When Silence Speaks: Writing Dialogue that Illuminates
The best dialogue illuminates and draws into focus some important aspect of character or plot. — William Bernhardt We often think of dialogue as conversation—words spoken aloud, ping-ponged between characters. But the best dialogue doesn’t just fill space or sound realistic. It reveals. It sharpens. It strips back layers. It puts characters into clearer focus, […]
Strength Through Surrender: Finding True Power in Letting Go
How can afflictions be a benefit to us? How might they work against us? I take pleasure in weakness, insults, and hardships. Persecuted, frustrated, suffering for Christ’s sake, I am thankful for my weakness that makes me strong in him. — 2 Corinthians 12:10 The Discussion Bible In a world that tells us to push […]
When Technology Tangos with Creativity
Social media, unnecessary commitments, and even self-doubt can be distractions. Set boundaries to protect your writing time. — Kennita Williams Writers often find themselves in a curious relationship with technology—partnership on one hand, and battlefield on the other. While some tools streamline the writing process, others interrupt it with chirps, buzzes, and pings that feel […]
Intimidation: Stumbling Block or Stepping Stone
Question: How can we encourage ourselves to aggressively pursue God’s will for our lives? Who are those who will cheer us on, and what influences exist to pull us back? Since so many people have witnessed God’s glory and the value of knowing him, we should throw off every burden and the pursuit of self-serving […]
Judged by Its Cover
What is most important on a book cover? Unless you have an amazing title that speaks for itself, a great image speaks far faster to the consumer than a bunch of words. — Tal Goretsky, Scribner art director Let’s explore why your book’s visual presentation is just as important as the words inside—and how a […]
The Presence of God
What’s the difference between thanksgiving, praise, and worship? Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise. Be thankful for his gifts, and praise him for his loving nature. The Lord’s goodness is beyond measure. His love and faithfulness will never end. — Psalm 100:4–5 The Discussion Bible We enter the Temple gates with thanksgiving, […]
The Power and Problem of a Good Question
By Frank Ball
We have writing friends, craft books, conferences and webinars to take our weaknesses and make them our strengths. Accept the help. Don’t flounder hidden at home. — Tammy Karasek Questions are powerful. They open doors, spark dialogue, and invite growth. But not all questions are created equal. Some arise from curiosity and the desire to […]
Sibling Rivalries: Biblical Lessons in Love, Conflict, and Redemption
How could anger be as great a problem as murder? If you are praying at the altar and remember a grudge against another person, leave your offering and seek reconciliation. Then come and offer your gift. — Matthew 5:23–24 The Discussion Bible Sibling relationships are among the most influential in our lives, and the Bible […]
Give More, Want Less
By Frank Ball
What is so interesting about giving is not only that it pays, but that it pays in such unexpected ways. — Bob Burg If you’re serious about becoming a great writer who not only publishes but truly connects, inspires, and transforms, here’s one countercultural truth you need to embrace early on: Give more. Want less. […]
A Loving Father’s Heart
A Father’s Day Message Rooted in the Heart of God Fatherhood is one of the most sacred and impactful roles a man can carry. Too often, we overlook the qualities that make a father truly great—unconditional love in the image of our heavenly Father. 1. A Father Provides the Right EnvironmentHe gives what is needed—not […]
Available Tools
At 2:00 a.m., far away from the nearest town, our church bus was taking snow skiers to the Rockies. Bam! A blowout. Now, a problem. The tire tool refused to loosen the lug nuts. We were stuck. Then I noticed the speed-limit sign bent over slightly, at just the right angle for three men to […]
Novels Written While You Wait
By Frank Ball
If you persist, with patience, without panic, your way will become clear. It might happen quickly, or it might take time and lots of pages. But it will come. — Elizabeth Sims Imagine Frank’s Bookstore, where one day you can walk in with a book idea and then walk out with a completed novel. The […]