Heaven Calling

Here are a few excerpts from my work in progress, Heaven Calling. It will be a daily devotional. I'd love your input.

“The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9).

There are times in your Christian walk that you will stand alone, but you will not be abandoned. Others may desert you, evil may pursue you, men oppress you and darkness may engulf you, yet I will stand by you. Call out to Me and you will feel the brush of my garment passing by. Run to Me and you will feel My embrace. Trust in Me and I will be your refuge. Though all else fail you, I will be your strong tower. I will encompass you with My peace and joy. Lean on Me, for my stone walls are steadfast. They will not collapse or crumble.

“Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:5).

When humanity leans on themselves and relies not on Me, they become self-centered. This leads to a rebellious and autonomous spirit, which promotes self. The world can be a cruel and harsh place with self on the throne. This should not be the way of My followers who yield to the Holy Spirit. Their gentle spirit demonstrates that I am on the throne of their life. Do not mistake this for timidity. A gentle, kind spirit is a powerful force. It can break the yokes of poverty, hatred, cruelty, ignorance and injustice. Show forth the spirit of gentleness and someday you will rule and reign with Me in heavenly places.

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible (Matt 19:26.

Never look on someone and say, “It is impossible for that person to be saved.” You look at appearances, on the outside; I look inward into the heart. I know how to reach down into the soul of man and till the sod of their hardened hearts. I know how to strip them of their pomp and their splendor and expose their pride. I know how to lift those stuck in a deep pit. I know who will and will not respond to Me. I can save whom I want to save. This is the impossibility I speak about to you. I will accomplish My will, and I offer you a part in My glorious plan of redemption. Now go and sow the seeds of faith wherever our foot treads and “believe all things are possible.”

John 3:16 BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY

TOMORROW NIGHT MAY 15TH I'LL BE ANNOUNCING BOTH MY BOOK AND THE KINDLE WINNERS, SO STOP ON BY!

Welcome to the 1st John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop! As one of the members of this great network of Christian Authors, I am excited to participate in this event! We have come together this week to showcase our books and to give you, our readers, a chance to win some great prizes as you "hop" from blog to blog. A different prize is offered at each blog site (no purchase necessary), however if you want to have a chance to win one of two Kindles the network is giving away, the only requirement is that you sign up for the John 3:16 ezine newsletter. (Located at the top right side column of the John 3:16 blog site.)
(See official rules here.)
At the other blogs, each author will require that you leave a comment (and a valid email address) so they may contact you if you win a prize offered on their blog site.
May I also suggest that you show your love and appreciation to each blog host by either following them on Twitter, or "liking" them on Facebook or even subscribing to their blog. It won't help your odds of winning a prize but I know each author would be thrilled and very encouraged!

FOR VISITING MY BLOG YOUR NAME WILL BE ENTERED INTO A CONTEST TO WIN A SIGNED COPY OF EITHER WHEN GOD SPEAKS, LETTERS TO GOD ON A PRODIGAL SON OR TRANSFORMED INSPIRING STORIES OF FREEDOM. You can choose what you want! EITHER SEND ME AN E-MAIL (anitawriter7@yahoo.com) OR FOLLOW MY BLOG. IF YOU SIGN UP FOR THE JOHN 3:16 EZINE NEWSLETTER YOUR NAME WILL BE ENTERED INTO A CONTEST TO WIN A FREE KINDLE!! TWO KINDLES WILL BE GIVEN AWAY! (See below).

So tell your friends about the John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop! It's going to be a great week of fun!

Just click on the links below to go from blog to blog! Happy hoppin'!

Blog Hop Participants:

1. Lorilyn Roberts (John 3:16 Blog) – http://john316mn.blogspot.com/
2. Lynn Dove – Word Salt (Host blog) - http://wordsalt.wordpress.com/
3. Laura J. Davis - http://interviewsandreviews.blogspot.com/
4. Paulette Harper - http://www.pauletteharperjohnson.blogspot.com/
5. Carol A. Brown - http://connectwithcarolbrown.blogspot.com/
6. April Gardner - http://www.aprilwgardner.com/
7. Sue Russell – http://www.suerussellsblog.blogspot.com/
8. Thomas Blubaugh - http://tomblubaugh.net/
9. Susan F. Craft – http://historicalfictionalightintime.blogspot.com/
10. Heather Bixler – http://heatherbixler.com/
11. Joy Hannabass – http://splashesofjoy.wordpress.com/
12. Deborah Bateman - http://www.DeborahHBateman.com
13. Kimberley Payne - http://www.fitforfaith.blogspot.com/
14. Rose McCauley – http://www.rosemccauley.blogspot.com
15. Lisa Lickel - http://livingourfaithoutloud.blogspot.com/
16. Alice J. Wisler - http://www.alicewisler.blogspot.com/
17. Amanda Stephan - http://www.thepriceoftrust.com/
18. Saundra Dalton – http://gracetolivefree.blogspot.com/
19. Tracy Krauss - http://www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com/
20. Ashley Wintters - http://ashleyschristianbookreviews.blogspot.com/
21. Deborah McCarragher - http://www.godmissionpossible.blogspot.com/
22. Lorilyn Roberts - http://lorilynroberts.blogspot.com/
23. Anita Estes - http://anita-thoughtsonchristianity.blogspot.com/
24. Martin Roth – http://www.military-orders.com
25. Kenneth Winters – http://www.lostcrownofcolonnade.com/
26. Eddie Snipes – http://www.eddiesnipes.com/
27. Diane Tatum - http://tatumlight-tatumsthoughts4today.blogspot.com/
28. Janalyn Voigt - http://janalynvoigt.com/
29. Alberta Sequeira – http://www.albertasequeira.wordpress.com/
30. Tammy Hill – http://tammyhillbooks.blogspot.com/p/blog-hop.html
31. Marcia Laycock – http://www.writer-lee.blogspot.com/
32. Nike Chillemi - http://nikechillemi.wordpress.com/
33. Elaine Marie Cooper - http://wp.me/PVo1a-1vM
34. Sidney W. Frost - http://christianbookmobile.blogspot.ca/2012/05/welcome-to-john-316-giveaway-blog-hop.html
35. Jairus B. King – http://ministerjking.blogspot.com
36. Bill Burt - http://kotbooks.blogspot.com/
37. Kathy Eberly - http://authorkathyeberly.blogspot.com/
38. Bob Saffrin - http://bobsaffrin.com/
39. Theresa Franklin - http://theresa-lifesjourney.blogspot.com/
40. Ray Lincoln - http://blog.raywlincoln.com/
41. Lilly Maytree - http://www.lillymaytree.blogspot.com/
42. Yvonne Pat Wright - http://www.spicetoeternity.co.uk/1/post/2012/05/come-blog-hopping-with-john-316-marketing-network-members-for-gifts-and-prizes.html
43. Pauline Creeden - http://fatfreefaith.blogspot.com/
44. Katherine Harms - http://livingontilt.wordpress.com
45. Brenda Wood - http://heartfeltdevotionals.wordpress.com/
46. Deborah Malone - http://deborahsbutterflyjourney.blogspot.com/
47. Melissa Main – http://www.mainwriters.com/
48. Kevin Main - http://mainchristianbooks.com/
49. Sandy Humphrey - http://www.kidscandoit.com/blog/
50. Felice Gerwitz - http://www.writingandpublishingblog.com/
51. Hallee Bridgeman - http://www.bridgemanfamily.com/hallee
52. Lisa Mills - http://www.authorlisamills.com/blog/

53. Julie Saffrin

Author Interview: Cheryl Rogers

Welcome Cheryl to New Life Dialogue. Read about Fast Track to Victory and leave a comment!

God teaches us the lessons of righteousness throughout our lives. Sometimes we learn through adversity; other times through parents, teachers, pastors, Christian friends and books. However we do it, we need to be trained to be more like Christ. One book to help is Fast Track to Victory, A Christian Guidebook, a truly unique book by Christian author Cheryl Rogers.

"I try to teach others what I learned the hard way," says Rogers, who surrendered her life to God as an adult while suffering from a devastating illness. "It is my desire to help spare others the grief and emptiness that comes from not having God in their lives."

Rogers went to church every Sunday but didn't have a real relationship with God -- until she succumbed to Environmental Illness and exhausted known medical remedies. There is no cure for the severe immune disorder and she was at her wit's end when she surrendered her life.

"I'd said the salvation prayer years earlier but didn't really have the faith to back it up," she recalls. "My life didn't change. I hardly ever read the Word and didn't know Jesus our Savior IS the Word."

Although her situation was quite challenging, God immediately changed her circumstances and began healing her body. She became stronger and stronger until she received deliverance five months later. "I surrendered my life, but God gave it back to me, with a new purpose," she says. "He has radically changed my thinking."

A former journalist, Rogers now works as a free-lance writer and has authored several Christian titles, among them Fast Track to Victory, which teaches practical lessons like how to really love and forgive others.

"We're often taught we have to forgive because we've been forgiven," Rogers says. "But how can we really do that? The only way is to know the truth that sets us free from unforgiveness."

Fast Track to Victory, A Christian Guidebook also teaches how to deal with fear, tragedy and death and many other relevant issues people encounter in their everyday lives. Its target readers are all God seekers, especially new and young Christians eager to run the race set before them. The 40-lesson, non-denominational devotions book seeks to encourage Christians to spend time daily with God.

"Not everyone really likes to read, so Fast Track gives them a morsel they can mull over, pray over and apply to their lives," Rogers says. A free preview can be downloaded here.

Cheryl's other books include:

* Just Like Jonah Wail Tales, a short story collection aimed at preteens and teens that teaches there is a price to pay when you disobey. The modern-day characters learn, just like Jonah did in the Bible, that they can land in a whale of trouble for not doing what God says. Download a free preview.

* I Can See Christian Storybook Treasury, a truly unique storybook collection, has stories for toddlers through teens. The initial story is meant to be read by a parent or caregiver as the child learns about his or her world. Each story progresses with deeper and deeper questions of faith, including why Jesus came to Earth and why Jesus had to die. Its goal? To dispel doubts about God that develop as children grow. Download a free preview.

* Making Choices: Life is Like Acorns is a Bible study aimed at children 5 to 10 years old. It involves a baby squirrel named Peepsy who is learning how to hunt for acorns. Children learn 1) things are not always what they appear to be and 2) God looks at the heart.

Rogers also publishes New Christian Books Online Magazine, a magazine featuring announcements for new kingdom-building books as well as book excerpts, book reviews, a Bible-based living column, author marketing tips and more.

Her books are 25% off during the blog tour at New Christian Books Online Store and Smashwords.com.

Freedom from Self

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36). This verse has been rolling around in my mind ever since I signed up for doing the blog chain. If my brain remembers correctly (this can be doubtful) I think one of the Freedom bloggers mentioned this, but I’m going to add my two pennies of sense or cents, whichever way you want to look at it. Here’s my take on freedom.

Ever since I came to really know the Son of God, he’s been setting me free—mainly from myself. As the adage goes, I am my own worst enemy, and maybe you are too, but I am in the process of being set free. So, what bound me? First, my own insecurities and selfishness. With an artist personality, I was riddled with insecurity, and so I withdrew into myself and my artwork. My own little world revolved around me, myself and I. I love that new song that mentions that own little world. That use to be me, even though by twenty I had traveled the world, and lived in Europe for a year. I wasn’t a spoiled rich brat, just a product of the sixties. In that world I found all the “freedoms” I wanted, but it wound me up so tightly I became so depressed, nearly suicidal.

I was living for myself, my experiences and “freedom” from everything I knew before—my family, God, religion, friends, school and society. It was a living hell. I remember sitting in a campground by self in Ibiza (Spain) thinking, well I’ve done it all; I might as well die now. I shudder to think what I would have missed—my husband, my children, my friends and career, if I ever carried though with that thought. That’s where Jesus came on the scene, albeit a number of years later. I still had to taste more of the world’s version of freedom, which finally became such a bitter taste I wanted to spit it out, but didn’t know how—until an ex-boyfriend convinced me to go to a prayer meeting.

Don’t worry, I’m not doing my testimony here, suffice is to say I came to know this Son of God, my first step into true freedom. Many of my outwardly sinful habits (all those “freedom child” lies like drugs and sex) fell off all at once. These first steps in learning to be set free were easy compared to what “freedom robbers” lay hidden inside me: bitterness, anger, self-hatred, jealousy, depression, and selfishness. Jesus worked overtime to release me from these, to set me free from self absorbed and self-defeating habits. He taught me how to rely on Him when I had nothing materially. He taught me how to pray and understand His promises when depression threw its blanket over me. He taught me how to speak freely, though I was considerably opinionated in my early days. He taught me to be content when others had more than me. These are freedoms I consider even more precious than the freedoms we enjoy here in America as a “free” country.

As I grew in this freedom that Christ offered, He opened my small little world into a vision for all humanity. I went on a number of mission trips around the world, joined Christian organizations and helped sponsor three children and missionaries from various organizations. This is a testimony not to myself, but to what God can do even with a self-centered artist turned writer. However because of these good works, I began to strive in this Christian walk and needed to be taught a deeper lesson about freedom.

In the last few years, this Son of God showed me that it’s not my works that sets me free. He taught me about releasing all of that—what better way than through my own child. I had to hand over my prodigal son to Jesus, and He brought me into a whole new arena of freedom: trusting Him with my very own flesh and blood, abandoning preconceived notions of God, and praying with more passion and praise. He set me free from judgmental attitudes and broadened my vision. He showed me that He doesn’t conform to our image of Him, but is way beyond what we can think or imagine. Then he turned around and answered prayers to a greater measure than I hoped and freed me from fear.

So what is this Jesus doing now to set me free? He’s teaching me how to regard others more highly than myself. This is not an easy task for Him because He needs to constantly revamp my way of thinking about myself and others. It is also not something I can achieve myself; only the Son of God can form this new freedom in me. He is the Master Potter—shaping me into the vessel He wants me to be. He will freely mold me as I allow Him to free me from myself. I no longer need to strive or resist, just allow God to work in me, now that is true freedom!

Author Interview: Paulette Harper Johnson

Who is Paulette Harper Johnson?

Paulette Harper Johnson is a wife, mother, grandmother, writer, speaker and child of God. I am the visionary behind “Write Now” releasing the word in you literary workshops. Workshops designed to coach aspirating authors in the areas of creativity, development and publication of Christian books.

Can you tell us what your latest book, Completely Whole, is all about and what you hope readers will take away from it?

Completely Whole brings to light those issues that have blocked our path to total wholeness. Everyone desires to be whole and embedded within Completely Whole are keys that will assist the reader in identifying, facing and eventually conquering those places that have kept them from walking in wholeness--areas that have been a constant struggle for one to obtain victory, be it forgiveness, substance abuse, divorce. Completely Whole deals with the whole man spirit, soul and body.
3 John reads “The Pastor, to my good friend Gaius: How truly I love you! We're the best of friends, and I pray for good fortune in everything you do, and for your good health—that your everyday affairs prosper, as well as your soul!” It is the desire of God that we prosper spirit, soul and body.

What I want readers to take away when they read Completely Whole?

My focus in writing is to enrich the lives of my readers. I had a reader make this comment about Completely Whole, “It speaks” and that’s what I want it to do. I want them to come away knowing that they have the ability to live a full enriched life.
I want to make several impacts on readers: First I write non-fiction inspirational books so this means my books should have a lasting effect on a person’s spirit. I desire to inspire and encourage them to pursue with passion a better fulfilled life. I want my writings to give strength, encouragement in the time of need. As they read Completely Whole, I want my writings to engage, stimulate and edify them spiritually.

If someone were to write a book on your life, what would the title be, and why?

WOW that’s a hard question. I like the title “A life preserved” I pick this title because this is exactly what God has done in my life. He has preserved me for the season I’m living in right now. Years ago, going through one of the most challenging times, I felt my life was pretty much over. I faced great insurmountable odds of every kind--recovering from the loss of family, ministry and close friends. Yet God in His infinite wisdom knows how to pick up a shattered life and bring one to a place of restoration. When all hope was gone and life became unbearable, God stepped in and not only intervened but has totally transformed my life better than I could have ever imagined. A life preserved for such a time as this.

What 3 nuggets of wisdom would you offer an aspiring writer?

Three things I would give new authors: First is to be patient. Connecting with your audience and branding yourself will take time. Especially for new writers, the market is flooded with books for readers to choose from so by keeping this in mind you must be able to patiently wait your time to shine.

Secondly: I would suggest promote, promote, promote. I can’t stress that enough. Your book/books will stay alive as long as you keep them if front of your audience. No one is best suited than you to promote and market your products. If writing is your passion you will continue promoting and marketing your books even when it appears no one is buying.

Thirdly: Use social networks to connect with readers. By joining social networks it presents a platform for you to share with your readers your events or next book release. Readers must be able to find you either on your website or any social network you have joined.

Had you not followed your dream/answered your call and become a writer, what career path do you think you would have taken?

Right now I’m living in my purpose. I’m a minister, inspirational speaker and life coach. Had I not answered the call to write, I believe a void would have been in my life. Actually my writing was birthed from the personal pain I went through years ago. My first book That Was Then, This Is Now came out of going through a devastating divorce.

What has been your most memorable encounter with a reader so far?

The most memorable encounter with a reader was when I received an email telling me how my first book That Was Then, This is Now brought her comfort. She had been going through some hard times and my book brought her encouragement amidst her difficulties.

Has a review or profile ever changed your perspective on your work?

Not at all. Actually when I hear how my writing has made an impact on someone’s life, that is so rewarding to me. These types of testimonies keep me wanting to put more quality books in the market.

Can you tell us who or what you read for inspiration and encouragement?

I generally read books written by other inspirational speakers such as TD Jakes, Joyce Meyers, Miles Monroe just to name a few. I’ve grown to enjoy some Christian fiction, those stories that have a restoration message will get my attention.

What is your HIGHEST HOPE for your writing career/ministry?

My highest hope for my writing career is to write full time. I would love to devote all my energy to writing and speaking through workshops, seminars and conferences.

What else do you want readers to know?

On a personal note: I enjoy jazz and gospel music. I love playing cards especially spades. I love traveling. I am also a licensed and ordained minister.
Literary speaking: I would love to do a book discussion with your book club and or women’s group. I am available for a phone chat and teleconferences. Visit my website for all events, speaking engagements, workshops and book signings (I might be in your area) I’d love to meet those who have embraced my writing without them there is absolutely no reason to continue writing.
What’s next for Paulette?
I have started writing my first Christian Fiction series. The first book in the series is titled The Sanctuary. I will be released in 2012.

How can readers reach you and find out more about your books (e-mail, website,etc)
There are excerpts and reviews of my books on my website:
www.pauletteharper.com and I’m on Facebook under Paulette Harper-Johnson
And via e-mail: info@pauletteharper.com
I also have a blog Empowered to Proper which I am a blog tour host: www.pauletteharper.blogspot.com