Blog Book Tour

To kick off my blog tour for A to Z Devotions for Writers, I wanted to start right here at 1st Writes. So many in this group helped me with the developmental, copy, and final editing of the book that it is only natural for me to want to begin here with a sample of what you will discover within the beautiful covers of A to Z Devotions for Writers. (available from Amazon)

K is for Kindred: Writing Buddies

“People learn from one another just as iron sharpens iron.” –Proverbs 27:17

Read: Romans 15:14

With whom do you share kinship--that special connection stemming from like-minded beliefs and interests? My kindred spirits, (as Anne of Green Gables would call them), not only write, but share my Christian faith.

I found Christian kinship in my www.Ed2Go.com creative writing courses. Many fellow believers gravitate there, striving to become better scribes for Jesus. In “Write Your Life Story”, classmates shared personal needs and prayer requests. Encouragement flowed from one writer to another. In this nurturing environment, everyone’s writing blossomed and flourished.

I enjoyed a similar experience during a recent blogging challenge. Kindred spirits humbly admitted their vulnerabilities, boldly proclaimed the Good News about Jesus, and excitedly shared how they saw God working. Through comments, we cheered each other on and ended up developing lasting friendships.

Without a doubt, Christian writers’ groups have provided the best place for me to gather with kindred spirits. I love the motivation to write, the encouragement to hone my craft, and the helpful critiques that I have received there. Local writers’ groups afford the opportunity to meet face-to-face, forge friendships, and arrange to gather outside of the group meetings.

God’s Word sheds light on why it is so important to gather with Christian writers:

• It is a place where we can receive correction for our work. (Proverbs 28:23)
• Two working together is more efficient than one. (Ecclesiastes 4:9)
• Jesus is present. (Matthew 18:20)
• We can encourage and help one another. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
• We can share the fellowship of faith. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for those who share my passion for writing and my love for you. Help me to encourage and challenge my fellow writers as we travel this path together. Amen.

Writing Application: If you are not yet involved with a Christian writers’ group, write 100 words about why you need to find one. Then search the Internet, call local libraries, and scan the community events page of your newspaper for opportunities to gather with Christian writers.

1st Writes would love to read your comments about the positive influence a writer's group has had on your writing life!