{I love my kids… front yard PR!}
This was the question that assaulted me this morning when I walked through the doors of the church. It was said in jest with good intention, still and yet, it stuck with me.
All my riches.
How do I begin to measure the bounty that I have known at the hand of God, not just over the past couple of weeks, but the entirety of the past forty-four years? It’s an impossible endeavor to be sure, but one I’m trying to work my way through in this season of my life. We should all take time to pause in order to consistently contemplate our riches. It is the “way” of a grateful heart. And so today I’ve taken that occasion… spent some time reflecting and remembering the riches of God.
How well I remember a December day four years ago when my writing dreams were shattered by a publishing company that had held onto my first manuscript for nearly eight months. It was my first attempt at writing a book, a Bible study on the book of Nehemiah. I was certain it would “hit the mark” with publishers and, for a season, all seemed to be clicking along.
Until that day.
I received a courteous but succinct “pass” on my work, and I was crushed. I still remember my young son standing on the other side of a closed bedroom door, listening to my guttural weeping. Before long, I saw his tiny fingers reaching through the crack at the bottom, clutching in his hand two quarters. After opening the door to his generosity, I asked him regarding those two quarters. His reply?
“I’ll buy your book, mommy. Even if no one else wants to read it, I’ll buy it, and when I’m old enough to read, I’ll read it.”
That day was a turning point for me. My son’s two quarters sealed something in my heart… something I’d known for a long season, yet something I hadn’t allowed myself to believe.
My giftedness with the pen is fueled and maintained by my Father’s heart and kindness toward me. His willingness to use my feeble flesh for his kingdom purposes is far beyond my understanding and doesn’t compute with human reasoning. Still and yet, he allows me a measure of influence along these lines and, therefore, I must write for him alone. His approval is the only one that matters to me. Man’s opinion will come and go, mostly based on the bottom dollar and with a “what’s in it for me” attitude, but God’s opinion isn’t fleeting. It doesn’t come with an expiration date. My words leave a lasting impression upon his heart and in his world, and when those words write otherwise—when I am tempted to offer up a “flavoring” in keeping with trends and statistics and with “what’s selling”—then I forfeit a piece of my soul. The world becomes too important to me, and I lose focus of the truly satisfying and singularly focused passion of my heart…
Knowing God.
As a people in search of a meaningful identity, we spend a great deal of time exploring our “passions,” do we not? We invest our energies into discovering God’s calling upon our lives, God’s will for lives, wearing ourselves out with comparing our lives to that of “so and so” and wondering why his or her fruit is harvesting at a seemingly more rapid rate than ours. Why that person seems to be getting all the breaks while we languish in our desire to do something, be something, live something more than what we’re currently living. We make God’s “calling” regarding our lives a difficult embrace (something our market has hit upon as evidenced by the number of books, seminars, Bible studies written on the topic) when all the while, he keeps it pretty simple.
“Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3).
Knowing God. It’s what I’m about. He’s my passion. He’s my calling. He’s my meaningful identity, and for the time that remains for me on this earth, my pen will write accordingly… about my knowing God and then from that knowing, leading others to know the same. Therefore, I no longer feel the need to chase after the approval of man. It’s nice when it arrives to validate my heart-felt rendering, like when…
My mother takes my book to Curves (her workout establishment) and witnesses other patrons reading the desk copy she’s left there for promotional purposes. When one of those patrons voices her approval by saying, “This is really good; how can I get a copy?”
Or when…
A friend I’ve never met face-to-face from the opposite side of the country sends me an e-mail to let me know she’s spent some time in the “desert” section of the book and that the reflection entitled “a turn toward the better” was just what she needed to hear… “These are words of life, dear heart. They are something one can weep over because of shared pain: different in specific, similar in cost. But more importantly these are fighting words for me. The journey ahead is unclear, but walk it I will. Not at all in the spirit of my own might but in the spirit of the blood of the resurrection bloom. These are words, unusual words, that excite to love and good works.”
Or when…
Another e-mail arrives from a former college friend telling me that a copy of my book (one that her dad insisted on her purchasing last week) arrived on her doorstep just twenty-four hours before he passed from his earthly pain into final heavenly glory and that her heart’s been stuck on pages 84-86, from the “peace in the suffering” section.
Or when…
A church friend makes her way to my side this morning to tell me that, while she knows she’s supposed to be taking her time to absorb each reflection, she couldn’t help but “read on” because, for her, it was like I was talking to her… like we were having a conversation over coffee.
Moments like that; validation that doesn’t necessarily come with the ratings of a New York Times’ best-seller, but validations that matter for all eternity. It stuns me and buoys me along in the journey of grace and for the continuing cultivation of the driving desire and goal of my heart…
Knowing God.
And so, this night I answer the question that assaulted my sensibilities this morning. What am I going to do with all my riches now that I’m famous?
Make God famous and continue to invest his riches into my heart and life so that my pen might flow freely for his good purposes and for his kingdom gain. All other endeavors of my well-intentioned plans fall prey to this one. Therefore, may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart leave a lasting impression upon his heart and within the hearts of his people. To this end, I pray. I pray the same for you. As always…
Peace for the journey,
PS: Thank you, everyone, for your support over the last couple of weeks in regards to the promotion of my book. This week, I’ll be giving away another copy or two of my book to those of you who are willing to support me a bit further by contacting at least five people in your life who’ve yet to hear about “peace for the journey.” Perhaps someone in your e-mail address book, someone in your church, someone in your family, someone in your neighborhood. If you’d be willing to let at least five new people know about my book (and we’re operating on the honor system here), please let me know in the comment section. Please share the video link with your contacts, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdJDjiHzCQI or a link to this post announcing the book, https://www.peaceforthejourney.com/2010/05/peace-for-journey-in-pleasure-of-his.html. I’d be so very grateful for your kindness toward me and toward God’s kingdom agenda for my life. Shalom.
Hi Elaine, Today is my 29th wedding anniversary, I have been so blessed. I just shared your link with 28 people on my email list. Prayed and am believing that someone else will be truly blessed by your book.
Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy.
Cindy
Elaine, I just forwarded both links to 30 friends….spreading the news internationally! 🙂
Oh the riches of knowing Him. My friend, there is just so much about this post that has touched me this night. I love your heart. It beats for Him.
Love ya,
Joy
Hi Elaine!
Congrats on the publication on your book! How exciting!
I just forwarded your link to 8 people who might be interested in purchasing your book!
Congrats again!
Elaine, anyone who picks up your book has a life-changing appointment! What makes you special is your passion for God and your compassion for people. You love with all your heart.
And, you write with all your soul and with a mighty pen! God is blessing you and will bless you.
I've heard that one quality of an excellent writer is the ability to do so with a warm, personal tone. That is you, dear friend! That's why that one spoke to you this morning and said she felt like you were personally talking with her as she read your book.
I appreciate you so much! Somewhere in the seasons of your life God birthed in you a tenacity for his kingdom, and it pierces through my life and the lives of others!
I'll spread the word.
Much love,
Andrea
I will let at least 10-15 know at our ladies' Bible study on Tuesday, and have forwarded your link to numerous people in my email address book. 🙂
I've ordered a book for my mother and myself. If I win one, I plan to give it to someone who truly needs it.
Would love to see you, friend….miss you!
Hugs,
Beth
P.S. Jadon and Amelia melt.my.heart every time I see their sweet faces!
Elaine, I have already let many people know about your book. You do not have to enter me in on the giveaway though. I am sending you a check this week to purchase one from you. But I wanted you to know that I just shed a couple of humongous tears as I just read this post because of the story of your little boy seeing the hurting heart of his momma and reaching out to touch and heal it in any way that he could. Children just amaze me and yours are just darling with absolutely beautiful hearts as well.
To be riches and famous, I use to think it was a perfect combination, always wanting what "so and so" had.
But today,Elaine,(you're so right) it's about knowing God and honoring Him with what gifts He has given you.
Count me in…I'll be sending out the emails today.
love and hugs~Tammy
I have also taken time recently to assess my riches. My relationship with my Lord and getting to know Him better is undoubtedly the most important. But the loving and prayerful support of close friends and family is a treasure beyond measure.
(Looking forward to receiving your book). Donna
P.S. I did e-mail at least 5 friends about the book. I've already ordered one and one to give away, but if I should win a copy I will give it to someone I feel would benefit from it but wouldn't be able to buy it. Thanks Donna
Elaine, this is another reason why I love your heart!
I know you will bless so many people with your book. Your heart is in the right place; in God.
I posted your book video again this morning on my Shalom post on Heart Choices. It went right along with what I was sharing so I couldn't resist. I've had several real life friends tell me they loved your video.
I've shared and continue to share with much more than five people. I got a ride to church yesterday and my friend immediately told me she wants to buy your book after reading about it on Heart Choices.
Elaine, you are doing Kingdom work so keep it up.
Blessings and love,
Debbie
Passing along the link to a few more folks. Tried to find some that might not have seen it on my blog or facebook status. Would love to win a copy of your book! 🙂
Also love the pics of your kids 🙂
Hey Elaine…..you bless my heart so!!
I've already ordered a copy through Amazon (whoo hoo! should get it today!) so would love to win a copy to sow into someone else's life. I've already become your Northern Arizona PR person and will continue to spread the word, dear friend!! He's moving mightily through your heart and pen!! Sooo excited for you!!
He is Faithful!!
Luv, Hugs and Sweet Blessings!
Jackie
With the amazing, creative methods you've used to market your equally amazing book, it's just a matter of time. Just the "buzz" here in cyberspace will result in great things.
I'm sure proud of you, Elaine. What a testimony!
Hugs,
Kathleen
You do have the gift of words… Thank you for allowing GOd to use you in a mighty way.
I'll pass along the info…
Happy Monday!
I will spread the word to 5 more, Elaine.
I could just squeeze and hug your boy for the quarters in his hand for the other book.
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art…
Rejoicing with you in the riches found only in Christ and may the Lord use your offering to bring many to know the hope only He can give…
Congratulations, again!
Hey Elaine! Wanted to let you know that I got my book the other day. Thanks so much! I have skimmed some of it already and… wow! I can't wait to dig into it.
Told a couple of my friends about it too. I love sharing anything new with them.
I'm cheering for you from my position here on the sideline for now. May you always keep your perspective re. the true riches of knowing Him.
The image of your son's little fingers with his love offering for his mama KILLED me…such sweetness…
"Knowing God"…our one true passion…and sharing with others that know God…but especially shining His light to those that NEED to know God…our life's work…
Your book is one of those lights…
Elaine,
Your post today…made me weep because even though our stories are wired differently, I realise that God has purposed for our roads to cross…for a time as this. I promise you…as soon as I move I will get myself a copy of PEACE FOR THE JOURNEY. I will also recommend it to my readers on my blog.
To God be the Glory!
Gladwell
Elaine, great post! I also posted your promo on my facebook and my email contacts. Keep on keeping on! Sooooo glad for your book release and all that God has in store for you!
wifeforthejourney:
What an odyssey it has been from where your writing had its start-
8th grade, I believe?
We are so proud of you for sticking it out until this day. You have provided a treasure for generations to read, and each of our children are living the journey wtih you. Can't wait for the book signing at church tonight!
Love you,
Billy
That's really sweet. Having kids as your greatest fans – what can beat that?
What a beautifully powerful post! First, my heart was touched when you wrote of your disappointment with a "pass" being given on your first manuscript and your son put his little fingers under your door with the quarters…and then with your willingness to continue following your dream. A dream that was obviously placed in your heart by our Heavenly Father. Yes, you are so right…our passion should be in knowing Him, serving Him, and pleasing Him. That is where the true riches are found.
Oh how I enjoyed reading your post today Elaine! What an inspiration! I agree…..I am richer (spiritually) than I ever aught to be because of the wonderful generosity of our God!
Your account of your son offering to give you two quarters for your book was just precious! It brought back a memory from deep in my childhood. I was nine years old. My Mama had had surgery for breast cancer and was taking radiation every day for a month. I overheard her and Daddy talking about how they were going to make ends meet. She was a stay-at-home
mom who did some odd jobs here and there and Daddy was a barber. So things were tight. But I didn't know it until I heard them talking one summer evening sitting outside. I quickly went to my special place and got a silver doller that someone had given me….all the money that I possessed at that time….and took it to my parents. I told them I wanted to help with paying for Mama's treatments. At the time I didn't understand what the tears in their eyes meant….now as a parent myself I do.
Elaine, you'll be getting a check from me in the mail for my autographed copy of your book soon! I can't wait to read it!
Love ya!
Marilyn…in Mississippi
Oh I cry as I read this:) Blessings to you today!
What an total surprise to be holding a copy of your book in my hands this evening! A SIGNED copy, no less! I was speechless when I opened the gift from Donna this morning. I had no idea I was the intended recipient of the "one to give away".
Thanking God tonight for sensitive, thoughtful, and gifted friends.
Elaine,
Decided to take another opportunity and hopefully win one of your books.
I am sharing your link on my blog and with people through email.
Just wanted to let you know.
Sheryl
Elaine… I can't wait to read this book! Thanks for sharing this. It took me years to realize that approval of the flesh will come and go and is about as reliable as the cracked thermometer on my parents back porch. Sometimes it's right on, other times it'll read 50 when we're sweating in tube tops and shorts! 🙂
This was something I needed to hear again this morning! Thanks!
Blessings!!! Lou
Elaine,
I just came over from Laura's blog. Your book sounds great. I was touched by what Laura had to say about you. Being a true friend is a great gift. May GOD bless you and many others through your book.
Blessings and prayers,
andrea
Hello Elaine,
I too have arrived here from Laura's blog.
Thank you for your contagious faith.
Laure
This just in…
my books are in Kentucky. DHL is NOT the fastest shipping company, in case you're wondering.
I'll be having my giveaway as soon as I can. Can't wait friend.
Hey Mrs. Elaine:) That is very true, knowing God should be our focus. I want that to be my goal always too:)
Blessings to you,
katiegfromtennessee
I have been delinquent in reading blogs lately. Some of my dear non-blog friends have needed some one-on-one posts… heart-to-heart… face-to-face… soul-to-soul. And I am joyful to be used… but missed my time hanging out here with you… and wanting to get my check in the mail to get my autographed copy… Well, you know this all too well… June is approaching quickly… excited to be on this journey with you… experiencing His peace on this journey with you. Thank you for sharing your giftings… such an encouragement to read your heart and know your love for the Lord.