"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." – Colossians 3:17
While stranded by a snowstorm in Grand Rapids, Michigan, following my recent spring book tour, I had time to reflect on the many remarkable moments the Lord gave me with my precious fans. To this day, their comments continue to encourage my writing hours.
Here are a few I’d like to share, in hopes that they will inspire your walk with God as well.
I’m remembering the parole officer who shared that my books speak light and hope into the darkness she must work in each day. I think too of the dear woman who carried The Road Home to her MRI appointment, where the curious technician read the first page and is now an avid reader of Bev Lewis books…and a close friend to the woman who had the appointment! One reader opened her heart to Christ after reading The Proving, so impressed by the fictional character’s choice to use her Amish B&B as a ministry—lingering at the breakfast table with her guests and leading many of them to the Savior.
And last, but certainly not least: the grateful grandmother whose little five-year-old grandson had suffered a brain injury and my children’s book, The Stinky Sneakers Mystery, (from the Cul-de-Sac Kids chapter book series) helped keep him absolutely still in bed for five hours straight (per the doctor’s orders). Now that is a first…and to God be all the glory!
Well, I’m beyond thankful for each person who came to the author events during the tour, and to the booksellers, sales reps, and Bethany House’s own amazing marketing team for making it all happen. A special shout out to my tour manager and publicity team—the best!
For those who are curious, I’m doing the edit for The First Love, as well as writing my April 2019 novel, set in Hickory Hollow with appearances from the beloved wise woman, Ella Mae Zook.
I’m praying your springtime is filled with God’s goodness and grace, and a sense of purpose for all that He has in store for you and your dear ones.
Until next time—blessings abundant!
Beverly Lewis
"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." – Proverbs 16:3
As I anticipate my upcoming Spring 2018 Book Tour (for The Road Home), I am reminded that our lives are not our own when we belong to the Savior. His will, His purpose, is our deepest longing. We look to Him for daily guidance in everything we say and do...and plan.
My tour schedule can be seen here, and I request your prayers for divine appointments and His blessing on each person I meet along the way.
At this writing, I have completed revisions for my September novel, The First Love, with the prayer that God will miraculously touch each reader's heart with its compelling themes, as well.
And, as I reflect on what the Lord Jesus suffered for our redemption, the truth that our sins are forgiven is so powerful, so encouraging. To think that our lives can be victorious because of His death on that old rugged cross is a truth to cherish and to remember. Whatever we need—body, mind and spirit—is available through God's amazing grace!
A most blessed Easter, dear reader-friend!
Beverly Lewis
"God doesn't want us to be shy with His gifts, but bold and loving and sensible." – 2 Timothy 1:7
I've been thinking a lot about the gifts our Lord has given to us.
There are gifts of hospitality, compassion and kindness; gifts of art—music, drawing, sculpting, writing. And there are the spiritual gifts, too—discernment, teaching, leadership, healing, mercy, giving, exhortation, prophecy and so on.
I just completed the first draft of my September novel, The First Love, featuring a subplot regarding divine healing. Growing up, I witnessed the healing of many people when the elders of the church were called to anoint the sick with oil and pray, or when an evangelist prayed for the sick in revival meetings. I even saw these miracles during my father's summer tent meetings, as well as my dear mother's healing from terminal cancer when I was a girl. (My book, The Sunroom, chronicles her miraculous healing, from my childhood perspective.)
It's remarkable that we don't hear about this very much anymore here in America, but divine healings are happening in other parts of the world. We're not to be shy about following Scripture, right? So, when I promise to pray for my reader-friends who are in need of healing or encouragement, or other needs, I want to do so with boldness and in love, in faith believing, as the Bible teaches. Prayer is the greatest source in the universe, never forget.
Are we using our gifts for God's glory alone? Are we doing everything in our power to light the flame of our passion for Christ…and to keep it burning for as long as we have breath?
Encouraging you to share your gifts with those who need them most,
Beverly Lewis
"Let all that you do be done in love." – 1 Corinthians 16:14
This month is the so-called "love month." But what if we really set out to love one another, in real time, in real ways? And not only for a single month?
What if we each decided to be the one who loves the most in a relationship? It may seem like a risk, but why not try it? And what about pondering this?—that love does not equal happiness. You undoubtedly know people who say they're splitting up because they are no longer happy.
But isn't love a choice and not a feeling? A commitment to keep a promise—that's what really equals love, right?
So, I'm curious. Do you keep company with people whose relationships you respect? Do you surround yourself with others who are good role models for a loving, life-long relationship?
There are many aspects to the matter of loving well, but the highest and best love is the one God offers—He alone is the great Lover of our hearts...of our very souls. All other loves are a reflection of that best-ever Love.
I'm wishing you a love-month that jump-starts all your months and all the years ahead. I believe your corner of the world will be a brighter and better place for it!
Beverly Lewis