We each have a story. All of our stories are valuable. Our stories connect us to each other. This happens because within each of us is the entire human condition. In other words at the basis our humanity, we desire to be seen, loved, accepted, known, and heard—and all that for who we really are not for who others want us to be.

When choosing to write your own story, the reader's expectations and needs need to be kept front and center. People come to books for help or entertainment to make life easier to bear. If they feel more confused upon looking into a book, they will disengage. That's the last thing we want. Therefore, I don’t often tell writers to write their story without recommending that they thoughtfully consider three things…

Writer, you speak, preach, teach, prophesy, inform, entertain, help, heal, strengthen, and encourage people through the words you write. Writing has the power of death and life. As a kingdom writer, you bring life and light to dead and dark places through the soul-saving words you write.

On March 8-9, 2019, at the Rosen Plaza in Orlando, Florida, I had the honor and privilege of being a speaker at the Becoming Women’s Conference, hosted by one of my dear and long-time authors, Michelle McClain-Walters. Michelle invited me to come and speak to the women about how to amplify the voice that God has given them through writing.

I published my own book. It’s a unique and beautiful resource for writers called Pray Hear Write: 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting for Breakthrough in Your Writing. I began writing it as an answer to questions I’ve been asked—by both publishing peers and authors—about how I come up with good book ideas and come to know the right way to structure a book that really grabs a reader.

This time of year is when many people are thinking of all the folks they know and what special gift may fill their heart with cheer. For family and friends of writers, there are some things you just can’t get wrong. But just in case you need some inspiration, I am going to share a few of my favorite bookish wearables, writables, and a few other things.

Disarm the fear of pride and shine for Christ with confident humility

If you rolled your eyes at the title of this post, this may not be for you. LOL! For those who may have said this aloud when given this charge or may have felt a sinking feeling in their heart while attending another workshop about building an author platform, then keep reading. You are not the only one who has felt this way, but there is too good a reason why you shouldn’t.