent. Let us mobilize, rally together and marshal the prayer power that will be needed to ward off the forces of evil that are against this voice from being raised in the US halls of Congress at this significant time. This “call up” for prayer is as important as any prayer has ever been for such a time as we are now facing. May the courage of Esther, the righteousness of Daniel and the wisdom of King Solomon go with the Prime Minister as a chosen vessel “for such a time as this”.

Sincerely for the Nation of Israel,

Sharon Sanders
Co-founder, Director
Christian Friends of Israel – Jerusalem
email: sharon@cfijerusalem.org
www.cfijerusalem.org

 

Posted in Pondering Biblical Truth, Praying for our nation | 5 Comments »

Elie Wiesel, Joe Lieberman and Alan Dershowitz call on Democrats to attend Israeli Prime Minister’s speech to Congress next week. (Please call your Congressman and urge him/her to attend.)

February 28, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Friends, it is critical that we stand with Israel. I encourage you to subscribe to Joel Rosenberg’s blog.

joelcrosenberg's avatarJoel C. Rosenberg's Blog

Elie Wisel, the heroic survivor of Auschwitz, is calling on Democrats to attend the Israeli Prime Minister's speech to Congress. Elie Wisel, the heroic survivor of Auschwitz, is calling on Democrats to attend the Israeli Prime Minister’s speech to Congress.

(Nashville, Tennessee) — The train wreck in U.S.-Israel relations I have been warning about for several years has, tragically, arrived.

The President of the United States and his administration refuse to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week when he addresses a Joint Session of Congress. Rather, even as they negotiate a disastrous nuclear deal with Iran, administration officials are trying to persuade Congressional Democrats to boycott the speech. Meanwhile, Mr. Obama’s political strategists are currently in Israel actively working for the defeat Netanyahu and his party in the March 17th elections.

Without question, this is the worst crisis in U.S.-Israel relations in 67 years. Yet I thank God that some courageous voices on the Left — including Elie Wisel, the heroic survivor of Auschwitz, brilliant author and Nobel Prize Winner — are speaking out and calling…

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It comes down to faith

February 26, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

Faith rockDo you put off doing things because you don’t believe you can do them? Do you have half-written manuscripts waiting to be finished? What about ideas that you’ve tucked away – somewhere?

Yes, procrastination is a very real foe, but I am convinced the real reason we procrastinate is because we don’t believe we can do something. And actually, that’s true! We need God’s enabling to do the work He calls us to do. The key is knowing what He is calling us to do. The Living Bible paraphrase of Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do everything God asks me to do with the help of Christ who gives me the strength and power.”

It comes down to faith – to believing in the One who calls us and choosing to say “yes, Lord, here am I.”

I wantDream%20With%20Me_album%20cover to encourage you to read aloud the “Writer’s Statement of Faith” below. You may need to read it aloud several times a day. I know I do! I also want to encourage you to watch this video of pre-teen Jackie Evancho singing “To Believe.” Yes, Father, help us to believe that we really can make a difference and bring peace – Your peace – to our troubled world.

A Writer’s Statement of Faith

I have strength for all things in Christ Who Empowers me – I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength in me, [that is, I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency]. Phil. 4:13 AMP

Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies, so that God will be glorified. 1 Pet. 4:11 TLB

[Not in my own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in me – energizing and creating in me the power and desire – both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight. Phil. 2:13 AMP

My strength must come from the Lord’s mighty power at work within me. Eph. 6:10 TLB

In Him in every respect I am enriched, in full power and readiness of speech (to speak of my faith), and complete knowledge and illumination (to give me full insight into its meaning). 1 Cor. 1:5 AMP

Now I have every grace and blessing; every spiritual gift and power for doing His will are mine during this time of waiting for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 1:7 TLB

I actually do have within me a portion of the very thoughts and mind of Christ. 1 Cor. 2:16 TLB

I can be a mirror that brightly reflects the glory of the Lord. 2 Cor. 3:18 TLB

I will commit everything I do to the Lord. I will trust Him to help me do it and He will. Ps. 37:5 TLB

I will lean on, trust and be confident in the Lord with all my heart and mind, and choose not to rely on my own insight or understanding. Prov. 3:5 AMP

I will commit my work to the Lord, then it will succeed. Prov. 16:3 TLB

Sharing Christ is my work, and I can do it only because Christ’s mighty energy is at work within me. Col. 1:29 TLB

I will be strong and courageous and get to work. I will not be frightened by the size of the task, for the Lord my God is with me; He will not forsake me. He will see to it that everything is finished correctly. 1 Chron. 28:20 TLB

I need to keep on patiently doing God’s will if I want Him to do for me all He promised. Heb. 10:36 TLB

I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in me will continue until the day of Jesus Christ – right up to the time of His return – developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in me. Phil. 1:6 AMP

His mighty power at work within me is able to do far more than I would every dare to ask or even dream of – infinitely beyond my highest prayers, desires, thoughts or hopes. Eph. 3:20 TLB

From Write His Answer – A Bible Study for Christian Writers. For more excerpts, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Write His Answer is not just a book to read and put down . . . I keep my copy close to my manuscript and journals, dog-eared and tattered from use. I purchased the original version years ago at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writers Conference when I had no idea how to begin a writing ministry. Although I’m excited about getting the new edition, my first copy filled with personal notes is simply irreplaceable. More than a devotional or a “how-to-and-continue-on” manual, Write His Answer is written by a woman who knows the heart of God and the heart of a writer. This has been a rich resource to encourage and challenge me to respond and remain faithful to God’s call and use His Word as my guidance for every page. This is a classic . . . for keeps.    ~ Verna Bowman

Posted in God's promises, Pondering Biblical Truth | Leave a Comment »

Writing Saved My Life!

February 20, 2015 by Marlene Bagnull

pen & inkwellGuest Blogger
Barbara Haley

I was ten years old when I asked God to show me if He was real. The next day my sixteen-year-old sister was killed in an automobile accident. God was real. I shouldn’t have asked.

Of course, I didn’t tell anyone. Instead, I stuffed the guilt and the excruciating pain when my parents said things to me like, “You may look like her, but you’ll never be as good as her.” Or, “Comb your hair a different way; I can’t stand to look at you.”

Thirty-five years later, I finally opened up to a therapist. He sent me home to write a letter to my big sister from the point of view of a ten-year-old child.

After just a few sentences, my heart connected with the hurting little girl inside, and she began to voice her pain. Begging forgiveness from her precious older sister for causing her death. Suggesting that everyone would have been better off if only she could have died in her sister’s place that day. And finally, admitting how very much she hated God for what He’d done.

My next letter was to that sweet child—explaining to her that she didn’t cause her sister’s death and that God was not angry with her for her honest feelings and reactions. I released that child to be exactly that. A broken and confused child who desperately needed to know she was loved by God and family.

That writing changed my life and instilled in me a desire to learn how to use my life experiences to minister to others through the written word.

But I needed to learn how to write tight. To eliminate wordiness. To organize my thoughts. To connect emotionally with the reader. To stick to one point of view. To create a setting that captures the reader’s imagination and transfers them from their everyday life to an exciting new story world.

Writing conferences. This is where I’m learning the craft. Where I connect with other writers to encourage and be encouraged. Where I receive one-on-one feedback with paid critiques. And where God speaks clearly to my heart through inspiring worship and keynote speakers, informative workshops and continuing sessions, life-changing editor appointments, and most of all—the day to day rapport with fellow writers while sharing meals, waiting in line at the book table, or joining together for intimate prayer and Bible study.

Sure, you can buy books about the craft of writing. My shelves are loaded with them. But only when I began to consistently attend conferences did I really improve as a writer. I needed the immediate feedback and the hands-on practice provided in small groups led by experienced teachers. I grew in leaps and bounds as I jotted down strategies mentioned by other writers and began implementing them in my own writing. And, as I stood amazed, listening to big-name authors share their overwhelmingly deep love for God and His people, I realized just how sacred the ministry of writing is.

Let me encourage you to come and grow in your ministry as a writer at the May 13-16 Colorado or July 29-August 1 Greater Philly Christian Writers’ Conference. The friendships you’ll form will develop into a network of love and support in all areas of your life, and your writing friends will truly become your family. I promise.

______________

Thanks, Barbie, for sharing your heart and for scheduling the appointments and managing the book table at the Colorado (CCWC) and Greater Philly (GPCWC) conference. You are a blessing!

CCWC banner with lodge 2015

CCWC Update – We now have 39 registered from 10 states. If you’re among the next 36 to register, you’ll receive an additional free one-on-one appointment with the agent, editor, or author of your choice based, of course, on their availability. Remember, the earlier you register the  better opportunity you have to get your top choices. If you’re among the first 75 to register for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday you’ll receive a total of FIVE appointments. For more info on our appointment procedures click here and on how best to prepare click here. During the coming week I’ll be adding faculty bios and editorial needs to the conference website to help you make the best choices. The appointment request form will not be available until then, but appointments requests received through April 10 will be booked in the order you register.

Banner 2015 GPCWC

Ted & DanGPCWC Update – I’m grateful that Dr. Ted Baehr (on the left), Founder and Chairman of The Christian Film & Television Commission™ and Publisher of MOVIEGUIDE®, will keynote and teach a continuing session on “Breakthrough Scriptwriting” at this year’s Philly conference.  Ted hosted the 23rd annual Movieguide Awards February 7. To find out who won, click here. Better still, you can watch the Movieguide® Awards this coming Saturday on the REELZChannel, 7 p.m. Eastern time and 4 p.m. Pacific. www.movieguide.org

I’ll be posting info on our July 29 – August 1 conference to the website soon.

Posted in Colorado Christian Writers Conference, Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference, Writer's Life | Leave a Comment »

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