News Release: I’m a Publisher!

I hate to brag, but I’m a publisher for the famous. When people name-drop of who they know or when they praise their own efforts, it’s not attractive. However, I hope you’ll read more and make allowances in my case. Just this once.

This publisher story has a beginning, the ending is still being written. As far as my character in the story, it hasn’t gone to print.

It all started early in 2014. Looking back, I’m not sure how my heart’s voice synced with God’s voice.

A calling to write words with a message of hope. Similar words I’d shared with audiences via public speaking for decades. To share my voice in black and white on paper or an online venue. I had no idea where to begin or how to move forward.

Publisher Dream

I enlisted the help of a writer friend, Dianne, who agreed to mentor me. Dianne’s a seasoned author with years of experience under her belt and published books. In essence, she’s a publisher too (I’ll explain more in a bit). Dianne took me under her wing to show me the ropes. She gave me invaluable writing advice and critiques. She came along side me on the adventure. She’s the gift that keeps on giving in the here and now.

I went to my first conference, Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference, where I connected with other writers, editors, and industry professionals. That same year my first published article appeared in WHOA Women Magazine, October, 2014. Blessed to have published a number of articles and devotions in both print and online media over the last two years.

But. I. Desired. More.

Lord, can I publish a book? Please. I’m looking to the right and to the left. Others have had books picked up by traditional publishers or self-published. I want you to make this happen for me. Okay? 

The Lord reminded me to be obedient to know Him more and make Him known. That’s the voice He’s given me in speaking and writing. Proclaim His message. His Word. His name. Leave the publishing results to Him. Book deal?  It’s under His control.

Publisher Hope

God showed me words in black and white on paper.

A message of hope from a publisher who launched the bestselling book of all time. (Click to Tweet)

The Bible. God’s in the publishing business.

How beautiful upon the mountains

    are the feet of him who brings good news,

who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness,

    who publishes salvation,

    who says to Zion, “Your God reigns” (Isaiah 52:7, ESV). (Emphasis mine.)

Messengers dispersed the news that God’s people would be released from captivity (the Jews from Babylon). They would return to their own land. It was good news.

The best news? They would have peace and be saved. Within the story’s pages, it’s foretold of one who would bring the ultimate salvation and peace to the world (Isaiah 53). I’m going to name-drop here, Jesus Christ.

• Stricken to bear griefs and carry sorrows
• Inflicted for transgressions and iniquities
• Punished to bring peace
• Beaten to extend healing
• Oppressed to offer freedom
• Endured judgement to grant grace
• Slaughtered to give life

Publisher Voice

While I haven’t been published in significant ways, I’m a publisher for one who is significant. My voice brings good news of Calvary’s cross. A story ending with an empty tomb and a risen Savior. A story that’s gone to print.

I’m a messenger dispersing news that God releases people from captivity. I publish peace. I publish salvation. Words for my audiences, readers, and you. A writer who says, “my God reigns.”

The Lord has bared his holy arm

    before the eyes of all the nations,

and all the ends of the earth shall see

    the salvation of our God (Isaiah 52:10, ESV).

I’m a publisher!

What message are you publishing?

 

Visit my writing mentor’s site, Dianne Barker.

© 2016 by Karen Friday, All rights reserved