by Janine Mick Wills
Why do I write inspirational novels? That’s a good question.
As a newlywed, it was my genre of choice to read. I knew I wouldn’t find gratuitous sex scenes or foul language, and they would in no way be offensive to my Lord. I loved curling up with a good book while Jeff worked or played basketball. But through the years of raising three kids and chasing my Air Force/then pastor husband all over the country, I set reading on the back burner. If I did take time to read, I turned to a non-fiction book that helped me learn more about or draw closer to God.
It All Started Twenty Years ago!
Then almost twenty years ago, I decided to try my hand at writing after listening to a set of Tony Robbins Personal Power cassettes (Yeap, it was a LONG time ago!). I went to a community college and took a writing and computer course. My first book, like most are, was dreadful and is now carefully hidden away in the back of the coat closet. I didn’t give up (If you’re a writer, this is almost as important as your skill-set), and I wrote Cassandra and the Cowboy (Then titled Answered Prayer), followed by Juanita and the Outlaw (Then titled Love Is All that Matters). The third book, Maddie and the Texas Ranger, was only an idea way back then and was tentatively titled Tucker Finds a Home.
Yes, I Dabble in Different Genres!
Since then, I have started or completed books in other genres (Yes, I probably should have stuck with one genre, but dabbling in many have helped hone my writing skills and allowed me to see in which I am strongest):
- A children’s picture book, Bible series
- A contemporary inspirational
- A YA (young adult) set in high school
- A Middle-Grade fairy book
- A woman’s Bible commentary (I love delving into God’s Word)
- Several comedic books (Probably my favorite genre to write)
- A non-fiction book for Senior Saints, encouraging them to pursue their dreams
The REAL Reason I Write Inspirational Novels
But the reason I’m working on my Texas Treasures series right not is that someone showed an interest in publishing them (Journey Fiction). Had it been one of my other books, I would be working on that one. So, until God opens up another door, I’m staying right here and trying to make the most of the opportunity He’s given me. My ultimate goal is to use my writing as a venue to reach women for Christ, my greatest passion. I love ministering to women and telling them that God loves them and is always there.
What Does God Have for You to Do?
We are co-laborers in Christ. We all have something we should be doing for Him. Right now, mine is writing inspirationals. What about you? What talents and opportunities have God given you? Are you hesitating at the open door, or have you boldly walked through it and are pursuing your dreams for His honor and glory? If the former, may I encourage you to take that leap of faith and trust the One Who knows what is best for you and wants to use you? If the latter, continue to pray and work for the only One Who is worthy of all honor and praise. I promise, when you get to heaven and hear those longed for words “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord,” (Matthew 25:21), you will be glad you did.
