When I had lunch with my mentor the other week, I shared trepidation about putting myself (my writing) out there. I feel comfortable sharing on my blog because readers subscribe—if they don’t like it, they can unfollow/unlike it. But when it comes to talking openly about Christ, or simply sharing my new website, it’s harder. I respect a person’s right to privacy when it comes to whether they believe in a higher power. Religion is a sensitive topic, considered off-limits by most. I have what some consider an unorthodox approach–I write a lot about the supernatural realm. To some, my passion for Christ paints me as a fanatic–frankly, I find this amusing and annoying because it’s usually bred out of ignorance and faulty presumptions. Because some of my writing convicts (challenges Christians to do better), some who know me personally don’t feel comfortable with it. For them, reading about my journey elicits a myriad of reactions and uncomfortable emotions.

I never pictured myself doing this. I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I had no idea that the Lord would use it to encourage, teach, evangelize, and offer healing. Someday, He may ask me to really step outside my comfort zone and speak in a public forum (I hope that day is not tomorrow).

I’m so grateful for family and friends who have supported me along the way. In a world where it’s highly unpopular to be vocal about Christ, your support (regardless of whether you agree with everything I write) has helped carry me—whether it’s buying a book (or ten), writing a kind review, offering encouragement, prayers, subscribing to my blog, or helping me raise money for a cause.

Mainstream Christianity isn’t working, folks. Man-made denominations, Church legalism, and ritualistic behavior matter little to Him. God wants more for us than salvation (although it is of utmost importance and the first step) and church attendance. He wants us to be in partnership with Him. He wants to be first place in our lives. He wants us to seek His counsel in all things. He wants to “clean” us up (sanctify), and that can be a painful process at times (I write about plenty of those). BUT, He wants to bless us. A LOT. He wants us to bear much fruit along the way, and that bountiful harvest is what makes dying to our flesh and taking up our cross so, so worth it.

I credit every blessing in my life (tangible and intangible) with the Lord’s provision. He has healed me from much, and I have plenty left to keep Him busy. The least I can do is honor Him with my talents. And when I feel discouraged or fearful about putting myself out there, He quickly shows me some of that “fruit.” Like this blessing of a child (for the longest time, I never wanted to get married or have kids) who now asks to read the “big” Bible. Who likes to pray out loud, oftentimes unprompted (with extra cuteness because some of it is garbled). Who now prays for the mean kid at school. Who reminds me daily with doses of God’s love, “Mommy, I really, really love you.” Who forgives easily when I am hormonal and short on patience. Who compliments strangers and fills their faces with smiles. Who loves animals as much as I do. Who wants to help me feed and clothe the poor (still working on sharing her toys ;-).

Thank you, God, for your good fruit.

And, thank you, Brian, for encouraging me to pursue purposeful work for Him.