My Dilemma: Can There be Swearing in a Faith Story?

When my novella THE TIME BETWEEN released, I believed I'd dealt with the issue of my characters swearing making this a non-Christian book because there is NEVER any swearing in Christian books! So this book isn’t Christian. Since this book is a clearly a ‘THRILLER’ as one review shared, and knowing that what I'd written was also a ‘MYSTERY’, these are the tags I chose for my gutsiest book thus far.

However, since the second and third books in The Crucible of Becoming Series are faith stories, I knew I'd only delayed the inevitable. For at some point I’d have to admit that ‘YES! I did write Christian stories with swearing in them'. By now I’m sure you see my dilemma and may be wondering why I’m worrying about something that hasn’t happened yet. So for the purpose of this article, I’ve labeled the preceding ‘Phase One’.

When you read ‘Phase Two’, which I’m about to share, I think you be nodding you head so here goes…while sending out some info on the release of THE TIME BETWEEN, I included in large caps THIS IS NOT A CHRISTIAN STORY. Those who know me continued to Tweet and share the books info on Facebook. Aware that two sweetie-pies might have set themselves up for some grief, I tweeted one a reminder and reminded the other in a Facebook chat only to have one emphatically insist,

          “I’m NOT taking THE TIME BETWEEN promo down cause I know Jesus is there!”

          And the other tweet me, “I know your heart!”

So I find myself asking if I’d judged my work too harshly. Then again, I know that there are far worse things in Scripture. I’m not comparing my work to Gods Word. I am, however, asking when is a book Christian? Or more importantly do I as a faith writer need to be worried about backlash from Christian readers?

Perhaps the answer is to be found when I ask myself, who am I writing for?

My answer, as always is, I write for God because He called me to do this!

Well then, I might ask myself, is God only interested in Christians?

About now I feel like an idiot because I know God is interested in everyone!

Okay, I tell myself, let’s dig into that.

And digging into that in the only way I know how, I asked Jesus and He took me to John 3:17, which says, For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through him. Whomever believes in him is not condemned, but whomever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God's one and only son.

I know, I know, I wasn’t taken to perhaps the most beloved, memorized and quoted Scripture, the one that precedes what I quoted which says, For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16).

And the fact that God didn't take me where I and probably you thought he would helped me realize that I have to decide every time I do, say, think, or write something if I want to please God or man. I cannot bop between the two because God did not give any of us that option.

I can only do and go where I think I should if I decide to follow me…and if I did that what a fool I would be!

If you'd like to add your thoughts to mine, I'm going to gift a Kindle download to the first 10 people who leave their email address on this blog post. To check out the book before you decide visit: http://amzn.to/1EuAlTD

Released yesterday, THE TIME BETWEEN already has THREE 5 STAR Reviews!

A therapist who does not know.

A secretary who holds the key to why her boss’s life was a living hell.

When all is said and done the sleeper must awaken or be forever trapped.

There is a second before you take your first breath, and a second before you breathe your last.  Between those inescapable seconds we live, love, laugh, and cry. When all is said and done the breather of those two breaths knows that there will never be a time when they can reimagine, or redo because having breathed your last, you’re through.  And then it’s up to those who knew you to determine if you were faithful, if you were kind, if you were true. But what about those who have not yet passed but know their days are numbered, and what about those who judge thereby causing pain to those who have not reached their eternal slumber.  Perhaps the Beatles were wiser than we knew when they sang, ‘Let it Be.’

      Yet within my psych there was a wish to be a blessing, a confidant, a mother to those who needed for I grew up knowing The Time Between while I was young and heard songs that others had not sung. This is my story.

~~~~~~~

EDITORIAL REVIEW - “There was a point in my teen years where I was infatuated with the works and life of Edgar Allan Poe. As I read Paula’s latest book I found myself comparing Paula’s opening with his work. The main difference is that Edger wrote from the depth of his tormented mind, and Paula writes beyond torment to deliver the main character into sanity. As the story unfolded I found myself both analyzing the needs of the main character and identifying with her road to joy.

I have been amazed at how the Master works through His children using “non-spiritual" ways to open doorways into the spiritual world for His Glory. There are a multitude of individuals imprisoned within chains of bondage of self-worth. Ultimately I believe that only Christ offers deliverance, but a book like this can be used of Christ to guide a person to seek the help they need." — Rev Jimmy A. Garland: Pastor, Counselor, Author of ‘Ark of Rest’ 

http://amzn.to/1EuAlTD 

~~~~~~~~

AUTHORS NOTE: The writing of this book took a few days, the concept was the Lords. I know it may seem odd when I tell you 'This is NOT a Christian Book' and though Jesus is mentioned there is swearing when the story called for that. However, if you're looking for a gutsy thriller chocked full of suspense this novella, which many tell me reads like a play, is for you. And if you know the songs of the sixties the chapter titles will say things to your heart that when the mystery is solved your heart may resonate with the characters as mine did. 

Choose: Walk by Faith in God's Blessings or Live in Fear

It seems that all of my life, I've been looking for a blessing. Being Jewish, I'd like to assume that this is a unique trait...one that only a member of the twelve tribes can claim! However, thinking like that can get one into an awful state when it finally becomes crystal clear that the blessing is in the doing, not the waiting. I've had to remind myself of that reality of late. For having been given the blessing of being ill for months, while I thought about and finally did write a book I’d not wanted to but realized the Lord did, I find myself amazed that this same woman who adamantly did life her own way finds herself going and doing what before she probably wouldn’t have. Joyfully I’ve heard myself exclaim, “Life’s more than I thought it to be!”

Then again having several online author friends tell me that my soon to release novella titled THE TIME BETWEEN isn’t Christian, I once again am very aware of this pull between Christianizing everything and the fact that Yeshua (Jesus) didn’t tell those who know about Him and here, I'm quoting Mark 16:15, where Messiah, “…said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”

Furthermore, Rabbi Shaul (the Apostle Paul) wrote in Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

This living by the Spirit sounds good, and witnessing as Christ told (not asked) us to do would be undoable for me, if I do not let others, no matter how well intended they are put the same yoke on me that they ware. I do not know if this is done out of the need to conform to another's social norm or out of concern. And I'm blessed that God isn't asking me to find out.

I do know that having been a judge for the most sought after fiction award in Christian fiction that the bite is missing. What bite you might wonder. Therefore, I will explain my thoughts, which I believe mirror our LORDS for as He hung on the cross he proclaimed Himself the Messiah by quoting Psalm 22 written by David more than 400 years before. In reading verses 1 and 2, which says, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest,” I have my answer! 

Since Messiah did not take the easy path nether can we. The path we must choose is like ‘The Eye of the Needle’ which really exists in Israel. Not one of us can pass through unless we leave all we have - everything we own or laid up behind us save what we are wearing, so it is with trying to protect ourselves when called upon to serve the LORD.  

Perhaps being altruistic will work for some. Others may look forward expectantly. I believe the answer is found in 2 Corinthians 5:7 For we live by faith, not by sight. Applying my faith in the infallibility of God’s Word, I trust in the One who is my all in all.

Walking as a bondservant of Messiah is a choice. All are called. Some answer that call. It is from those who follow that God continues to ask if any will serve Him today. In Joshua 24:15 we read, “...but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!”

Today it might be a good idea for you to ask yourself:

What do I value?

Does my life reflect my values?

Remember, what we think and do reflects who we are and who's we are.

Until we meet again may Messiahs Shalom envelop you my friend.
Info on Paula Rose Michelson & her Books at: http://amzn.to/1z8ydzA

I’m a 5 Star FAN of Felicia Mires’ “Diamonds are for Eden!” You’ll Enjoy This Book 2!

As those of you who follow this blog know, I love finding new authors who write books I wish I had. Felicia Mires’ novel ‘Diamonds are for Eden: Natasha Kelly, Mossad Spy’ captivated me! You’ll know only a smidgen of all I admired about this Christian novelist from my review, to find out more and experience an amazing ride, I suggest you read…

“Terrorism, spies, and faith aren’t the usual bill of fare for a book about a young woman who in the beginning seems to be a ‘sort of chick flick’ kind of gal. Then again maybe her changing her looks is about... And that’s just the beginning of discovering who Natasha Kelly is and why that famous movie star hunk with his raised eyebrow seems to have his eye on her. A fast paced story of faith, and the promise of love set against a backdrop where being found isn’t an option, readers will find this a book to be a MUST read NOW e-ticket ride.

Artfully weaving snippets of the history of ‘Eretz Yisrael’ The Land of Israel, I found this story somewhat reminiscent of works by James Michener, and Leon Uris.

Yes, author, Felicia Mires’ took me on an unexpected ride! If you, like me, look forward to the return of Yeshua HaMashiach – Jesus our Messiah to the land of his birth, and love Gods Word, I know you will feel the same way once you’ve gobbled up “Diamonds are for Eden."
http://amzn.to/1NPZnln

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Felicia Mires began her writing career years ago when she became bored with what she found available in the Christian Fiction market. Hoping to entertain herself and provide inspiration to other Christians, she wrote her first novel, Diamonds are for Eden. Since that time, she has written more than 20 Christian novels (all with a bit of romance), even becoming a finalist in the ACFW competition. Along the way, she has judged multiple writing contests, edited scores of books for other writers, and discovered a wealth of fascinating Christian fiction.

But, God did not create man, or woman, for books alone. Thankfully, there is relationship. Felicia has been married for over 25 years to Gene Mires, from whom she gains a plethora of hilarious and creative ideas. Felicia and Gene have three incredible children and three dogs who think they're children. Ahh, the drama...and unending plot ideas.

Life is full of relationship. If you need a bit of inspiration or encouragement, try Christian Fiction by Felicia Mires.

PASTOR JIMMY A. GARLANDS UPDATED REVIEW BLESSING!

Because of Pastor Jimmy A. Garland's updated Blessing his full review of my soon to release novella ‘The Time Between’ now says,  

“There was a point in my teen years where I was infatuated with the works and life of Edgar Allan Poe. As I read Paul’s latest book I found myself comparing Paul’s opening with his work. The main difference is that Edger wrote from the depth of his tormented mind, and Paul writes beyond torment to deliver the main character into sanity. As the story unfolded I found myself both analyzing the needs of the main character and identifying with her road to joy.

I have always been amazed at how the Master can and will work through His children in non "Spiritual" ways in order to open doorways to the spiritual world for His Glory. There are a multitude of individuals imprisoned within chains of bondage of self-worth. Ultimately I believe that only Christ offers deliverance, but a book like this can be used of Christ to guide a person to seek the help they need.

Sadly it was years after his death that Poe's works were recognized for the genius within. Don't let it take you that long to read this one. Thanks Paul for writing a thriller.”

Again as I did when I first read Pastor Garland's words the first time and each time thereafter, I wondered how often I let other peoples voices and thoughts take precedence over, cause me to hesitate, or worse yet take the broad road rather than the one Jesus gave His life so we could walk upon. 

During this season of LENT where we are to ask God to examine us, I think it fitting to see that God used critical voices to challenge me. Then choosing to move forward as I did, HE sent me a message in the form of this review, which told me that God was happy that I'd stayed true to HIS call, which I'd answered so long ago.

If today you're facing a dilemma like I did, I pray that God send affirmation your way.

Info about author Paula Rose Michelson and her Books: http://amzn.to/1z8ydzA

BELOW is PASTOR JIMMY A. GARLANDS ORIGINAL REVIEW

Having sent THE TIME BETWEEN out before its release so I could get readers perspective on novella, two told me that since this 'true to life fiction' had a few swear words, they would not read it for they believed it wasn't Christian. Aware that the story had to be told as it was, and been buoyed up by praise from other believers who felt the book had to have those words or not be published, I moved ahead. However, in my last blog I labeled the read ‘Not Christian’.

A few days later, Pastor Jimmy A. Garland wrote and sent me his 5 STAR REVIEW of THE TIME BETWEEN, which he will post on Amazon when the novella is released, in which he said, 

“There was a point in my teen years where I was infatuated with the works and life of Edgar Allan Poe. As I read Paula’s latest book I found myself comparing her opening with his work.

The main difference is that Edger wrote from the depth of his tormented mind.

Author Paula Rose Michelson writes beyond torment to deliver the main character into sanity. As the story unfolded I found myself both analyzing the needs of the main character and identifying with her road to joy.

Sadly it was years after his death that Poe's works were recognized for the genius within.

Don't let it take you that long to read this one. Thanks Paula for writing a thriller.” — Rev Jimmy A. Garland: Pastor, Counselor, Author of ‘Ark of Rest’

As I read Pastor Garland's words the first time and each time thereafter, I wondered how often I let other peoples voices and thoughts take precedence over, cause me to hesitate, or worse yet take the broad road rather than the one Jesus gave His life so we could walk upon. 

During this season of LENT where we are to ask God to examine us, I think it fitting to see that God used critical voices to challenge me. Then choosing to move forward as I did, HE sent me a message in the form of this review, which told me that God was happy that I'd stayed true to HIS call, which I'd answered so long ago.

If today you're facing a dilemma like I did, I pray that God send affirmation your way.

Info about author Paula Rose Michelson and her Books: http://amzn.to/1z8ydzA

Soon to Release my Gusty ‘The Time Between' is NOT Christian Fiction!

There is a second before you take your first breath, and a second before you breathe your last.  Between those inescapable seconds, we live, love, laugh, and cry. When all is said and done, the breather of those two breaths knows there will never be a time when one can reimagine, or redo, because having breathed your last, you’re through. Then it’s up to those who knew you to determine if you were faithful, if you were kind, if you were true. But, what about those who have not yet passed, but know their days are numbered. What about those who judge, thereby causing pain to those who have not reached their eternal slumber. Perhaps the Beatles were wiser than we knew when they sang, ‘Let it Be.’

Yet within my psych there was a wish to be a blessing, a confidant, a mother to those who needed for I grew up knowing The Time Between, while I was young and heard songs that others had not sung. This is my story.

A therapist who does not know.

A secretary who holds the key to why her boss’s life was a misery.

When all is said and done, the sleeper must awaken or be forever trapped.

Why this Book Now?

Many months ago, I wrote the Back Matter posted above. Having no interest at that time in this work, I set it aside. However, as I struggled to keep my focus while finalizing the manuscript of the fourth book of the Naomi Chronicles titled, ‘Commitment for Two’, I realized God had different ideas. Though this first book isn't Christian the two other books in 'The Crucible of Becoming', series are.

Usually it takes an author many months to finalize a work. However, as I started to write this short novella, I discovered that God had written this story on my heart.

When a friend who knew about my LAMB Ministry work with women suffering from trauma and abuse, asked if this book was a composite of or written about a particular woman I told her that though women speak of their issues, I am not trained, nor do I probe into their issues. This story is n FICTION. 

If anyone reading this or any of my other books would like to develop the biblical habits that God lead me to develop and I teach email Paula@PaulaRoseMichelon.com Those wishing to be notified when 'The Time Between' releases please email me so I can put you on that contact list.

In Loving Memory of Ruth Sawin, I share 'The Widows Mite' today 4 this is her story!

Having known Ruth for several years, I was aware that she was unique. Not because of her small stature and twinkling eyes. Not because in an age when children of different faiths were taught to stay with their own, her dearest girl friends were Jewish and Catholic, though she was Lutheran. I believe the reason they all got along so famously was because they saw, as Ruth did, the good in people.

All that said this senior citizen is not only a widow who lost the love of her life, she was also one of those tireless saints who has a small place but discovered it was large enough to house her daughter and granddaughters when the need arose. She always had a kind word for everyone and her family prays together as they serve the Lord. So it wasn’t much of a stretch for her and her family to help me in my endeavors since mine are very much like theirs.

With Ruth's passing, I wanted to once again share this story which happened several years ago, before I became a published author. I needed funds (as missionaries often do) and was invited to speak at a weekly luncheon at the church where my hubby Ron is now a pastor. The hope was that in pre-selling some books, I’d have what was needed. And although I did accomplish that goal, I experienced a 'Widows Mite' moment that will forever be in my heart.

The Widows Mite

Having lost a large portion of income when her husband died, Ruth was always happy to open her home to all in nee. In her desire to help me in Messiah's work had already prepaid for a book. When I was scheduled to speak at her church, she made sure to be there. As I tried to talk above the clatter, she smiled and nodded her approval. At one point I stopped because the din was more than I could handle. So, rising from her chair she shushed them. And because all knew her, and were aware of all she had done and continued to do silence greeted me. They were suddenly very polite. And yes many bought a book!

But it was this precious widow, who having waited until all were gone, asked me to open my palm, placed a check in my hand, smiled, and turned away.

Opening it as she had told me to do, I exclaimed, “You can’t afford to do this!’

She patted my hand and shared, “This is for those who do not yet know the LORD.” I tried to reason with her, but she said, “To know God is and be feed by his Word is everything. Use this to buy books to gift to those who have not yet heard.”  That said, she turned and walked away. As I watched, her go I remembered she’d said when she bought one book for her family that one was enough all of them because they loved to share.

Today, let us celebrate as she did the Lord of us all, Yeshua (Jesus) who helps each one of us see that we are richer in him than we could ever be.