We have a strong inborn sense of justice that comes from God. You’ll hear young children say, “That’s not fair.” Or “You’re wrong.”
I’ve heard Christian leaders say we have no rights, and I strongly disagree. The OT makes it clear that we do. The Ten Commandments state that someone should not steal our possessions or speak against us. I cannot steal your money or your watch. And much of the OT laws taught proportional justice. When someone harmed you, or violated your rights, the punishment should match the crime.
For instance, if you borrowed someone’s ax and broke it, you had to replace it. Or if you borrowed a horse that died while you cared for it, you had to buy another horse for that person.
The punishment matched the crime.
Now when someone violates one of those rights, you feel harmed and want that made right. Sometimes, an apology is enough. In others restitution needs to take place. There are times when someone hurts you and the outcome is not up to you`. For instance a pastor hurt my husband once and never humbled himself to say he was sorry. It was hard to forgive that man, but it was important that I do that.
Laurie Coombs tells the story of her father’s murder and her journey toward forgiveness.
Why would a Christian want to write? Getting published requires herculean effort.
Consider Psalm 102:18.”This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD.” God wanted the Israelites to know and remember his marvelous works. That’s one of the reasons the Lord instituted the Passover every year. During that ceremony, they recounted the mighty deeds the Lord during the Exodus. And God told the patriarchs to build an altar to commemorate the crossing of the Jordan River. When children asked what the pile of stones meant, they could hear stories of Jahveh’s faithfulness. Even if a believer never intends to publish, someone might read his/her diary or letters and receive encouraged. Written words can impact lives.
Why should a Christian writer persevere?
Jennifer Slattery gave the keynote speech at the 2015 Atlanta Christian Writers Conference Banquet. She offers advice and encouragement to those who aspire to be published. Listen and share with others.
Publish Your Book? Today you have lots of choices, and it seems easier, until you know all the issues. Athena Dean Holtz of Redemption Press can advise you. She’s been in the industry for twenty-five years. Learn more about Redemption Press here and Athena here.
