Posts by ChrisMadaySchmidt
A cloud of witnesses: running the race
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses…let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. ~ Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV This Bible verse compares the Christian life to running a race, or more accurately, a marathon. Which translates…
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Building in the non-negotiables: grounding your day the simple way
The other day I was listening to a craft-related podcast—Simply Write with Polly Campbell—which covered the topic of time management for writers, although I believe the methods highlighted can be applied to any vocation. One thing she discussed was the non-negotiables she builds into each day, which triggered a review of how I manage my…
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Author spotlight: Convincing Lou by Jodie Wolfe
I’m excited to feature CONVINCING LOU, a Christian historical romance by author Jodie Wolfe. How hard can it be to round up one delinquent groom? Ellie Lou Williams will do just about anything to save her ranch, even going undercover as a man to round up a fella who is late to his own wedding.…
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Two decades in the making: an anniversary from death to life
It’s that time of year when I jump on my soapbox to discuss abstaining from drinking and driving. If you’re unfamiliar with my family’s story, you may contact Guideposts’ customer service to special order Exploring God’s Promises–Hope, which includes our true story based on God’s promise never to leave His children, and how that promise…
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Learning how to be content: an attitude of the heart and mind
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Philippians 4:11 Merriam-Webster defines contentment as freedom from worry or restlessness; peaceful satisfaction. Queue in the lyrics from the popular Rolling Stones’ song: “I can’t get no satisfaction.” This refrain suggests that contentment is elusive. Yet the Bible expounds on the definition by describing contentment…
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Hope deferred is not hope denied: good things come to those who wait
This summer, I’ve been busy writing proposals for a Guideposts’ imprint, submitting short stories to Woman’s World, and plotting a third Harlequin Love Inspired novel. In addition, I’m revising my second book under contract! THE FIRE CHIEF’S SURPRISE, a July 2025 release, has been more than a year in the making, my hopes deferred along…
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A hedge of protection: standing guard
Last year, I began the daily practice of prayer walks that include reciting scripture, petitioning the Lord, and praying for a “hedge of protection” around our property and community. When we first moved into our little cabin in the woods, we soon discovered we share our home with the forest wildlife that had come before…
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What happens in the kitchen: best kept secrets
When I was a little girl, my mom “tricked” me into eating her zucchini crisp by letting me think the (abnormally long) fruit slices were thinly sliced apples. And while the dessert tasted good, I couldn’t eat more once I learned the truth. Which proves that some secrets are best kept to ourselves—especially when they…
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Between the promise & the outcome: walking by faith
I’m believing in your promise, Lord. Several days after staking my claim (see Three more feet…), that had been my prayer. Yet I’d already become weary in that gap between the promise and the outcome. “Wait on the Lord.” While not audible, these words spoke to my spirit—reminding me that as believers, we walk by…
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Putting yourself out there: on the other side of self-doubt
Around the time my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel—A FATHER’S VOW—released in April 2024, I’d heard about dozens of writing contests available for authors. At the time, I sat back and cheered on my fellow writers as they proceeded to walk away as finalists and award winners, while I was paralyzed by self-doubt. Once I…
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