I published my First Book

Hi, Friend,

I did it! I finally published my first book. 

It’s been on my heart for 10 years. I even took a few classes about writing and publishing a book. 

I started out writing a book about my testimony because that’s what you hear that a writer should share – unless they are a fiction writer – and what’s the greatest thing you can share with others to help them is your testimony. 

After talking to a publisher about it, I realized some things needed evaluation because it involves other people. Some of those people would have been supportive, but for others, because of their own insecurity, it would have been a disaster. So I put that book on the shelf after 30,000 words. 

I can share my testimony in a one-on-one setting to protect all parties involved.

At one point, I thought I wouldn’t write a book, but it kept stirring inside me. 

When I thought of writing a book, I also felt overwhelmed. I know that if it’s Holy Spirit-led, it will just flow. But I still felt intimidated. 

One day, as I was looking at a small book given to me, I realized I didn’t have to write a big book; I could write a small one. I talked to my daughter-in-love about it, and she was supportive and said a small book is nice; it cuts out all the fluff and repetition and goes straight to the point. 

I later talked to a friend, a sweet sister, who, with her husband, wrote a book, and we talked about putting my blog posts together in a book, which may very well take place at a future date. 

So I sat down at my computer and said, “Okay, Lord, what needs to be said?” It has been stirring in my heart the title “Live Your Story.” I thought I was going to aim for between three and five thousand words. Eight thousand words later and in two days, I had my book written. Then came two days of editing and one day of designing my book cover, which I used AI to help with. 

I have so many mixed feelings. Excitement. Nervousness. Second-guessing myself. Pleased with myself for accomplishing a ten-year dream. Frustration of trying to get it out, and social media has changed so much. 

But through all the mixed emotions, I look to Jesus and thank Him. I thank the Holy Spirit for giving me what to say. I thank Him for the support of my husband, kids, parents, my sweet sister friend, and my spiritual heart sister. For their love and support. 

What is the Lord asking of you? What is on your heart to accomplish for Him? What are you allowing to hold you back from achieving what you are called to do? 

The Lord is talking to me about being more consistent in my life and seeking Him more so I can walk into what He wants to fulfill in my life. I have been putting off other things, and that’s disobedience. 

God is so good and faithful to us. 

I hope you can order the book and write a review, and I’d be blessed if you shared your thoughts with me. I hope the book encourages you. You can order the book on Amazon. You can also order it here.

With Love,
Kristi

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You are a Warrior Heart. Keep pursuing His heart in the quiet places. Keep living the story He lovingly penned. Keep running your race — steady, surrendered, and strong.

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