New Release: A Test of Faith

A Test of Faith (The True Love Novellas, Book 3)

 

In the coming days my tenth book will be released! What an awesome privilege it is to write for the Kingdom of God. Have you reserved your copy yet? Here's some information about it:

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church… ~Ephesians 5:25

 

Joshua and Gayle were the model couple. After years of dating, Joshua romantically popped the big question to his college sweetheart. It was the proposal Gayle had always dreamed of. It didn’t matter that Joshua had been drafted by the NFL and was a part of the prominent Maxwell family of Lewiston Springs; Gayle desired to be his wife simply because she loved him.

 

Their relationship was a solid rock, storybook romance … that was until Joshua’s trust for his wife turns to suspicion.

 

As Gayle struggles to piece together the broken fragments of her life, she tries to maintain her dignity around the high class people she once called friends. The vows she made to Joshua before God on their wedding day were true, but is love enough to keep their marriage out of divorce court?

 

A Test of Faith is the third book in The True Love Novellas series. Read excerpt…

 

*Reserve your copy today!

 

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes | Google Play

Happy Holidays: A Time to Give

Happy Holidays!

This is indeed the most wonderful time of the year. There's just something about a year in review. It presents so many opportunities to thank God for His many blessings. Not to say that you shouldn't do that year round, it's just that when others collectively praise God with you there's instant harmony. 

Also when the Christmas season is upon us, there's an inclination to give a little more. Ministries receive their end of the year donations, toys are collected for little girls and boys from donors who would not ordinarily receive them, and food banks distribute groceries at a higher rate than throughout the other seasons of the year.

As we give, it reminds me of what Jesus said in Matthew 25: 34-40:

34 Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’

This prompted me to think about what an awesome gift it is to the giver knowing that we are not only extending our time, money, and service to another human being, but to the Savior Himself. 

"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing," John 15:5.

In the spirit of giving, I've offered several giveaways through my mailing list and Facebook Readers & Supporters group:

• A $25 Amazon Gift Card
• An Edible Arrangement ($29 Retail Value)
• A $25 Applebees Gift Card 

If you're not on the list, consider joining today by visiting my website: www.ReneeAllenMcCoy.com. But whether you're on the list or not, you can still enter this brand new giveaway for 8 Free Autographed Copies of My Books (Over a $100 Retail Value). I would offer all ten titles, but one (A Test of Faith) hasn't released yet and the other (Once Upon a Sunday) is an eBook already being offered for free through various sales channels, including Amazon. 

Here are the books being given away:

The Fiery Furnace series - The Kiss of Judas, Confessions, The Eleventh Hour

The True Love Novellas (2 current titles) - The Christmas Beau and Single, Saved, & Searching

In the Presence of My Enemies

Soul Ties: Breaking Up with a Past That's Killing Your Future

A Time to Praise: A Christmas Anthology

If you have all of these books, great! Either way, you can still get them and give away as an awesome gift for that avid reader in your life. To learn more about each title, visit www.ReneeAllenMcCoy.com. 

If you would like to enter the drawing, just click this link for a chance to win all 8 books! I'll notify the winner by the end of the day December 21, 2016. 

Christmas Release: A Time to Praise

September 27, 2016
FaytheWorks Publishing
FaytheFiction Imprint

Greetings,

It's been a while since I've published to this blog site, but I plan to be more active in the near future. Raising little ones is pretty time-consuming, especially when living states away from family. But nonetheless, I praise God for the experience and the lives entrusted to my care. 

Over the past year and a half, I've collaborated with several new authors and one familiar literary voice (Sonya Visor) to help develop stories dedicated to the Christmas season centered on the goodness of the Lord. My vision for this project was to present clean Christian fiction for an audience that wants just that. Nowadays, it's sometimes hard to tell if a "Christian" novel is truly a Christian story. Yes, Christians make mistakes and fall short, all humans do, but the difference is that we don't wallow in our sins and justify our behaviors … at least not the true Christians. 

I've learned that many Christians want to read stories that are real, but not dirty; edgy at times, but not nasty. There's a way to tell a great story with realistic problems and issues without profanity and explicit sex scenes. God designed sex. It's not a dirty act, but when exploited it may be viewed as such. The focus should be on exposing sin, not glorifying it. There's a difference. But I don't want to get too deep about that here. (See my non-fiction book, Soul Ties, for more detail on that topic.)

Here, I share my latest holiday release, A Time to Praise, co-authored by Sonya Visor, Camille Gipson, Lisa Antley, and Renarda Williams. In this anthology, there are five unique short stories that celebrate the love, joy, and peace of Christmas. 

Below is a little bit about each story:

Miracle From on High by Renée Allen McCoy

Four lives intersect at a crossroad, prompting each to seek God’s direction. Benjamin and Susan grapple to accept their path while Trevor and Danielle struggle to cope with theirs.

Giving You the Best of My Love by Sonya Visor

Three years ago, Chase Anderson was hauled off to jail, leaving his wife, Nicole, drowning in a lake of trouble. Despite the strong love they once shared, will they be able to overcome life changing obstacles?

His Calling and My Desire by Camille Gipson

How does a single mother fight to protect her country and her children at the same time? Ruth is torn as she leaves one battle only to face another.

Blessings in the Storm by Lisa Antley

Tonya Phillips has almost everything she could ever imagine … except a good man. In a dark moment of her life, she soon discovers “He” has always been there.

The Greatest Christmas Present Ever by Renarda Williams

As Ikedi Ataya, a black State Justice, is honored for his career, he reflects on his “Christmas gift” to a close-knit New Orleans community threatened by greedy developers. 

                                                # # #

The stories will make you laugh, cry, and identify with some of the characters. Most importantly, you'll be pleasantly reminded that not only during the holidays, but it's always a time to praise God! 

Until Next Time, 

Happy Holidays and as always, Happy Reading...

Renée 

New Audio Book: The Christmas Beau



FaytheWorks Publishing
Audiobook 2015



Christmas is still a few months away, but for me it's always a pleasure to hear a sweet holiday romance. And this year God has blessed me to produce my first audiobook for the story, The Christmas Beau. So many readers have been very supportive with the eBook version over the years and I pray the same, well, even better for my new audiobook. Through the links listed here, you can get this new audiobook for free! If you are a regular audiobook listener (or even a first time listener) and want to add my book to your library for free, just click here: Amazon.com or Audible.com (an Amazon company). For Apple users the audiobook is also available for sale on iTunes.

Now, to get this audiobook for free, you will have to join Audible, but this membership is also free for thirty (30) days. The retail cost of the audiobook is $14.95 ($13.08 on Amazon), but with the Audible membership it’s free for the first month. You can cancel at any time. Sounds like a deal to me! Besides, to offer the audiobook for free helps others to find out that my work exists. There’s a sea full of authors, some good and some bad, why don’t we share the stories that actually make sense and support our Christian faith, right?

I have prayed to God for more Christian works to saturate the entertainment market. It’s sad that horror movies and shows laden with profanity get so much publicity while some Christian books, movies, and shows fade into the background. With so many professed Christians in the world we should unite and support works that reflect our faith.

Thanks in advance for supporting this new venture of mine!  I appreciate the love and support shown to me over the years and greatly appreciate the overwhelming support of my last release, Once Upon a Sunday, published Easter weekend. All I can say is that God is good!

Again, thank you for the love and support. I pray God’s best for you…

New Release: Once Upon a Sunday

FaytheWorks Publishing
FaytheFiction Imprint
Released April 5, 2015

Easter weekend is a wonderful time to collectively celebrate the Risen Savior. Actually, every day presents an awesome opportunity to celebrate Jesus Christ and what He did for us. I am so grateful for what was accomplished on that Cross so many centuries ago. Jesus Christ died for our sins so that we could be free and have a right to the tree of life. He died so that we may live eternally. He loves us that much.

When I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, my life forever changed for the better. He has saved my soul and I share the Gospel with others so that they too may experience the freedom that I have. Are you saved? Have you experienced the goodness of what it truly means to be a child of the Most High God? Try Him today...

In honor of Resurrection Sunday, I released an inspirational short story titled, Once Upon a Sunday. In this book, Good Friday started off as anything but that for Melinda Black. After losing her job and self-dignity, a series of events cascade her onto an emotionally charged roller coaster ride that drastically changed her life forever. 

Find out if Melinda will be able to handle the pressure when she stands to lose what's most important in her life?

It is on sale for only $0.99 on Amazon Kindle, Barnes & NobleNook, Google Play, as well as through the Apple iBookstore, Kobo, and Smashwords. Feel free to share this information with family, friends, or anyone who you feel would enjoy a good read. When you sign up for my newsletter, I offer many of my books for free or at a reduced sales price. If you would like to join, click here or visit my official website at www.ReneeAllenMcCoy.com

Thanks for taking some of your valuable time to read about my new release. I truly appreciate it.

Until next time, happy reading!

Before you say, “I do.”

Aside from Black History, the month of February is also known as the Love Month. Just walk into a store, just about any store during this time of the year, and you’ll find the shelves lined with teddy bears, balloons, and heart shaped candy boxes dressed in that telling symbolic color of red. Love is in the air, there are engagements waiting to happen, but what are some things you should do before you actually say those famous words, "I do"?

If you are contemplating an engagement, consider the following:

• Be transparent
• Listen to what they are saying, not what you want to hear
• Trust your instincts
• Talk about money
• Introduce them to your family

I don’t claim to be the guru of dating or the “go-to” person for singles. But I do remember what it was like to be single … and waiting. I know what it is like to date someone, think he is the one, only to discover some characteristic flaw that I was not willing to compromise on. Then again, why should I? Why should anyone “settle” for less than they really want from a mate? When you get married, there are enough compromises that are to be made, but the decision to be with someone for the rest of your life … the rest of your life, requires some deep thought and intense consideration. At least it did for me because when I decided to get married. The option for divorce was well … not an option. So, with that being the case I had to be wise in my decision to whom I was to marry.

So, you may already have your own ideas of what to do before you actually utter those words “I do”, committing yourself to someone legally as well as spiritually. Let me offer my two cents on the matter. I met my husband (then an unknown person to me) and we dated for four months, and then was married. It did not take five years, it did not include empty promises; it simply involved two people who were transparent enough to allow the other to see them for who they truly are. We talked for hours at a time, we went out on dates as well as stayed in and watched rented movies. We went to church together and we visited each other's families during the holidays. This is where you really get to know someone. Meet up on a holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas and observe the extended family members in action. There is bound to be someone around that will share a story or two that may interest you. Hopefully, this will make a positive impact on your relationship.

Be sure to talk about what you have and don’t have. Do you have bad credit? Do you have a stable, consistent income? Do you have a savings account? Is there money in that savings account? Sometimes you have to be specific about the questions you ask. You don’t want to later find that the savings account they said they had only has $5.00 in it. Or even worse, a negative balance! This was not the case with my husband, praise the Lord. I’m just offering some due diligence advice for those pondering marriage. Don’t assume anything, especially since you will be trusting this person with everything that you have.

Other important questions: Do you have children? Please don’t assume that because you don’t see children or pictures of children in their house that they don’t have any. Do you want to have children? Don’t be misled by the fact that they turn to mush around other people’s children that they want some of their own, ask specifically.

My husband and I both agreed on having children before we got married and we stuck pretty close to the timeline in which we wanted to have them. Today we have been married eight years, now with two toddlers running around the house.

So, you see, when you are open enough to let that person know you for who you are, your strengths and weakness, during your fashionable days as well as not so chic moments, and they still see the natural beauty beneath a made-up appearance, you've got yourself a winner! Be your own champion. It does not take compromising your principles to keep him or her. It does not take your pretending to be something you’re not to please them either. It takes an honest look at who you are and what you expect from that other person. Don’t marry with the hopes of they will change. Ninety-nine percent of the time, you are dating a person at their best. So, what comes after the vows is a work in progress.

                                                                              * * *

Some of these topics are touched on in Single, Saved, & Searching (True Love Novellas, Book 2). Do you have your copy? 

This title is available on Amazon, BN, and wherever books are sold.

                                                                    

In with the new...

Greetings,

It's a new year and along with it comes new possibilities and opportunities. This year I have already begun to make some changes, admittedly, some are considered minor, but necessary in my book. I've started to update my mailing list. It has been a long time coming, let me tell you. After having two children and being busier that I have ever been in my life (with lack of sleep, might I add), God is teaching me to be a better steward of my time. The time He has afforded to me ... and to you is valuable.

So, I begin this year by organizing my contacts. If you haven't already joined the new, updated mailing list and would like to, simply click here. Here is where I will announce book giveaways and contests first before I do anywhere else. It is my way of thanking my readers for their support. If you decide to join, keep in mind that you will have to confirm your email address after doing so. This is a way that I will know that emails are valid and those who sign up truly want to hear from me. I thank you in advance.

As many of you know, about a month ago I released my seventh book: Single, Saved, & Searching (The True Love Novellas, Book 2). And since then I have received glowing reviews delivered to my inbox, over the phone, through social media, as well as a few posts on Amazon. If you have read this book (or any of my titles) and enjoyed them, consider posting a review. This just might encourage someone else to read a book that may help them in their own lives. After all, it's not about me, it's about God, touching lives for His glory.

For those who are hearing about Single, Saved, & Searching for the first time, here's a little bit about the book:

He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord. ~ Proverbs 18:22

"She’s getting married too?" asks the beautiful, intelligent, and single Elisha Maxwell who just received a wedding invitation from her last single best friend and her younger sister in the same week. As she stacks both invites on her kitchen counter, she wonders when it will be her turn.

Challenged by a string of disappointing relationships, Elisha’s hope of finding Mr. Right leaves her feeling desperate and confused. Does such a man exist for her? In the wake of the most terrifying experience of her life, she is more determined now than ever to find him.

When she embarks upon a quest to change her single status to married, she finds something much more important along the way. Will she embrace the man of her dreams who seems the least likely of them all or go with someone who appeared to be her perfect match?

Single, Saved, & Searching is the second book in The True Love Novellas series.

Book Trailer for Single, Saved, & Searching

This book can be purchased from Amazon, BN, Google Play, Kobo, and wherever books are sold (ebook and paperback).

* * *

Again, I thank you all for reading my work and if there is any question I can answer for you or if you'd just like to connect, feel free to contact me: renee@reneeallenmccoy.com  or connect with me on Goodreads. 

Have a great day!

In the Presence of My Enemies: Sneak Preview

FaytheWorks Publishing LLC
November 29, 2013

Some dreams are worth the fight...

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies..." Psalm 23:5.

Kara Bentley, the child prodigy from a small southern town, has grown into a talented and beautiful young woman living in New York City. With hopes of attending Juilliard to become a world class pianist, Kara is on the fast track to winning the hearts of many, especially the one of up and coming film director Wendell McGuire. But will the advances of another woman steal the hopes of them ever being together?

Melissa Peterson serves as a strong support system and best friend to Kara. She’s there to offer moments of encouragement as Kara faces the evils from an oppressive home life with her guardian sister, but will their friendship last when Kara uncovers a heavily guarded affair? 

Determined to defeat all odds stacked against her, Kara struggles to make it to the top. Will her determination prove to be enough as unrelenting trials attempt to suffocate any hope she has of leaving the projects, love for the man of her dreams, and most importantly the faith she has in God?

#  # #

In the Presence of My Enemies is my sixth book and fifth novel. It is only by the grace of God that I've made it his far. Many obstacles stood in my way as I attempted to complete this book (that I started writing about four years ago), but when God says that it is time to complete—it is time. And although it had been tough to write through illness while caring for a toddler, I was able to finish this novel. 

It is an honor, no, a blessing to have others interested in my work. I hope that you all enjoy the story and consider sharing it with others. I thank everyone who pre-ordered autographed paperback copies and those who await links for the eBook (scheduled to go live next week). The official release date is November 29, 2013.

Again, thank you so much for your continued support and the precious time you spend on reading my stories.

Happy Reading,

 

Renée

MLK: He Had a Dream, Do We?

The commemoration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. seeks to remind every individual of his staunch leadership in a pivotal point in history. Although we recognize today as Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday, our attention is called to more than just his birth, but more so what he accomplished for this nation during his life. This was a man who carried the torch of freedom during the Civil Rights Movement, inciting others to do the same, the activist who marched on Washington, the leader who stood strong in the very face of fear, and the minister who spoke the Word of God in confidence. We are celebrating a leader who died so that you and I could enjoy the freedom that was already enacted in the United States Constitution by way of the 13^th Amendment.

With much adversity, Dr. King fought to abolish the Jim Crow laws of his time, a racial caste system erected where black people were separated from white people and considered inferior simply due to the color of their skin. Although the Emancipation Proclamation signed on January 1, 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery where millions of slaves were freed, still one hundred years later in 1963 Dr. King had a dream. He had a dream where both white and black people alike would live in harmony; a dream where his children would be judged not based upon the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. His vision was prophetic in nature. Note the words of Dr. King on the night before he was tragically killed: “I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.”

In that same speech, Dr. King noted that we would have difficult days ahead, but that wasn’t reason to abandon the “promised land.” The promised land that was pledged when this nation was formed. Just as his wife, Coretta Scott King, said just days after his demise: “If you give your life to a cause in which you believe, and if it is right and just, and if your life comes to an end as a result of this, then your life could not have been spent in a more redemptive way. I think that is what my husband has done.”

The torch to continue the fight was passed through the hands of many who made countless sacrifices, even with their own lives. Today, more than forty years after that famous I Have a Dream speech we are still witnessing history being made as President Barack Obama begins his second term as the first African American President of the United States. President Obama’s presence in the White House as a biracial, black and white, American is reminiscent of the words Dr. King spoke decades prior. The leader of our nation symbolizes what took years of rallies, marches, and sit-ins to get us to where we are on today. We must continue to forge ahead, remembering how much it took for us to arrive where we are, understanding that the freedom we now enjoy really wasn’t free.

                                                                            # # #

This was a day of great reflection. In me, it prompts a motivation to do more, to share more, and to be more appreciative. Dr. King had a dream that impacted the world around him. This was a dream that could not have been achieved first without God, and secondly without those supporters around him. He had a dream for change; change for the better. The question today is do we have a dream? And if so, what are we going to do about it?

This Season

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,

This year has brought on many wonderful changes as the Lord blessed me with the birth of a new son. My husband and I are forever grateful. As a result, my sickness subsided and the Lord blessed me with the strength to write another book to release as an eBook this month. Initially, I wasn't sure if I could do it when God gave me the idea a few months ago. With a young child and traveling for 2 weeks out of that time, experiencing the death a of dear family member and simply adjusting to a new way of life, I pressed on to do what God knew I could. I trusted in Him and have now released an eBook novella entitled, The Christmas Beau (The True Love Novellas ~ Book #1).

As I wrote this book, I did not know what would happen with the story, but as I wrote (through prayer) it was eventually revealed to me. Maybe it was written for you or someone you know. Maybe the contents are just a reminder for some and confirmation for others. I'm not sure, but what I do know is that I feel at peace in having written it.

 

As a special thank you to those who have purchased any of my books (and also for those who haven't, but are being introduced to my work), this eBook is only .99 (on Amazon and Barnes and Noble)! God has been very good to me (and my family) and I praise Him for His Son, Jesus Christ--my Lord and Savior, this season and all year long. With the chaotic shopping and commercialism during this time, let us not lose sight of what God has done ... He gave His Son. Let us celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior.

 

I pray that you all have a blessed rest of the year 2012!

Here's a snippet of what the book is about:



FaytheWorks Publishing LLC
Release Date: December 1, 2012
Format Available: eBook

Love suffers long and is kind… 1 Corinthians 13:4

“Why did I even come here for my vacation?” Charity Maxwell questions, initially regretting her trip home to Lewiston Springs for her Christmas vacation … that is until she finds out that an old flame is visiting too. With familiar emotions invading her heart, Charity desperately tries to keep her composure around a man with whom she shares a painful past.

Determined to make right his wrong, Milton Grayson passionately pursues Charity regretful that he lost her once and determined to not let it happen again. As a reminiscent whirlwind romance ensues between them, the pressure builds on a meddling family member who secretly plotted to separate the pair in the past.

Is their love true enough to withstand the evils that broke them apart the first time? Or will Charity’s anticipation of having a Christmas boyfriend suddenly be dashed to pieces?

The Christmas Beau is the first eBook in The True Love Novellas series that shares the love of God in and out of season.

 

# # #

 

    Also, please consider reading a repost from a couple Decembers ago. It is still as relevant today as it was then. The title of the post is Jesus Christ ... Savior.

 

Thank you again for taking the time to read and as always, keep God first.

 

 



The Upper Room Devotional--Do Not Complain

September-October 2012

This month's article is posted on the Upper Room's devotional site: Upper Room Devotional September 23, 2012.

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:14-15, NKJV).

Also, if you receive copies of the Upper Room pocket devotional, today's entry was written by me. This entry is also viewable on the Upper Room's website for September 23, 2012.

May God bless you all and have a Happy Sunday!

To submit a testimony or an article for contribution, please email me at renee@reneeallenmccoy.com

Return to Your First Love

I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary.  Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent. ~ Revelation 2:2-5

In recent days, I have been blessed to enjoy the gift God has given to my husband and me, a new baby boy. The Lord has been good to our family. Actually, the Lord has been good to this world. After all, He did give His only Son to die for our sins.

As I sat around with family and friends recently, we discussed the numerous singers who started out in the church, but have since abandoned their Gospel roots to pursue music in the secular arena. One of my friends said, “It seems that it would be the other way around. That you would leave the world for God, not God for the world. It’s backwards.” It does seem backwards, but I guess sometimes we forget, just as the Israelites had, what the Lord has done for us. Short-term memory… at least until the next tragedy occurs.

For Christians, God is the center of all that we do whether it is in the workplace, at home, or at the beach on vacation—not just on Sunday morning. And I understand now more than ever why Jesus said to return to your first love. God is so amazing because no matter what we’ve done, we can always ask for forgiveness and restore right standing with Him. Without Him we are nothing, with Him all things are possible. And if we hadn’t realized it before, the way the world is today we need God now more than ever.  Just as a pastor said this past Sunday in his morning sermon (and I paraphrase), “As we grow in Christ we are to become teachers. Not necessarily as a senior pastor would teach, but simply to share what we’ve learned so that others can grow as well.” 

I agree for the Bible states that we are ought to be teachers (reference Hebrews 5:12).

In this issue, Renarda Williams shares an article of a Christian who teaches others to use Biblical principles to succeed in their everyday lives. When we see ourselves as God sees us, we are bound to be successful. Life isn’t about driving the most expensive car or living in the fanciest house, it is about fulfilling the purpose of why God placed you here. And no one can tell you what that is other than the Holy Spirit. Seek Him for answers; He’ll direct your steps because He loves you.

_______________________________________________  

Finding Out Where You Go From Here
By Renarda Williams

The first time I came in contact with Valorie Burton was in 2002 in Monroe, La. I interviewed her about her first book, Rich Minds, Rich Rewards (Villard Books, 2001), which appeared in the Fifth Anniversary Issue of my online newsletter, The Empowerment Initiative Online Newsletter (TEION).
I've always admired and respected Valorie's ability to inspire, motivate, and uplift people. And again, she has delivered. She has dug deep into the minds, bodies, and souls of Americans struggling to overcome this country's economic crisis with her latest book — Where Do You Go From Here: Moving Forward When Life Doesn't Go as Planned (WaterBrook Press, 2011).

Valorie goes to the core of what Americans are experiencing — professional setbacks, layoffs, financial challenges — and provides perhaps the greatest solutions to overcome strife. She shows people how to reach within themselves to find the goal-accomplishing tools God has provided them with over the years. She also shows readers how to utilize a new way of thinking to overcome their setbacks.

Burton suggests making the following five commitments:

*I will not feel sorry for myself.
*I will not stare at the closed door.
*I will dig deep to unearth all the courage I need.
*I will direct my thoughts; my thoughts will not direct me.
*I will choose to believe that all things work together.

In general, the book stands out as a remarkable blueprint for perseverance through the toughest of times. Recently, I interviewed Burton about her book and the importance of it in helping people overcome challenges.

Burton said it is central, and essential, for people to become resilient in time of crisis. Of the five commitments, the fourth — "I will direct my thoughts; my thoughts will not direct me" — is the one most essential in overcoming setbacks, she said. "What you tell yourself will make you readjust your thoughts and make [you] take control of your life."

And what of those people who might be inclined to dismiss Where Do You Go From Here as just another so-called self-help book? Some people are naturally pessimistic and are afraid to step out and make up excuses and not try to excel, Burton said. "It is easy to scan the book and make a judgment. This book is not what Valorie says works.... It is based on factual studies that talk about the power of resilience and psychology [that] can help people overcome crisis. This book is also based on real stories of people who overcome financial, health, and personal crisis."

Burton said her book addresses different areas of life, and will assure readers that someone understands their plight. "It will help people realize they can [strive] to thrive .... People need harmony to flow and work to take care of themselves."
Valorie Burton is a certified personal and executive coach who has served hundreds of clients in many states and countries. She is the founder of The CAPP Institute, and the author of several books, including What's Really Holding You Back? Burton has written for numerous publications, such as: Essence, Woman's Day, O, the Oprah Magazine. Visit her at www.valorieburton.com.

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In Closing,

Life is good with God.  I didn’t always think this way... but now I know better. The Lord has taught me and I do believe that He places resources in our path to help us along the way. Remember that God provides resources, but He is THE SOURCE.

I seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance for me to share what I’ve learned and pray that others will do the same: learn, teach, love. We acquire the ability to do things under the power of the Almighty God—not any other entity.

To submit a testimony or an article for contribution, please email me at renee@reneeallenmccoy.com

The Truth Shall Make You Free

  

FaytheWorks Publishing

And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32, KJV

THIS SCRIPTURE offers an amazing combination of relief and freedom for the believer. God’s life-changing truth can never be trumped by the enemy’s deceptive lies. For those who have a desire to learn more about Jesus Christ, the Scriptures testify of Him. In Him and only in Him is there eternal life. It is simply up to the individual to receive what God has to offer. Considering what the Holy Spirit has taught me, I feel a great obligation to share Christ and love another brother or sister enough to tell them the truth. In my new non-fiction book, Soul Ties, many taboo topics are discussed, but with helpful solutions to those who suffer in silence.

     Through all of my ignorance, disobedience, and sin, God still loved me. God loves those who don’t even love Him and this is threaded throughout His Word—the Holy Bible. Jesus Christ saved me from Hell and saved me from myself. When I fell in the desires of my flesh, God still remained the same: loving, giving, patient, and kind. Although we encounter trials and tribulations here on Earth, even after being saved from Hell, God still does not allow us to go through more than we can bear. He does provide us with a way of escape. The problem is that many of us don’t take advantage of the emergency exit He affords. Why is that?

     One reason could be that so many are preoccupied with “life” and the things of the world that the open door of escape is either ignored or not even noticed. Being this heavily engrossed could cause a person to become more attracted and deeply devoted to things that are outside of God’s will. What a chilling thought. Through my experience in witnessing, I’ve often found that the generic response or attitude to my deterring others from dangerous pitfalls and toward the Lord is, “Oh, God knows my heart…” This is a sobering truth. Do many realize the divine revelation they’ve actually spoken? And the sad part is that this complacent response typically comes from many professed Christians.

These people draw near Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far away from Me. Uselessly do they worship Me, for they teach as doctrines the commands of men.

Matthew 15:8-9, AMP

     As the Lord has placed on my heart for some time now to write this book, I finally humbled in submission. I had to repent for procrastinating. My mind swarmed with thoughts of how to present it, how to make it relatable, and how to share without appearing judgmental (although the Word will ultimately judge, not man). Clearly, eternal judgment is reserved for God, as He has the final say. While human beings form opinions and are biased in certain instances, only God can pass judgment to either receive a person into Heaven or hurl them into Hell.

     The bottom line is the truth is the truth. There is no way to sugar coat, no way to dress it up to receive widespread approval of man, and no way to share it other than to be direct. God has taught me this by example through His Word. “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 12:4).

     It is my sincere desire to share with others what I have learned. The damaging effects of Greek Lettered sororities and fraternities, Masonry, along with other subjects are discussed in this book. I aim to encourage readers with the testimonies included from dedicated Christians who openly share the Light of God with the world—not some generic god who is powerless in the face of the One true and living God.

     In Soul Ties, at the end of each chapter (beginning with Chapter 2), you’ll find a self-examination question in addition to practical applications to help you discover areas in your life that may need repair. These things will assist you in becoming a healthier and more spiritually minded person.

     Other topics covered include deliverance from the devastating affects of rape, molestation, promiscuity, bondage to drugs and other addictions, and domestic abuse. We are our brother’s keeper and should care enough about the next person to share what we’ve learned through Biblical insight and personal experience that line up with God’s Word.

     It is not my intention to ignite discord. That is far from my motive. It is to simply share with others the caution that should be taken upon entering any relationship or association, whether with a potential mate or in joining a sorority, fraternity, or secret society that is inconsistent with one’s Christian faith. One day we will have to give an account to God for the things done in this life. We must be careful of the decisions we make because sometimes the consequences may have an eternal effect.

    The contents of Soul Ties are in no way, shape, or form intended to condemn anyone. When I justly deserved to be cast out of God’s sight, the Lord was patient with me and I just want others to experience the freedom and mercy that I have. God knew my previous outlook was distorted and not as He would have it to be. In the past, my view was assuredly that of a carnal mind, but what a loving and forgiving God we serve!

     This world, Earth as we know it, is only our temporary home and before I leave, I aim to do something meaningful with the life God has given me. Our experiences are not just our own. Our tests can become testimonies. It is my hope to help, even if that means only one person, to receive deliverance from damaging soul ties—deliverance that can only come through God.

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Thank you all for your support. May God bless and keep you. Consider sharing this information with a friend or family member. God came to set the captives free.

Ebook coming soon!
http://www.faytheworks.com/

In the Land of the Free

“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed,” John 8:36, NKJV.

Imagine, many Christians don’t enjoy the freedoms that Americans do in sharing their faith. We are allowed to stand on corners, pass out Gospel tracts, go into prisons for services, et cetera, but how many of us, saints, actually do it? We are to let our light shine before the world so that God will be glorified in Heaven.

I encourage every Christian to consider how it would affect you if you couldn’t share your faith. If it wouldn’t matter either way to you, then you need to reevaluate what Christ means to you. I’m well aware that there are moments in life, even in the land of the free, that sharing one’s faith is challenging or even prohibited, but that should never prompt a person to deny God. We can still share Christ by the way that we live. A great example would be that of Richard Wurmbrand, who founded Voice of the Martyrs. In His book, Tortured for Christ, the reader will discover how free you can really be, even in chains for God.

In this issue, I share an interview with a woman of God whom it was a pleasure to meet. It is wonderful to meet another Christian who has a desire to do His will. Deanetta Thompson's life in itself is an inspiration to others as she serves the Lord. Here, you'll get an inside look at the woman who survived numerous setbacks, but pressed forward and became a published author who started her own Christian Lifestyle e-zine (Christian Women Lifestyle xPress) that will become a trademarked LLC in just a couple weeks. Deanetta is a 20 year veteran of the army, defending our freedom here in the United States. I more so salute her dedication for her steadfastness in the army of the Lord.

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Introducing Deanetta Thompson, Budding CEO

With a vision to share through her writings what God has placed upon her heart, Deanetta is well aware of spiritual warfare. As shared in her bio (full bio here), Deanetta accurately identifies that we are living in the last and evil days. As wickedness increase, it becomes even more important for Christians, the saints of God, to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, Deanetta admits that her childhood was not easy, but realized that God had a plan for her life. And today as a married woman of three children, she realizes many of those dreams through her steadfast faith in the Lord.

An interview with Deanetta…



Deanetta P. Thompson
Photo courtesy of author

SUN: Have you always wanted to be an author? How did you start writing, and what pushed you to finish your first book?

DT: I started writing at the age of 14. I did not realize at the time what I was doing. I just picked up a pen and piece of paper and started writing. But the most amazing thing is I started writing songs. Something I don’t normally share with the world… but originally I wanted to be a singer. I still have that urge every now and then to blast a few notes, however my magazine is where my heart is.

SUN: What are the titles of your books? What are they about?

DT: I have two eBooks I have on the market now: Sistas… Do You Know What to Look For When Choosing Your Man? and Marital Warfare.

Sistas… Do You Know What to Look For When Choosing Your Man? deals with all the qualities a woman should look for in a man with biblical Scriptures to follow. This is not a boring e-Book; I had to get raw with a few topics, but I am sure I got my point across.

Marital Warfare is about different women and their issues in life that affect their marriages. The majority of these women came into the marriage with problems. I also provide biblical Scriptures for each story to give my readers a Godly solution to whatever their issues might be.

SUN: In your books, are you able to identify with any of the characters, if so, how? If not, why?

DT: I can identify with Sistas… Do You Know What To Look For When Choosing Your Man? I expressed in this e-Book a lot of the foolish mistakes I made and decisions that caused me pain, drama, along with a life spiraling downhill. [Details will be included in a future book.]

SUN: What do you hope to accomplish in sharing your literary works with the world?

DT: I hope women will be able to grasp the concept “put God first.” Make no decisions without Him. Stop looking for a sugar daddy and value your body. Some women are so desperate for a man [that] they will go to any means to get one. Before you get married discuss it with God. Make sure he is the right one for you; it could cost you your life and sanity!

SUN: As you write, do you find yourself learning new things as the process goes along?

DT: Yes I do. I find out more about myself and how my mind operates which causes all the decisions I make in life.

SUN: What is one thing you’d encouraged someone to do?

DT: Follow your goals and be good at it. Keep God in the picture and ask Him, “Lord what do you have planned for me?” Because your dreams might not be what He has planned for you. Sometimes we can take it upon ourselves to create our own future without including Him and [then] fail, but can’t seem to understand why.

SUN: If you could sum your life up in one sentence, what would you say?

DT: I am a survivor because of God’s grace and mercy He bestowed upon me.

SUN: How can readers get in touch with you (website, email)? And where are your books available for sale?

DT: The older version of my eBooks is on Amazon ready for download:

Marital Warfare

Sistas… Do You Know What to Look For When You Choosing Your Man?

Or the new version can be ordered from my site http://www.cwlxpress.com/

My email is ceo@cwlxpress.com. I am always looking for writers to contribute to my online magazine and of course they will receive all the credit.

I appreciate the opportunity to share my eBooks and thoughts with Straight Up! readers.

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Until next time,

Happy Reading and a safe 4th of July! And remember, true freedom only comes through Jesus Christ.

To submit a testimony or an article for contribution, please email me at renee@reneeallenmccoy.com.