Fulfilling your Ministry
“And say to Archippus, “Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you.”
Colossians 4:17
NIV = “complete the ministry”
ESV = “fulfill the ministry”
The Message = “And, oh, yes, tell Archippus, “Do your best in the job you received from the Master. Do your very best.”
“I am writing to Philemon, our beloved co-worker, and to our sister Apphia, and to our fellow soldier Archippus, and to the church that meets in your house.”
Philemon 1:1b-2
Most likely Philemon, his wife Apphia, and their son Archippus. All in the same household.
Imagine one person being singled out at the end of this letter to the Colossians church.
Most scholars see Paul’s admonition to Archippus as simple encouragement, similar to Paul’s exhortations in his epistles to Timothy and Titus.
It’s interesting to note that Paul had never actually visited the Colossians church in person but we can be sure his written words to them made a tremendous impact and continue to do so today.
We are each an Archippus and have a ministry to carry out.
Paul’s encouragement to Archippus and his family should encourage all of us to also “complete the ministry” God has given us.
Kingdom writer, be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Think you need a long weekend or a perfect schedule to finish your book? Think again.
In today’s episode, Shelley shares the simple but powerful writing rhythm that’s helping Christian Book Academy members finally finish their drafts — even in the middle of real life.
If you’ve been stuck waiting for “someday,” this is your permission to stop striving and start showing up — just 15 minutes at a time.
Join us at https://christianbookacademy.com/
Take a step of faith and finally finish your book.
Do you feel stuck when it’s time to market your book? In this episode, Shelley shares how the Book Marketing Multiplier Workshop will give you a simple 3-step framework—Plan → Prompt → Post—to turn your own words into ready-to-share content in minutes. You’ll walk away with emails, posts, and graphics you can use right away, plus a weekly rhythm to keep reaching readers without overwhelm.
👉 Reserve your ticket here: https://authors.thrivecart.com/book-marketing-multiplier/
If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to decide which book to write first… this episode is for you.
In just 5 minutes, you’ll walk through a simple but powerful process to:
✅ Narrow down your book ideas
✅ Choose the breakthrough you’re ready to write about
✅ Find the clarity and confidence to move forward
This is the same process we teach inside our Book Writing Lab workshop — and it’s helped so many Christian writers finally get unstuck and finish their books.
You don’t need to write your entire life story. You just need to start with one message you’ve lived.
🎯 Ready for even more clarity?
Join us in the Book Writing Lab: https://bookwritinglab.com
Still waiting for clarity? Maybe it’s waiting on you.
If you’ve been spinning your wheels trying to choose the perfect book idea, here’s the truth: it’s not about finding the flawless starting point. It’s about obeying the nudge God already gave you and moving forward in faith.
If you’re stuck in overthinking mode, paralyzed by the fear of choosing wrong — this is your invitation to start simple, start small, and start now.
Join us inside Christian Book Academy and take the next faithful step toward finishing your book at https://ChristianBookAcademy.com
Most Christian writers think “longer = better.”
But the data — and reader behavior — tell a completely different story.
In this episode, I’ll show you why shorter books not only get finished but also sell.
You’ll see the Amazon strategy behind it, how readers behave, and what’s working inside Christian Book Academy right now.
Want help finally finishing and publishing your book?
Join us inside https://ChristianBookAcademy.com
Persistent Pests
“Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming!”
Song of Songs 2:15
These little foxes aren’t yet fully grown. Nobody would think a cuddly little fox would be dangerous to have around. They love nothing better than to eat the young grapes before they come out fully. Thus, they wreak havoc on the vines of our walk with the Lord.
Let’s mention 5 of the “little foxes” or persistent pests that ruin some of our fruitful writing before it’s fully ripened…
1.) Sensitiveness or easily offended. It can be a small chip on our shoulder but flare up if we’re not given the respect we desire. It can stifle our creativity in writing and dry up the flow of the Spirit. Pray that we can have the mind and humility of Christ.
2.) Laziness. Too lazy to dig into the Word. Too lazy to spend time in prayer. This also leaks into our writing. The Kingdom Writer cannot afford to compromise in these areas if we expect eternal impact. There’s a cost to those things and also a great reward.
3.) Living in regret. The most powerful 3 words in history were uttered by Jesus while hanging on the cross, “It is finished!” Regret sucks the life out of us and keeps us from moving forward in all that God has for us.
4.) Distraction. Causes us to go down rabbit trails. Social media is the major distraction of our day. One writer calls it “nuggets of nothingness.” Before we know it, we’ve wasted 1-2 hours with nothing to show for it.
5.) Busyness. We fill up our days and weeks with good things. But somehow we fail to set aside scheduled writing blocks. Or when we do, it can easily be cancelled and replaced by something else. It’s not treated as a priority.
The only way to handle these “little foxes” is to kill them. If we don’t, our sweetest, most fruitful writing, like vine-ripened grapes, will not materialize.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Your book deserves more than words on a page—it deserves stories that stay with readers long after they finish the last chapter.
If you’ve ever worried your stories fall flat, feel surface-level, or simply don’t capture the power they held in real life, you’re not alone. Many writers struggle with stories that don’t connect deeply or get forgotten too quickly.
That’s why we created the Stories That Stick workshop. In just 90 minutes, you’ll:
Discover a list of meaningful story ideas you can use right away.
Walk away with one fully outlined story that’s ready to bring to life.
Learn a simple, repeatable framework to craft stories that resonate, connect, and remain unforgettable to your readers.
Because a book shouldn’t just be written—it should be remembered.
Get your ticket here: https://authors.thrivecart.com/stories-that-stick
We are excited to announce that we've published a new book: Rise and Write. Get your copy at the links below.
Rise and Write (Kindle): https://amzn.to/4fFoev2
Rise and Write (print): https://amzn.to/4lntRiI
Forward your receipt to support@trainingauthors.com to claim your prizes
Buy during launch week (Tues–Thurs 9/23/25 - 9/25/25) and get these special launch bonuses:
Plus, you will be entered to win the Kingdom Writers Bundle ($69 value) shipped to your home — mug, tote bag, journal, t-shirt
Do you dream of being a bestselling author?
Have you written a book but have no idea how to sell it?
Can you envision your message in the hands of thousands of readers?
Unlock the secrets to epic book sales with Susan Neal’s book How to Sell 1,000 Books a Month. Whether you’re a new writer or an experienced author looking to elevate your marketing tactics, this book offers a treasure of insights to significantly boost your sales and increase the effective outreach of your unique message.
Susan Neal, an award-winning author and seasoned marketer, condenses years of successful sales and marketing strategies into practical steps that can turn your book into an award-winning bestseller. Learn how to:
This guide doesn’t just tell you what to do—it shows you how to do it, with detailed action plans tailored for both new and veteran authors. From building a robust marketing plan to planning a book launch to navigating the complexities of Amazon ads, Susan covers everything you need to know to reach—and surpass—your book sales goals.
Get a copy of Susan’s new book “How to Sell 1000 Books a Month” here: https://amzn.to/46pG6qy
Author Bio
As a certified writer coach, Susan Neal, RN, MBA, MHS, desires to help others professionally publish and effectively market their divine-inspired message. She is the author of nine healthy living books.
Susan is the CEO of Christian Indie Publishing Association (CIPA), Christian Authors Network (CAN), Christian Indie Awards, and CAN Marketing Awards. She is also the Director of the Blue Lake Christian Writers Conference. You can find Susan at SusanUNeal.com.
Compassion Makes a Difference
When does compassion matter most? It's when it's least deserved. Jesus showed us what it means to have compassion and what difference it makes in the world and for eternity. This is your friendly reminder to be more intentional about viewing the world with a compassionate heart. It makes a difference.
Dak Frederick is an Author Success Coach and has spent hundreds of hours helping writers reach their goals. His clients describe him as patient, humble, and deeply invested in their success. Beyond writing, Dak is a singer and musician who enjoys playing the piano and guitar. He's been joyfully married for almost fourteen years and is a proud father to two girls. Dak is a Retired U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant. He holds a Master's in Counseling from Liberty University, a Bachelor's in Communication from Ashford University, as well as Digital Marketing Certificates from eCornell University. You can connect with him at: www.empoweredtopublish.com
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Dying to Ourselves
How would you answer this question if God asked you…
“If I should hand you a silver platter with one item, what would you like?”
Perhaps the best answer: “Give me your will for my life, O God, with this, there is nothing more.”
S.D. Gordon relates a similar experience, “I sometimes thought, what if God were to say to me: ‘I want to give you something as special as a love-gift; an extra because I love you: what would you like to have?’ Do you know what I thought I would say? ‘Dear God, you choose. I choose what You choose.’
An example of me asking Shelley where she would like to eat. Sometimes she responds, “You choose, I have decision fatigue.” 😂
“He walked away, about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Then an angel from heaven appeared and strengthened him. He prayed more fervently, and he was in such agony of spirit that his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood.” - Luke 22:41-44
Christ died in Gethsemane before He ever died on the cross. Have you been to Gethsemane?
As you and I die to ourselves, our own plans, our own agenda, our own ideas of how our books will turn out, we allow our Father’s will to take place.
The Kingdom writer is willing to die long before they take their last breath.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Ambassadors for Christ
What does being an ambassador for Christ involve? Debra L. Butterfield shows the comparison between a US ambassador and an ambassador for Christ. She outlines the purpose and duties to give us a bigger picture of our work for the Lord. God has given us each a unique message to share with the world as His ambassadors.
Bio: Debra L. Butterfield is the author of eleven books, a freelance editor, former editorial director of CrossRiver Media Group, and a former copywriter for Focus on the Family. https://www.themotivationaleditor.com/
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Clinging
John 20:11-23
Luke 8:2
Jesus’ words to Mary, “Do not cling to me,” were not a rebuke; rather, they were a comfort that He would be around for a little while longer. Mary’s response to Jesus offers us an opportunity to consider whether we really love Jesus. Are His death and resurrection just historical facts to us? Or, like Mary, do we love Him enough to cling to Him and then fulfill the tasks He has given us?
Isn’t it beautiful that the very first person to whom Jesus chooses to appear is not Pilate, not the chief priest, nor Peter or one of the other men, but to a weeping woman with a shady past? And isn’t it exquisite that His first words are not a proclamation of power but a simple, pastoral, and playful question: ‘Why are you crying?’
Mary Magdalene has been referred to as the first apostle to the apostles.
Imagine yourself in that room. How do you feel as Jesus appears? He breaks through locked doors to be with us. He commissions us as His apostles as if we’d never let Him down. He breathes on us and says, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’
Closing prayer:
Holy Spirit, breathing deeply now, I receive You joyfully. I relinquish my sense of inadequacy and receive again Your commission to go out through these locked doors, to proclaim that You live, to make disciples, and even to forgive their sins in Your name. Amen.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Called
When did you first feel the nudge to write?
Since then, have you ever asked yourself these questions…
Am I really called to write? Did I hear God wrong? There are so many other gifted writers out there already. Why should I even bother?
God does not limit His message to a select few. We each offer something unique because we are created uniquely in His image.
Four Things that confirm our calling to write:
1.) We have a story to share with others.
“Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he did for me.”
Psalms 66:16 NLT
2.) The words we write are a light that shines for Christ.
“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
Matthew 5:16 NLT
3.) The words we write can outlive us and impact those who come behind us.
“Let this be recorded for future generations, so that a people not yet born will praise the Lord.”
Psalms 102:18 NLT
4.) There will simply never be enough books written that seek to magnify Jesus.
The market cannot be too flooded or saturated with books that lift up Jesus.
“Jesus also did many other things. If they were all written down, I suppose the whole world could not contain the books that would be written.” - John 21:25 NLT
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Expert Edition - Five Clear Indicators it's Time to Quit and Start Fresh
Knowing when it’s time to quit a venture can be tough to determine. In this episode I'll share how to know when it's time to say goodbye to a season via 5 clear indicators. If you’re contemplating a pivotal shift or quitting something to start something new, this episode is for you.
My freebie is the Next Steps Chapter & Journaling Guide
Paid offer: My book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose
About the Author
Ruthie Gray is a wife, Gigi, and author, and hosts retreats for empty nest entrepreneurs to determine their next steps in business. Her hobbies include Florida beach walks, RV-ing with hubby, and singing ‘70’s tunes in the pool. Ruthie hosts her own podcast, is the author of Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose, and contributor for the compilation, This Reimagined Empty Nest. Connect with her on Instagram or her website at ruthiegray.com
Website: ruthiegray.com
Newsletter download: The Peaceful Mom Collection
Instagram: ruthie_gray_author
Podcast Recording: 5 Clear Indicators it's Time to Quit and Start Fresh
Forever Friends
A forever friend is someone who is a close and important part of your life, and with whom you share a deep connection.
Characteristics of a forever friend:
- Unconditional acceptance: They accept you for who you are, and don't judge you
- Support: They help you through difficult times, and encourage you to love yourself & others.
- Communication: You share your thoughts and feelings with each other
- Conflict resolution: You work together to resolve conflicts and talk about sensitive topics.
Isaiah 41:8-10 V. 8 referenced in James 2:23 John 15:13-16 Implications of this for us as Kingdom Writers
David & Jonathan’s Forever Friendship
1 Samuel 18:1, 3-4 2 Samuel 1:25-26
The Robe
Jonathan gave David his robe to symbolize that he was giving David the right to succeed him to the throne.
The Sword
Jonathan gave David his sword to symbolize that he was entrusting David with his authority and means of defense.
The Bow
Jonathan gave David his bow to symbolize that he recognized David's role as a warrior chosen by God.
The Belt
Jonathan gave David his belt to symbolize that he was equipping David for the challenges ahead.
Jonathan's actions also showed that he loved David as his own soul. He took the initiative to establish a foundation for their relationship.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Expert Edition - Harness the Power of Prewriting and Brainstorming
Ever stare at a blank page, wondering where to start? You’re not alone! Before the words start flowing, the real magic happens in the pre-writing and brainstorming phase. In this episode, we’re diving into powerful strategies to spark creativity, organize your thoughts, and build a strong foundation for your writing—without the overwhelm.
I’ll walk you through practical techniques like journaling, free-writing, mind mapping, and the “book sketch” method to help you move from scattered ideas to a clear, inspired vision. Whether you’re writing a book, blog, or devotional, these tools will bring clarity, confidence, and consistency to your writing process.
stephanie@butterfly-beginnings.com : Email me with the subject "transformation tale" to receive your copy of the transformation tale with a pre-filled example.
https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemillercoach/ : DM me "transformation tale" to get your copy!
https://www.butterfly-beginnings.com/freebie grab the guide to stop self-sabotaging your writing life!
About the Author
Stephanie Miller is a multi-published author, speaker, and certified Spiritual Growth Coach and Writing Coach with a heart for inspiring Christian women to reach their full potential. She regularly teaches workshops, speaks at events and has been featured on over 50 podcasts (and counting). Previous published works include The Butterfly Blueprint and several multi-author books. Through her coaching, she has helped many aspiring writers overcome their fears and develop their craft while also growing in their faith.
Stephanie enjoys indulging her creative side with painting watercolor and staying active by chasing her three young children around. She and her family live outside of Nashville, Tennessee, along with their two mini-goldendoodles. Connect with her at www.butterfly-beginnings.com, stephanie@butterfly-beginnings.com, and follow her on Instagram and Facebook @stephaniemillercoach.
Overcoming Impossible
“I slipped out during the night, taking only a few others with me. I had not told anyone about the plans God had put in my heart for Jerusalem. We took no pack animals with us except the donkey I was riding. After dark I went out through the Valley Gate, past the Jackal’s Well, and over to the Dung Gate to inspect the broken walls and burned gates. Then I went to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but my donkey couldn’t get through the rubble.” Nehemiah 2:12-14
-In chapter 2, we read of 43 different groups who took responsibility for a section of the wall. It starts and finishes at the Sheep gate. -2 1/2 miles of wall which translates to 13,200 feet
Expect Opposition
“Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, saying in front of his friends and the Samarian army officers, “What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they’re doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a single day by just offering a few sacrifices? Do they actually think they can make something of stones from a rubbish heap—and charred ones at that?” Tobiah the Ammonite, who was standing beside him, remarked, “That stone wall would collapse if even a fox walked along the top of it!” Nehemiah 4:1-3
Expect Fatigue
“Then the people of Judah began to complain, “The workers are getting tired, and there is so much rubble to be moved. We will never be able to build the wall by ourselves.”” Nehemiah 4:10
Expect to finish with God’s help
“So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.” Nehemiah 6:15-16
-What should have taken 10 years to finish, was completed in a mere 52 days. -Hard work by the people + God’s divine protection and empowerment = a victory every time. -There is power in a Spirit-led community of believers-in our case Kingdom Writers-coming together to rebuild what the enemy has broken down.
This is how we overcome impossible!
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Expert Edition - Writing a Faith-Based Memoir
Having just completed my writer's memoir, I have been amazed at how the process strengthened my faith and thankfulness to God for what He has done in my writing life. I would love to engage with writers who would like to write this kind of memoir, and/or those who have a similar story to share.
As a small thank you for listening today I’d like to offer you a Free download of my devotional book, Spur of the Moment. Please use coupon code - QGKBB
I am also offering a 20% discount on my 5-week Writing Devotionals of Distinction Course. Please email me at vinemarc@telus.net for more details.
About the Author
Marcia Laycock currently has 16 books available on Amazon, including contemporary adult novels, fantasy novels for middle grade readers, devotional books, a book of Christmas stories, a children’s picture book, and most recently, Pond’rings, a writer’s memoir. Find her at https://marcialeelaycock.com and https://marcialeelaycock.substack.com
Useful
Luke 1:5-17
Out of all the thousands of Levites serving in the Temple in the First Century, Zechariah is one of the only ones we know by name.
God knew where to find Zechariah. God does not require that we have a big, flashy, well-known life to be significant to Him.
All that matters is what He sees, what He thinks, and how He is pleased with our lives.
This is not a flashy, outgoing couple. They are dutifully behind the scenes in their lives. Zechariah and Elizabeth were just a tiny, almost insignificant part of a community of thousands of Levitical priests, grouped into 24 teams that took their turns on duty at the Temple of God.
Zechariah was one of 24,000 priests who served 2 weeks each year by rotation. An an aged man, it was a supreme honor given once in a lifetime to serve at the altar of incense.
The incense was offered daily before the morning sacrifice at about 9am, and after the evening sacrifice about 3pm in the afternoon. It was probably the evening offering that was assigned to Zechariah.
Application: God knows your address. You can be plain, unknown to most people in the world, never achieving public fame, live as an ordinary person, having a nondescript life and still be living a Spirit-filled life, useful to God.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands and wondering when you’ll ever find time to write? In this episode, I share three practical strategies to help you carve out consistent writing time—no matter how busy your season feels. You’ll learn how to shift your mindset, block small chunks of time like non-negotiable appointments, and create accountability to stay on track.
Your words matter, and God can multiply even the smallest moments when you take a step of faith. Whether you’re starting fresh or picking up where you left off, this episode will equip you to make real progress on your book this year. Plus, I’ll share how you can join our free Writing Week challenge for the accountability and encouragement you need to keep going.
Listen in, take that first step, and trust God with the journey. Your book has a purpose—and it’s time to begin.
Desert
At some point in our lives, we will find ourselves in the desert. A place of heat and barrenness. We’re talking about the Mojave or Sahara in July, not Palm Springs.
The word desert is the Hebrew word “midbar” which comes from the root word “dabar” meaning “to speak.”
The Lord speaks to us in those desert places. It’s where everything we rely upon for comfort is stripped from us. Things we thought we needed but realized we didn’t. Things that may have kept us from hearing God speak.
Deserts aren’t comfortable. But deserts can be very educational. Not all of our deserts are the same. For some, it might look like caring for a loved one for a long time. For others, it might be dealing with an extended illness. Or perhaps financial challenge. Or a season of no writing productivity. Maybe a season of depression. A divorce, death of a spouse, a season of one rejection after another where you can’t seem to win for losing. Maybe moving to an area where you don’t know anyone.
Deuteronomy 32:10-12
Where is God when we find ourselves in a desert? Initially, we feel alone, forgotten, and vulnerable.
What if we placed our own names there in verse 10?
God does 4 things when He places us in a desert:
He surrounds us
He watches over us
He guards us (like the pupil of His eye)
He guides us (He alone)
Moses was a man acquainted with the desert. Interesting that the Lord put Moses in a desert for 40 years before putting him in another desert as the leader of God’s people where they wandered for 40 years.
Deuteronomy 8:2-5 - We learn what we’re truly made of in the desert. The Lord doesn’t place us in the desert to ruin us. He does it to refine us.
Moses went from being advanced in hieroglyphics and Egyptian sciences, one of Pharaoh’s elect to tending sheep in an obscure part of the desert. Talk about humility 101!
Each of our deserts will look a little different but serve the same purpose of humbling & refining us to be more effective Kingdom writers.
Resources:
If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book we have a few ways we can help you.
1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15-Minutes a Day
Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing.
Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week.
2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes
If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90-minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book.
3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy
Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you partner with God to write your book so you can become a published author. Finally, ditch your self-doubt and take a step of faith so you can finish your book.
Join Christian Book Academy (coupon code PODCAST)
Get 50% off your first month by using the coupon code PODCAST at checkout.
Join Me for a Free Live Training! Add it to your calendar here: https://www.addevent.com/event/LP24300245
📆 Tuesday, January 7th at 1 pm Eastern (10 am Pacific, 11 am Mountain, noon central)
Topic: “Beyond the Book: How to Build Bridges and Spark a Ripple Effect With Your Message”
In this live training, you’ll learn about:
✅ The Mosaic: How your book is the first piece of a bigger picture God is creating through you.
✅ The Ripple Effect Plan: How even one simple step can amplify your book’s reach and bless more lives.
✅ 3 Simple Steps to Create offers that naturally guide readers back to your book.
### Why Show Up Live?
✨ You’ll leave with a clear, actionable Ripple Effect Plan for your book—a simple blueprint to multiply your message without feeling overwhelmed.
✨ Live Q&A: Get your questions answered in real-time so you can confidently take the next step.
✨ Clarity and Confidence: You’ll finally see how to expand your impact while honoring the message God has entrusted to you—without overcomplicating it.
God gave you this message for a reason. This training will help you take the next faithful step to serve your readers and unlock the greater story He’s still writing.
**
📆 Save the Date and Add It to Your Calendar Now: https://www.addevent.com/event/LP24300245
If you can't make it live the replay will be posted here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_MxZkAom1Yk_s-6_cSYFLndXZpQqn3xwxwAwar6M-Zg/edit?tab=t.0