Society labels them as Stars. Aren’t these the role models, the trend setters, the scholarship winners, and the bold headliners? Aren’t these the truly successful players in life? All the rest? Just garden variety. But what does God say about that? And what if you’re not one of the stars? Where do you fit in God’s lineup?

Garden Variety Players

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. – 1 Corinthians 12:27

For years, Daron dreamed of playing basketball. He practiced daily after school.

His dad bought a backboard and goal, and together they shot hoops in the driveway.

In his freshman year of high school, Daron failed to make the basketball team. Discouraged but refusing to quit, he kept practicing and attended all the games. He hung around after school and watched the guys practice. In his sophomore year, Daron tried out again. This time he made the team but sat on the bench most of the year. But he kept on practicing.

As a junior, Daron finally got his break and became a regular on the starting lineup. Although he could hit 75 percent of his shots, the coach rarely changed the rules: “Get the ball to Jim–as much as you can.” Jim was the star of most games. He won the Most Valuable Player every year for three years and received a complete scholarship to a nearby college.

Daron expected no scholarship. After all, he was just a garden variety player. One day a coach from a prestigious university out of state called him, offering him a full scholarship.

“Why would you want me?” Daron asked.

“We’ve watched videos of you and your team in action, and we’re impressed with your team skills. Lots of guys can be a star. But it takes a team–and a team player–to win successive games.”

We may feel like “garden variety” Christians, being used in only small ways. We wonder how we could make a difference. But God is not in the business of recruiting “star” players. What He wants is a faithful heart, willing to serve Him as Heaven’s team player.

1 Rebecca Barlow Jordan, “Garden Variety Players,” Copyright 2002 Cook Communications Ministries, In the Garden with God by Honor Books. Used with permission.  May not be further reproduced. All rights reserved.

What about you? Writer? Mom? Grandparent? Executive? Teacher? Student? Office Clerk? We’re all team players to God! No matter who you are or what you do, it’s not whether you’re the best, but that you’re faithful in what you do for Him! Please share your comments below.

These are not all you need, but without these keys, you may never open the door to successful writing.

If you are new to this blog, let me review the three-fold subjects I try to include from time to time:

1. Encouraging Devotion/Inspiration
2. Relationships
3. Writing

The overall umbrella purpose of every devotional or blog post of mine is to bring encouragement to you, the reader. Until now, I’ve not addressed the subject of writing in my blogs. Today, and in future posts, I’m adding the third subject, writing, into my posts. But I hope you’ll find the principles in all of my blogs can apply to a variety of needs–no matter who you are or what you do. Ultimately, my desire is to encourage you in your relationship with God and with others–and to help you discover purposeful and joyful Christian living.

What Are the Three Keys to Successful Writing?

Key #1 – Patience

Just as in life, writing includes seasons. Most of us crave Springtime: when ideas bloom; editors love your writing; you sign contracts; and readers buy your work. You may think “paying your dues” applies to newbies, not a creative genius like yourself. After all, won’t social media and/or a good agent push your first-time creation to the top?

Maybe, maybe not. (Probably not). Patience includes waiting (and sometimes wading) through all the seasons of writing: Fall, a time for change and reflection, “breathing in,” so you can experience the harvesting of ideas and “breathing out” later. Writing also includes Winter, a season to let your ideas simmer, and maybe even die, so they can spring up later with “new life.” And Summer, a time for resting, or even celebrating the successes God has given.

Then what is the season of actual writing? It’s always the season of writing–whether you’re thinking, praying, journaling, working another job, or raising a family. Writing is not just pounding out 1000 words a day to reach a goal. Successful writing involves all of the above “seasons.” Pause. Rest. Reflect. Breathe in. Breathe Out. Write. Rewrite. Celebrate. Pause, Rest….Writers with no patience may try to circumvent a season, but few realize the fruits of their labor without them.

Key #2 – Persistence

Persistence is similar to patience, yet different. Waiting sounds more passive. But persistence infers action. Instead of papering your wall (or filling your inbox) with rejection notices, keep writing. Write something new, or rewrite what you’ve already written. Learn when to “hold em’” and when to “fold em.’” Never give up on a good idea, always editing, reorganizing, changing it in some way until it’s marketable–if possible. But when your creation needs a funeral, bury it and move on.

I know a little about persistence in writing. Early in my attempts at writing greeting cards, I netted 1000 rejections–in one year. I learned the hardest way–through trial and terror–which I don’t necessarily recommend. But I loved writing so much, I kept accepting new challenges and attempted to write whatever product an editor needed.

In time, God graciously allowed me to write the passion of my heart through hundreds of greeting cards and numerous other inspirational pieces, including 11 published books, one which made the CBA Bestseller list, one that was rejected 11 times, and two that sold over 100,000 copies. God has been faithful and has given me persistence. And I’m still learning.

Ask any successful writer about persistence. Novelist Gina Holmes has tasted its fruit, as have many others. For those whom God truly calls to write, giving up is not an option. Listen to God and learn from others. And then follow Winston Churchill’s advice: “Never, never, never, never give up!”

Key #3 – Perspiration

Some writers wait for the perfect idea to hit before writing. I’ve talked to some of those writers. They’re still waiting. That’s not the kind of patience I referred to in Key #1. I believe every truly good idea is God-inspired. We can do nothing of ourselves. But God usually gives us ideas in their raw form–like a lump of clay waiting to be shaped into something beautiful and usable–along with the skills or the help to accomplish that. Successful writers must work hard at their craft like anyone else. Like most creative work, successful writing is more like 10% inspiration, and 90% perspiration.

So write. When? Write now. Write with patience. Write with persistence. And write with perspiration.

What About Passion?

Notice I didn’t include passion as a key. That’s because in writing, passion is a given.  I know of few successful writers who lack passion of some kind. It may be the passion to express themselves, the desire to be heard, or the dream of becoming famous. Anyone can express themselves in some way; some will be heard; and a few will taste fame.

But those who write with “fire in their bones,” like the passion of Jeremiah, are the ones who “can’t not write” no matter how many rejections they receive. Fueled by a cause, a message, the sheer beauty of creating, and the Supreme Author Himself–to these, passion is not an option or a key. It’s their motive. These are the ones who believe in the three keys above as well. They may not achieve stardom, but they understand that true success is simply hearing God’s “Well Done.”

And after all, isn’t that what really matters?

“Do not neglect your gift…Be diligent…give yourself wholly…so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life…closely. Persevere…” I Timothy 4:14-16 NIV

Related Posts

Seven Reasons for Not Blogging

What about you? Share your thoughts below about the keys to successful writing, and help encourage another writer!

Children in Peru

Last Sunday, my husband was speaking at a church nearby. The people invited us to stay for the dinner that would follow. When I saw someone haul out a large basket and place it at the exit into the hallway, I wondered if maybe they were planning for an unusually large offering.

But after the ending “Amen,” of the service, everyone started taking off their shoes and socks and putting them in that basket. That’s when we knew this would be a dinner unlike any we had ever attended. God was preparing us for some barefoot blessings.

Enough Shoes

We had viewed a short video clip moments earlier which clued us to what would soon follow. One of the most glaring facts shared: “The average American woman has 27 pairs of shoes in her closet.”

After removing our shoes, we followed others through the dimly lit hallway to the fellowship hall. But instead of walking barefoot on a cool tile or carpeted floor, we had to maneuver through an uncomfortable walkway filled with dirt and pebbles. Ouch! We heard several complaining as we all crunched barefoot through the littered hallway to our prepared dinner. Hmm.

Enough Food

Once we arrived at the fellowship hall, someone handed each person a small bowl half-filled with vegetable soup, a bite-sized chunk of bread, and a cup of water without ice. No utensils. No napkins. And no air conditioning. On a Texas day outside where you could probably fry an egg on the sidewalk, at almost 105 degrees, the heat inside that room rose rapidly.

The bread worked as a semi-useful utensil for a few bites. But after that, we had a challenge. Have you ever tried to make your tongue a spoon when you’re scooping up vegetables into your mouth? When we finished, another instructed us to scrape out anything left in the bowl, discard our cups, and wash our bowls. Two large communal tubs and a dishrag sat on a table at the front where we lined up to wash and rinse our bowls. A jar on the counter held dollars and dimes–anything we wanted to contribute.

A Live Demonstration

Not exactly a feast. But then neither is it a banquet for hundreds of preschool children daily in Africa. A children’s leader explained the reason for our meal and the surrounding atmosphere. Instead of just teaching about missions, the church was demonstrating the only meal that a typical African preschool child would eat in a day–and the conditions involved. Most have no shoes.

The money given that day would buy supplies for a particular preschool in Africa the leaders had designated. Did you know it only takes an average of twenty-nine dollars a year for a typical African child to attend preschool, where they are fed one small bowl of soup? I wondered if that included shoes. Probably not.

We left filled with barefoot blessings–not full with food, but with the assurance that God was there that day–and with a new awareness that we have so much–too much. And that we all can share more.

Enough Opportunity

What can you do to help those in need, particularly children? The opportunities are endless, even here in our own country. If you need a few suggestions, To Every Nation is a wonderful organization that ministers to numerous people groups overseas. One of those is an orphanage in Peru. Samaritan’s Purse is another well-known ministry that touches children around the world. Children in Iowa, led by a Christian couple, have learned they can make a difference to combat hunger in the world.

Can’t find the extra to share? Here’s a place to start:

Finding the Extra to Share

God says we have enough! Enough for our own needs (I suspect most of us move way beyond that) and more than enough to share with others. He is able to provide all of that.

I think it’s time for me to give away some shoes in my closet.

“God loves it when the giver delights in the giving. God can pour on the blessings in astonishing ways so that you’re ready for anything and everything, more than just ready to do what needs to be done.” 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 The Message

What about you? Share your comments below. What can you do to encourage a child today? What can you do or give away to make a difference? Share your creative ideas with us.

Apparently some think so.  Does the research lie about kids? Read on and decide for yourself.

And then join in with your comments below for an interesting discussion. Today, YOU are part of this blog.

Recently in my local beauty salon, I scanned an article in the September issue of Family Circle magazine that definitely got my attention. The title? “Pretty Little Liars.” Here’s the article:

“Caught your tween lying through her teeth? Twisting the truth may be a sign of intelligence. Just about all kids between 2 and 12 do it–a good thing, say recent studies. The better the fibber, the greater the cognitive abilities and chances of success as a grown-up.

“‘It’s a developmental milestone, not a sign that a child will turn into a pathological liar,’ says University of Toronto researcher Dr. Kang Lee.

“Sure. But for now, yours is not only busted–she’s grounded.” (“Pretty Little Liars, Inner Circle, Family Circle Magazine, September 2010 issue.)

Hmm. Are children smarter who lie? What about parents who lie? Are they smarter, too? Before you respond–or react–you can read A Further Look and discover more about the “research” in the following posts: (Then read on and comment below)

A Further Look

Survival of the Fittest: Why We Lie So Well

Lies My Parents Told Me

Learning (Not) to Lie

What do you think? Are children who lie, smarter and more successful? Where do you as a parent turn to for answers? Are you truthful with your kids? What kind of advice are you believing as truth? Where do parents go to find wisdom in parenting?

What biblical truths can you find to respond to the above questions and research? For starters, try Proverbs. Who can share some biblical principles with us? How does God feel about this subject? (Try Proverbs 6:16-19). Share your comments below!

Related Posts

 Ten Ways to Encourage Children, Grandchildren, and Graduates

 A Challenge to You, Mother, for Your Children

Extravagant Love

A Mother’s Creed: Ten Affirmations for Raising Children 

 For Moms: A Bird’s Eye View of Motherhood

 Motherhood–Pleasure or Pain?

COMFORTER

And I will pray the Father,

and he shall give you another Comforter,

that he may abide with you for ever.

John 14:16 KJV

From the Father’s Heart

My child, I know when your heart is breaking, when you’ve said good-bye to the last dream of your heart. I’m here for you, and I will hold you as long as you need to rest in My arms. My Spirit is ever present as the Comforter to speak peace to your heart and soul. In every sorrow, and for every tomorrow, I will be there. No one else can make that promise to you.

A Grateful Response

Lord, I never need to look farther than the comfort of Your arms. There You wait for me with expectant heart, longing for my fellowship. How many times I’ve felt Your strong arms and quiet whispers to my aching heart! Where else could I turn? Lord, You are my Comforter.

Simple Truth

Just when we think all hope is gone, Jesus fills our hearts with song.

(c) 2002, Rebecca Barlow Jordan, Daily in Your Presence, All Rights Reserved.

When and how has God been that Comforter for you? Please use the comment section below and share your thoughts with us.

Related Blogs

When Your Heart Is Breaking by Tom Norvell

The Perfect Storm by Mary Southerland

God Is Present in Dark Times by Dr.Charles Stanley

What’s in a Name?

“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” John 14:13-14

Choosing the Name

When my husband and I learned we would soon be grandparents, we casually discussed with our children what the grandkids might call us. I ruled out some common names like “Grandma,” “Grandmama,” “Granny,” and “Grandmommy,” since they reminded me of my own or my husband’s grandparents and great-grandparents.

My girls agreed. So I suggested “Mimi,” and my husband selected “Papa.” They just sounded good together.

No-no Names

Somewhere in the discussion my husband announced some no-no names: Forget about “Pe-po,” “Po-Po,” or “Paw-Paw.” Or “Me-ma,” I added for myself. By this time, we were on a roll. Then Larry remembered one more name from an old Jimmy Stewart rerun where Jimmy’s grandkids called him “Boom-paw.”

“Whatever you do, don’t call me Boom-paw.”

Big mistake.

Boom-paw?

As the birth date grew closer, one of our sons-in-laws decided to have some fun. Every e-mail and card began with “Dear Boom-paw.” Mercifully, however, the name began to fade, and my son-in-law used it only occasionally. The four grandkids have stuck to “Mimi.” But Papa didn’t win out completely. Our “boom-paw” son-in-law’s second child, Lauren, pronounced her own version of Papa’s name. He promptly became “Pop-pops” to her.

Your Choice or Theirs?

I’ve talked to other grandmoms about the origin of their names. Many, like me, chose them. Some children stated their preference without giving the grandparents a choice. But a large number of women live with the nicknames their grandchildren called them early on. I imagine that’s where all those, um, “unique” names originated. Eager to pronounce the name for the one they loved, little tongues started calling them an affectionate title long before they understood the meaning. Their motive was, no doubt, love. And in reality, we as grandmoms don’t mind at all.

I thought about that recently. What’s in a name? Why had I chosen “Mimi”? Larry really couldn’t have cared less what the kids called him, even if it was “Boom-paw.” But I wondered about my real motive in choosing my name. “Mimi” sounded younger, more modern, and somehow not as “old” sounding as some old-fashioned names. Perhaps it was my way of rebelling at the realization I was growing older.

Making It Personal

But whatever the initial motive, that name has become strangely personal. When my grandchildren approach me, they are still young enough to run to me in childlike innocence and adoration: “Miiiiiimiiiiiii!” as they throw eager arms around my neck. At the pronouncement of my special name, my heart melts. There are other women named “Mimi.” But my grandchildren’s name for me is different, because they know me personally. At that moment, I think I would do anything for my grandchildren.

The Meaning Behind a Name

What’s in a name, really? Apparently a lot, according to God’s Word. Throughout Scripture, God’s name was to be spoken reverently, with a holy hush. When God sent his Son, Jesus, that name would open up the way to a personal relationship with God. We could then “come boldly unto the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16).

Knowing about Jesus and really knowing him personally are two different things. When Jesus said, “Ask in my name,” he didn’t mean you could wrap your finger around God’s heart hoping to receive any selfish desire. He was referring to the power of that personal name.

When we run to Jesus with open arms of adoration and faith, when we cry out his name because we know him personally, God will do anything on our behalf that will ultimately bring glory to him. The name of Jesus literally moves heaven to earth.

It’s all in the Name.

DAY-BREAK

How do you approach God? Do you know Jesus personally? Write down what his name really means to you.

DAY-BRIEF

At the name of Jesus, all of heaven stops to listen.

DAY-VOTEDLY YOURS

Jesus, your name means so much to me. How many times have I cried to you, and you have answered me?  May I never take your name for granted, Lord Jesus. I really want to know you even more.

(c) 2010, Rebecca Barlow Jordan, Day-votions™ for Grandmothers, Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, Used by Permission, All Rights Reserved. (Subheadings in story added here for emphasis, not in original manuscript).

What about you?

Please use the comment section below and tell me the origin of your grandparent name. Who named you? Why that choice? How has that name become personal to you? How has the name of Jesus (and knowing Him personally) affected you? What are your thoughts?

1. Fill the space with others. Youth groups need counselors and sponsors. Children need adoptive or foster homes. Scores of people around you need others to befriend them and show them Jesus’ love and care. You may lead the pack in social media, but how many neighbors do you know?

2.  Fill your empty nest with time for your mate. Plan getaway times and dates often with your spouse. Couples often neglect that time together when years of kids’ busy schedules seem to take priority. Renew that first love and schedule weekly dates and retreats whenever possible. For years, my husband and I have operated on a simple plan: Divert Daily; Withdraw Weekly; and Abandon Annually. Those dates can easily fit your budget. And in this economy, “free” is in, or even bartering. Be creative.

3. Fill it with room for dates with your children still at home. The other kids will feel the loss (sometimes relief) when a sibling leaves, and often need your attention even more. Use these remaining years to cultivate relationships that may have been thwarted in the shadows of an older brother or sister.

4. Fill your moments with meaningful ministry. All Christians have spiritual gifts. Invest those gifts to make a difference in the lives of others.

5. Fill the time with new adventures. Learn a new skill, or pursue a different hobby. For some with more flexibility, that might mean a new college class, a part-time job, or volunteer work. For others, trying different areas of ministry like going on a mission trip might surprise you with a new challenge that fits you perfectly.

6. Fill your hours carefully, and renew your priorities with God. Give yourself time to reevaluate. Be careful not to substitute busy activity for quietness and time alone with the Lord. God wants to fill you with Himself.

7. Fill your mind with happy memories, and let go of the painful ones. Examine any depression in your life. Normal feelings of loss are expected, but long-term despondency may signal the need for professional help. Ask God to show you any regrets or failures you may be struggling with. No mother can ever supply her children with 100% of their needs, and no parent is perfect. Learn the difference between real and false guilt. As you let go of the past and accept God’s forgiveness for true guilt feelings–those actions for which you are responsible–letting go of your child will be easier.

8. Fill your empty nest with prayer. Pray often, specifically, for your children. I thought I had prayed regularly for our daughters during their early years. We had begun praying for their future husbands soon after they were born, and adolescence brought its share of “help!” cries to God. But in their teen years, I petitioned the Lord even more earnestly, and discovered that prayer could travel and touch where I could not go. When God answered those prayers, the empty nest filled with a greater faith in God.

9. Fill the pages of your life with written evidence. Try journaling and/or scrap-booking. As you reflect upon God’s goodness and the changes in your life, write down your thoughts. Your children need your experience, and others need your wisdom. Record daily what God teaches you. You may never publish a best-seller, but someday your grandchildren will receive a heritage far greater than money could every buy. Organize your photos, and let them tell the story of your lives, and the lives of your children in their earlier years. If you work steadily, it will make a great college graduation or wedding gift (digital works great).

10. Fill your nest with the disciplines of rest and exercise. Rest? What’s that? In reality, your life may or may not change drastically. Some moms have more flexibility and opportunity, while others keep pushing their limits daily. If you think you don’t have a choice about your work, schedule, or finances, check out Jill and Mark Savage’s new book, Living with Less So Your Family Has More. Your nest may fill up with kids or grand kids returning home to nest–permanently. Regardless of the circumstances, an empty or partially empty nest will affect your emotions. Prepare wisely with more rest and regular exercise.

Letting go of our children is not an easy task. We may hesitate to relinquish the control into another’s keeping. But when we can surrender them into the hands of a loving Heavenly Father, He begins to refill our empty nests with a new joy and excitement.

“That you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:19 TNIV

What about you? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Related blogs:

Ten Simple Stress Busters for Women

Ten Ways to Encourage Children, Grandchildren, and Graduates

A Challenge to You, Mother, for Your Children

Mother or Grandmother: Is There a Difference?

Extravagant Love

For Moms: A Bird’s Eye View of Motherhood

Ten Affirmations for Raising Children

Motherhood-Pleasure or Pain?

Most of us celebrate our country’s birthday watching fireworks. But there’s something more we can do that will truly make a lasting difference in the lives of others. As you read this short inspirational piece, I hope it will encourage you to celebrate–and share–the Gift of true freedom and peace.

The Gift of Peace

by Rebecca Barlow Jordan

If I had the power, I’d give the gift of peace,

So all could live in harmony, forcing wars to cease.

I’d turn all hearts to love again in brotherhood and truth,

so death could never steal away a life within its youth.

With seeds of tender mercy, I’d sow a crop of care

to bloom within each gentle soul and water it with prayer.

I’d soak each life with kindness and plant contentment there

and cultivate its goodness, so every heart could share

the reaping of a harvest, on firm but gentle soil–

where weeds could never choke the life, and pest could never spoil.

I may not have the power to give this peace away,

for we will always hear of wars engaging in some way.

But I can give a treasure, worth more than anything:

I”ll give the world my Jesus, and let true freedom ring.

How will you share Jesus, the true gift of freedom and peace, this summer?

1. Prepare yourself each day by spending quiet moments alone with God.

2. Plan your day the night before.

3. Prioritize your tasks according to their importance.

4. Participate in a regular exercise and healthy diet plan.

5. Pamper yourself by doing something you enjoy.

6. Plant seeds of kindness in the lives of others.

7. Preserve the small, penny-rich memories of your life.

8. Perfect the art of laughter.

9. Praise the Lord often for all His blessings.

10. Pray without ceasing (throughout the day).

“You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.” Psalm 23:5, The Message.

What about you? What Scripture verse is your favorite stress buster?

I wrote this tribute several years ago with my dad in mind. I thought you might enjoy it at this special time. Happy Father’s Day!

A Tribute to Dad

By Rebecca Barlow Jordan

He’s a giant of a man, with big, strong hands

that hold your heart in his own.

The words he speaks are apples of gold–

that can melt a heart of stone.

His laugh is contagious–His smile sincere;

His life is a book read far and near.

His love gives generous helpings to all;

For a father, you see, is always on call.

His thoughts are old-fashioned, and sometimes his clothes;

But godliness clothes him–from his head to his toes.

He has numerous flaws, which he often speaks of,

but his family is blind and covers in love.

Long after he’s gone, a sweet legacy stays

filling the hearts of his family with praise.

Memories of a Father

My father died 15 years ago. I still miss him. But his words and his lessons still live on in my heart. Each of the few personal letters he wrote ended with a P.S. – a powerful statement. Sometimes he penned an encouraging truth from Scripture, sometimes a homespun bit of wisdom he learned, sandwiched in between the mortar he used building missions, and the lives he salvaged for Christ along the way. I treasure those bits and pieces of a father’s love and keep them close where I can pull them out in times of discouragement or frustration.  God blessed me with a great dad.

God Is the Perfect Father

Some of you can’t recall positive father figures, because of abuse or loss of your dad early in your life. Regardless of your circumstances, God assures us He is “a father to the fatherless” (Psalm 68:5, NIV). He not only heals our memories; He is the perfect father who never breaks His promise, who loves us unconditionally, and who delights in spending time with His children.

Share a Memory

What about you? Share a memory about your dad. What made him special? How has God been a father to you?

NOTE: The winner of the drawing for the three-book series: Day-votions for Women, Day-votions for Mothers, and Day-votions for Grandmothers is Patti McGoey. Congratulations, Patti!