Immersed in God's Love

God is so good. Many years ago, He placed the desire to write in my heart. A dream I pursued on and off for years. More off than on, yet the call never left. Writing can be frustrating, but at it’s best, it’s where I find the “zone.” It’s where joy soars. It’s therapeutic. And best of all, it draws me closer to our Creator.

Don’t ever give up on your dreams. Seek God’s direction and timing, and keep plugging away. I didn’t foresee becoming a Christian writer in those early years of writing, but God had other plans. I didn’t foresee how long it would take to publish a book, but God had lots to teach me.

God-planted dreams are not about pursuing selfish goals that serve ourself. God-planted dreams are about aligning our desires with His. When our plans mirror God’s will for our life, our dreams will likely reach fruition. “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4 NIV).

To realize God-planted dreams, grow your faith, trust God’s timing, and take action. When we commit our dreams to Him, we bring His sovereignty into the journey. God coordinates our plans with His, directs our steps, and fulfills our dreams in ways that glorify Him. “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans (Proverbs 16:3 NIV).

The Write Stuff

“Writing a book is only ten percent of getting it published” weren’t the words I wanted to hear from my multi-published friend after I signed that elusive first book contract.

Onboarding for Immersed: 60 devotions from the beach to wade deeper, dive in, and surf the wave of God’s love has begun. And trust me when I say there is much work ahead before the book even enters the formal editing process.

I covet your prayers that I settle in, work smart, and cross the finish line. I’ve been riding the ocean wave of victory but need to come back to earth and plow. Pray that I keep a thankful and humble heart in the months ahead.

Bringing the Bible To Life

“Drive Thru History: Acts to Revelation”

In preparation for a trip to Greece, we’re studying the footsteps of Paul. Friends told us about this series on Prime Video, and it’s wonderful. We zeroed in on Apostle Paul’s conversion and missionary travels, starting in Episode 3, Acts 8. The host takes us to the actual places Paul traveled while referencing specific Scripture. In some instances, he quotes the verses as they appear on the screen. I follow along in my Bible, and the words I’ve read for years come to life with new meaning like I’ve never experienced.

Do you have a certain book in the New Testament or a specific event you’d like to better understand? Then check out this series. Using visual and auditory modalities in the land where the events happened brings the Bible to life and deepens our learning. This series is researched-based and so interesting! Dave Stotts, the narrator, is goofily engaging and credible at the same time.

The episodes are about 25 minutes, typically highlighting main events in a few chapters per episode. Next, I plan to read through the New Testament starting with “Drive Thru History: The Gospels.”

New Beginnings

Welcome to my new monthly newsletter! For the next several months, I will send a monthly newsletter rather than biweekly posts. Here, I’ll share inspiration, resources, writing news, and giveaways. Many of you are beach or nature lovers, as I am, but above all, you love Jesus and seek the life of abundance He came to give. If you know someone who might enjoy these newsletters, think about sharing.

July Giveaway

Do you play pickleball, or know someone who does? Then you will enjoying this devotional. With 31 inspiring devotions, Jackie Freeman masterfully connects the game’s principles with timeless spiritual truths. I read it as part of my morning quiet time last month and loved it.

I’m giving away a copy! To qualify for the drawing, drop a short comment in the section below. I’ll announce the winner in next month’s giveaway on August 21

Until next time,

Immersed in His Love,

Candyce