Readers have described my writing as "real", "honest", "raw" even. Let's just say I don't shy away from getting a little gritty. What you see is pretty much what you get.
I wasn't always this way. In fact, I was just the opposite. For a large part of my life I spent a lot of my time trying to be perfect and to "earn" God's favor - as if that's even possible. I wore a mask that said to the world, "I'm doing just fine and I've got my act together." Do you know how much energy it takes to keep up this masquerade? I was afraid of being found out as a phony....a fake...a desperately insecure young woman who really didn't know her true worth in God's eyes.
Let's just say, that through the trials and struggles I've been through, God has taught me a few things. I have grown tremendously in my faith and more importantly, in my relationship with God. I can't imagine doing life without Him and together we laugh at my silly and vain attempts to try to maintain "control" of my life.
God has definitely called me to be vulnerable with my doubts, my struggles, my fears, my trials, and my disappointments, in my writing. Why?
Because we are ALL going through something. Behind every door there is a story and chances are it's not a fairytale.
We NEED each other and we NEED each other to be real....so we know we're not alone and we're in this thing called "Life" together.
We all need friends who have been there. Friends who'll lean in close and say, "Me too!"
That's why I was thrilled and humbled to be asked to join the company of some amazing writers to put together a devotional that will truly meet you in your everyday mess!
We wanted to provide a place where you can come as you are and find yourself among friends and people who "get" it. In this devotional, you'll find real women writing about real life.
It's a place to take off your mask, kick off your shoes, come in your yoga pants and find a safe place where you can be real with God. You can take a moment to breathe, and find peace and encouragement for your soul.
The devotional, put out by LifeWay and (in)courage.me - two awesome ministries, is due to release on October 3rd. I am offering you the opportunity to pre-order "A Moment to Breathe", and get a FREE DaySpring mug with the book. This offer is only good through LifeWay. You must pre-order before Oct. 3rd.
With 365 readings, each day begins with a passage of Scripture and tells a story of everyday faith. In the rush of regular life that leaves you breathless, it invites you to take a moment to breathe.
If you'd like to see what you'll be getting, I invite you to go to the link below and you will receive a FREE 10 day sampler...just enough to get you through till my next post :)
**Also, I have 2 copies of the book that I'm going to GIVE AWAY. Here's what you can do to enter the drawing which will be held OCT. 3rd.:
1. Subscribe to my blog (just go to the "Subscribe" tab to sign up). Be sure
to check your email for a link to confirm your subscription. This is for YOUR
privacy. You will only receive my weekly blog....I never share my email list.
2. If you're already a loyal subscriber just leave a comment below on what
you think of the book or the sample devotions.
WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED AND ANNOUNCED AFTER THE OCT. 3RD DRAWING.
"A Moment to Breathe" and the free mug make a wonderful gift to yourself and don't you deserve it? Or, get some Christmas shopping done early...this would be a lovely gift to receive.
More than anything, I would like to thank you for supporting me in my writing endeavors. My prayer is that my writing would point people in the direction of where true hope can be found and to glorify my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Be blessed....
1. Subscribe to my blog (just go to the "Subscribe" tab to sign up). Be sure
to check your email for a link to confirm your subscription. This is for YOUR
privacy. You will only receive my weekly blog....I never share my email list.
2. If you're already a loyal subscriber just leave a comment below on what
you think of the book or the sample devotions.
WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED AND ANNOUNCED AFTER THE OCT. 3RD DRAWING.
"A Moment to Breathe" and the free mug make a wonderful gift to yourself and don't you deserve it? Or, get some Christmas shopping done early...this would be a lovely gift to receive.
More than anything, I would like to thank you for supporting me in my writing endeavors. My prayer is that my writing would point people in the direction of where true hope can be found and to glorify my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Be blessed....
We do all need each other, Bev!
ReplyDeleteHave a fabulous Monday!
XOXO
Jodie
www.jtouchofstyle.com
Thanks Jodie,
DeleteMay we all drop our masks and truly be there for each other - willing to be vulnerable.
Blessings,
Bev xx
Bev, I'm thrilled for you that your words are going to be shared along with others in the (in)courage family! What a great collection that's sure to be!
ReplyDeleteMichele,
DeleteI have to admit, it's kind of exciting. I do pray my words will be a blessing to those who read them. As you know, there's some awesome writers at (in)courage!! Thanks for your support!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Bev, What a tremendous opportunity! I am so please and thrilled for you. I'm also proud of you! It's been wonderful watching you grow these years over your blog. I'm certain the collection will be touching the souls of women right where they are and be God's gentle voice. Hugs, Joanne
ReplyDeleteJoanne,
DeleteThank you for always being my cheerleader! You've been with me since the beginning - encouraging me not to give up. I'm so excited to be part of a project that I know will touch hearts....
Love and blessings sweet friend,
Bev xx
Thanks for these honest words, Bev! It's absolutely true that we're all in a difficult place in some area of our lives, and we need each other! I'm thankful God has called us to live authentically with one another, because we truly need each other! On a personal note, I'm excited to see how God is using your words to reach many women! What an exciting journey!
ReplyDeleteStacey,
DeleteThanks for your encouragement. I have definitely felt God calling me to use the trials and struggles I've been through to come alongside other women who may be experiencing the same thing. I view this as one of those opportunities. Thanks for sharing in my excitement!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Exciting news, Bev! With Stacey I say: may God use your words to reach many women. I know that's your heart's desire!
ReplyDeleteNancy,
DeleteYou know me - I've always written to an audience of One, but allow others to listen in. It IS my hearts desire to be able to encourage other women. Thanks for your kind and encouraging words - always!
Blessings,
Bev xx
We definitely need each other to be real. I applaud you, Bev. There's no point in hiding anyway; our junk squeezes out in the most inopportune places and times if we don't expose it on purpose.
ReplyDeleteLisa,
DeleteInteresting point that our junk has a way of squeezing itself out anyway, why not be proactive and let it be a learning tool for someone else. It's hard to take that first vulnerable step, but so worth it!
Blessings,
Bev xx
That's fabulous, Bev! How brave and bright you are. What a blessing to know the Lord enjoys our "voices". Enjoy your new adventure!
ReplyDeleteAlice,
DeleteI do honestly try to write so that my words would be pleasing to God, first and foremost. If they are able to encourage others then that is a double blessing! Thanks for sharing in my excitement and for your faithful encouragement!
Blessings,
Bev xx
So exciting, Bev! Big blessings for your launch!
ReplyDeleteReally enjoy your writing in general and so appreciate your constant support of this newbie blogger! I feel your kindness and heart for Christ each time I read your words, whether in a post or even a comment!
Allison,
DeleteThank you for your sweet words....they really lifted my heart this morning! We were all "newbie" bloggers once so hang in there. Often it takes awhile to truly find your "voice". It's hard to believe I've been at this for 5 years?? Where does the time go?
Thanks for your blessings and enthusiasm!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Congratulations, Bev- that's exciting news! And I agree, it is important to be honest. We can help each other so much when we're willing to take off our masks and be real.
ReplyDeleteLesley,
DeleteThanks for sharing in my excitement. Definitely, we can be more help to each other if we just take off the masks!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Beg, I'm so thrilled for you! I am certain that book is going to minister deeply to many women. I so agree with you about the importance of being real. You're right. We are all going through something. Even if we don't put our mess out front and center, chances are good it's behind a door.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited to see where God leads you from here, my friend!
Jeanne,
DeleteThank you, as always, for your loving support! It is hard to be vulnerable and put your "stuff " out there, but so often I find others saying, "Me too!"
Blessings,
Bev xx
So thrilling for you, Bev - being God's conduit is the reason to get up every morning!
ReplyDeleteSue,
DeleteLOVE how you summed it up = being God's conduit is definitely reason to get up!
Blessings,
Bev xx
I am thrilled to see you featured in this new devotional and of course enter me!!! Visiting from Barbie's linkup.
ReplyDeleteSusan,
DeleteYou're entered! Thanks for your enthusiasm!!
Blessings,
Bev xx
I'm so excited for you Bev. What a privilege to be part of this amazing group! I know this just the beginning.
ReplyDeleteBless~
Christy,
DeleteI'm not sure what God has in store, I just feel very humbled to be part of this project! Thanks for sharing in my excitement!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Congratulations on being a part of this book ministry. May you continue to point people to Jesus.
ReplyDeleteMiriam,
DeleteMy goal for my life is to be an arrow pointing to Jesus. I pray that this will continue to be a focus of my ministry. Thanks!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Absolutely delighted for you, Bev ... and for all those who will hungrily page through that book. Appreciate the sampler link, too.
ReplyDeleteI'll be checking it out!
Again, congrats to you ... blessings, too.
Thanks Linda,
DeleteI know your delight is sincere! I do pray this devotional will minister to, and uplift weary spirits!! Yes, check out the sampler!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteWe all do need each other...but I am dying of pancreatic cancer and I don't do vulnerable. Death thinks it is coming for me, but it will be facing a very unpleasant surprise when it confronts the hardest man this side of heaven.
I'll still be here on that great gettin'-up day. COunt on it.
With you at From Messes To Messages.
https://blessed-are-the-pure-of-heart.blogspot.com/2017/09/your-dying-spouse-361-my-final-prayer.html
Andrew,
DeleteBrave is continuing to blog through the pain of dealing with cancer. I will have to check out your blog!! Praying for your persevering spirit and how you minister to others through your words!! God bless you!
Blessings,
Bev xx
What an exciting project to be part of! Congrats! Preordered for the perfect book/mug Christmas gift combo!
ReplyDeleteBecky,
DeleteLove it!! Yes everyone on my Christmas list is getting the book/mug combo - what a great deal and awesome gift. Thanks for sharing that....hope you will enjoy!
Blessings,
Bev xx
Ahh, that tearing away from perfectionism and becoming real and vulnerable. It's a hard journey, but well worth it. Congratulations on this great devotional.
ReplyDeleteDebbie,
DeleteThat's a good way to describe it "a tearing away from perfectionism." It was a hard adjustment being more vulnerable, but obeying God - I haven't regretted it!
Blessings,
Bev xx
What an honor, Bev! I'm so excited for you and it is well-deserved, my friend! Can't wait to dive into that devotional!
ReplyDeleteBeth,
DeleteThank you and I KNOW you words are sincere! I am really humbled to be among some really terrific writers! Thanks for sharing in my joy!
Blessings,
Bev xx
I'm so tickled for you, Bev. I can't wait to read. I like pre-ordering because I know it's helpful to authors and publishers, so I was planning to pre-order anyway, but now it's win-win, because I mean, who doesn't love a good DaySpring mug?! :) I'll probably read it in a week instead of a year though. :) Congrats, friend. ((xoxo))
ReplyDeleteBrenda,
DeleteCoffee and quiet time - what better combination?? Thanks so much for all your support and encouragement in my writing efforts....you are a wonderful friend!!
Blessings,
Bev xoxo
I'm with Brenda... I was already planning on ordering this because ALL the reasons, but then that CUP! ;) I love it! (because, of course!)
ReplyDeleteKarrilee,
DeleteYes, you can't beat that deal!! BOGO!! Thanks for supporting the efforts of putting together a devotional for real women :)
Blessings,
Bev xx
How exciting! Congratulations. Would love to win a copy!
ReplyDeleteThanks Barbie....I've got your name in the hat!!
DeleteBlessings,
Bev xx
Bev, congratulations on being a part of it!! I've already pre-ordered! And I've already enjoyed sipping my morning coffee in the free cup while reading the 10-day sampler! So excited to see your part in the book, Bev!
ReplyDeleteEsther,
DeleteIt's kind of nice to get a two part gift to yourself....first comes the mug and sampler....then will come the devotional :) Thanks for your enthusiasm :)
Blessings,
Bev xx