Christians--All Ages

JesusisLord — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 07:51:41 -0500

Hello! Well, I'm back to start another Christian group! This is the place where you can talk about your love for God, talk about your views, ask questions (anyone can!) and share stories. Welcome back all those who were here last year! Welcome to all you newbies! I noticed last year that only for the first couple weeks of its beginning was the christian thread active. Is that all we can do? You'd think we would have plenty to talk about---prayer requests, miraculous stories, your beliefs--yet everyone seems to not have anything to say! Secondly, I know only a few Christians come out and post in this thread...and I know for a fact there are more Christians on this site than a few. Let's see if we can do better this year! Secondly, anyone can come in and ask questions. But let this be a reminder: no derrogatory comments, no "mean" arguing. A disagreement is fine, but no all-out fights. Keep in mind the feelings of your neighbor. This thread is for sharing, not fighting. Now that the introduction over, let us begin. Come on in and introduce yourself. Tell a little about your walk with God or share one of your favorite Bible verses and what you think about it! Then we can discuss on whatever leads you! I'll start. Right now, my favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 60:19-20 "The sun shall be no more your light by day, nor for brightness shall the moon give you light; but the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory. Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended." This is so true, I believe. The sun of our world is not everlasting, and neither is the moon. Both will die. But if we make God our sun and our moon, we won't have to worry because we will have an eternity of life! You know? I have other verses to back that up, but this is just a starter for now. God Bless -JesusisLord

Re: Christians--All Ages

indeliblecello — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:44:42 -0500

My favorite Bible verse of all time? 1 Corinthians 9:22. "I have become all things to all people so that by doing so I might save some." I feel that by the way I live my life and the way I interact with other people (ALL people), I can have an impact on their life. What they do with the impact I have made on them is up to them and God. I can only do so little on my own. :)

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Lydia_Ember — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:23:12 -0500

Hello all. I don't have a fav verse, but I like to go back through Proverbs a lot. Lately I've been replaying chapter 31 in my head a lot. On the one hand, I feel kinda bad for being at home (even though my fiance says he prefers it), but on the other hand, the Godly Wife has a ton to do already. We both moved out last month since he got a job out here and we figured it'd be easier for me to find something. Well, that was the plan. Course, the company he works for cut back everyone's hours, meaning he brings home a smaller check. As if that wasn't enough, he had to go in for emergency surgery last week. He's okay, but this happened BEFORE he could settle on which insurance plan to get. :/ Somehow I didn't crack yet regardless of all this happening. Sure, I got irritable when I couldn't sleep, but I'm handling this better than a few months ago with less on my plate. He's really thankful that I made phone calls and try to organize the apartment. The world says that I should be out and trying to do it all, but it's comforting to know that God says it's okay to maintain the household. Sounds like it's a small thing, but I'm a workaholic/recovering perfectionist, so this reassurance is a huge deal to me.

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karebearforChrist — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 11:46:13 -0500

Hello all! My favorite verse is a tie between Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." And Phillipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." I've learned new ways to apply this verse to my life and seen them play it in incredible ways, which leads them to be my favorites. I'm recovering my battle with depression, and the One helping me is God!

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Trethsparr — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:36:20 -0500

Hello, everyone. Happy to see this group here! :) A favorite verse of mine is I Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. "

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KelinciHutan — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 13:40:19 -0500

Hey folks. :) Let's see...favorite verse. Isaiah 30:21 "Whether you turn to the left or to the right you will hear a voice behind you saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'"

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krazikrys — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:37:02 -0500

Hi KareBear! Phil 4:13 is my absolute fav verse of all time! But there are few others that sneak in there from time to time. Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Right now, I am leaning heavily towards Matthew 6:25-27: "'Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?'"

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UKSteve — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 14:37:47 -0500

Hello :) I'm Steve, I'm from the UK (what do you mean you guessed that?) and I have absolutely no idea what I'm writing this year. In past years I've completed an Old Testament Space Opera, a retro-cyberpunk comic fantasy road trip story, and what should have been a serious novel addressing the manifold problems of 21st Century life, but was actually complete rubbish. This year I have a bunch of vague ideas but haven't decided which way to jump... so I'm holding a vote on my blog - please feel free to drop by, have a nose around and tell me what you think...

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Gipfish — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:57:32 -0500

Hello! These verses are all so encouraging! Keep it up! Here's my contribution: Deuteronomy 30:11-14 - - "For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven, that you should say, 'Who will ascend to heaven for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?' Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say, 'Who will go over the sea for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?' But the word is very near you. It is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it." So let's keep up our time in the Word even in this busy month, because we are privileged with the Word near us!"

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BlueGonfalon — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:05:39 -0500

Hey guys! These verses are all amazing. I love just seeing little bits of the Bible here and there, because the whole book can be so intimidating to look at. Small parts of it each day keep me happy, though. =D My favorite verses are Psalm 18:2; "The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." And John 15:13, "Greater love hath no man than this; that he lay down his life for a friend." That concept keeps popping up on my stories, interestingly enough.

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JesusisLord — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:37:48 -0500

Welcome everybody! I love these verses you all are posting. They have such meaning! On the subject of God guiding your path, I have one. (And you might notice that Isaiah is one of my favorite books of the Bible.) Isaiah 41:13 "It is I, the Lord your God, who holds your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I am the one who helps you.'" God Bless -JesusisLord

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Trethsparr — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:44:13 -0500

Yay! Happy to see fellow WriYe-rs on the NaNo boards! :)

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karebearforChrist — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 17:54:01 -0500

Fellow WriYe here :) Though rather absent from the forums :P Glad to see you guys, I thought I recognized krazikrys name! :)

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Lydia_Ember — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 09:05:23 -0500

Hello again. Just got off the phone with the doctor's office and the following comes to mind: Matthew 6:25,33-34 Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?... But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given unto you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Yeah, I can spaz easily (I've gotten better at it, but still) and haven't really allowed myself to rest lately. I should believe that He can take care of us.

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dssmith — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 10:40:39 -0500

Hello all! It's good to see some Christians around here - there's a thread about religion in my age group's forum and I didn't see too many, so I'm glad there's a thread for us :D I'm actually pretty new at real Christianity. I had it forced upon me when I was young, and I rejected it during my high school/college years. A few years ago, I started going back to church of my own volition, and I'm so glad that I gave it another chance, because God has shown me so much in the past two years, and I'm so grateful for everything He has done in my life. My favorite verse is the first verse that anyone ever suggested that I read specifically. I was going through a period of self-loathing and my spiritual "big sister" recommended I read Zephaniah 3:17 ... "The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (NIV) I just love the picture of God rejoicing over us. :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

JesusisLord — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:01:05 -0500

@dssmith Welcome! Yes, it is amazing what God does. Especially if we give Him a chance! Wonderful verse! It's awesome to know that a "Mighty Warrior" (The Mighty Warrior!) is watching out for us. He'll never leave us. We are His creation and His children and He loves us for eternity despite our sin. @Ember Great verse. Sometimes I too have trouble taking a rest and giving ALL my burdens to God. But when you do let God take the reigns, everything is so much easier. I praise Him for that and that Jesus died for our sins to give us a chance in His Kingdom! Here's some verses some of you may have heard: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6-7) "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" (Hebrews 13:5) God Bless -JesusisLord

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stargatetribe — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:13:19 -0500

Hullo, name's Katie. @JesusisLord Of the verses in Isaiah (good choice for a favorite book by the way) I love the verse: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass throught he waters, I will be with you and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned and the flame shall not consume you." (Isaiah 43:1b - 2) Personally, I have a lot of favorite verses in my repetoir (did I spell it right?) but my favorite would have to be: "Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12) (But that might just be my favorite becuase I'm 17 XP) I'm pretty excited for this year's Nano, because this year I'm going to be writing a story about a youth group (made of only about 8 people) that is disbanned due to low membership and expenses. They use the rest of their summer as an official youth group to see God in a whole new light and grow closer as a group and to God as well. I'm hoping it'll be as good as I'm imagining right now, but I might be setting my standards too high haha. Oh man this post is long, I apologize, but I had one last question, did anyone here happen to attend this past years Youth In Missions service at Lake Junaluska near Ashville, North Carolina (the dates for this past year were July 2-7 I believe)? The theme was Respond, Recieve, Rely if that helps jog your memory. I was just wondering because I went and would love to know if anyone here had been on that trip, just in the unlikely circumstance I met you. Looking forward to a really great November, happy noveling everyone!

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harmonyturtle28 — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:19:49 -0500

Hey everybody! I needed to hear some of these Bible verses a lot. I've been so stressed out lately as I apply for a job, and I'm so worried it's not going to work out. I need to store away these verses as a reminder to stay encouraged. Please pray for me though!

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dssmith — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 18:30:27 -0500

I'll definitely be praying for you - I spent the last year where you are, I know how scary it can be to not know what's going to happen. It's hard to surrender our worries to God, for some reason a lot of us humans like to hang on to them as if they'll do us any good. I know I did. But if we give them up to Him, He can do amazing things! So glad that this thread was here to encourage you!

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krazikrys — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:01:33 -0500

Yeah, I try to keep it the same throughout. This way ya'll don't have to guess at who I am! And hi Trethsparr! So glad to see other WriYe members floating around.

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aymzie — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 08:50:41 -0500

Hello there! I'm Amy, from England. Loving the idea of a NaNo Christians/Prayer Support group! I'm writing a fantasy this year, and I'm not quite sure how it's going to pan out but it should be as fun as ever. As for favourite verses, for ages it was Phillipians 4:13, 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me', but Psalm 27:1 has been edging that out recently 'The Lord is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?' I also find myself referencing the one that says do all things with a joyful heart, though that may be more of a reflection on my attitude some days more than anything else, aha. Lovely to meet you all! (:

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Rowenny — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 10:54:02 -0500

hi, everyone. :) My name is Ellena and I've been a christian since childhood, but I must admit I'm not a freequent church visitor. I read the Bible and believe in God and all, but for some reason I just don't go to church that much. I do it only sometimes, not every time. Do you go to church on a regular basis or not?

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harmonyturtle28 — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 11:32:27 -0500

Thank you so much for the prayers! It's inspirational to here how God is still working even if we can't exactly see how He is right now in our lives. I truly believe He can do great things in my life I just need to keep trusting that He can! I keep reminding myself to look at the things He has provided, and keep focused on those things.

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JesusisLord — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 14:49:52 -0500

Hello all new people! @Rowenny Well, for many years I did not enjoy church. I had stopped going for awhile a few years back because I couldn't find the right church. But I finally went church hunting and found one that fit me perfectly. So yes, I go to church on a regular basis. I think quite a few people go to church to be able to say they go to church. But really, going to church is about glorifying God. It's hard for a lot of people to do that in a church that isn't right for them. So some go, or don't go, or only go sometimes. People just need to find a good home-church. You know? That's what it took for me to get into the groove of church-going. God Bless -JesusisLord

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PrincessoftheKing — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 18:44:14 -0500

Thanks for starting this group, Donn! And thanks to everyone else for being so encouraging. :D Hmmm... my favorite verse changes frequently, but one I've been thinking about a lot lately is Colossians 3:23, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." That is definitely something I need to work on! @Rowenny: I've always gone to church; actually, I've gone to the same church my whole life (all 16 years of it...). God has really blessed me in that way. But once you find a church that really teaches God's Word, where the people are in love with the Lord and willing to serve each other, you'll find it easier to roll out of bed on Sunday morning. ;) God created us to be a body, and He doesn't want us to go at it alone. :)

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Lydia_Ember — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:48:30 -0500

@ Rowenny Hello! I wasn't always a church goer. I mean, I wanted to go, but the one I got dragged to in high school and the ones near me in my last years of college weren't all that... Well, in the first one I mentioned, it was so broken up into cliques that people were left out. I was a quiet gamer that liked to read, but the youth groups were targeted for "extreme" teens that rarely read their Bible. I was ready for a Bible study, but I had to go to an adult class for that. The second one was full of older adults that seemed to feel that going to church and putting on dinners was enough. So far, only 2 pastors really reached me. One guy insisted on us taking notes during church (every sermon was outlined so that was convenient) and another speaker was really down to earth as well. He, while not a pastor, kept me from walking out from the last one I went to. The regular pastor kept going back to his exp as a politician. :/ In short, I like to go to church and be active, but I have no problem walking out if they are unwilling to really preaching the Word and urging us to make it a part of our lives. I think the one I go to now might get closed cuz it's another "We go to church. Doesn't that count?" type deal. The pastor doesn't want it to happen, but I have a feeling this has been going on for awhile...

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Laura E. Andrews — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:02:03 -0500

Hi! I've been looking around for this thread for a bit, and found it finally :D I've been a Christian since age 12, and I enjoy reading about theology. One of my favorite Christian poems is The Sands of Time Are Sinking: The sands of time are sinking The dawn of Heaven breaks; The summer morn I've sighed for, The fair sweet dawn awakes. Dark, dark hath been the midnight, But dayspring is at hand And glory, glory dwelleth In Emmanuel's Land. O Christ! He is the fountain, The deep sweet well of love; The streams on earth I've tasted, More deep I'll drink above. There, to an ocean fullness, His mercy doth expand, And glory, glory dwelleth In Emmanuel's Land. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I love the 91st Psalm, and have it memorized. It's very beautiful and encouraging.

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JesusisLord — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:44:28 -0500

Hello Laura! Hello Cess! I was reading my bible and have been thinking about these verses. Do any of you have any thoughts on them? Proverbs 19:1-3 "Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than one who is crooked in speech and is a fool. Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way. When a man's folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the Lord." God Bless -JesusisLord

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RedPanda11 — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 22:38:40 -0500

I'm so glad this group exists! I will definitely be checking up here throughout November!

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KttyB78 — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 16:30:51 -0500

It is always so nice to see groups like this. Hi, I'm Kitty. I'm a Christian who loves to write and unfortunately loves to read and write about fantasy stories.

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Elven Princess — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 16:44:12 -0500

*waves* Hi, I accepted Jesus into my heart when I was very young. I love to write. :D Mainly fantasy and such.

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Unforsaken — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:11:33 -0500

Hi everyone, This is my first year doing NaNo, but I'm being a rebel in that I couldn't decide on what kind of fiction to write, so I decided to go with my memoir instead. I've had a crazy year, discovering my father's whole side of the family and "meeting" siblings I barely knew I had. So I'll be writing about that, as well as my experience growing up without a father, and how God used those experiences in my life to make me into the person I am today. I'm getting excited about it, but expect that it might be emotionally draining, but spiritually uplifting to recount all that God has brought me through.

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Lydia_Ember — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 02:18:09 -0500

Hmm... Well, verse one I figured is talking about the long run. Quite a few verses in this book talk about it's better to have or assume a lower position or situation than a higher or "better" one (Pro. 17:1 comes to mind: Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife). Verse two could be coupled with the verses that say men can plan but God has the final say. Verse three is woefully too true for a lot of people, including Believers when they fall. I'll talk more about this verse further down.

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Lydia_Ember — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 02:33:35 -0500

Hello, all. Yeah, I have a prayer request. For years, I have had the worst time resting. It's nigh impossible for me to rest. At the moment, NaNoWriMo is rest to me, in the sense that I feel like I'm doing something. Long story short pressures growing up and currently have made this a stumbling block for me. I didn't notice it affecting my health until college, when I wanted to kill myself in my freshman year (which was broadcast by my family as "I was homesick") and my heart feeling off my senior year. In June, I started a reading and prayer regimen to help me through this, and it helped, until I moved out with my fiance. A combination of him not getting paid what they promised, unexpected bills (mainly the hospital) and even more external pressure from family and church family threw me right back into my frantic drill sargent ways. On the plus side, I caught myself before the month ended, but I'm up at 03:25 because I'm too paranoid to sleep again due to the heart thing. My guy thinks the stress is also causing me to get sick so frequently, too. Please pray for me, pm me (to keep me accountable) anything. I know stress wrecked a good chunk of my life and I didn't know why. Prov. 19:3 might sum up my attitude before I saw it was my fault. I want to enjoy life. I want the life He wanted us to have.

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Dragons13 — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 15:51:56 -0500

Yippee! I found a Christian group!!! :)

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anna scott graham — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:11:04 -0500

Hi! I'm Anna, and I think Romans is one of my fave books, certainly home to my all-time most beloved verse 8:28; And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Then of course, 8:31 is pretty wonderful too. :))) I'm offering a prayer request; just some good old-fashioned peace of mind for my dad, whose been diagnosed with bone cancer, having spread from prostate cancer. He's in a fairly good place with it right now, and I'd love to see him stay there! (And be present at my daughter's wedding next summer too...)

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Lydia_Ember — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 18:34:12 -0500

Oh, wow. That's hard to hear. It's good that he's not depressed about it, but I'll pray for you guys.

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anna scott graham — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:19:55 -0500

Thank you!!!

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Jodgimel — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:45:50 -0500

Yeh for brothers and sisters in Christ! JesusisLord - Thanks for starting this thread. I'm a newbie - looking for a mentor and or writing buddies. Interested? NaNoMail me. :) Anna, so sorry to hear about your Dad. Here's one of my favorite verses for you and all the NaNo-ers: Numbers 6:24 - 26 "The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace." Happy days and blessings, J

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JesusisLord — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:27:49 -0500

Welcome everybody! It's so wonderful to see everybody coming together. Lydia and Anna, I said a prayer for you! When I go through life, I always think about this: Everything that happens happen for a reason and is part of a bigger plan created by the Lord God. For instance, if you had never picked up that person's books, you may never have met them and become the closest of friends. You may have rejected someone and the next instant they pass out of this world, and you become a christian. Bethany Hamilton's arm was torn off by a shark. If that had never happened, people would never have become christians and fought to live life to the full when they heard her story. So you see? Everything happens for a purpose. And I know that sometimes life beats you down so low you don't think you can get back up. Still, God is right at your side, no matter what. God is our everlasting refuge. He will help you back up if you ask Him....it just needs patience. Psalms 91:1-6 "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most HIgh will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday." God Bless -JesusisLord

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beanza3 — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:39:56 -0500

Hey, I'll pray for you! On terms of your own prayer, my Mom's always found a novena to St Jude helpful (9 days of a specific type of praying) but, of course, if you're not Catholic or such, it may not be correct in your dogma. Either way: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/11141b.htm If your curious... My prayers are with you!

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beanza3 — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:43:16 -0500

Hey, I'm Olivia, or Beanza, or whatever... :D Cradle Catholic and pleased there are groups like this (new to nano...)!

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beanza3 — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:44:30 -0500

http://www.stjudenovena.org/prayingthenovena.html This one may be more helpful... :D

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Lydia_Ember — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 02:03:12 -0500

Thanks, guys. @beanza3 I just got back here to watch my fav threads, so I didn't see it yet. No, I'm not Catholic, but I'm thankful that you offered to help. I might look at them anyway. I'm still sick and getting hit with stress, but it helped so much to know that my guy isn't pressuring me to get a job. He kinda feels that I'm being tested right now and insists that I stay home until I A. get physically better and B. get emotionally better. I'm so used to burying my problems that it's hard to say things about it, even to him at times. I'm mainly posting cuz we need to share at times. It take work, but then again that's why Paul wrote this reminder: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the RENEWING of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- His good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2, caps mine)

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CheshireKat — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 21:27:35 -0500

One of my all-time favorite Bible verses re: battling with depression is Job 29:3 - "By His light I walked through darkness." I have bipolar disorder and as a result, I have dealt with multiple major depressive episodes that have lasted for months at a time and brought me down to my knees more than once. But through it all, God has kept me in His care and seen me through. That particular verse is, to me, such a perfect description of the walk through darkness that depression is, and the way you have to fix your sights on His light to make your way through the oppressive night of the soul. Here are a few other verses that have gotten me through hard times: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 “Go in peace. The journey on which you go is under the eye of the LORD.” – Judges 18:6 (ESV) "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10 "Be still, and know that I am God." - Psalm 46:10 "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." - 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

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CheshireKat — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 21:36:32 -0500

Hey everyone! I'm Kat. I love that there is such a great forum for us to get together and share our favorite verses, support each other, and just enjoy God together. :) I shared it on the first page with someone else, but one of my all-time favorite Bible verses is from the Book of Job: "By His light I walked through darkness." - Job 29:3 It just sums up my life to this point so well. It is by His light, and only His light, that I have made it through so much of the darkness in my life. For a long time I was very angry with God, for reasons I won't get into, and for a while I thought I was an atheist and that I didn't believe in God anymore. I thought, if God really existed and loved me, then why did He let such horrible things happen to me? But then I realized something very important - you can't be mad at someone or something you don't believe in. So I knew, deep down, that I still believed in God. I couldn't shake that belief, I couldn't convince myself that He wasn't there. I was just very angry with Him and would have preferred that He wasn't there. Fortunately God doesn't give up on us when we give up on Him, and I pulled the prodigal daughter routine and finally came back to my faith in college. :) Nice to meet all of you!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 07:37:39 -0500

Hey, CK. Glad you kept up your walk with God. It's so easy to lose sight of Him, but life is so much better with Him in your life. I never know why I ever walk away.

Re: Christians--All Ages

anndw22 — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:26:27 -0500

I am delighted to find this group and would like to share a prayer from Arthur Gordon. (I should google him to see who he is.) Prayer of a Writer Lord of all things, whose wondrous gifts to man include the shining symbols known as words, grant that I [we] may use their mighty power only for good. Help me [us] to pass on small fragments of Your wisdom, truth, and love. Teach me [us] to touch the unseen, lonely heart with laughter or the quick release of tears. Let me [us] portray the courage that exists defiant in the face of pain or death, the kindness of those who fight against the anger of the world; the beauty hidden in the smallest things, the mystery, the wonder of it all. Unstop my [our] ears, unblind my [our] eyes, unblock my [our] heart's. Speak through me [us], Lord, (if it will be Your will), this day, I pray in Jesus' name. Amen Blssings....

Re: Christians--All Ages

White Lily — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 03:25:54 -0500

Hi! Always nice to meet fellow Christians - from across the world in many cases (I'm in Sweden). I'm currently working in my church, mostly with children and youths - and a proud member of a choir with 50 women of all ages :) This is my second year of NaNo, and I'll be writing the second part of a fantasy trilogy inspired by Moses (more on my page if anyone's interested).

Re: Christians--All Ages

paperpages — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 10:37:58 -0500

Hello, all! Glad to have found this thread! This is my 3rd year of NaNo, but somehow I've missed this group until now. One of my favorite verses right now is Proverbs 13:12: "...a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." For me, it reminds me that God has given me my hopes and dreams and wants to see me accomplish them. It's a great encouragement for me to keep writing and pursuing my goal of becoming a published novelist. Another passage I cling to is Psalm 37. This chapter talks a lot about not worrying about the evil in this world, or the harmful plans people make, because God is in control and will protect the righteous. I pray this Psalm over my husband constantly, as he is a Sheriff's Deputy and it gives me comfort when I start to worry about him while he's on shift. So nice to meet you all! Looking forward to finding encouragement here throughout the month!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Ruth Renniks — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:14:18 -0500

It's great to read so many people's favorite Scriptures. I am sad sometimes that I can take it for granted. We are very blessed to be able to own and have the Bible with us....It is "the mind of Christ" :) I have so many favorites. Right now I am doing a study on Galatians, because I have a natural tendency to drift towards legalism. It's a great reminder that we are saved only by God's grace to study Galatians , in depth. I am also going through the Gospel of John with my children ( we homeschool) But, all in all, I'd say my favorite verses are 1.) Romans 1:18-21: For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. ( God doesn't believe in Atheists!) And, 2.) Proverbs 6:6-9 ( because I tend to be a bit of a sluggard. ) Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? So, I tend to be a lazy legalist. Is that good or bad? haha! Thank God for His grace and mercy! My books are about a horse farm/ girls group home ministry, and if there are any Christians in this group who know about horse farms, group homes, or being a medical missionary, I might have questions for you later. :D Nice to meet all of you! :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:23:58 -0500

I spent most of my childhood/teen years/early adulthood bumming around horse farms, so if you have any questions about horses feel free to message me and ask! I will do my best to answer. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

Ruth Renniks — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:24:25 -0500

That's great, Thank you! :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

HeidiAnne — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 12:29:44 -0500

Hi everyone! Neat to find a Christian group! I am 24, a military wife, mommy to a two year old little girl, and a reformed evangelical Christian. We are currently living on the east coast and enduring the chilly winters with big blankets and even bigger mugs of coffee. We are desert rats originally so, the weather is something different. I guess my favorite verse ( one of them ) is this " For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world - our Faith." - 1 John 5:4 I think it is amazing that as Christians we have such power and hope in knowing that we ALWAYS win. We have the victory given to us through Christ. And every day God is working and moving history towards the completion of His plan of redemption. Even when the world looks crazy and scary, God is conquering.

Re: Christians--All Ages

paperpages — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 13:07:43 -0500

[quote=HeidiAnne] I think it is amazing that as Christians we have such power and hope in knowing that we ALWAYS win. We have the victory given to us through Christ. And every day God is working and moving history towards the completion of His plan of redemption. Even when the world looks crazy and scary, God is conquering. [/quote] Well said! HOPE is a wonderful thing! Love it. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

paperpages — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 13:27:49 -0500

I've got a question for everyone: Is there a specific spiritual lesson that your MC is struggling with in your novel? Mine is struggling with control. She's worked very hard to try and gain the approval of certain people in her life and thereby secure the future she thinks she wants. She has her life all figured out - until a family secret turns all her carefully laid plans upside down. She has to learn to realize God has a bigger, better plan than she could ever imagine, even if we can't see that plan right away.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 15:28:16 -0500

Hmm... Spiritual lesson? Kinda. I'm doing a memoir about growing up in a "broken home" and all that that has meant to me and how that has affected me to this day. If I didn't see certain things, there's no way I'd be sitting here today typing this.

Re: Christians--All Ages

YoshiQue — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:31:16 -0500

I've really been growing in my faith in the Lord in the last year or so and it is making me feel amazing. Sometimes it is really hard to get through the day but he makes it possible. My favorite book is Ecclesiastes. I also really like the 139th Psalm- 1 O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. 2Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. 3Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. 4For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. 5Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. 6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. 7Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? 8If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 9If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; 10Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. 11If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. 12Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. 13For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. 14I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. 15My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. 16Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. 17How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! 18If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee. We are currently studying Job in my Sunday School class and I find it to be very interesting. I have a prayer request also. My church's pastor died suddenly back in February and the church has finally narrowed down the canidants to two. I ask that you please pray we chose the one God wants us to.

Re: Christians--All Ages

psychoceramic — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 15:06:13 -0500

Hey all my name is Bill. My fav verse is Joshua 24:15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” I usta love this verse.. well just the last part..... "As for me ....Serve the Lord".. it sounds so mighty and powerful.....but then look at the whole verse.. and it is even more powerful and it is a choice.. not just O yeah i serve the lord.. but I serve the LORD and put away the gods of my world and ancestors to serve Him.. i Make the sacrifice to Serve MY GOD. @rowenny As for going to church ... it makes you no more a christian then standing in the fridge makes you food. Being a christian is about a personal mutual loving relationship with the one who created all things good for the purpose of good. My family goes to church... it is not fun at times... and very "religious" at others. But we all need the fellowship of the Creator and His Children

Re: Christians--All Ages

peacefulmisery — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 19:16:14 -0500

hi! i'm stephanie. i'm 26 and from richmond, va. also a christian. would love to get to know some fellow writers my age who are christian!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Kate_A — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 21:03:46 -0500

Hi, I'm Kate. :) My favorite verse is Isaiah 6:8 "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'" I love how Isaiah makes himself totally available. He doesn't say, "I can go in a few weeks," or, "I can go, but this is my limitation." He just totally gives himself over. I pray that I'll be able to do that every time God has something for me. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

jpetree — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 22:37:47 -0500

Hi! I'm Jess - favorite verse: John 17:3 "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." I've been reading Ez. 37:1-14 almost every day - the valley of bones - I love it! I'm secretly attempting to write a story with Biblical themes. Thanks for posting guys! :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

Meghan Kinnett — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 23:20:05 -0500

Hey, I'm Meghan. I grew up Christian. I consider myself more spiritual than religious, and a lot of my fantasy work focuses on the differences between spirits and physical bodies and the interactions between them. My church is kinda quirky -- my youth pastor has three tattoos, a goatee, and comes to service in toesocks and heavy metal band t-shirts. I love being able to come to church in sweatpants with my hair up and no make-up on. We're like a big cozy family. I don't have a favorite verse, but with all this stuff with Westboro going on and how Christians are becoming so stereotyped as elitist bigots, I use this quote by Gandhi to inspire myself to become the opposite of what non-Christians have come to expect from me: "I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." This quote is the epitome of the phrase "What Would Jesus Do?" It inspires me to think and act like Jesus in situations where my faith is on display. I want to be a good example.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:25:27 -0500

I'm not a sci-fi kind of girl, but an Old Testament Space Opera sounds very interesting! Is it available anywhere as an ebook? On your website it looked like it's only available in hardcopy... My pastor spent over a year preaching out of the book of Acts, which inspired my NaNo novel last year and this year's: Sergius Paulus, the Roman proconsul of Cyprus who hears the gospel from Paul and Barnabas. I'm not nearly creative enough to put it in outerspace, though; kudos to you on all that!

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:40:37 -0500

Hello all! I haven't read every response, so I'm sure a favorite of mine has already been mentioned: "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 My Bible study this fall is going through James, which has been excellent! I've started memorizing part of chapter one, and I think when we get stuck in the mire of plots that seem faulty, characters who don't cooperate, and so on, I think it will come in handy: "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you face trials of various kinds, knowing that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." James 1:2-5 NaNo isn't a "trial" in the way that other things may be, but it is something that we labor at that tests our patience, endurance, creativity, etc. Stand strong, my brothers and sisters, and let us encourage one another! :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:44:28 -0500

I absolutely agree with un-Christlike Christians. I think there are those who proclaim Christ who don't truly know Him and I think there are those who make mistakes because they still live in a fallen world and have sin-stained motives/mindsets/habits/what have you. I'm for sure a mistake-maker, but with eyes on Jesus, I'm only getting better. :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

psychoceramic — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:55:20 -0500

i have always had a problems with WWJD so i have coined the phrase What Did Jesus Do. i have met people (not saying you) that have used the WWJD as a guideline and always said well there is some leeway in the choices... in WDJD there is no leeway there is only the Bible.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:21:04 -0500

That poem is beautiful; I'd never heard it before. Thanks for sharing! :D

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mkjorgenson — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:25:24 -0500

Exciting! I always love to see other Bible-inspired works..though I'm not creative enough to take them out of their original settings. :D

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mkjorgenson — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 07:27:32 -0500

My MC comes to Christ over the course of the book then has to work his way out of a literal/mental pit to really understand the faith he's found.

Re: Christians--All Ages

ladybugdot — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 08:39:00 -0500

*waves hello* I'm a wife, mom to a 14-month-old ball of energy, and a writer (when aforementioned ball of energy is napping). If I don't finish Nano this year, I'm going to blame the ball of energy ... :) One of my favourite verses is Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do the good works He has prepared in advance for us to do." It speaks to me as a writer/playwright - everything I write must glorify God because that's why He made me a writer. ~ Mel

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:26:45 -0500

I really enjoyed reading about everyone. I just signed up for NaNoWriMo last night. (Talk about waiting until the last minute.) I'm already working on a book; I'm about 20,000 words in, so I'm going to try to add 50,000 to that. My method is to get up and write for an hour as soon as I've finished reading my Bible/praying. I have to force myself not to check my email or get online, and write for a solid hour if I'm going to get anything done. I'm a first timer, so I'm glad I found this forum for encouragement! Here is one of my favorite passages: Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: on the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: He hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: but he knoweth the way that I take:when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. For he performeth the thing that is appointed for me: and many such things are with him. Reading this reminds me that God is always working in the background on my behalf, even when I think I haven't seen or heard from Him in a while. I have a couple of questions for you all. First about Bible study: Do you use preprinted materials, or do you have a method for studying in-depth on your own? I've always just read straight through it, but I feel that I need to do more to get the most out of it. Second: about Christian fantasy writing: Do you avoid the use of magic, or make all magic-users evil, or what? How do you reconcile the use of magic to the Bible? I've always thought I would write mainstream fantasy, but after deciding to write only Christian books, I'm struggling with these questions. Several of my plot ideas contain "good" magic-users. So for now, I've gone with science fiction until I can figure everything out.

Re: Christians--All Ages

indeliblecello — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:51:10 -0500

I've always felt this way: magic isn't real. Therefore, it is equivalent to including anything that isn't real in any fictional work. Which is, by definition, what fiction is. I heard a great quote about writing that goes like this: "Fiction is a lie. Good fiction is the truth inside the lie." I feel that books are not all that they seem. Fantasy books that include magic can still have a lesson to teach us. I hate to be THAT Christian that quotes the Bible in a way that makes me look favorable, because it is not up to me, it's up to God. With that said, here are a few verses that quell my spirit on this topic: "For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving." 1 Timothy 4:4 "The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached." Phillipians 1:18 "Therefore, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things." Phillipians 4:8 "To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure." Titus 1:15 Basically what I'm trying to say is that whether or not you feature magic-users in your novel as good or bad, it doesn't really matter. The question isn't, "Is Harry Potter or Gandalf or [insert fantasy character here] a magic-user?" but "Is that character a good person; are they doing what is right even when it is the most difficult thing to do?" That is the test of true character, whether in a fictional person or a real person. My character is not determined by whether I use magic or not, it's whether I consistently live my life based on "good" or "Christian" values, which in many cases are interchangeable. Write what is in your heart. Write your passion. Christ is in you . . . He can help you get your point across in a way that glorifies Him when you are obviously trying hard to do so and are asking Him to help you. :) I hope this can encourage you, but if you are still not convinced, I do not wish to make you stumble. If you truly believe that all magic in fiction is evil, then don't write it. But I personally think, as a Christian, that it is simply a plot device to make the story easier to tell.

Re: Christians--All Ages

indeliblecello — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:53:21 -0500

Ahh! I LOVE the book of James. It's my favorite book of the Bible. So practical, which is great for someone like me who tends to see the world as black & white rather than shades of grey.

Re: Christians--All Ages

indeliblecello — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:55:44 -0500

Why is that unfortunate? I love fantasy . . . it's my favorite genre to both read and write!

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HisFireFly — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:31:02 -0500

Greetings all! A verse that I have been pondering lately is Psalm 45:1: MY HEART overflows with a [a]goodly theme; I address my psalm to a King. My tongue is like the pen of a ready writer. My desire is to be a pen in His hand, bringing forth His words, for His glory. Great to find some many of you here!

Re: Christians--All Ages

jeanjeanie — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:48:34 -0500

Hi all! I'm loving reading through everybody's favorite verses, and I'm seeing a lot of my favorites. The one I've been claiming and standing on the most recently is Psalm 113:9: "He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children." Long story short--we've been trying to start a family and it hasn't been going so well. :/ @rowenny - My husband and I don't attend traditional church, but we tune in regularly to a home church in Texas (pastored by an old friend of my husband's) (btw we live in Oklahoma) that broadcasts their Bible study meetings online. It's truly excellent teaching and I must say that I've grown more as a believer since we started "attending" this online class than I ever did in a brick-and-mortar church (we were going to a local church for a while last year, but we disagreed with so much of what was coming from the pulpit that we left each service feeling more angry and frustrated than anything else, which is why we finally quit going). Scripture doesn't actually say "go to church," it says not to forsake the assembling and fellowship of the saints. But it also says that where two or more are gathered together, there the Lord is in our midst. So if you can't find a suitable church, if you can find and make friends with at least one like-minded believer and have regular fellowship and Bible study on your own, you'll still be honoring and glorifying God. Or you can tune into our online church - go to gtcbweb.org for the broadcast schedule.

Re: Christians--All Ages

jeanjeanie — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:50:30 -0500

Hrm, there's no editing option. That should be gtbcweb.org.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 19:56:28 -0500

Thanks for your response, and for taking the time to look up those scriptures and give me all the little details. I really appreciate you taking time out to explain your position to me. I too, believe that magic isn't real. My biggest fear, I guess, is getting people interested in the idea of magic, and then maybe later on, they may begin seeking some sort of power in their lives. If they don't go to God first (which I sincerely hope they do), I fear they may end up looking for power in witchcraft or other forms of paganism. I don't believe in magic, but I do believe that Satan is very deceitful in this respect. I will take your words into consideration though (I really don't want to throw out all of my old ideas), and study these verses more deeply. Thank you so much!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:01:16 -0500

If you can even come anywhere CLOSE to Proverb 31, you'll be carrying your own weight in your marriage. A godly housewife can do so much to save her husband money, if she uses her time wisely. In fact, she can even make money occasionally. For instance, I give music lessons and hope to someday earn money freelancing. But you can make so much food from scratch and keep a close eye on your budget. Last month, I even experimented with making my own laundry soap. It was so easy, and it works. Definitely a keeper. To take heart, and focus on making your home a haven for him and for you!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:03:00 -0500

Hmmm. I'm gonna have to look into this WriYe thing. I've never heard of it before today...

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:06:58 -0500

I have never in my life imagined God singing (especially over me), but I don't know why he wouldn't! It will also help me to remember that every person is just as precious in His sight. (Sometimes I have trouble forgiving repeat offenders.) Thanks for sharing!

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:11:08 -0500

Sounds like an extremely interesting basis for a novel! Good luck!

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jeanjeanie — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:13:20 -0500

I couldn't agree more. I don't write "Christian" stories -- I just write the best story I can, and trust that God will be able to use it how He sees fit to convey His truth. I subscribe to Tolkein's view that all myth (stories) contain truth because they're created by people who are created in the image of the Creator and as such imbued with His creative drive--and furthermore, scripture states that all people have the truth written on their hearts, whether they accept it or not. So in a nutshell, God can use even the works of unbelieving authors to minister and convey His message. I feel like simply using my God-given writing talents to the best of my ability is one way I can worship and give glory to God, without getting hung up on whether the content explicitly does so, or might be perceived as "evil" by other Christians. Of course, I'm currently writing a post-apocalyptic horror-fantasy about vampires and zombies, so take that as you will. ;-D

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:13:32 -0500

I'll be praying! Just remember that no person or situation can stand between you and God's will for your life (except maybe you, but not even that all of the time.) So if it's in God's will for you to land a certain job, you surely will. And if not, well, be rest assured that cares about you more than you care for yourself. He has your best interest in mind at all times. When God says no, He has a better plan.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:15:25 -0500

[quote=harmonyturtle28] It's inspirational to here how God is still working even if we can't exactly see how He is right now in our lives. [/quote] Job 23:8-10, 14 Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: on the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: He hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: but he knoweth the way that I take:when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. For he performeth the thing that is appointed for me: and many such things are with him.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:21:30 -0500

We didn't attend church regularly for almost six years. But we kept looking, trying out one here and one there. Our problem was, we never went out of town. We were looking for convenience. When a friend of ours from high school invited us to his church, we had to drive for 20 minutes to get there, but it was so worth it! While everyone is pretty friendly, I haven't made many close friends yet. The thing that keeps us going back is the sheer amazing feeling we get when we hear our pastor preach. There are things that come out of his mouth that scare me. (I'm afraid he's going to lose members over it sometimes.) But everything he says is so TRUE and directly from the Word of God. I've really been examining my life this year. There are things I just wouldn't think about even though I've read them over and over. Sometimes, I just need someone to tell me point-blank. But I love it! Here's to finding a home-church that you can really get into!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:24:29 -0500

I only have the first 8 verses of Psalm 91 solidly, with a few more that I have tried memorizing, but they haven't stuck. (I was forced to memorize the first 8 back in gradeschool, and for some reason, they've stuck - probably because I still recite them to myself anytime I get scared - which has been a LOT over the years.) XD

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:25:59 -0500

I agree entirely with indeliblecello! I was going to write almost exactly the same thing when I saw that she beat me to it. Now I just need to check out some Christian fantasy, a genre that I have somehow completely skipped over. Any recommendations?

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:28:35 -0500

Nice to meet you. This is my first year as well, and I'm a rebel too, seeing that I didn't start from scratch. I had 20k words before November hit, but I didn't want to stop in the middle and start over with something else, so I'm planning to add 50k to what I already have instead. 70-80k is closer to book-length anyway. Good luck with the memoir! Sounds very interesting!

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:36:19 -0500

I will pray for you!

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:37:45 -0500

Praying for you!

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:39:59 -0500

I love how this passage sounds like it is directly from the Psalms! I'm pretty sure I've read one like that!

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:41:37 -0500

Nice to meet you! I'm new as well, so we'll just see how this whole thing goes... :)

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:47:22 -0500

What a very reasonable conclusion! I had a friend of mine (pagan according to his FB account) send me a message and ask me to pray for him the other day. I wonder if he will get thinking about it and realize how oxymoronic his question was? We talked about his salvation (or lack thereof) at legth, but he didn't reach any decision. Sad, because we were in the same youth group as teenagers. We even dated for a couple of months. I hope he is truly seeking and not just needing attention. Either way, we talked about God a LOT, so maybe something in there was able to help him. You could pray for him, if you like. His name is Patrick.

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:48:31 -0500

I really like the poem. I would also like to think that maybe God will use something I write someday to reach someone who is seeking Him.

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:50:40 -0500

Sounds like a lot of fun! I love, love, love the story of Moses. I am especially inspired by the fact that everything he knew about God, he learned before he was weaned in his mother's house. His first three or four years made him who he was to become.

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amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:54:03 -0500

Wow, I could not even begin to imagine how difficult it must be to be married to someone with such a dangerous job. I will pray for you and him!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:01:57 -0500

Brrr. I hate winter. I would love nothing more than to settle down in Texas or Arizona in my old age. Maybe as soon as middle age! :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:02:30 -0500

I am a sluggard as well, particularly when it comes to getting out of bed. By the way, I loved that passage about athiests. I didn't realize that was in the Bible!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:04:29 -0500

I have three MCs. Two of them come from a culture where God is all but forgotten (the setting is two thousand years or so into the future). So they have to seek Him and discover Him before the book comes to an end. The third MC knows about God, but he struggles with arrogance.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:05:41 -0500

I will pray for your church.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:11:01 -0500

Good to meet you! I'm 32, but my best friend is 25! She's also my baby sister - the one I didn't really think of as "a person" until after I grew up, moved out, and got married. Actually, I didn't even realize she had a personality until she turned 17 and moved out. Funny, huh? But she's so cool! I just adore her! XD

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:14:58 -0500

When C.S. Lewis wrote Mere Christianity, he wrote of becoming a Christian, like it was a process over time. At first, I was taken off guard. I thought, "You're either a Christian, or your not." But then it occurred to me that back in his day, the term Christian was applied to people who acted like Christ. The first use of the word was applied to people in Antioch who also mimicked Christ. I get the idea that those who referred to them as such were not complimenting them, but rather mocking them. In my mind, the word Christian was a derogatory term that true Chrisitans earned in the first century. My prayer is that I can deserve to be "accused" by the world of being Christ-like.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:16:18 -0500

Thanks for the scripture and the encouragement! I truly want my writing to bring honor and glory to God!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:17:30 -0500

What a great philosophy! It's nice to meet you!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:20:47 -0500

Thanks for your response! I am a Tolkien-lover as well; always have been. I don't want to get hung up on how my writing is perceived by others, yet I want to do everything in my power to bring honor and glory to Him, and Him alone. Thanks for your advice!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:47:16 -0500

Hello! Q1- I don't like to rely on materials such as workbooks and such. While reading books can help (I know I've gotten plenty of help from Joyce Meyer, for example), I figure that the Bible has more than enough for us, so why pile on a ton of stuff on top of it? One thing that made it leave a sour taste in my mouth was how a church I used to go to felt about materials. Most of the classes used them for Sunday school- my mother only used the ones with Bible stories in them but ditched them, another only used the Bible. Those two classes were the only ones in which the children wanted to learn more about God. The people choosing the materials didn't look nor care that the materials was mostly games and only a brief Bible verse. Q2- I don't see why you can't use magic/mystic properties in a Christian based fantasy. Why? Chronicles of Narnia. Clearly there is magic all around used by both Aslan and the different foes along with other places. It's there, but not the focus. While I do believe in magic (for good reason), I feel that the presentation is more important than the presence or absence of magic. I mean, there are far worse crimes against the Word than including some force that has no explanation and is called "magic" just cuz.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Trethsparr — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:02:10 -0500

Ha ha, I can relate. :) I'm 27 and my sister's 19. She's turned into a pretty neat young woman! When did that happen?

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 05:46:24 -0500

Yeah, we're still waiting on that... :/

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:52:41 -0500

We visited our church and have never left because of the preacher, too. The friendship thing is tough; it takes so long...but I'm starting to see movement there. There are a few ladies who write, so that has been a big bond. I think close friendship--in church and elsewhere--just takes time, time, time. And I too hope that you find a good fit for a church, Ellena! :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:57:31 -0500

It really *is* so practical...I didn't think I'd enjoy it this much, but I'm thinking about trying to memorize it. Like, all of it. A book so densely written about what mature Christ-following looks like would be really beneficial to have on hand (or should I say in mind?) at all times.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 07:58:07 -0500

My daughter's 15 months; we could have a playdate if we weren't on opposite sides of the world ;)

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:01:39 -0500

I don't usually use printed materials, but for our ladies' Bible study at church we're going through a workbook from NavPress on James that has been really good; there are questions about the text, snippets of history/definition/exhortation/etc., and application questions toward the end so that it isn't too text-heavy. I've really gotten a lot out of it and might order another book to work through on my own.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:02:22 -0500

It's amazing the things people see in Scripture that I never have--that's beautiful! Spoke right to my heart; thanks so much for sharing :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:17:20 -0500

So here's a fun question: favorite hymns? Or even Christian songs in general Lately I can't get enough of It Is Well and wish we'd sing it every Sunday. I'm also huuuuuuuuuuuugely in love with Casting Crowns; a friend sang "Your Love Is Extravagant" at my wedding...it was truly beautiful. So, favorites out there?

Re: Christians--All Ages

anna scott graham — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:27:12 -0500

Thank you so! I saw him this past weekend and he's in a good place with everything. I know these prayers are assisting in keeping him there. :)))

Re: Christians--All Ages

anna scott graham — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:31:44 -0500

I'm a headbanger at heart, so throw any Audio Adrenaline my way, Relient K too. I'm using Jennifer Knapp as inspiration for one of my stories, and I love Jars Of Clay. And when I'm in the mood, Martin Luther hymns sneak in my brain. I wonder what he would think of current musical offerings. He was pretty edgy in his day; perhaps he would smile and shake his head... :)))

Re: Christians--All Ages

ladybugdot — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:48:20 -0500

She looks like a cutie!

Re: Christians--All Ages

ladybugdot — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:48:47 -0500

Nice to meet you too. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

ladybugdot — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:19:51 -0500

I'm loving "Glorious Day" by Casting Crowns. Actually, that whole album is amazing. Hubby's been listening to a lot of Lecrae lately and even though I'm not really into rap, the more I listen to him, the more I like him. Otherwise, anything by Jars of Clay, Tree63, Caedmon's Call, delirious? Hmm, I think I should put together a Nano playlist for inspiration while I write .....

Re: Christians--All Ages

White Lily — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:23:50 -0500

Yes, I'm having lots of fun ... though I'm quite certain my characters are not having so much fun. This is very much out of the original setting by now - but I'm fairly sure that someone who knows the story will be able to recognize it. =)

Re: Christians--All Ages

White Lily — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:42:14 -0500

Yes, it's fun! I've always loved the story of Moses, and finally I asked myself that crazy question: "Well, what if ...." and there it went. My version of Moses (called Mateo) has not that background - he was taken from his real mother at birth and never knew her - so he'll get his knowledge of culture from his brother. And I'm making him quite a lot younger too (can't have a fantasy hero aged 40-80... ;) ) and I've sped up the time too so all of it happens in about two years. Basically Mateo accidentally happens to get his true brother (Akir) for personal slave, and the first part is much about him realizing who he is and a priest that's trying to kill him on behalf of the gods... Second part is mostly a flight into unknwn lands and searching for knowledge, and will end with my version of the burning bush (don't know exactly how yet, but it'll be in a frozen landscape....) And because it's fantasy I'm playing around quite much (especially with religions) and adding subplots that definetly is no part of Moses story =)

Re: Christians--All Ages

White Lily — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:48:55 -0500

Well, I'm doing fantasy (see way up above ^ ^), but basically my MC struggles with trust-issues. Basically, he's fed up with the religion he's grown up with, realizing that most everyone is lying to him and that good friends shows to be ... not that good friends. Finally he comes to the point that there's no one he can trust besides God.

Re: Christians--All Ages

JesusisLord — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:42:36 -0500

Two of my all-time favorite songs are: 1) Our God--Chris Tomlin 2) What Faith Can Do--Kutless But then again, 7x70 by Chris August is amazing. Really awesome song. God Bless -JesusisLord

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 20:21:55 -0500

Major thumbs up on Audio A--I saw them in concert in college, not even knowing I was going to see them! A friend invited me to go see Superchick with her; it was even better when I got there and learned Audio Adrenaline was headlining, I was ecstatic! So, so good...

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 20:22:34 -0500

I wish there were a "like" function here like Facebook, because I love every bit of music mentioned so far :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:48:46 -0500

Haha, I can relate to that too, only from the other end - my brother is 5 years older than I am, just enough of an age gap to make us thoroughly annoying to each other for our entire childhoods. My sister is almost 3 years younger than me, but I guess because we're girls we always got along really well. I don't think I realized my brother was a "real person" until I was 17 or 18 though, lol!

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 21:58:58 -0500

Have you ever read the book "The Gospel According to Harry Potter"? It's a really fantastic book that talks about the stories in the Gospels through the lens of the first four Harry Potter books. Loosely related, and it's a good read, you might enjoy it. Anyway, more to my point, I believe that if the story is written with a good moral compass (yours), with the intent to show that goodness and justice and compassion are the highest aspirations we can have as creatures, with an undercurrent of love that is evident in the work, then people can't help but to be drawn to the One that is the source of all that goodness, compassion, and love. Even if you don't make God the "point" of your book, if you are using your talents to write a thoughtful, interesting, good story, then God's work will be done in it regardless. If someone sees a story about fantasy or magic and instantly thinks "that's evil" then they are simply afraid of using their brain, IMO. They are too afraid of reading anything that they might have to think critically about, because using critical thinking skills is in direct conflict with the idea of blind religion. Use your talents, write about what fascinates you, and do not be afraid of the blindness of others. J.K. Rowling was heavily criticized in certain small, highly conservative Christian groups for writing the Harry Potter books... and yet she herself is a Christian. And if any of those people stopped to read her books, they would realize that her stories are stories of love, friendship, good triumphing over evil, and doing what is right instead of what is easy or what gives you the most power over others. In short, her books are about acting like Christians, even though the theme of Christianity is never brought up. Write a good story, and God will use it. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:14:18 -0500

My all-time favorite hymn is a well worn classic: Amazing Grace. It speaks so much to me and my life, my walk as a Christian and how I got to where I am today, despite (and really, because of) everything I have gone through in my life. God's grace really is, for lack of any words to describe it, amazing. I am going to reward myself for paying off my credit card debt (hopefully by Christmas!) by getting my favorite verse from the song tattooed on my shoulder: "Twas grace that brought us safe thus far And grace will lead us home."

Re: Christians--All Ages

Alpine Path — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:07:42 -0500

Hello! I'm so happy I found this thread. I am a Christian, new to NaNo this year, a little too close too middle age to be comfortable with the idea yet, newly married, and the proud mother of two cats. I love so many books of the Bible, and picking my favorite verses is tough. But I think it would be Luke 12:22-34, especially the ending "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Luke 12:34) This part of Scripture comforts me and reminds me constantly to focus my eyes on Christ. My favorite song...anything by Third Day!

Re: Christians--All Ages

ELBUB55CLGRL22LELUVSFUN4 — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:35:28 -0500

It's hard to pick a favorite verse out of all that is in there, but i've chosen Romans 10:13, Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. It doesn't look like much but soooooo much is there. No conditions! No "If"s! God is so gracious he will take anyone who is humble enough to call to him. I'm just wondering, do you all work on Sundays? I wasn't but now i wonder if it would be more work NOT to write. Whatever i choose, i won't press myself on Sundays. I don't need a word count then. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

diabeticangel — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 19:02:35 -0500

My name is Emily :) And I'm 19. My favorite verse is John 14:27-- "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. My favorite songs right now are "Sunshine on a Rainy Day," "Pray Anyway," and "He Did," by the Bowling Family.

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 19:56:56 -0500

Unfortunately, Sunday almost always ends up being my catch-up day. Everything that didn't get done during the rest of the week usually gets done for me on Sundays - laundry, school work, work-work projects, house cleaning, etc. From the moment I wake up in the morning to go to church until I go to sleep, my Sundays are usually bustling just because they are often the only guaranteed "free day" I have that I know I won't be scheduled to work! So much for my Sabbath.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Whitefairy24601 — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:07:08 -0500

Hi guys! I just wanted to say that it's great to find a thread of fellow Christians! So often I am on a forum and mention my faith and people will diss it, or the name God will be censored. It's things like that that will sometimes get my heart down, but I am always so happy to find those that believe! :-) Anyways, everyone is posting their favorite verse, but I don't have one. I love them all. :-)

Re: Christians--All Ages

JMeadows16 — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:50:16 -0500

Greetings one and all. Im Anna, and I have a feeling Im one of the few Canadian Christians around here, I could be wrong but who knows, Im 24, have followed Christ for many years, actually have training to become a youth pastor. I love young people, and I want to not only spread the love of Christ I want to do it in a real and vibrant manner. My message is simple. Its also my manifesto: I may not know your name, I may not know your story, but I care, I LOVE you, and Im willing to do everything in my power to show you how improtant you are. I base my entire ministry and manifesto on verses, one of which is permanently tattoed on my body. The tattoo is the reference for Philipians 4:9 - What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.- The second is Dueteronomy 6:4-9 -"Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[b] 5You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.- Of course Joshua 1:9 -Choose you today whom you shall serve, but as for me and my house we will serve the Lord.-

Re: Christians--All Ages

Susantm — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 23:20:01 -0500

This is my second time to do NaNo. Last time I wrote a contemporary women's novel in which a woman was adjusting to the empty nest and questioning her faith. I have never done anything with it, but enjoyed the process of writing it. This year I am writing a middle grade reader, and am still deciding how big a part faith will play in it. I know the great grandmother in the story will be a strong Christian. I am 60, have been writing part-time for about 30 years, while raising and homeschooling my sons and working on the computer (online job) once they were grown. Choosing a favorite verse is pretty much impossible; there are too many great ones. One of many favorites, however, is Romans 8:38-39: "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 06:53:10 -0500

Thanks for your help! So do you have a method for Bible study? Or do you just read through it over and over? I have thought about CS Lewis. I am just going through a stage where I am questioning things that in my life that I have never called into question before.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 06:58:07 -0500

Thanks for the suggestion! I would like to look into something like that.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:04:18 -0500

I did read and enjoy the Harry Potter series. I've also loved CS Lewis and Tolkien since childhood. I've only just decided this year that I will write strictly Christian novels, but lately, maybe the last month or two, I've really been wondering about this aspect of it. To be perfectly honest, I've always loved stories that include magic, and would like to include magic in my fantasy (it just seems natural), but lately I've been calling a lot of things into question, and I would like to either be fully convinced, or err on the side of caution.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:07:32 -0500

How Can I Keep from Singing? I don't know if it's a hymn or not, but it's one of my absolute favorites! I also like It Is Well. (It's one of the only hymns that I know the harmony, so I think that's a big reason why I like it.) Not to mention, I love the verses!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:09:53 -0500

Ha! I used to listen to Audio Adrenaline, but it seems a lifetime ago. I do still enjoy Jars of Clay. Their song Overjoyed is one of my all-time faves! Ever listen to Newsboys? I liked Going Public but not Follow My Leader, and I haven't heard anything since.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:12:25 -0500

Wow! Sounds REALLY cool! I especially like that his brother is his slave. So ironic!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 07:19:15 -0500

I'm a Baptist, but I still believe that Saturday is the Sabbath. I'm so confused why there aren't more Christian religions that interpret the Bible that way. Anyway, regardless of which day you devote to the Lord, Sabbath was made for man and not the other way around. I might be wrong (I don't really know that much about the "rules"), but I would think that something you truly enjoy (like writing) would be considered a hobby and would be perfectly fine.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 12:41:32 -0500

Hmm...I've never heard of the Bowling Family. I think I'll have to look them up. :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

ELBUB55CLGRL22LELUVSFUN4 — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:03:09 -0500

The Sabbath may very well be Saturday, but as long as you have a Sabbath i don't think it matters much which day it's on. I'm also Baptist. Perhaps you would call me Reformed Baptist. :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

jeanjeanie — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:40:31 -0500

My Bible study class did a recent study on the Sabbath that was really interesting. The purpose of the Sabbath was to set aside a day to God -- one-seventh of our week--to focus on prayer, meditation on scripture, and worship. As Christians under the New Covenant, we're no longer required by law to keep an entire Sabbath day, but we have the freedom instead to devote a portion of each day to enter into God's rest through prayer, meditation and fellowship with the Lord. That's how we, as Christians, keep the fourth commandment on the technical level. But the spirit of the Sabbath is to enter into the rest that comes with completely trusting in God's provision and giving all of our cares to him, which, again, is something we should do EVERY day, not just on Saturday or Sunday.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 11:27:14 -0500

Yes, it's wonderful that we are no longer under the law. But I wonder how much I have missed out on by not doing things His way? Surely there's a benefit in there somewhere for mankind. Something I'm gonna have to think about more. What materials did you use for your study? I'm very interested in this topic.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 11:28:28 -0500

Reformed Baptist. I like it! I don't think there's a denomination out there that I agree with 100%. If there is, I have yet to find it.

Re: Christians--All Ages

ELBUB55CLGRL22LELUVSFUN4 — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 13:08:04 -0500

And denominations can be so dividing. If we are truly saved we are free to disagree, but not break up. I love my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Re: Christians--All Ages

JMeadows16 — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 16:29:39 -0500

So, anyone sle find that when they are listening to hymns and worship music their brains kick into overdrive and the words spew forth onto the pages? Maybe its just me, then again Im a little weird like that.

Re: Christians--All Ages

CheshireKat — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 21:52:35 -0500

For me it's the opposite - if I start listening to hymns and getting into a spiritual frame of mind, I start paying less attention to the outer world, and writing becomes more difficult. It's just not the right head space for me to write in, I need to be as focused on the story as possible. That's why I don't listen to anything when I write, just the sound of my fingers clattering across the keyboard... no music, no TV, no talking to other people, or I'll lose my train of thought and that is a very fast-moving train to try and hop back on!

Re: Christians--All Ages

JesusisLord — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 22:31:59 -0500

Depends on the song. That method worked for me last year, but has failed me this year.

Re: Christians--All Ages

UKSteve — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 08:46:03 -0600

Thanks for the kind comments :) I am in the process of editing the thing and putting an ebook out soon, so, watch this space I guess (no pun intended :/)

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 12:03:53 -0600

You're absolutely right!

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 12:06:03 -0600

Hmmm. I haven't tried that. I always listen to music that doesn't have lyrics. Have to try it sometime!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Joybilee Farm — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 18:13:30 -0600

Hi, Everyone This is my first year doing NaNo. I just heard about it through problogger a week ago and signed up as a rebel to work on blog posts, and some nonfiction e-book writing, or so I thought. I haven't written much fiction since my kids were preschoolers -- they're all homeschool grads now. But today a fiction story appeared out of no where as I was writing, so I'm going with the flow. My goal is just 50,000 words by the end of November -- might be a combination of several short things, but I'm keeping it all in one file. I'm on track. Amazing grace! I'm so happy to see other Christians here, too. My verse for right now is, "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus, for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Eph. 2:10 ESV. May God, through our Lord Jesus Christ equip you and empower all of you to write those "good works." Have a blessed day.

Re: Christians--All Ages

jeanjeanie — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:40:41 -0600

We don't usually use any extra-biblical materials. We do verse-by-verse exegetical Bible study led by a pastor. This particular session covered Isaiah 58, and it's archived online at ftp://gtbc.serveftp.com/Isaiah -- scroll down and click Isaiah_11-09-11a.mp3 if you'd like to give it a listen. We do two sessions at each meeting, so the one immediately after that is from the same day, and I can't remember whether the Sabbath discussion finishes up in the first one or carries over to the second.

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:37:45 -0600

Thanks!

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:51:05 -0600

Agreed; I turn on something classical if I need to drown out noise, but words outside my head throw off what's happening in my head.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:52:03 -0600

Stories out of nowhere can be really exciting--I hope it behaves for you! ;)

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:51:07 -0600

Question: Can anyone recommend any books on rejection or acceptance? Or throw some verses at me? I borrowed a book on mothers and daughters and my guy pointed out that I might get more out of the topic if I read something by another Brother of Sister. While growing up wasn't particularly bad with my single mother, living with her all but zapped my confidence and make it really hard to show or accept love. Yes, I've read 1 Corinthians 13 a lot over the past few months, but I still, don't wanna have much to do with her, quite frankly. She wants me to be in her life, but she doesn't want to have a thing to do with mine, if you follow me.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:22:46 -0600

I haven't read it personally, but a friend is always recommending Pleasing People by Lou Priolo; she bought several copies so that she can always be lending it to people...she thinks it's *that* good. I think it'd be worth a try.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 18:21:54 -0600

I guess I should have phrased it clearer. I've reached the point where I don't care all that much making people happy (as evidenced by my moving out with my guy). I just feel that we'll never be accepted by my maternal family. I've told my mother several times the number one thing that alienates me and she does it, anyway. I can't simply say "Mother, you're ignoring me," since I can't get a word in 60-80% of the time. The few times I do, I immediately wish I hadn't bothered to see her. Course, I know I can't simply ignore her forever since I'm an only child and may have to be her caretaker one day...

Re: Christians--All Ages

amyleebell — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:08:06 -0600

I deal with this same issue. My mother has psychological problems that stem from her own childhood, and my personal diagnosis is that her brain got stuck at age 14 or so, and she's still under the impression that everything is all about her. When I go to visit with her (which admitedly isn't often), I don't go in with the expectation that she will share in my life. Instead, I go in, listen to her ramble, and if she runs out of steam, then I will let her in on any recent news. If she talks about herself the whole time, well, not being able to tell her anything while visiting isn't really any different from not visiting at all. Try to forgive her for her selfishness, but don't expect her to change. Forgive her before she hurts you again, on your way to visit her, and it'll be easier than trying to forgive her after the fact. Remember that God loves her and desires to have a sweet relationship with her. He is precious to her, just as you are. But we are all flawed, if perhaps in different ways. God has forgiven me of more than I will ever have to forgive my mother. I've sinned against Him more than she has sinned against me, but He still loves me and desires to spend time with me. And if none of that helps you, if it's all just fluff, then just visit her because it's the right thing to do. God never said this life was going to be easy, but obedience to Him will be worth every difficult step. We aren't living for happiness and satisfaction in this world after all, but the next. And our eternity will outshine any difficulties we may have had to face on earth. I'll be praying for you. My relationship with my mother is more confusing and frustrating than all of my other relationships combined.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 10:53:29 -0600

Yeah, that pretty much sums it up. I know my mother couldn't get the "motherly" attention from her mother (in fact, to this day she'll go off gambling, etc with her friends and get shocked when my mother says she wants to do something), so in turn she can not give it to me. Part of me also believe that, in some strange way, she wanted to protect me from getting hurt or having to live on a tight budget, etc. Course, I doubt she'll ever know that I actually preferred her when things were tight in the apartment than after she got a house. Out of one side of her mouth, she'd always go on and on about how she had to save money then she'd wonder, out the other, why I'd rather sit in a room where I could see my breath rather than look at the thermostat or electric radiators the wrong way. I think God was telling me that I had to move out through a b!(*$y older woman and an artsy old classmate. Both of them would try to will their good (well, the first one was a con artist and emotional abuser, so...) intentions on me without listening to why they failed. About a month or two before my guy got the job, I saw that those two women personified the side of my mother that I needed to get away from. The side of my grandmother, too ( I actually had a beer after telling my grandmother we were leaving). I guess it sucks not being able to talk to them since they're the only blood relatives I actually see, but I can see your point. Some people won't change. Sucks, but I guess I just have to deal. Thanks. I'm glad it's not just me and that others have to see it, too.

Re: Christians--All Ages

grumbaut — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:08:01 -0600

My name is Gabriel. I'm 29, and I'm from NJ. Glad to see a Christian group here! This is my first year doing NaNo, and so far it's going well. One of the things I struggled with for a while is wondering if God really wanted me to be a writer. Then, someone told me that our deepest desires (so long as they are in line with scripture) come from God himself. If we have a passion for something--whether it be writing, painting, helping others--it's because God had that desire for us first and gave it to us. Since we're talking about favorite verses, I figure I should share mine: Luke 17:5-6 New International Version (NIV) 5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6 He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. Many people get caught up in the moving trees part, but that's not what Jesus was saying. Fact is, we can't move trees or mountains. What Christ said was infinitely more important--the size of our faith has nothing to do with how God can move, because it's God who does the work in the end. So even with just a small amount of faith, God will work wonders. It doesn't depend on us, which is fantastic!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Lydia_Ember — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:16:51 -0600

Dude, you have no idea how much I needed to hear that.

Re: Christians--All Ages

RedPanda11 — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 00:26:46 -0600

So, I'm a college senior writing my senior thesis and about to enter finals period. I could use some prayers right now on getting through both NaNo and school work and on keeping God at the center of my life.

Re: Christians--All Ages

XVisiEX — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 22:27:41 -0600

Hello, I don't have a a favorite verse at the moment and to be honest....I usually don't add any religious elements to my novels but this year for nano, I decided to try and place some subtle hints in mine =) Since it's mainly based off my background and real life experiences.

Re: Christians--All Ages

natalieshiatsu — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 15:41:31 -0600

Any one here been on a Cursillo weekend?

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 20:50:31 -0600

So...I'm really behind in my wordcount. My husband passed the graduate comprehensive exam, which means we spent some time celebrating that he gets to keep his job. Then we took a trip to our hometown four hours away to celebrate with our families for a four day weekend trip. Then I had an emergency root canal. Did I mention I'm behind? I was praying this morning for a heart for my story and my characters and in between bites of oatmeal, I read this... "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." --Proverbs 16:3 In the end, I didn't catch up on my word count, but I got in my daily need to tread water...and was very pleased with the scenes I wrote. Hope you find some encouragement in that! :D

Re: Christians--All Ages

HisFireFly — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 08:10:44 -0600

I love when God speaks to us through His Word like that! I have indeed committed my novel to Him, allowing Him to write it -- with no prepared plot lines, like daily bread He leads the twist and turns each day. Today He asked me if I would allow Him to do with my life what He is doing with the story... not quite as easy surrending.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Alpina'sQuill — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:36:29 -0600

HOWDY! Current favorite verse? How do I choose? Right now it would probably be Psalms 104:25. "So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts." This verse is a huge inspiration for one of my novels, which has to do with the sea. I usually just make all of my MCs go to God by default, because that's what I like to do. :-] I'm usually anti-fantasy/not a part of something like Holy Worlds. However, I have gotten a great idea for a Christian futuristic sci-fi. But I don't have a clue with what I'm doing, so who knows how that would turn out...

Re: Christians--All Ages

Smartiez101 — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:21:48 -0600

Just call me Smartiez (or smarty for short). I'm Catholic and always have been. I'm only 13. ^^ But it said for all ages, so joke's on you. ;P Because I'm 13, it's obviously my first year of nano. I started 10 days late, and was introduced to nano by my friend in school. She isn't working on it this year, but is planning on it next year. I've been introducing my other friend to it, who plans on working on this next year. >u> In my writing, I don't necessarily point out God or Jesus directly, but I'll have them praying or go into a church, etc. So it's basically obvious that they're religious, even if they don't talk about it much. I don't exactly have a favorite verse from the bible, *nervous laugh* because I wasn't raised reading it every night, etc. I pray every night and go to church every sunday. I don't follow my friends by cursing all the time. Most of my friends have realized that I don't curse and don't use his name in vain, and respect that. Sorry, I get off topic all the time. >u< But yeah, that's pretty much it. It's nice to meet you all.

Re: Christians--All Ages

mkjorgenson — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 07:31:50 -0600

I was a wreck during my senior thesis, even though it turned out just fine...I wasn't trusting God much in the midst of it. Definitely praying for you!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Will64 — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 09:36:13 -0600

Jumps in dramatically Hi!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Alpina'sQuill — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 15:44:51 -0600

I just realized that I have written 10k in 8 days! I am so blessed, even though I am far behind. God has helped me out a ton, and I feel like most of what I'm writing is salvageable after some editing.

Re: Christians--All Ages

Noogah — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 19:19:39 -0600

Hello all! Glad to see fellow servants of the Lord participating in NaNo! I haven't picked out a favorite verse yet, but one of my favorite passages is 2 Peter 1:3-9, which I keep taped above my bed. It is, a passage which helps me understand faith in Christ and works. It's difficult to rely on Jesus for justification from sin, and do works without believing we have some merit in them. This particular passage does not completely reveal everything, for it is but a part of the complete and perfect word of God.Nevertheless, it is something I like to remind myself of every day. I frequently struggle with faith in Christ, and disappointment with my own sinfulness. Nevertheless, the greatest peace I've ever found was in Jesus, and James 1:2-3 says: "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience." I am vice-president of a writing group in my church, and I hope that I can somehow use the hobby to glorify God. I don't know if writing is my calling in life, but it is something that I enjoy doing. As the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 10:31; "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.".

Re: Christians--All Ages

GoblinMaiden — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 09:26:29 -0600

"Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." --Proverbs 16:3 This verse has spoken to me for several years now... I don't even know WHY exactly. It just brings me a sense of peace, and the feeling that if I keep trying for God, even if I don't succeed, he'll make it right somehow. I know I'm probably not making much sense; apologies! Just trying to say that I love that verse and it resonates with my soul. :) I've found this great little book recently (picked it up at my sister's house!) that's called "Soul Matters for the Heart." I won't go into details here, but reading through about a quarter of it so far, I've found a lot that connects with me and makes me think about how I'm living (or not) for God. I'd recommend giving it a try; I've found that I really like the little real-life stories that connect with the devotionals in the book. So, how has everyone been doing this day (it's night where I am, but hey, nuances)? :)

Re: Christians--All Ages

nisqually11 — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:46:49 -0600

Sorry I'm so late to the conversation. Like most of you I have many favorite verses, but my favorite is: "and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." Matthew 28:20 KJV It gives me great comfort to know that HE is always there.

Re: Christians--All Ages

sunydaze — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:39:45 -0600

For the past two Sundays in church I've felt convicted to write...well, I'm not sure what it would be considered. I'd like to go through my Bible and write short essays on why verses I've highlighted are important to me. Would that be a devotional, or just a collection of musings? I'd also like to figure out how to write children's stories with Biblical messages. I feel stumped, though, because I've never had any religious education (other than Sunday school or Bible studies) and though I've been a Christian for awhile, I've only just started feeling close to God this past month since I've found a new church home. I guess what I'm saying is that I don't feel qualified to write books with Christian themes because I don't want to misinterpret the Bible (which is so easy to do even for scholars) but would it also be a sin to not listen to this urge and desire to write and share?

Re: Christians--All Ages

Susantm — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 22:32:23 -0600

sunnydaze, I think if you feel a calling to write, you should write. Write your thoughts and feelings about verses, whether in short devotional form or some other form. Then, if you feel insecure about your interpretation, maybe you could share what you've written with your pastor, or find a Christian writers' critique group. For children's stories, the Biblical messages would probably be pretty simple, so you may not need to worry about lack of spiritual education. Again, if you can find a Christian writers' organization near you, that would also be a wonderful resource. Don't give up on writing due to lack of knowledge, but do also work on increasing your knowledge. And may God bless your efforts! Susan

Need plot help!!

Susantm — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 22:36:08 -0600

I am writing a children's story--for ages 9-12--and I dropped in a bit of mystery in that the main character's great grandmother just died, and they found a key to a safety deposit box in her desk. However, she was not at all wealthy, and they can't figure out what she might have put in a safety deposit box. The great grandmother was a deeply spiritual woman who always encouraged her great grand-daughter to trust God. Any brainstorming ideas about what she might have in a safety deposit box are welcome, as I will be coming to the place I have to reveal it quite soon. Thanks! Susan

Re: Need plot help!!

Washijuwia — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:31:11 -0600

How about a diary or letter revealing some signigicant secret about the great grandma, possibly what her life was like before she was a Christian and how she came to believe in the Lord? It could tie in to whatever life problem the MC is dealing with in your story.

Re: Need plot help!!

sunydaze — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 08:43:21 -0600

That's what i was thinking too.

Re: Need plot help!!

Susantm — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 11:05:14 -0600

Ooh, that's an interesting idea. Hmmm... Have to think about what might be in it. Thanks!!

Pray for me please.

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:30:01 -0600

I'm really having to struggle not to hate a particular person right now. Back in 2007 I wrote a story {fanfoc} while grieving for the loss of my Grandmother to cancer. I grieve through writing, it's just my way of dealing with things. In 2008 It was blatantly copied not once, but 3 times by the same person. It took 8 mos to get her crap pulled down but it finally got removed. She slammed me ALL over the internet, myspace, her website, ffnet, deviant art, ect.Both during the time it took to get her theft pulled down and after. She BRAGGED about going as far as she was going to get her own website where she could make ALL the rules... And she did. Even sent me an email {I didn't have anyway to block her from mine yet} bragging she'd posted the crap up again. I explained that I wrote that while grieving and thought her "i can see why that would make something extra special to someone" and her removing it was finally the end of it. I even {like a good person} suggested a completely different plot she could use same core plot, totally different plot line and she used it. Shockingly she even credited me for the idea... Now she's after my same story again. combined two of my chapters into one of hers. same key core plot for the whole two chaps... and sent me an email bragging about it again.... God PLEASE give me the strength not to hate her. I have reported her AGAIN... and finally figured out how to block her from my email and everywhere else. Please father, help me not to hate her. if I can forgive both of my rapists, I should be able to forgive a theif... but right now I'm so angry I'm seeing red again. Please fellow Christians pray for me to have peace of mind and heart. Thanks you. KittyB78/Tempest78. Now she's back for the 5th attempt.

Re: Christians--All Ages

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:46:41 -0600

It is so great to hear stories like this. I too wanted to be part of the youth group growing up, but I usually had to do the extreme stuff with mine. I'm a reader, always have been always will be. I prefer a quiet spot to read in.

Re: Christians--All Ages

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:51:03 -0600

Praying for you. I've suffered from insomnia since I was 24. Sometimes I sleep too long because I've gone days without even a wink. I usually sleep better if I take a warm bath just before bed.

Re: Christians--All Ages

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:53:44 -0600

I totally have lived by the whole "We may never know what they are but God has his reasons for everything we face and go though," my entire life. The one constant in my life {rough as it's been} has been my belief and trust in our Lord and God. "What doesn't kill us, makes us stronger." that's been my two cents worth to everyone I talk to.

Re: Christians--All Ages

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:54:40 -0600

What a wonderful story. Thanks so much for sharing it with us. XD

Re: Christians--All Ages

KttyB78 — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:07:15 -0600

Let's see what I can I share about how I came to God... Well how about this instead. When I was 14 My mother, two brothers, step father and I lived in a camper {on the back of the truck. One of these dinky pull behinds} and at the beach. We didn't have private baths, only the public showers. Anyways we were literally living off whatever we caught in the ocean for almost a year. Fish, crab, shrimp, muscles, whatever we caught. I was very close to giving up on humanity entirely. Not God, just humanity. I prayed while holding my fishing pole that something decent would be caught. I caught a stingray and my mother caught an eel. She was getting ready to prepare the eel for dinner when an old man who'd stayed at the end of the pier all day fishing and watching us, walked over and asked if she was seriously going to make that for our dinner. She told him it's better than fish. They are sick of fish after living on it for a year. He stared at mom and told her to save it for the next night's dinner. he then took my stepdad to mcdonalds and bought every a full meal and even an ice cream a piece. He also got my step father a job the very next day and we moved into a 4 bedroom house that next day as well. It turned out to be that old man's summer vacation home. All we had to do was keep the lawn {front and back mowed}. We lived there for 4 years still living off what we caught, but we finally has enough room not to feel cramped or cooped up. He said all he wanted in return was that if we saw someone in need later down the road we did as he did. Help them and ask for the same promise in return. I never saw that old man again. Mom finally got a nursing job and like I said we lived in that house for 4 years.. It completely restored my faith in humanity and made me cry with relief thanking God for months after we moved in.

Re: Christians--All Ages

writerdancer — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:20:54 -0600

Hey folks, One of my favorite verses is Romans 21:1 "Therefore I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." This verse was one of the first ones that I read when I decide to read my Bible regularly and it continually speaks to me on different levels and in different ways, especially being a dancer. I have several unpublished novels written in different genres - coming of age, literary fiction, fantasy, and mystery/suspense. When I started out, the goal was to write specifically for the Christian markets, but over time that's changed and I write what I think is called Redemptive fiction. My characters tend to be more in arts fields - theatre, drawing, and music. There are spiritual elements in my stories, but they may not be the main thrust of the novel. I'm sure there are others out there writing from this perspective. Drop me a line if you get a chance.

Re: Christians--All Ages

2Clos4Com4t — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:44:21 -0600

Hello all~! :D I never knew there were clubs on NaNo till now! *le gasp* Please count me in. :D I'd like to introduce myself by talking about my relationship with Christ. It wasn't until, like, last year in May that I became more of a true Christian, a doing Christian. I have believed in God my whole life, but I never really followed Him. Now, God's come into my life so much and has changed every area of who I am. :) I feel His leading everyday, and I'm going to follow Him until I die. :) Nice to meet you all, and even though November's over, keep the NaNo (and Christian) love coming~! God Bless, 2Clos4Com4t

Re: Christians--All Ages

2Clos4Com4t — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:59:18 -0600

Wow! This story is amazing. God is so good! I hope this doesn't sound rude or anything, but this story sounds like it could be a novel or a short story! Praise God that He provides for His children. :) I'm happy your faith was restored and you finally found a home. :D God Bless~!

Re: Pray for me please.

2Clos4Com4t — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:03:41 -0600

This is so sad, but I also have gone through an ordeal that lasted around a month or so with someone who stole my work. It's irritating, it's annoying, and it makes a person angry. I know for a fact that it's hard to forgive when you are wronged, but all you have to do is pray. I shall also keep you in my prayers. I know it's hard, but God will give you the strength. Just pray and believe. He listens to prayers! :) And I pray you shall find peace in your heart and will be able to forgive this girl. God bless~!

Re: Christians--All Ages

Caroline11278 — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:55:57 -0600

Wow, it seems as if you wrote everything I was going too. :-) Like you, I was only 'talking the talk' until last February when my youth group went on a retreat, and I was surrounded by positive influence, amazing stories, and encouraging peers who went from 'ahh, high school seniors! Intimidating, scary, wahhh!' to friends. There, I also tangibly felt God's presence for the first time ever. So, even though I was raised in the church, I feel like I've only been a Christian for a year now. Great meeting you all! :-)