What would you do with $1,000.00?

Ever daydream about spending some big bucks? How about with a specific qualifier of where it’s spent? I thought I would have a little fun with this question at my blog. Come weigh in with your answer at http://sallyswords.braveblog.com/entry/45413

Return from CLASS

Just nine short weeks ago, I stepped off of the airplane in Albuquerque, New Mexico for the CLASS (Christian Leaders and Speakers Seminars) Christian Writers’ Conference. The learning curve I entered took my breath away! And that is a good place to be, so that the breath of the Holy Spirit may have free reign within!
We had daily devotions at Ghost Ranch and were constantly challenged to rethink our approach to the Throne. Do I ask God to bless what I’m writing, or do I ask Him to write His words through me? Although both ways sound very religious, it can be such a fine line between self-serving and God-serving. Craig von Buseck challenged us with this thought: God gave us the first and greatest commandment, to love God, and then to love your neighbor as yourself. But we tend to have it backward; we do ministry first, and then go to meet with the Lord! I have been challenged anew to truly learn how to pray.
Another surprise at the Ranch was the camaraderie among the writers. I did not expect it to be cut-throat at a Christian Conference, but I was hardly prepared for the kinship that would happen! I found people who were in love with the Lord and bent on serving one another. Conversation flowed around the dinner table and people found common themes in writing. We were encouraged to find out that we’re on the right track!
The workshops were top-notch. We learned about sequencing, story-telling, marketing, dealing with tough topics, editing, queries, publishing and social-networking. We asked questions, brainstormed within groups and batted around story angles. Publishers, editors and conference leaders handed out trade secrets, gave survival tips and encouraged us to write for change. They talked about the new generation of readers and how to approach an evolving culture. They talked about the implications of The Great Commission, and how our writing should communicate God’s Word in clear language.
If you haven’t guessed by now, I had a great time, and am completely sold on the importance of retreating in order to regroup! Your work depends on it!
I leave with you the challenge I received at Ghost Ranch: write from the depth. Spend time with the Lord first, fill up your cup with Him, then plan ministry from the overflow. The Lord is calling you deeper; walk with Him. He wants to use you to reach people!
May you be blessed, as you seek to be a blessing!
Sally

Exciting News!

I’m ready to launch my new ebook, and by being on my mailing list, you are privy to this opening special! For 24 hours, you are eligible to receive “How to Plan a Women’s Retreat” at 25% off! After 5 pm Sunday, January 10, 2010 it will go to full price at $9.00. Are you interested in this special deal? Then go to http://www.sallyferguson.net/retreat%20resources.html

Sally Ferguson

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