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#82, Blog, Christianity, diabetes, Faith, FFH, future, goals, Holly Michael, Hope, Jake Byrne, Jesus, Lord, mountains, Move or Move Me, Moving Mountains, New Orleans Saints, NFL, plans, Type One Diabetes, Writing, www.writingstraight.com
I often text encouraging Bible quotes to my kids. Yesterday, Jake said, “Keep them coming. I like them.” This morning, I found the above Scripture quote and texted it to Jake. It seemed appropriate for a type one diabetic and rookie in the NFL nearing the end of pre-season games (when players face potential cuts due to the league’s 53-man roster limit.)
One reporter, grading the rookies said this about Jake, “His time with the team is about up unless he pulls a miracle out of his hat.”
I wanted to tell that guy that our God is a God of miracles and my son is awesome, but I remembered that Jake is an adult and well, it’d be weird if I texted Bible quotes to reporters or yelled at them. To my kids relief, I swore I wouldn’t call their coaches or interfere in their sports business as soon as they grew bigger than me. (Age eleven for Jake.)
So, in spite of the reporter’s comment and the mountains in his way, Jake assured me he isn’t worried and that he’s entrusted his future to God. After a few more minutes of my preaching, Jake gently suggested I call Betsy or Nick and give them a pep talk. I got the “message” and told him maybe I needed the pep talk myself.
I don’t think anyone has ever thrown a mountain into the sea. It’s one of those Bible quotes that’s really hard to accept because you can’t take it literally. Who can throw a mountain into the sea? But God’s power can move mountains. God’s power can make the impossible become the possible. And prayers matter. And I guess if God wants that mountain to be in the sea, and it needs to be there, He can do it. But the mountain becoming a seafaring vessel and dissapearing on the horizon because of my faith? Hmm…
…though I pray and have peace about my son’s future, I’m flailing in my own troubled sea of uncertainty, wondering if I should continue fiction writing. Can I make it as a novelist? Why am I so uncertain about my future, my life, at my age? Am I such a late bloomer? Why can’t I get it together?
My angst might have something to do with my agent sharing rejection letters from publishers. They are like that reporter not appreciating Jake’s ability.
I understand that Stephen King and many other well-known authors received hundreds of rejections before getting their novels published. Yet, I question myself when I get a rejection, even those my agent calls “thoughtful” ones.
Yes, I have mountains in my way. I question if God really wants me to continue this path. I’ve worked as a journalist and freelance writer and have had some success in nonfiction in the past. Seriously, perhaps I should consider a different path.
It’s not defeatism, I tell myself, but rather contemplating on whether this path is the right one. Maybe it’s a “when a door closes, God opens a window” thing sometimes. Perhaps I should quit beating on this door and look out the window at other options and opportunities. Really, how do we know the difference? Are these mountains meant to be climbed over or throw into the sea or are they blocks God has placed in our way to divert us to where we really need to be?
Jake expressed peace about God’s plan for his life. I know he’s working really hard right now, often exhausted by the physical strength it takes to do what he does, and most likely even more tired of everyone (including me), giving him pep talks.
I am encouraged by his faith, endurance, confidence and willingness to embrace the “now” and the open possibilites of his future. And so, before I turn away from the mountains in my path, I’m going to pray for both of us, considering these lyrics to this wonderful song:
Chorus: Lord move in the way, that I’ve never seen before
Cause there’s a mountain in the way and a lock on the door
I’m drifting away, waves are crashing on the shore
So Lord move (move), or move me.
Please pray for Jake during this critical time in his life and for my intentions. And if you have a mountain in your way, let me know, comment below, and I’ll pray for you, too. The road toward our goal is often rocky. Dark mountains throw shadows onto our paths and loom mightily before us. It’s scary stuff. We need each other and God to get us through it all. With God, prayer, and support from each other, we can throw mountains into the sea…or at least climb them and reach new heights…and then…perhaps the sun will be shining on the other side. Anything is possible with faith.
Holly, i’ve been praying for you. You’re so right. God puts mountains in front of us so he can throw them in the sea or lift you to the summit. Your son has much wisdom. Do not fret. You’re in good hands.
I will pray for you and Jake, Holly. I completely, and I really mean completely, relate to your situation. My husband just finished a Master of Divinity and is looking to start a second career in ministry. I am an aspiring writer/speaker who also wonders if I’m a little too late to the party. So, I will pray for you and I’ll take you up on your offer to pray for me. In spite of uncertainty and doubt, I know to my core that God has a perfect plan and I look forward to watching it unfold. But I still pray. A lot. Thanks for opening your heart.
Judy
Judy, I am lifting up you and your husband’s situation to the Lord! God will help us through it all! Thanks for your prayers!
I think I got the blog fixed. It now shows the video and isn’t all bunched up! Yay!
Ooooh, Holly. . .I’ve seen your writing. I KNOW God has chosen you to be a novelist. Is it His time right this very moment? That, I can’t say. But give up? No way! I am confident that you won’t.
Rhonda, thanks so much. I’m having a time of it lately, really doubting. You are a blessing to me!
I think I got the blog fixed. Did it look all bunched up and without the video? It’s GTG now! And I feel better after reading your comment
A good word. I pray for you and your son that obstacles will be removed, and that the Lord will direct your footsteps in everything you do–that you will be victorious through His strength and power.
Awesome Ada!! I appreciate your prayers more than you can imagine!!
And I think I got the blog fixed. It now shows the video and isn’t all bunched up! Yay!
I agree with Rhonda. It’s all about God’s timing which doesn’t always match ours. My tagline is “I ask God to teach me patience and He gave me a book to write.” Praying for encouragement to come your way this week.
Thanks PT! I’m so impatient. Love that tagline!
Taken from the wonderful book called ‘Too Busy Not To Pray’ by Bill Hybels… ‘How do you pray a prayer so filled with faith that it can move a mountain (whatever obstacle blocks your way, whatever difficulty immobilizes you is your mountain)? By shifting the focus from the size of the mountain to the efficiency of the mountain mover.
… I challenge you to shift the focus of your prayer. Don’t spend a lot of time describing your mountain to the Lord. He knows what it is. Instead, focus your attention on the mountain-mover: his glory, power and faithfulness. Then start walking in faith, following his leading, and watch that mountain step aside.’
Love this! I’m going to do that. Thank you very much!
Good word. The focus that remains on Christ will move the mountains. Who is rejecting? Not God! Where is our source? Not man!! God bless and know I am joining you in prayer. His will be done!
Bless you Gracie! And thank you!
Holly – Praying for your family – for you and Jake as you face your mountains and your family as they support you.
And remember… if you can be a unicorn….
Thanks Becky!
Holly, remember this: If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. Take a break if you need one, but keep your faith.
Thanks Cindy, I need a break…on a beach preferably…soon!
Thank you for this. I give our mountain too much credit sometimes. God can move it…the mountain has no power over us. My husband can be cured. He will, by God’s grace.
Yes, He will. I will continue my prayers for your husband and your family. I love the part about giving the mountain credit! Bless you Meri!
Yes, He will. I will continue my prayers for your husband and your family. I love the part about not giving the mountain credit! Bless you Meri!
Holly, I’m with you. I know God has a plan, but I struggle as well when doors seem to … maybe be closing … or maybe it’s just a lesson I need to learn. So hard to know. Accept continuing to pray.
I live by the verse, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” He knows I want nothing more nor less than to follow exactly where He wants me and I delight in pleasing Him. At the same time I have a passion to write. It almost hurts right now while I’m avoiding novel writing to stay focused on the book I’m selling. (Take out the almost.)
If God has given you a passion to write, you’re a writer. If you’re not that passionate (And I’ve been there before in teaching and other positions.) or you have no peace about it, then seek Him. Deepen your relationship with Him. He’ll put that passion back in, maybe even in the same place.
But if your doubts are stemming only from the temporary rejection letters (okay I’m preaching at myself because I’m about as thick-skinned as strawberry) put them out of your head and pursue your passion.
Praying for you.
Hi Marji, great thoughts and inspiration here in your words. God has definitely blessed me in my writing and shown me that I need to write. I don’t know what else I’d do. I have no other skills or education in any other area…but yeah, it’s about deepening our relationship with him so that we “hear” and “follow” the Master when he leads. Thanks for the reminders! May the Good Shepherd lead us both on! Amen!
AMEN! Look forward to joining you on your journey!
Thank you for a thought-provoking article. As soon as I read the title, “Throwing Mountains into the Sea”, the thought occurred to me that the ‘mountains’ are the limitations that our minds create, and that throwing them into the sea would mean throwing off all limitations, and refusing to be bound by them. Trusting in God, means trusting that whatever we perceive as limitations/mountains, He will immediately remove, or show us a way around, when we request His help and then firmly believe that it is done.
I am in the process of surrender – giving up control of my life and handing it over to God, because I know that He can handle it so much better than I can. I am learning to stop trying to handle life’s perceived problems myself. I do my best and then I give God the rest. I just let it go and refuse to dwell on it. I strongly believe in the power of prayer. Your faith in Him will see you through. Simply believe that it is sorted and it will be so. Blessings from Lizzie Joy
Hi Lizzie, Lots of wisdom in what you say. For me, it’s always been a struggle with God’s will, knowing that nothing will go really well if it’s not blessed by God. Honestly, because God showed me so clearly that he wanted me to write and blessed me in a very special way, I dedicated my writing to him years ago. SO, I tred carefully with it, never wanting to take paths in writing that are for my own interest versus a path that God would have me on. These two should go hand in hand, right? But I’m so human and I just count on God being so…well…God, and directing me and leading me and humanly, it feels like I’m faltering sometimes, questioning. I have a lot going on in my life now. In the past, I knew when I had to put my writing aside completely and I did that for years. He’s drawn me back to it now…so I’m just wondeirng where I’m really supposed to be going. Divine Inspiration is my breath, my life.
Following my reply, left a few minutes ago, I found myself reading an article, and immediately thought of you. Someone had ‘liked’ one of my articles and I clicked on his page to check him out. The article that drew my attention was called “Amen” posted on June 27, 2012. The blog is davegwartney.wordpress.com. I firmly believe in Divine guidance and felt I should share this with you. Hope it helps in some way. Blessings from Lizzie Joy
Lizzie, I checked out that blog and really liked that particular post and the blog…I subscribed to it. Thanks for mentioning it. A great reminder about the meaning and power behind the word, “AMEN” Thanks
Holly, mountains make us stronger…just keep remembering that when He closes a door, he opens a window. Change can be good…perhaps something better is behind the mountain! 🙂 Always face the sun…be positive…No fear, only love. 🙂 xo
Thanks for your upbeat and inspiring thoughts. 🙂
Praying for you and your son. I know God has great plans for you and him.
May God bless you both!
Thank you do much Misha. Your prayers are so appreciated.
I share in your desire to move mountains, Holly. Stop questioning yourself, though. You’re an already-proven artist. As for all of us who are late bloomers, who cares? It anyone can move a mountain, I suspect it’s you. I would also LOVE to be traditionally published, and there are only a couple of agencies I’m interested in. But if it doesn’t happen, I have no fear whatsoever to self-publish. I know God will help me move that mountain, and He will help you, too.
Thanks Steven…appreciate your encouragement in my moments of doubt. Originally, I planned to go self-pub, but then got an agent when a friend recommended me to her agent. So, we’ll see what happens. Fiction writing is really a “different animal ” from nonfiction, isn’t it.
I’ll never know, Holly. I’ll never be talented enough to write good fiction!
You got some great stuff going on, on your blog. I learned a lot this morning.
Hi…If and I believe the answer is yes…you believe in your novel..then I would continue to pursue the publishing until you hit a definite roadblock in your mind..
I will pray for the situation and that you would have a peace about it. It must be an anxious thing ‘the waiting’.. I’ll also pray for Jake.
If I were to say that I have a mountain…it would be that my 8 grandchildren don’t really have God as part of their lives right now. They are good ‘people’ in that they have good hearts but they are at that stage where God is kind of on a shelf. I don’t really think they know the reality of Jesus and salvation. I pray fervently for them and I claim God’s promises…”Thy and thy household shall be saved’ and “the prayers of the righteous availeth much” and so on. My children are Christian but there was a lack it seems of bringing God into the family life as they were raised. All but two of the grandchildren are 20 plus now. They know there is a God but not much more. Because my husband an I are retired and moved a couple of hours away ….we have not seen them that much over the past 12 years of so…just on special occasions.. and not the opportunity to talk one on one with them and perhaps broach the subject.
Sorry to take so much time explaining but I guess I’m really feeling the need for prayer support in this issue.
Thank you for your good advice and for prayers for me and Jake. It seemed that when my son and I began our journeys toward our goals, we were so connected in what was happening in our lives. I got an agent. He got an agent, etc. Now, we are both at the same place…facing mountains, questioning, it’s all looking bleak, but only God knows where He’s going to take us. I guess I need to chill and trust and “heed” my own words. I understand about your grandchildren. My sister did not raise her kids in the church. I did. Her kids don’t think about God. It warms my heart to see the faith of my children. Their faith. Real faith. I’m not bragging, but so thankful that God is real to them…Most of all, that’s what I wanted to impress upon them. It’s sad that so many kids are not being rasied in the faith. But, God is amazing and your prayers really matter. I will also pray that God will give your grandchildren the grace to come to know Our Lord as their savior. Our God is good and the Bible verse you stand on is a good one. Much love and prayers, Holly
Wow, so much here. Being a mom and having to give our children, no matter their ages, to God. That alone us moms could write a book on. BTW, prayers to all of you moms, and dads too, that have or will put your little ones on a school bus for the first time.
Then you go on to moving mountains. I have a necklace that I wear, it is my “Mountain Moving” necklace and it is filled with mustard seeds. “For if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can move mountains.” Matthew 17:20. The mustard seed sure is tiny. And because there are so many of them inside my little necklace I find it is a great way to “share” my faith, both with my words and with the gift of a seed. I also love the children’s book Ming Lo Moves the Mountain by Arnold Lobel. It is a wonderful illustration that sometimes we need to move/change not the mountain.
However, the most profound thing that you wrote about, and it is my struggle too, is knowing when to keep at something and when it is time to let go. As for your writing do you feel it is a gift that you share? If so, is it ordained? Is it blessed?
I already know the answer to the first question. It is a resounding “YES!” The second and third ones are given to you by God. Ask him, if you have not. If you have rest assured that he is and will lead you.
And by the way, Jesus promised us that we would do and see greater miracles than these. Maybe you or I have never seen someone throw a mountain into the sea but I know I seen great miracles. I have seen angels. and I have been touched by God.
May God bless you and your children.
Juju
Awww…Juju, you are awesome. This post lifts my spirits and brings me back to my knees and to the heart of God. It’s hard to explain to people, but I think you’ll get it. It’s not that I doubt myself so much, but God’s true plan for me and for my kids as well, especially my son, now. I just don’t want to waste time doing something he doesn’t ordain and bless. I need His blessing or my writing is nothing but a puff of air. Yep, I’ll pray and ask. Thanks for your prayers. God bless you!
Every evening I’m blessed to see the sun set over the Santa Monica mountains, a gift from God to me. Hadn’t thought about asking Him to move the mountains. Hmmm that would give me beach front property.
I pray that all of us that spend our lives in little rooms putting our soul on paper will cherish the gift of writing that God has given us no matter the outcome. It is the journey. Enjoy looking at your own mountain.
It’s all a gift, isn’t it! Thanks for coming by Sharon and for your kind words.
Great post Holly, thanks for the encouragement. I SO needed this today. I’m in that phase in my writing where everything seems to be beating down on me, physically and emotionally. Sometimes it’s just the enemy trying to stop us. And that’s when I know I’m on the right path!
I’ve heard a great way to get past our problems is to pray for others with the same problem. So right now, I pray that God will move in a way you’ve never seen before. I pray that He refreshes your spirit and fills you with hope once again. Even more than that, I pray He confrims your next steps, on whatever path He wills. So you will KNOW that you know where He wants you to go.
Great song, by the way. 🙂
You’re so sweet Barbara. Bless you! You filled my eyes with tears. God is good and your are such a blessing in my life. Thanks for linking to my blog from yours. And I also pray for you that you are able to accomplish all that you need to accomplish and that the Lord inspires and blesses you in your writing as you continue on this wonderful adventure. I pray the agent is thrilled with your writing and many blessing will come your way.
You’re welcome. I’m so glad we can lift each other up. 🙂
Don’t allow someone’s “no” to steal the “yes” that God has placed in your heart.
Charity, thank you for this incredibly sweer response. I appreciate you coming to my blog and offering your kind words. You are right.
This is beautiful, Charity!
Just saw your comment. Thank you 🙂
Hi again Holly. Following our conversations earlier today, I’ve just come across a lovely little message on Facebook, which just about says it all:
“My child, you worry too much. I’ve got this, remember? love God”
What a wonderful reminder for us all!
I just seriously laughed out loud with joy, reading this. I can imagine God saying this. Thanks Lizzie!
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Dear Holly, from the bottom of my heart I am wishing you and Jake all the successes in the world!
I’ve been thinking about this kind of stuff a lot lately and can totally relate. I have been having lots of doubts, too, whether I should continue on this treacherous writing path, trying to share my vision with the world, which may not appreciate it, or just relax and have lots of fun (which I could easily do if I wanted to). But every morning I get up and tell myself that I must do this, because I believe I have something very important to share, which no one can do but me.
I like this: “My child, you worry too much. I’ve got this, remember? Love, God.” That’s what I keep reminding myself about when the world seems dark.
Love and hugs,
Lada
Oh Lada, you can do this and you do have something very special to share because you are very special. I love that thought to about God. It was great and I’m glad we both can apply it to our crazy lives. It’s just not an easy path, is it? Thankfully we have our faith to carry us through! Best wishes, Holly
Thank you for your encouragement, Holly! And same to you! 🙂
I’m trying to stay in prayer about our financial mountain right now-but I still find myself in panicky moments. I will add Jake to my prayer list- which team is he on? I am such a huge football fan- have been ever since I was a little girl and spent time watching games with my dad every weekend!
Thank you. He’s on the New Orleans Saints. I will pray for your financial situation. God Bless you!
Wow Holly, you have a lot of supporters rooting for you today! So am I…just trying to catch up on posts after a week of travel. I agree with the one who said its good to put your focus on the mountain mover, rather than the mountain. Keeping focus…that’s what God has been speaking to me about also. Praying for you and Jake both…even when we know God is in control, it’s still hard to wait when the delays or possible denials come. The Lord knows all about it…oh yes he does! So grateful to be able to just let go and let him work and its always for good…to give us a future and a hope.
One more thing, I had to chuckle when you wondered if you are a late bloomer! Well, think of it this way, there is at least one of your writer friends who struggles in the same way at the ripe age of 69. (: God bless you, Holly!! Thanks for opening up and sharing your struggles…it ends up helping all of us!
Thanks Glenda. God bless you. Yes, I am so grateful for the wonderful supporters on my site. I am so blessed. They have all helped me to relax and put it all in the hands of God. He knows what He’s doing, even if we don’t. And thanks for the RT. It’s just coming across my iPhone as I’m responding to you. You’re a dear friend and such a blessing to me. Thanks my sister in Christ and fellow “late-bloomer”
Holly,
God gave us life, and told us that we would have rewards for our deeds. He never said it would be easy, and but always has guaranteed that He would love us.
I find faith best as blind. I do my best to go where I am guided, and if God be in it, it always turns out for the best. So, in the end, it is not how it turns out, but that it will, according to God’s will. Never give up, and always do what is right. 🙂
God bless, and thank you, for all that you do for God’s kingdom.
Father Scott. You are so kind. Thank you so much for your words of hope and encouragement. And thank you for all you do for Gods kingdom!! Glad to be in it with you and your family. Praying for you all, too!
Holly, my prayers are with you to hold on just a little while longer and Jake for physical and spiritual strength. We know that God has you both, He will never leave nor forsake you. We just need to speak against the fear, doubt and unbelief that creeps in to hinder the power and authority that the Lord has given us to overcome all our mountains. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose”. Romans 8:28
I love Romans 8:28. Thank you for your encouraging words. I will continue to pray for Gods Holy will in both of our lives. God Bless you!!
Candy, again, wanted to reply to your comment. These are powerful words for me to hear and I can’t thank you enough for this message.
I will be praying for you and Jake. Even if he wasn’t meant to play for New Orleans, there are 31 other NFL teams that would be lucky to have him. Best to you and your family!
Aww thanks. We’ll see how it all works out.
Dear Holly; I’ve felt your doubt. I’ve considered quitting many times, but it calls me back. I can’t stop writing. Only you know if it’s a part of you. And if it is, then never stop. God knows what you want, so have faith that He will make it happen and then leave it to Him. You just keep writing. Age is of no concern. And you’re one rejection closer to an acceptance. Or self-publish. Nothing is impossible with God. I’ll pray for you and Jake (I was just watching the Saints). In the mean time, share my prayer, “I’ll keep pushing on, Lord. For I know You have a plan for me.” God bless you and yours.
Thanks TM. Appreciate your kind words.
Hi Holly. Your post is brimming with encouragement in spite of the doubts you express.
I have accepted your Lovely Award nomination over on the patio today. Thank you!
http://poetrypatio.wordpress.com/
Thanks Lori! Have a great week.
Keep remembering, Holly, it’s always darkest before the dawn. If you have an agent who believes in your work that’s a huge indication that you’re on the right track. God’s tests usually push us to the brink, but the stretching is always for our benefit.
Hang in there and be prepared to breathe some dust soon!
Thanks Wade!! Nice thoughts to hold on to.
Your candid admissions make you ‘one of us’ – we all struggle with mountains in one form or another! I have a brand new one myself – of the type that I have been praying ‘let this cup pass from me’. And yet – I in my limited vision don’t see what this mountain experience is designed to do for me, in me, and through me – so I entrust it to the One who has control over the mountain. And wait and pray…
Thanks Melody, appreciate your kind words.
Wait and pray…and keep moving forward!
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Thanks for the inspiration! God is certainly working through all of us, presenting us with challenges so we can overcome them together. Your sharing is such a blessing!
Holly, I know so well all of your doubts about writing. If it’s any encouragement I started my blog a few months ago, and published my book and I’m pushing 75. We are never too old, and it’s never too late.
In surrendering to the Presence, I feel that we thank the Divine for what we want, knowing that it’s in the pipeline. By asking we’re implying it isn’t there and we haven’t got it. So I feel, dream the dreams, visualise them and thank the Divine for the gifts you know are coming to you..And don’t keep worrying about them, as though you’re worrying an aching tooth… let it be, let go and let God.
Hope you don’t feel this is presumptuous.
Not at all Valerie. Words of wisdom!! Thank you!!
Reblogged this on 1earthnow.
“I have missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game winning shot, and I missed. I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.”
– Michael Jordan
He losthis job
Defeated for legislature,
Failed in business,
Elected to legislature,
Sweetheart (Ann Rutledge) died,
Had nervous breakdown,
Defeated for Speaker,
Defeated for nomination for Congress,
Elected to Congress,
Lost renomination,
Rejected for Land Officer,
Defeated for Senate,
Defeated for nomination for Vice-President,
Again defeated for Senate,
Abraham Lincoln was Elected President,
Thomas Edison found ten thousand ways a light bulb would not work before he found one way to make it work.
You said it beautifully, never give up. Adversity and life’s challenges is a real blessing when you see the whole picture. Thanks for the inspiration! God bless.
Steven, that’s really encouraging. Love this. I’m forwardging this to my son as well.
Steven, thank you for these comments. Very inspiring and really making me think. I appreciate your stopping by and your encouragement. I’m also going to share this with my son. Thanks
Praying you will have clear direction, hear the voice behind you saying, “This is the way, walk ye in it.”
Thanks so much for your prayers, Patti. God bless you!
There are so many times I have felt this way in my life! I am so glad God directs our steps, and even though it doesn’t always make sense to our minds, in the end we see exactly how God worked it out completely and we came out on top of that mountain! There is a place in Ezekiel that says that God brought the mountains down low so His people could walk across the top of them with ease and into their promise! I believe that for you and your precious son! Thank you for the follow! I know I am going to enjoy your blog very much! Blessings!! Juliana
Thanks Juliana! How sweet. Looking forward to more of your posts, too! Have a great Sunday tomorrow!
Thank you, Holly!! You, too! 🙂