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Several years ago I began the journey of writing down some of my "God stories". I wanted to be sure to never forget all the Lord has done in my life...and I wanted my children and their children to see the faithfulness of God through real-life events.
Once I began to go deep into my memories and share my heart in a very vulnerable way, the writing process turned into an act of worship between the Lord and me. Not only was I beginning to explain to the kids all the incredible things God has done, but it was also ministering to my own soul and building my faith. I believe there is something powerful about Remembering (I even wrote a recent blog about it).
God is all around us, working all the time. We just need to learn to open our eyes to HIs presence.
The project of writing my stories began to grow...and grow. Then the goal of forming it into a book became more achievable.
About two years ago, I read a book by Bob Goff called, Love Does and it really helped me figure out the format of Surrendering. The book Love Does is an amazingly quick read and a real page-turner. Each chapter tells a life story and then Goff ties in an application that challenges the reader. I loved the book (you should read it) and I also was inspired to use a similar flow in my writing.
Each chapter of Surrendering is a story from my life and a testimony of God's goodness. It is packed with Scripture because the Bible is my guidebook to life and finally I take the opportunity to relate to the reader and challenge them in their own journey.
The Lord gave me the word "surrender". I loved it. Often I have to remind myself to live open-handed to the Lord's will, surrendering my own desires for His. The original manuscript was called Surrendered, however, it sounded too final. I will be the first to admit that I am a very novice work in progress. However, Surrendering felt right. It is something that is ongoing, far from finished, but an admirable goal.
From this point on, the weaving together of each chapter became easy.
Taking steps of obedience in each season and part of your life takes a humble path of surrender.
God gave me stories and seasons to share that help to show even the hidden parts of our lives can bring Him glory when we are open to His leadership.
To say I am excited would be an understatement. From the beginning, this process has been an act of obedience and surrender to the Lord, and an offering to Him. My heart's desire is to make much of Jesus.
To say I am nervous would be a fact. This book is very raw, real, and vulnerable. I am a mess of a woman most days and I don't pretend. It may make you uncomfortable at times, but I pray the vulnerability I show will encourage you to be vulnerable with others. There is freedom in living a transparent life in a safe community.
To say I am honored would be accurate. For you to take your time to read what the Lord has laid on my heart means so much. The thought that I could possibly encourage you in your journey blesses my soul.
The Lord gave me this verse during the process of writing that continues to build the confidence I need to keep moving forward. "The Lord GOD has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him who is weary. Morning by morning he awakens; he awakens my ear to hear as those who are taught" (Isaiah 50:4).
It would mean so much to me if you could help me get the word out and share the links to the book, this blog, and other promotional messages that we share. I believe in the message of Surrendering and I think it is one the church needs.