Devotionals for the Heart: When God allows you to experience tough times

When we are pressed hard but not crushed in despair
A devotional by Patti Schultz, Ed.D.

"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 (NIV)

Can I sit with you for a minute?

I know summer has arrived. I can see it. The evenings are longer, the neighbors out on their lawns, the kids with their popsicles and their noise. Maybe you are watching all of it from somewhere that still feels very far away. Maybe you are doing the thing where you smile at the right moments and show up where you're supposed to, and nobody quite knows how much you are carrying just to get through an ordinary day.

I see you.

There is something about the brightness of it, the way the world just keeps going, relentlessly cheerful. Like everyone else received an invitation to feel alive this season, and yours got lost somewhere. Like joy is happening just on the other side of a window you cannot quite open. You are not behind. You are just in it. And it landed here, in June, uninvited and unimpressed by the weather.

There is a passage I keep returning to in seasons like this. Not because it ties anything up neatly, but because it doesn't try to. The Bible says we are hard pressed, but not crushed. Perplexed, but not in despair. Struck down, but not destroyed. Two words keep catching me every time I read this verse: but not.

Not, “it's okay now.” Not, “the hard part is over.” Just “you are still here.” And that is not nothing. That is, in fact, everything. And so is God. Still here. Not in a hurry with you. Not watching the calendar. He hasn't forgotten a single thing about what this has cost you.

I wonder if somewhere in this summer, hope might find its way to you in the quiet ways it tends to. Not announced. Not dramatic. Just a moment that catches you off guard, where something still feels like something. A conversation that goes longer than you expected. An evening that is just soft enough. A small, unremarkable thing that reminds you that you are still capable of being reached.

I think of the years I spent grieving children I never got to hold. The ones lost before I could meet them, and the one who was promised to me and then taken away. I remember sitting in a nursery I had barely begun that I had to quietly dismantle, certain that grief like that simply does not get redeemed, that some losses just sit there forever, unanswered. In a way, they still do. I did not get the ending I prayed for. But somewhere in the unraveling, I found that I had not actually been let go of. God did not rush in with an explanation or a replacement. He just stayed. He stayed through the waiting rooms, the empty rooms, the rooms I could not walk into for a while. That is the part I did not expect: not that the ache would disappear, but that I would slowly become someone who could carry it without being consumed by it. Hard pressed, yes. Still not crushed. I say this not as someone watching from a distance, but as someone who has waited through summers like this one.

I do not think hope means the pain is gone. Maybe it just means you are still reachable. Maybe that is enough to carry into today. Not healing. Not answers. Just the quiet possibility that you are held—even now, even here, even in the middle of a summer that arrived before you were ready.

~*~
Let’s Pray:

God, I'm tired in a way that's hard to explain to people. Summer showed up and I'm still here. Still in this. I'm not asking You to rush it or fix it into something pretty. I just need to know You're close. That You see what this actually looks like from the inside. Hold what I can't. And when something like hope starts to come, help me recognize it. Even if it's small. Even if it's quiet. I'm still here. And I know that matters to You.

In Jesus’ name, I pray.

Amen.

~*~
Song of Reflection #1: “It Is Well” (Acoustic version) by Kristene DiMarco. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Come As You Are” by Crowder (Cover by Vanessa Magnon in ASL). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Steady My Heart” by Kari Jobe (cover in SASL Translation by St. Vincent School for the Deaf). Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Just Be Held” by Casting Crowns. Listen to it here.

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Author Bio:

Dr. Patti Schultz’s inspiring journey weaves a tapestry of compassion, resilience, and divine hope. 

Formerly a public school principal, professor, teacher, and interpreter for the deaf, she now dedicates her life to a heartfelt ministry rooted in her personal experiences.

As a mother to three miracle boys here on Earth and a member of a heavenly soccer team, Patti’s story is one of unwavering faith and profound love. Her decade-long battle with infertility and recurrent loss fuels her deep compassion for grieving mothers, guiding them toward healing through the comforting embrace of Jesus Christ’s garment.

Patti’s gentle wisdom offers a safe haven for women navigating pain, reminding them they are never alone. Through her ministry, she seeks to envelop grieving mothers in divine comfort, encouraging hope, renewal, and the reassurance that God's love is always near, wrapping them in His compassionate hem as they walk the path to healing.

Living in northern Michigan, she cherishes precious moments with family and community, drawing strength from faith and connection.

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Connect with Patti:
Website: pattischultz.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.pattischultz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Patti.Schultz
Email: dr.patti.schultz@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should trust God and not lose heart

Don’t Lose Heart
A devotional by Erica N. Bryant

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!”—Psalm 27:13-14 (NKJV)

Waiting has never been one of my strengths.

Every day, I ask the Lord to help me cultivate patience in my life. One of the passages He gave me is Psalm 27:13-14. It has become one of my life verses that I carry close to my heart.

Psalm 27 was written by King David. Scholars cannot pinpoint a specific time in is his when he penned this psalm. Some even say that it may be two psalms combined. But what matters is the feeling behind the psalm. David was going through something hard, and his words are still so relevant and relatable.

When life gets tough, it's easy to quit, give up, or lose heart. Trials have a way of pushing you past your breaking point. Hurt, pain, betrayal, and abuse can make you abandon your hope and turn away from what is true. David experienced all these things, too. But for David, there was something that kept him anchored in the brutal winds and waves of life. That something was hope in the Lord and hope in the promises God has made to him.

David was confident that he would see God's goodness in his lifetime. When David said he will see the goodness of God “in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13), he was declaring that he would not die before he experienced the fullness of God’s promises. He would live to see it happen. What God promised him would come to pass and because of that hope, David refused to give up!

This is the kind of hope we should have. When we face hard trials, quitting seems logical and even reasonable. But hope in God goes against logic and reason. It is rooted in faith in a Heavenly Father who is able and willing to shine His goodness on us in ways that bring life to dead and impossible situations. Even in the waiting season of our lives, when we confidently trust that we will see the goodness of the Lord, we will experience His promises fulfilled if we hold on to Him.

When things look bleak, when you feel like you can’t take one more thing, and when it seems like it’s all over, hold on to hope. Wait with confidence in God’s promises, knowing you will experience God’s goodness in your life.

When you feel like you want to quit, remember Jesus Christ. Have you placed your faith in Jesus? Do you believe that all God’s promises are fulfilled and confirmed in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20)? Don't believe the enemy's lie that says you were made to suffer or that things will always be bad. Counter that attack with Biblical truth and believe you will see the goodness of God in the land of the living.

Embrace this beautiful truth found in Psalm 27:14. It says that as we wait on the Lord, He will strengthen our heart. He will help us stand strong and bravely endure even the fiercest storm. He will help us have courage when we need it most.

Friends, don't lose heart! Believe in God’s goodness, mercy, and loving kindness. Remember: Jesus has overcome the world! Keep the faith so you can see His goodness in the land of the living!

Take some time to think about these questions below or write them down in your journal. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where you can grow and then take steps to live out God’s Word:

Question #1: Is my faith firmly rooted in the hope that I have in Jesus?

Question #2: Do I truly believe that I will see the goodness of the Lord, or am I skeptical?

Question #3: Am I courageously facing the storms in my life as I confidently wait on the Lord?

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Waiting is hard, and I am often impatient. Yet, today, I choose to trust You. Help me to anchor my hope in Your promises. Strengthen my heart as I wait on You. Fill me with courage to face every storm and remind me that Your goodness is coming in the land of the living. Teach me to hold fast to hope, confident in Your faithful love.

In Jesus’s name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Wait on the Lord” by Donnie McClurkin. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #3: “Don’t Lose Heart” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #4: “Promises” (feat. Joe L Barnes & Naomi Raine) by Maverick City | TRIBL. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Erica N. Bryant is a passionate Bible teacher, speaker, and author who desires to see believers live in the complete freedom and joy of the Holy Spirit. 

As the founder of Sparrow's Song Ministries, Erica invites a community of believers to get to know God by falling in love with His Word. Through Bible study resources, devotionals, teaching, and mentorship, Sparrow's Song encourages others to grow in intimacy with God and walk daily in the power of His Holy Spirit. She began The Word W.O.R.K.S. campaigns to help believers walk in Wholeness, Obedience, Righteousness, and Kingdom Success.

Erica is a writer with several published works including devotionals for adults and children, topical and textual Bible studies, and Scripture journals. In her debut book, Dwell: Living Life Fully Knowing that the Holy Spirit Lives in You, Erica draws from her own journey of healing from childhood trauma, rejection, and the struggles of fear and anxiety. With honesty and hope, she invites readers to embrace the life-giving truth that God's Spirit resides within them. Erica believes that when you know the Holy Spirit dwells in you, everything changes.

Erica is a passionate speaker who effectively communicates God’s Word with clarity and conviction. She speaks a relevant word to hearers and ministers to their hearts, inspires practical application, and empowers them to grow in faith and purpose.

Erica is a devoted wife and loving mother who actively serves in various roles at Strait Gate Deliverance Center, where her father, Bishop Jerome Rogers, is the Pastor and Founder.

Ultimately, she is just a girl in love with God and she is a soldier for Jesus Christ.

Devotionals for the Heart: Why we should keep faith in Jesus Christ

Keep the Faith
A devotional by Patricia Russell

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)

Funerals for many people are morbid and sad, but I have found them to be very sobering and educational. For me, they serve as a constant reminder that I must steward every day I’m alive with wisdom.

We are reminded in Scripture to ask for wisdom so that we can use the time we are given wisely (Psalm 90:12). At most funerals, there is music and tributes. The dead person in the coffin is not able to confirm or deny all being said, but you can tell by the smiles and the nods of those who knew the person whether the speaker is telling the truth or not. 

Recently, I sang at a funeral, and the testimony of those who spoke before me was that “He loved the Lord.” This is like music to the ears of people who follow Jesus Christ because his life testified to his love for God. When he was alive, the evidence of his love for God showed in his behavior. He consistently treated people in the church and in his community with agape love and respect. He lived out his beliefs. He did what the Apostle Paul stated he had done, which was, "I have kept the faith."

The Bible books of 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy focus on a letter the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy who was a young pastor at that time. Paul was encouraging him Timothy, knowing that his days on earth were coming to an end. It was important for Timothy to keep some important things in mind as he moved forward in his role as a pastor. Paul, from the first day of his conversion (Acts 9), had learned to look fully to God for his every need. From day one of becoming a Christian, Paul understood the power of God and the call on his life. He was entrusted with a task to preach the gospel. Likewise, he reminds Timothy that he, too, must do the same.

To keep the faith means you have be prepared to be persecuted. Paul said in 2 Timothy 3:12, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Therefore, we have to prepare ourselves. The scriptures are loaded with guidance and direction for us to read, meditate on and believe what God says. It will direct us as we move through life (Psalm 119:105).

Our ultimate goal is to hear our Savior (Jesus Christ) say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21) when we stand before Him. So, like Paul, as we start out this year, let’s keep this in the forefront of our hearts and minds.

We can set our goals, but our ultimate goal is to keep the faith that we have in Jesus Christ. Let’s live in a way that the world can see the character of Christ in our lives through our speech and behavior. Challenges in many forms will come but be determined to keep the faith! Hide the Word in your heart. As you obey God, prepare to be persecuted but remember that the one who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

God’s word is certain and sure; He will keep us. Let’s set our hearts and minds to stay focused and come what may, keep the faith.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, 

I am so thankful for the assurance that you’ve got me in the palm of your hands. Nothing happens without You knowing about it. We are grateful for You. Strengthen my heart and help me to remember your word when I forget and am tempted to become discouraged. I want to be able to say like Paul, “I have kept the faith.” 

In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen.

Song of Reflection #1: “Keep the Faith” by Charles Jenkins and Fellowship Chicago. Listen to it here.

Song of Reflection #2: “I Will Follow Christ” by Bob Carlisle, Clay Crosse and BeBe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Patricia is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker and compiler of her 2020 best-seller anthology Stronger Resilience: Stories to Empower the Mind, Body and Spirit, as well as Lord I Trust You: Words of Encouragement to encourage readers and share life lessons during her cancer journey. 

Patricia writes, speaks, and teaches on the power of God’s Word to heal and empower you to become all that you are purposed for. She has traveled internationally and shared her gifts with audiences to encourage, empower and share life lessons through word and song. Patricia has sung on national television broadcasts and shared the stage with several respected speakers including Anne Graham Lotz and Rev. E.V. Hill.

Her greatest joy is being married to her husband, Wayne, for 34 years. Together they serve the community through their local congregation as well as providing premarital and marriage coaching. They have two adult children, Raquel and Benjamin. As a two-time breast cancer overcomer, Patricia coaches’ others to develop resilience and live life to their fullest.

Patricia has released two gospel music recordings: “Draw Me Nearer” and “Lord, I Trust You”. In March 2022, she launched her podcast “Becoming Resilient” which can be downloaded wherever you get your podcasts and also seen on YouTube.

When not reading or studying, Patricia loves to eat Thai food and spend time with “Lucy” – her daughter’s Yorkie-poo who has taken up room in her heart.

~*~
Connect with Patricia:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrussellsings/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pat.russell.98877/
Email Patricia: patrussellsings@gmail.com

Devotionals for the Heart: Learning to focus on joy in when life is hard

Growing in the Cracks of Life
A devotional by Kathleen Rouser

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. Let endurance have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”—James 1:2-4 (WEB)

The presence of icicle pansies tends to brighten my day.

The delicate yellow, cream, and purple flowers are always lovely to see. They provide a pop of color in late fall, early spring, and sometimes through the summer. Even though they’re annuals, they’re hardy! Last year, about five icicle pansy plants had seeded themselves into the cracks of our patio.

I didn’t plant, fertilize or water them, but there they were popping up from hardpacked soil, between large slabs of concrete. The back of the house receives the morning and intense early afternoon sun. It’s exposed to the cold rain and wind. Yet, these little flowers flourished, even when they were stepped on or picked.

After a storm, I’d peek outside as I wondered about their fate. But when they dried, they perked right up, still beautiful. At some point, during the summer, I started giving them a drink each time I watered the potted flowers around them, and I marveled at how well they’d done without my help.

The first chapter of the Bible book of James reminds us that it’s the testing of our faith that produces patience and endurance, fruits that blossom with gaining spiritual maturity—much like beautiful flowers that grow well in the harshest circumstances. Testing puts our faith walk with God on the line.

Quite a few years ago, I had a tough time. It began with losing a very wanted baby through miscarriage, having to move my elderly mom away from me and closer to my sister, experiencing postpartum depression, being diagnosed with anemia, and feeling brokenhearted when my mother passed away. Soon after her death, I was diagnosed with chronic Epstein-Barr virus, which is like a prolonged mono, and my husband (Jack) fell off the roof of our house!

Completely worn out, I wasn’t sure how I’d ever take care of my husband while he recovered. The long road began with a month in the hospital for Jack, with surgeries and recovery from multiple head-to-toe fractures. While he was in a wheelchair for the next five months, learning to walk again, and then continuing rehab, God continued to intervene at every turn.

People from hundreds of miles away prayed for him and many friends also supplied us with delicious meals for us to eat until my kids missed my cooking enough to beg me to make my special recipes for them again. At the hospital, my husband chose thankfulness, despite the overwhelming pain. He even wrote thank you notes to the cafeteria staff at the hospital! We saw answered prayer and miracles almost every day. In the midst of the valley, God lifted us to the mountaintop and held us there in His arms.

We grew closer to the Lord and to each other. This fearful Christian (me), who hadn’t grown much spiritually in eighteen years, was forced to grow in my faith as tests and trials pressed in around me. For me, it was the beginning of a new stage of growth in my faith journey with Jesus Christ. I may not have chosen these trials, but God knew what He was doing as He allowed each one.

The end game God has in mind is to conform us to the image of His Son (Jesus), but will we choose to cooperate with Him? Romans 8:28-29 (WEB) says, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”

I once read a book that challenged me to thank God for my trials. And I did so begrudgingly for more recent testing I’ve endured. Yet, that somehow set me free and allowed God to do a new work in me. There wasn’t instant joy by any means, but perhaps that’s what it means to “Count it all joy.” If I can look at each trial—big or small—as something that God wants to use for my good and His glory, then thankfulness and even joy may flourish.

Like the pansies in the cracks of the patio, we too can grow to be hardier and our roots deeper into our faith despite the hard circumstances around us.

Let’s Pray: Father in Heaven, help me to see that You lovingly allow the difficulties, whether big or little, into my life that I might shine brighter for You. Please give me a more thankful heart that leads to Your special kind of joy. Help me to conform into the image of Your Son. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “Count It All Joy” by BeBe and CeCe Winans. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Kathleen Rouser is the award-winning author of Rumors and Promises, her first novel about the people of fictional Stone Creek, Michigan, and a multi-published author of historical Christian romance. She is a longtime member in good standing of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). 

Kathleen has loved making up stories since she was a little girl and wanted to be a writer before she could even read. She’s in the grip of God’s grace and is a fan of the three C’s: cats, coffee, and chocolate.

Kathleen is mother of three children. She is also a former homeschool instructor, mild-mannered dental assistant, and new Community Bible Study Children and Youth Director. Kathy lives in Michigan with her hero and husband of many years, and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.

As an author, she is represented by Linda S. Glaz of the Linda S. Glaz Literary Agency.

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Connect with Kathleen:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerouser
Facebook Author page: https://www.facebook.com/kathleenerouser
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KathleenRouser
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rouserkathy/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kerouser/_saved
Website: https://kathleenrouser.com
Mewe: https://mewe.com/i/kathleenrouser

Devotionals for the Heart: God wants to carry you through tough times

He Will Carry Us
A devotional by Hannah Benson

“Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.”—Isaiah 46:4 (ESV)

Have you ever been afraid?

Maybe you’re afraid you won’t make a deadline at school or work, or maybe your fear runs deeper than that. Maybe you fear losing a loved one. Or maybe, you look at the state of our world and feel yourself start to tremble when you watch the news.

Or maybe it’s all the above.

We all have fears.

In stress, busyness, confusion, it can be difficult not to be afraid or worry. The enemy tempts us to be afraid, and then, he tries to keep us there.

Fear is crippling. If you have lived for any amount of time, then you know this. At some point, we have all wrestled with fear.

I believe that the enemy uses fear to try to hold us back from living our lives with full potential. Maybe we are afraid of the future, and we are terrified of stepping through a new door God has opened simply because we don’t know what’s on the other side.

Or maybe we are afraid of losing someone close to us.

I can’t claim to know the future. But I promise you this, that whatever you walk through in the days ahead, God will go with you. If God has opened a door, don’t be afraid to walk through it. He will go with you, and He won’t leave you alone.

Friend, do not be afraid. When everything around us looks dark and hopeless, there is still a glimmer of light. And you know what? I find that it is easier to truly see the light when everything else around us is dark. If there were no darkness, then I believe we would have no reason to long for the light.

This year has been a particularly hard one for my family, and just when we thought things couldn’t get any worse, we received medical news that no one ever wants to hear.

It’s been hard, and we are afraid. I’m not going to deny that. But despite everything, God is with us. I feel it. He is wrapping His arms around us and holding us. He has reminded us of His promises and whispered softly that He will carry us. We’re going to come out on the other side, whatever that means. And in the meantime, He won’t leave us to walk alone.

Yet God has promised that He will never leave or forsake us. He has made us, He will bear our burdens with us, He will carry us, and save us.

Isn’t this such a beautiful picture?

What are you fearing today? I promise, friend, that God will not leave you to walk alone. During the times of our lives when we walk through something frightening, God will go with us. If we will let Him, He wants to carry us.

Let’s Pray:
Dear Father God,
Please forgive me for not trusting You when I am afraid. I know that I never walk alone and that You are with me no matter what. Please help me to live a life in peace and not in fear. I don’t want to live in fear anymore. Thank you for carrying me! In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “I Will Carry You” by Ellie Holcomb. Listen to it here.

~*~
Author Bio:

Hannah Benson is a Jesus-follower who’s passionate about sharing the love of Christ with others. 

From the time she could hold a pen, she was writing. But it wasn’t until she was sixteen that she began to seriously follow God’s calling to write a novel. Hannah is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and has at least four novels in the works. For the past five years, she has been involved with her local Biblical theater company. She wants to show others the love of Jesus through the creative arts.

When she’s not acting or working on her upcoming novel, you can find Hannah laughing with her siblings, cuddling her little fluffy dog, or reading books (usually historical fiction or fantasy stories). You can read more of Hannah’s writings on her blog or on her Instagram where she strives to write content that leaves others feeling encouraged.

~*~
Connect with Hannah:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannahlynnauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Hannah-Lynn-Writer/100073790792576/
Blog: www.loveunconditional.blog

Devotionals for the Heart: How to bloom wherever God plants you

Bloom
A devotional by Wade Webster

The women said to Naomi: “Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel.” 
–Ruth 4:14 (NIV)

In April I told you about my desire to help people cope with their isolation during this COVID-19 pandemic by posting pictures of wildflowers on Facebook. It began in late March when I drove to south Texas. I thought I would finish this task at the end of April. Many of my friends voiced disappointment when I posted that I would be ending this series. Then I found new flowers blooming. This kept me going into mid-May.

My job as a truck driver was deemed essential by the government so I was able to get out and about to take these pictures. About the time I thought I would run out of new flowers to post, I would be sent to a new area that had fresh flowers or new flowers would sprout up in some of the spots I had been to previously. I was disappointed many times when there was no safe place for me to pull over to take pictures of all of the flowers I was seeing.

When I did pull over to take a picture of what I could see from my driver's seat I was always surprised. Many smaller flowers awaited me. Flowers that I couldn't see while scanning the bigger landscape. Oftentimes these were more beautiful than the first blooms I desired.

One day I had to wait for my load to be produced so I paced behind the factory. It's a large area closed in by high walls. The loaded trailers are staged here until us drivers are ready to leave. As I walked about I saw an interesting occurrence. The concrete surface I was on had cracks designed throughout to allow for expansion and contraction of the cement during temperature extremes. Out of these cracks grew what most folks would call worthless weeds. What I saw was a new variety of flowers yearning for their time in the spotlight.

I titled that day's pictorial “Bloom Wherever You're Planted.” Many people were inspired by those tiny flowers growing out of seemingly impossible terrain. God blew their seeds there to show that He can use anything anywhere He chooses to.

It makes me think of the book of Ruth and how God helped her “bloom.” She married into a Hebrew family that was vastly different than her Moab lifestyle. There was something about these foreigners that drew her into them. So much so that she swore allegiance to Naomi's God as they moved to her mother-in-law's homeland.

Waiting for them was a man named Boaz, whose mother was born in Jericho according to Matthew 1:5. Boaz apparently never married but was farming the land near Naomi's former home. In a way only God could orchestrate, these two misfits come together while harvesting grain. They use the rights of the kinsman-redeemer to form a legal bond and create a son. In this son's family line would come the greatest king the nation of Israel would ever know, apart from The King, Jesus Christ.

Rahab's son and Naomi's daughter-in-law made the grandfather of King David. Only God could bring such a story together.

I don't know what terrain you find yourself planted in today. I also can't see what chapter of your life is being written at this moment. But I can assure you it is in God's will. He has a plan for every aspect of what's happening. God can make beauty bloom out of the hard places and tough terrains of life.

Bloom wherever you are planted today. Trust Him to bring it all together in His time.

~*~
Author Bio:

Wade Webster is a farm boy turned city slicker, heathen turned born-again Christian, truck driver turned writer doing his best to point folks to his best friend, Jesus Christ. 

He currently lives in Plano, Texas.

Wade is the author of 100 Prayers of a Writer, a book that didn't begin as a book, just weekly prayers to a group of writer friends.

He enjoys spending time in nature, running for exercise and dark chocolate, though not necessarily in that order. Apart from driving 18-wheelers for a living he has a part-time job painting houses on the side...and the front and back and inside.

As a teenager, he told his friends he never wanted to be considered normal. So far he's done a pretty good job of living up to that aspiration.

Devotionals for the Heart: Hope for when times are tough

Times Can Be Tough
A devotional by Tammy Karasek

All of us will have trials and tribulations in our lives. It's a given. Not every day is a perfect, beautiful day. We were never promised that. At any time, we can be going through a trial, walking beside someone who is struggling or at the very least knows someone who is. Some days are harder than others to cope with what is seemingly thrown at us and we wonder how much more?

Going through years of bullying and depression, often I wondered if anybody heard my cries or even cared. I saw others around me going through tough times as well and eventually kept those feelings inside. It felt hopeless at the time—I was trying to fix it by myself. Can you relate?

Yet, there is hope. No matter what we are going through, there is Someone who cares. Someone who loves us—who already knows what the ending will be. But I had forgotten about Him in my effort to go it alone—have you?

In these times, we must lean even closer to the One who gives hope, comfort and bring us through to the other side. His name is Jesus. With Jesus, the trials don't go away because we are believers. We will still have them. But with Jesus, we can be confident that He is bringing us through a season to mold, shape and grow us to make us better. This is something difficult to grasp on this side of the situation.

The following verse reminds me of what I need to be doing during trials:

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
~Romans 12:12 (ESV)

As we lean into Jesus, our trials and tribulations are not erased immediately, though some can be. But Jesus is the One who will give us the strength to see it to the end, at which time we look back and see where we’ve come from. Sometimes He gives us strength just for that moment we are in. Other times, He gives us more. Through constant prayer and scripture reading, we begin to realize that His plans are better than ours and He has our greater good on His radar. Eventually, our storm has calmed and the blue skies have returned.

In my case, it was not a quick end. My struggle was over a thirty-year period. But as I look back, I now see the hands of God all over my life. He shaped me to be more thoughtful about my words because I’d been hurt by so many, compassionate towards others since I didn’t know what they were going through, and especially to find a reason to laugh every day or at the very least, a giggle.

I pray if you are currently going through a struggle in your life, you will lean into Jesus and pray with the hope that only comes from Him to guide you through this time. Know He is listening to your prayers. He cares and loves you dearly, friend.

"May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in Hope."~Romans 15:13 (ESV)

~*~
Author Bio:

You’ll find Tammy seeing humor and causing laughter in every aspect of life. Tammy’s past filled with bullying and criticism is the driving force of her passion to always encourage others and share with them the Reason to smile. 

She’s been blissfully wedded to her college sweetheart, Larry, for 36 years. She is a mom to their grown daughter Kristen and wrapped around the paw of a little puppy named Hattie.

She’s the President of Cross N Pens Christian Writers and a member of ACFW.

She will be published in the 2018 Divine Moments book – Cool-nary Moments.

~*~
Connect with Tammy: 
Blog - http://www.tammykarasek.com
Twitter - https://twitter.com/tickledpinktam
Email - tickledpinktammy@gmail.com

Thankful Thursday: Be Encouraged

It's Thursday and I'm thankful for this song "Encourage Yourself." Listen via the video below before reading what I have to say...



Beautiful song, isn't it?

It speaks to my reality. Since being laid off from my day job two years ago, I have struggled to find another day job that provides me with a steady and sufficient income. My hunt for a new day job has not landed me in a new career...yet!

I say "yet" because I know that God is in control of my real life story and He will lead me to where He wants me to be.

But some days, the weight of everything related to not having a day job really discourages me. I shared these thoughts with a friend today and as we were talking, God brought this song to my mind and I realized that now is the time for me to encourage myself.

So instead of lamenting over defeat, I'm going to speak victory.

Instead of worrying about my human (and therefore finite) timeline for my own life, I'm going to trust God's Divine (and therefore infinite) timetable for my life.

Instead of rehearsing the difficulties in my mind, I'm going to be still and know that God is God, as He advises me in Psalm 46:10, and use that energy to pray more to Him.

Instead of complaining about the big size of this mountain, I'm going to tell this mountain that my God is bigger and He can move it for me.

Ultimately, I'm going to work on encouraging myself and trusting in God's perfect timing.

If you too are experiencing defeat in any area of your life, I challenge you to bring your concerns to your Creator (God), pour out your heart to Him then listen to this song again and practice the art of encouraging yourself in the Lord.

Know that I'm praying for you too!

God bless your dear heart.

Love,

Alexis

Cozy Christmas Reads: Linda's story

What Would You Give?
A guest post by Linda Shenton Matchett

In times of war sacrifice is expected not only from the troops, but from those who remain on the home front. During WWII, Americans tightened their belts as food, clothing, rubber, metal and more were rationed. Women entered the workforce, and men left for parts unknown with the armed forces. Children played with toys that mimicked their parents’ lives and participated in air raid drills at school. However, the thousands of miles that distanced us from the conflict buffered the U.S. from the privation and challenges experienced by the European countries.

With only four miles separating France and England across the Straits of Dover on the English Channel, British citizens lived in fear of invasion. Street and subway station signs were removed to confuse possible raiding soldiers, and people were cautioned not to give directions to strangers. Anxious to win the war, the population was willing to do anything to further the cause.

One of the ways civilians helped was to give up their homes. According to Requisitioned, a book by John Martin Robinson, “the majority of houses of large size in Britain were requisitioned by the government…for use as barracks, homes for evacuees, schools, hospitals, works of art stores, strategic and military headquarters, billets and training premises, even prisoner-of-war camps.”

My story, “A Doctor in the House,” (part of The Hope of Christmas collection) takes place on a requisitioned estate north of London and explores what life was like for the homeowner to have his house converted to a convalescent hospital. Because the requisitioned homes were centuries old, they lacked central heating and other modern conveniences. Constructed of stone and brick, the structures held a constant chill during the cold winter months. Residents had to get creative to provide heat for themselves, and reports abound about furniture, paneling, and even staircases being broken up for firewood.

Nearly everyone used cigarettes at the time, and countless fires occurred due to careless smokers. Episodes are told about soldiers using priceless art work as dart boards, and at Tottenham Park in Wiltshire, the grounds were used as an ammo dump. An accidental explosion blew out every pane of glass in the house and the conservatory. Arundel Castle’s herd of red deer was hunted for food, and at Brocket Hall soldiers carved their names, addresses and phone numbers in the balustrade of the park bridge.

Hatfield House and Heath House served as the inspiration for my story’s setting. Hatfield House was used as a hospital and POW camp, and Heath House was taken over by the Red Cross as an auxiliary hospital for military personnel. The sheer volume of individuals stationed on these properties that previously housed several dozen people at most, created extensive wear and tear, but they did not suffer irreparable damage as so many others did.

Because of hard use or maltreatment, more than one thousand ancestral homes were destroyed or torn down after the war. In 1946, building materials were still rationed and taxes high. Repairs to country homes were done on a shoestring, make-do-and-mend basis, which meant bigger issues were covered over to be dealt with at a later time. But the generations who took over after the war were determined to make a go of it, and thanks to grants, opening their homes to the public, and the use of second-hand furnishings, thousands more homes have survived.

How would you feel about giving up your home?

~*~
Author bio:

Linda Shenton Matchett is an author, journalist, blogger, and history geek. 

Born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, Linda has lived in historical places most of her life. 

She is a volunteer docent at the Wright Museum of WWII and a Trustee for her local public library. Linda is active in her church where she serves as treasurer, usher, and choir member. 

~*~
Blurb for Linda's novella, "A Doctor in the House", part of The Hope of Christmas story collection:

Emma O’Sullivan is one of the first female doctors to enlist after President Franklin Roosevelt assigned to England to set up a convalescent hospital, and she leaves behind everything that is familiar. 

When the handsome widower of the requisitioned property claims she’s incompetent and tries to get her transferred, she must prove to her superiors she’s more than capable. But she’s soon drawn to the good-looking, grieving owner. Will she have to choose between her job and her heart?

Archibald “Archie” Heron is the last survivor of the Heron dynasty, his two older brothers having been lost at Dunkirk and Trondheim and his parents in the Blitz. After his wife is killed in a bombing raid while visiting Brighton, he begins to feel like a modern-day Job. To add insult to injury, the British government requisitions his country estate, Heron Hall, for the U.S. Army to use as a hospital. The last straw is when the hospital administrator turns out to be a fiery, ginger-haired American woman. She’s got to go. Or does she?

~*~
Buy Linda's book on Amazon

~*~
Connect with Linda:
Website - www.LindaShentonMatchett.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/authorlindamatchett
Pinterest - www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/authorlindamatchett
Goodreads - www.goodreads.com/author_Linda_Matchett
Amazon Author Page - http://amzn.to/2yozXb3

~*~

Enter this book giveaway contest for your chance to WIN a copy of this book by filling out the entry form on the Rafflecopter widget below: 

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A Prelude to Christmas: Jenna Victoria's story and personal essay

Welcome Jenna Victoria to the blog today! She's here to share a personal essay inspired by her Christmas novella, War of the Heart. It's a story that's part of the Snow Globe Christmas Collection published by Forget Me Not Romances.

Back cover blurb for War of the Heart: When a vintage snow globe sends Boston dress designer Louise Martin and British B&B owner George Walker back in time to London, December 1940, they race against the clock to reconcile a feud between their families and solve a 75-year-old mystery. As Louise relies on God and on George for guidance, friendship then love, will the future George envisions strangle her own dreams? Will their love survive generations of mistrust, the Blitz and being stranded in wartime 1940, possibly never to return to their former lives? 

Fill out the form on the Rafflecopter widget below for your chance to WIN a copy of Jenna Victoria's book:  

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~*~

Jenna Victoria's personal essay:

Thank you, Alexis, for allowing me to "pull up a sleigh" at your blog series, “A Prelude to Christmas”! I've been known to break into Christmas songs any time of the year, maybe it's because my birthday is three days after? There's something eternally hopeful and encouraging about the season.

War of the Heart is both a stand-alone book and part of a six-novella Snow Globe Collection on Kindle. I was quite enthusiastic about writing Louise and George's story, as I was able to feature two of my favorite things: London and snow globes. I specifically chose December, 1940, the first Christmas of WWII in the United Kingdom, as I wanted the setting to help reflect the message of their time-travel journey which is one of hope, perseverance and reliance on God despite circumstances.

I was struck by many things while researching that week in 1940. Londoners (and those in other larger cities in the U.K.) simply carried on. They ate far less due to mandatory rationing, created homemade or re-mended store bought clothing, did without necessities and reused everyday items such as newspaper and scrap so the men fighting on the front could have what they needed. Still, they still had peace and joy, something I focused on in the book.

There were no eight-foot Christmas trees for sale, but three-feet ones easily able to fit into air raid shelters quickly sold out. Christmas lights were banned so enemy aircraft could not see their reflection. Yet the tube (subway stations) repurposed as shelters held festive holiday parties, sing-alongs and appearances by Father Christmas.

This sacrifice was especially poignant that first Christmas, when most fathers and brothers were away at war and it was the Mums and grandparents that relied on their faith and their ingenuity to provide a happy Christmas even as bombs rained on the city. In direct opposite to their situation, they stayed the course, confident in the sovereign government to get them out of the war quickly.

Our faith as Christians is similar to that of Louise and George. At first, we assume our trial or difficulty will pass quickly. We pray for that. We believe in that. And for many, a positive resolution, a miracle, is what occurs. But what about those like the country of Great Britain which was not war-free until May of 1945, who don't receive the answer they have prayed for?

My personal struggle is recurrent breast cancer. We approached my initial treatment plan in 2012 with naive optimism, trusting God that mine would be similar to the normal path followed by 82 percent of women with BC (chemo, surgery and radiation) and then finally, I would be cancer free!

Rather, six weeks after my first tumor was removed, I was newly diagnosed as a triple-negative breast cancer patient as cancer returned in several locations. TNBC is the most aggressive and drug-resistant form of breast cancer which affects less than 20 percent of those diagnosed. Man like myself become metastatic, which is incurable. Four years later, I continue to receive IV chemotherapy every 21 days.

Like Louise and George, I find myself in a place I don't want to be. I want to return to my life before cancer, the same as they wanted to return to modern day London instead of being stuck in wartime England as snow is falling.

As their (and my) journey unfolds, something vitally important occurs. When you place your trust and hope in God, He never fails you. The answer may not be what you longed for or prayed for, but He never, ever leaves you with less. I knew this in my head, at that scary visit after my first biopsy. But, I did not feel it in my heart until much later. I was faithful in trusting God even when I did not have the emotional connection to that trust. I carried on, trusting Him despite my feelings. Now, I have a peace, a contentment, and a joy within my circumstances!

I won't reveal here how (or if) our two lovebirds in War of the Heart return to current day London. But they, like me, embrace the words of the Apostle Paul:

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)

~*~
Author bio: 

Jenna Victoria lives on the eastern seaboard of the USA. She enjoys Hallmark movies and Christmas carols year-round. She writes Happily-Ever-After romance and romantic suspense stories with a Christian world view. 

Her book emulates those she enjoys reading…with a heroine who is in grave danger and a hero who is smart enough to get out of her way as she solves the case (with a little help)…and those that feature the sweetest of small-town, fairytale-ending love stories.

~*~
Connect with Jenna Victoria:
Amazon Author Page - https://www.amazon.com/author/jennavictoria
Facebook - www.facebook.com/jennavictoriaauthor/

Instagram - www.instagram.com/jenna_victoria_author/
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/jennavwriter/
Twitter - www.twitter.com/jennavictori
Website - http://jennavictoria.com
Email - jenna@jennavictoria.com

Heroes of Song Personal Blog,
http://www.jennavictoria.com/category/blog-heroes-of-song/

Book Review Blog - http://www.jennavictoria.com/category/on-jennas-shelf-reviews/

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Words of Faith: Sara Ella's story of heartbreak and hope

Brokenhearted Faith
A Words of Faith story by Sara Ella

“The Spirit of YHWH is upon me, because He has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed;” (Luke 4:18).

Let’s get real here. Because at this point in this year I don’t know how else to be. In some ways, this has been the greatest year of my life. My debut novel recently released, a dream come true. I had the opportunity to go to Nashville to see my friends, attend a writer’s conference, and visit my publishing house. My kids are thriving in homeschool and I’ve gotten to see my out-of-state family more than usual.

But, in many ways, this has also been, by far, the worst year of my life.

I won’t go into all the gory details. But I will say this year has shattered my heart in every way imaginable. I’ve experienced betrayal, loss, feelings of worthlessness, and depression, to name a few. It got to the point at which I felt my Creator had abandoned me. Why was He letting this happen? How could He watch as my heart was trampled, and beaten, and thrown away?

And then that still small voice whispered, “Read Job.”

Of course. I knew exactly what that meant. I knew Job’s story. I didn’t need to read it again to recall what that man went through. I ho-hummed my way to my Bible and opened it. Then I began to read. And here’s the verse that stuck out to me:

“. . . Shall we accept good from Elohim, and not trouble? . . .” Job 2:10.

Just wow. Isn’t it amazing how we can read something we’ve read before, but it has a totally new meaning when set in the current context of our lives? This verse was for me and it’s stayed with me through this horrible, no-good year. Because who am I to say I will only accept the best from my Creator? Am I not his child? And does He not put those He loves through trials only to make us stronger in the end? To sharpen our faith and draw us closer to Him? It’s all a matter of perspective, really. I can look at this year and think, “Wow. God must really hate me.” OR I can choose to “rejoice in all things” and praise Him for molding me. For allowing me this trial, which in the future could even turn into a ministry opportunity. My experience may help others. How can I not be grateful for that?

My heart is still on the mend. I’m healing, hour by hour, and day by day. But through it all, my Messiah has loved me. He’s held my broken heart in His hands and carried me through the storm. And that’s the thing, my friends. The storm. Because for the longest time, I stood on the shores of my situation, afraid to really go through it. But then my King nudged me and I felt Him asking me if I trusted Him to be with me in that storm. It took a while, but I finally stepped off the shore and into His arms. The waves chopped and crashed, my heart nearly drowned, but at last I am beginning to see the beautiful light on the other side. Not once has my Creator abandoned me. As broken as I’ve been, He’s kept me intact. Because that’s what brokenhearted faith is—giving your heart and life over to the One who heals the broken hearted. To the one who carries you through.

Are you experiencing a tragedy or heartbreak? Is your life a storm today? If you’re willing to share in the comments, I would love to pray for you.

~*~
Author bio: 

Not so long ago, SARA ELLA dreamed she would marry a prince (just call her Mrs. Charming) and live in a castle (a.k.a. The Plaza Hotel). Though her fairy tale didn’t quite turn out as planned, she did work for Disney—that was an enchanted moment of its own. 

Now she spends her days throwing living room dance parties for her two princesses and conquering realms of her own imaginings. 

She believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away” for those who put their faith in the King of kings.

~*~
Connect with Sara:
Website - http://saraella.com

Twitter - http://twitter.com/saraellawrites
Instagram - http://instagram.com/saraellawrites/
GoodReads - https://www.goodreads.com/saraella
Pinterest - http://pinterest.com/joellesa
Tumblr - http://saraellawrites.tumblr.com
Facebook - http://facebook.com/writinghistruth

Google+ - http://plus.google.com/+SaraElla

Words of Faith: Gary's story about God as a refuge in times of trouble

My Refuge

A Words of Faith story written by Gary Breezeel

Some years ago, I moved my family hundreds of miles to take a new job. One day, only four months later, my boss called me into his office and told me he had to let me go. I went numb all over, my limbs like rubber. How could this have happened? He’d made no complaints about my work, and we got along well.

At least, he gave me a month’s notice.

When I regained sufficient strength, I got up, told the secretary I was leaving, and escaped. I had no particular destination in mind, knowing only that I had to get away.

I sat in the car for a few minutes, head spinning, before I remembered a tranquil spot near the Mississippi River. Only God’s grace kept me and other motorists safe as I negotiated crowded city streets and winding country roads en route to my destination.

Filled with rage, I parked not far from the river. It’s not fair. How could he do it? After all my excellent work?

After a few moments, I exited and followed a path a short distance down an embankment and stepped up onto a mammoth boulder, which extended out into the channel.

The muddy water swirled and eddied below me as the current raced swiftly past. For hours, I gazed both upstream and down. The size and power of the mighty torrent and the quiet roar as it rushed by took my focus off my troubles. The gentle breeze tickled my face. I scanned the azure sky.

Standing on that rock, I recognized some measure of the vastness of the universe. There in the midst of God’s magnificent creation, I poured out my heart to Him. Why? How could you let this happen? What now? I’m my family’s sole support. How can we survive?

Over the next few hours, I asked like questions repeatedly. At length, I received an answer to the question I should have asked. I began to comprehend how small and weak I was when compared with the size and power of that river. Yet, the universe made even the Mighty Mississippi seem minuscule.

Even more importantly, the Lord reminded me that He made all of creation, including me. With His help, I remembered that He loves me, that He wants only good for me, and that He promised to provide for me.

I went home with renewed hope and peace in my heart, knowing I could face an uncertain future because my God remained in control, and He would provide for me. No, I did not expect God to hand me another job. I knew I would have to send out resumes and make calls, but I could leave the results, and the worrying, up to Him. And I did. For the most part.

I would like to say that I completely avoided worry over the next few weeks, but, too many times, I picked that burden back up myself. Yet, whenever worry threatened to get ahold of me, I returned to my special place. There, as the waters surged by, I felt His presence in a special way. I experienced him in the vastness of the sky, the fresh, misty scent of the river, and the breeze rustling through the trees.

The enormity of His creation reminded me again and again of his power and that He reigns. He spoke to me through those things, renewing my trust in Him. But, mostly, I poured out my heart, knowing He heard me. In so doing, I gained the strength and courage to persevere through adversity without losing heart.

Over the next month, I spent countless hours by the river in prayer and meditation, as I experienced the wonder of God’s power and grace through various aspects of his creation. I felt closer to Him than ever before. Each time I visited my refuge, my troubled heart found peace. Moreover, God came through for me. After missing only five days of work, I found another job. What a Blessing! What a God!

Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness. 

~Lamentations 3:22-23

~*~
Author bio: Gary L. Breezeel is a former attorney, minister, and government accountant. Throughout all those various career changes, he dreamed of being a writer when he grew up. Finally, upon retirement from his position with the U. S. Department of Defense, he fulfilled his dream. Gary moved to Arkansas in 2010 with his wife of more than forty years to be closer to his grandchildren. In addition to his writing, he fills his days with reading, feeding his television addiction, touring Arkansas, and attending sports and other activities involving his grandchildren.

Gary is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. His short stories, essays, memoirs, and poems have won numerous contests. One recurring theme in his work is baseball. He is a lifelong fan and several of his stories have a baseball setting. Gary has completed a draft of his first novel and is making slow progress toward getting it ready for publication.

His only publication of note is “A Comedy of Errors” in Christmas Moments, Grace Publishing, 2014.

Interview: Brenda S. Anderson, author of Hungry for Home

Today, I'm introducing you to Brenda S. Anderson. She's a dynamic author who is not afraid to tackle tough issues from real life in her fictional story worlds! Brenda is here to talk about her latest book, Hungry for Home.

Here's what the critics are saying about Brenda's book: 
“Hungry for Home is more than a series finale – it is heartfelt, heart-wrenching fiction at its best, exploring relationships and family, love, faith and forgiveness in fresh, life-changing ways. I see myself in these endearing, enduring characters, their weaknesses and struggles and hard-won triumphs. Although worthy as a standalone novel, this finale is best savored beginning with the Coming Home series prequel Pieces of Granite, Chain of Mercy, and Memory Box Secrets. Bravo, Brenda Anderson!” —Laura Frantz, author 

Now some exciting news for you as readers: Brenda will give away one copy of Hungry for Home to the winner of the book giveaway contest hosted here on my blog today! The winner may choose if they want a Kindle or Nook edition of Brenda's book. You can enter this contest by leaving a comment at the end of this blog post telling Brenda what you liked about her interview. The book giveaway contest starts today (Sept. 22) and will end on Oct. 9. You must leave your e-mail address with your comment for Brenda so she can contact you if you win.  We're doing this contest the old-fashoined way—the winner will be selected via a random drawing done by me (Alexis). I will announce the winner here in the comment section of this blog post, on Oct. 1, 2015. 

Enjoy the interview with Brenda! 

*Interview questions from Alexis are in bold, answers from Brenda not in bold...

~*~
Alexis: Congratulations on the release of your new book! Tell us about the work that went on behind-the-scenes to make this happen.

Brenda: I did a lot of online research on homeless teens: watching videos, reading testimonies, learning how teens survive and what is being done to help curb the problem. I’ve also toured and volunteered at a new local center for homeless youth.

Why did you call your book, Hungry for Home?

Both words hungry and home have double meanings. For the homeless teen in this story, he is physically hungry and he longs to have a home. For the couple who takes this teen into their home, their hunger is an emotional one, wanting to turn their house into a home. They learn that a home is far more than four walls and a roof over their head.

What was your inspiration for the setting of this story?
The fictional town of Amery, Minnesota is loosely based on a city close to where I live, Anoka, MN. I chose this particular setting because of a) the quaintness of the downtown area, and b) the severe winter weather in the area adds conflict to the story; the weather is an antagonist.

What can you tell us about the book’s plot without giving away the ending?

Hungry for Home is about a homeless teen who mugs a woman, but instead of pressing charges, the woman and her husband take the teen into their home.

You tackle tough, real-life issues in this book: a pregnant teen, a mugging and situations that make the innocent vulnerable. Why did you choose to write this way?
My favorite stories have always been about real-life issues. Even as a teen, the stories I gravitated toward were about runaways, drug and alcohol abuse, and homelessness. So when I write, gritty, real-life stories are what I’m compelled to tell. I love to see how God’s light shines through the darkness, and how He can restore broken people.

Tell us about the “hungry, homeless teen.” What is his name? What was the reason you created this complicated character?

Austin Lang aged out of foster care when he turned eighteen. His life goals are pretty simple: find food and shelter, and protect his younger sister. The idea for Austin came when I read about the staggering number of homeless teens in our county, over seven hundred! Each of those teens are loved by God, each has their own story, and like all people, their stories are complex. Sharing Austin’s story is my way of raising awareness for teen homelessness.

Tell us about your heroine Sheila Peterson-Brooks. Who is she? What does she do for a living? 

Sheila Peterson-Brooks is an executive sales manager for a Minneapolis-based sports distributor. She grew up as the only daughter of an older couple who never showed her love. Once she turned eighteen and was off at college, her parents abandoned her. Seventeen years later her father contacted her wanting to be back in her life. In Hungry for Home, you’ll see her grace toward both parents, in action.

Your book summary says Sheila has a “troubling encounter” with a pregnant teen. What happened? Why was it so “troubling”?

Sheila volunteers at an organization that helps people through unplanned pregnancies. While there, a young, pregnant girl comes in, a foster girl who’s afraid her current foster family will turn her out once they learn of her pregnancy. Sheila’s heart breaks for the young girl and knows she has to do something. Turns out, this girl is the younger sister of the youth who mugs Sheila.

What lesson do you want your readers to learn from reading this story?

To look beyond the façade of the homeless. They are all precious children of God, we just need to see them through His eyes, not our own.

What was the most challenging part of writing Hungry for Home?

The most challenging part was taking a mugger and making him relatable, likable even. It was also a challenge saying goodbye to beloved characters Richard and Sheila Brooks who have been with me through four books.

What is your favorite scene to write in this novel? Explain why.

My favorite scene is one where Sheila is visiting her dying mother in the nursing home. Though her mother never showed her love, Sheila loves her mother by serving her, by giving her a makeover and then washing her feet, all while music from The Messiah is playing in the background. Here, Sheila truly shows a servant’s heart.

What do you hope your readers remember the most about Hungry for Home?
It’s never too late to get involved. Never too late to say “I love you.” Never too late to show a servant’s heart.

Complete this sentence: When I wrote this book, I wanted to raise awareness about teen homelessness because awareness births a willingness to help.

When I wrote this book, I wanted to raise awareness about teen homelessness because awareness births a willingness to help.

Thanks for the interview, Brenda! 

~*~
Author bio:

Brenda S. Anderson writes gritty and authentic, life-affirming fiction. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and is currently President of the ACFW Minnesota chapter, MN-NICE. When not reading or writing, she enjoys music, theater, roller coasters, and baseball, and she loves watching movies with her family. She lives in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area with her husband of 28 years, their three children, and one sassy cat.

Readers can learn more about Brenda S. Anderson at www.brendaandersonbooks.com

~*~
Book blurb (Hungry for Home):

After a troubling encounter with a pregnant teen, Sheila Peterson-Brooks hurries from the crisis pregnancy center into the frigid Minnesota winter where she is mugged and left for dead. After a frantic search, Richard, her husband, finds her, and the police quickly nab the mugger …

A hungry, homeless teen.
The brother of the pregnant girl Sheila had just counseled.

The girl pleads for her brother, and Sheila and Richard choose not to press charges. Instead, they open their home to the boy, a move that could cost them their possessions, and their hearts.

And, in the process, teach them the true meaning of home.

~*~
Connect with Brenda:

Amazon Author Page - amazon.com/author/brendasanderson
Blogs - http://brendaandersonbooks.com/blog/
http://inkspirationalmessages.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BrendaSAndersonAuthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/BrendaSAnderson
Pinterest - http://www.pinterest.com/brendabanderson/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/BrendaSAnders_n
Website - http://brendaandersonbooks.com/