Hello everyone!  I am very excited to share the launch of "The Forgiveness Formula:  Lasting Freedom in Christ"  by CJ and Shelley Hitz.  The launch is officially Tuesday, December 6.  Lots of free prizes with purchase - huge bonuses including a 4 CD audio set of "A Strand of Pearls."

Check out the two sites:

http://amzn.to/forgivenessformula

http://www.theforgivenessformula.com/gifts/

Below is a review of the book as well as the link to the audio interview I hosted with the Hitz's a bit back.  Also check out the blog:  http://drdebra.posterous.com

INTERVIEW:  Link to the audio:  http://soundcloud.com/drdebra

by Debra A. Newell, Ph.D., creative director, author and editor, A Strand of Pearls, and founder of Writing for the Spirit Ministries.

http://DrDebra.posterous.com

http://www.writingforthespirit.com

BOOK REVIEW 

The Forgiveness Formula is a great read. Very straightforward, user-friendly writing and practical application suggestions. Forgiveness or lack thereof can be such a HUGE barrier and block to the freedom and abundance the Lord has for us.

Shelley and CJ write and share from their heart, and are candid about situations they have gone through in their lives, giving them first-hand knowledge to speak as “experts” on the subject through the school of life.

It does not seem that when we believe we are justified in being angry or holding onto hard feelings when someone else is wrong or has wounded us that we are the ones who should “give.” It is not always easy to acknowledge the key is to let it go and lay it at the foot of the cross. As Shelley and CJ point out, the math does not work. Until you understand HIGHER math!!! He has forgiven us everything!

Shelley powerfully conveys the truth that willingness to forgive self and others unblocks the “clog” and removes the weight that can at times seem like the 500 pound gorilla on one's back. The process is not an easy one, but is one of necessity in the healing process.

The book gives truthful perspectives on the factors that influence our perception, and our willingness to engage in the forgiveness process. Additionally, the reader is encouraged to examine personal views of God and how misperceptions in this area can be part of the blockage process.

CJ does a superb job of tying the process together and making the case FOR forgiving and walking in freedom. The description of life as God intends it to be is enticing to the reader and will hopefully, once again, correct misperceptions rampant in the general public.

The Hitz's use personal struggle and victory to illustrate, as well as encourage the reader who may be going through a tough spot or forgiveness issue their self. The gift of transparency brings the reader a candid look into the lives and issues that brought the authors to a better understanding of the truth that sets us free. The real-life examples draw the readers into the process of moving from a wounded state to one of freedom. The process and successful outcome is one available to all – using the Forgiveness Formula.

Hello all

What a pleasure it is to finally be able to include the promised video interview with John.  I must confess that we experienced some technical difficulty about half way through the interview and lost John's testimony.  Please be sure to scroll down to the first entry regarding John and Prisoner of Fear to learn more about his story. 

Please feel free to comment on the blog and / or contact John through Facebook.

Blessings,

Dr. Debra

Click here to download:

Prisoner_of_Fear_Interview_with_John_Brewer.odp (89 KB)

(download)

Click here to download:

Prisoner_of_Fear_Interview_with_John_Brewer.odp (89 KB)

Hello friends!  I am delighted to let you all know that A Strand of Pearls is now available for purchase in multiple e formats.  Easy, cost effective, and fun!

Please see the September archived article on A Strand of Pearls as background.

Here is the website for the ebook!  Enjoy....Let me know what you think!  Blessings, Debra

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/101230

Additionally, you may purchase a 4-CD Audio set ($24.95) and/or softcover book ($14.95) of A Strand of Pearls for by emailing:  author4life@yahoo.com or alternately going to http://www.WritingfortheSpirit.com.

Hello everyone - Anita is a fellow writer in the John 3:16 Marketing Network.  Take the time to check out the book and free gifts TODAY only.  Blessings, Debra

 Fed up with the lies addiction is feeding your family? Read Letters to God on a Prodigal Son by Anita Estes. Buy TODAY Nov. 8^th only and get many FREE gifts and a chance to win $25  or $50 worth of gift cards! See: http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html

 Are you struggling to cope with a loved one’s addiction? Do you need hope and a way out? Letters to God, on a Prodigal Son—Overcoming Addiction Through Prayer by Anita Estes is a powerful journal packed with prayers, practical advice and key spiritual insights to help guide you through these troubled waters. Buy your copy today, Nov. 8^th, and receive many FREE gifts from her partners and a chance to win $25 or $50 gift cards!

Here’s how: http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.htmlWhen you purchase the book on Nov. 8^th you will be able to choose from many free gifts and your name will be entered into a contest to win either a $25 or $50 from some of your favorite stores! Here’s how: http://www.anitaestes.com/landing-page.html

Kimberley Payne, author and speaker, is launching her book Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health on Tuesday, October 11^th at Amazon.com.  You can help Kimberley achieve ‘best seller’ status by purchasing the book at Amazon.com TODAY!   Check out her landing page at:  http://kimberlypayne.wordpress.com/launch-gift-page/

About the book:

This book unites physical health and spiritual health through a 7-week program to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. It is a reference on cardiovascular exercise, strength training, prayer, healthy eating, Bible study, flexibility exercise and journal writing.

About the Author:

Kimberley Payne is a motivational speaker and author. Her writings relate raising a family, pursuing a healthy lifestyle, and everyday experiences to building a relationship with God. Through her work, Kimberley hopes to inspire women to live happier, healthier lives that glorify God. Kimberley is a former personal trainer and has worked in the designing and counselling fields of weight control, stress management, self esteem improvement and wellness programs. She enjoys recreational activities with her husband and two children near Peterborough , Ontario . You can visit her website at www.kimberleypayne.com

 As a special promotion, today’s buyers will get free gifts for each copy of Fit for Faith  that they purchase.

  For details on the book, launch, and promotions please visit:

http://kimberleypayne.wordpress.com

An Interview with Kimberley Payne

Author of Fit for Faith - 7 weeks to improved spiritual & physical health

Are you looking for balance in your life? Believing that prayer, Bible study and journal writing are to the spirit what exercise, healthy eating and stretching are to the body, this workbook unites spiritual health and physical health through a 7-week program to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. This workbook is a motivational tool to empower women to improve their health to live balanced, whole and joyous lives that glorify God.

1. How was the idea for the book born?

Although I was born and raised within the church, it wasn't until I attended a Christian women's retreat that I realized how much I had compartmentalized my life: family in one corner, work in another; finances here, and so on.

 2. What authority do you have to write this book?

I certified as a Weight Instructor through the YMCA, then went on to certify as an Aerobics Instructor through A.C.E., then went on to certify as a Personal Fitness through Can-Fit-Pro.

3.  There are many fitness books on the market. How is Fit for Faith any different?

Fit for Faith makes no assumptions about the reader’s spiritual walk. All levels, whether a new Christian or a mature Christian, can benefit from this program. It is a program for a new Christian who wants to learn about prayer, journal writing and Bible study in the comfort of their own home, but a mature Christian can still be refreshed in their faith and re-commit to a daily relationship with God. It is motivating with inspiring reflections included each day and Christian truths set forth in a non-threatening manner.

Fit for Faith makes no assumptions about the activity level of the reader. All levels, whether a sedentary individual or a seasoned athlete, can benefit from this program. It emphasizes overall health, not just weight loss. Expertise and professionalism are provided throughout the program in easy-to-read “fit tips” and goal-planning assistance. The program includes strategies that empower people to make small changes in their daily routines to improve the quality of their life. 

Fit for Faith is a well-rounded balanced program that follows the stages of change and so inspires confidence and builds esteem.

 4.  What is your purpose in writing this book?

The purpose in writing is to share knowledge from the health and fitness field and to demonstrate that partnership with God always leads to success, in every area of life. It is designed with the message of the gospel at its heart.

5. What is involved in the 7-week program?

The Fit for Faith program starts with developing an action plan that includes exploring benefits and success strategies of exercising, healthy eating, and stretching the body and the spirit. Then, the reader moves into implementing the plan through a daily program of prayer, Bible study and tracking of healthy habits. Each week is capped with a review that is a natural lead into the next week.

6. Can the book be used in a group setting?

Fit for Faith is a simple workbook to support a person through their day. It is designed for individuals to participate on their own at any hour, and anywhere.  However, the workbook is extremely versatile and has proven success as a group program. Leader’s Notes are available to work within a group setting that can also be used as an outreach program within a church or workplace.

7. What are the benefits of the program?

It's like having your own personal trainer, without the cost. There is a ton of useful information that helps the reader wade through the myths and misconceptions that are out there.

 It's an awareness program. The reader is accountable to record their activities, and this helps to recognize where their strengths are and what areas they need to improve.

It's a lifestyle change. Over the 7 weeks, the reader will gain habits that last a lifetime.

8. Do you offer workshops/presentations based on the book?

Yes, my main three presentations are:

Fit for Prayer
Learn how to fit prayer and physical activity into your daily routine
This workshop unites physical health and spiritual health to lose weight and develop a deeper relationship with God. In this highly interactive session, you will gain insight into how to incorporate prayer and fitness into your daily round.

Food for thought
Find out how to nourish your body and spirit through healthy eating and Bible study
Just as eating healthy foods nourishes your body, Bible study nourishes your spirit. You will learn practical suggestions and scriptural guidance to achieve your goals. Feel the joy of a healthier and more spiritually fit life.

Flex your Spirit
Discover a new way to express yourself with God through journal writing and stretching
Taking care of yourself physically is one way to honor God with your body. Your thoughts and emotions directly influence your physical health. Learn how to flex your emotional health through stretching activities for your body and spirit.

9. Where else can we find you on the Internet?

Website: www.kimberleypayne.com

Blog: www.fitforfaith.blogspot.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/FitForFaith

Facebook: Kimberley Payne, author & speaker http://tinyurl.com/3fymrmp

YouTube: Fit4Faith channel http://tinyurl.com/3jnjpkp

Note: Gifts and prizes are available only on October 11^th

A Strand of Pearls    

Click here for A Strand of Pearls Products

Debra A. Newell, Ph.D., creative director, editor and contributing author

A Strand of Pearls is a Kingdom product and an outreach ministry. Everyone has a story. So it is with this God-project.

Seven Women, seven lives - forever transformed.

"This is God's story in our lives," says one of the contributing authors.

A Strand of Pearls is a collection of wisdom and truths.  Seven women share stories of healing, redemption and transformation, overcoming life experiences only salvageable through God.  Their candor and courage in sharing their stories are both an encouragement to others who have gone through or are going through trauma, as well as a testament to God's grace and mercy.

About four years ago, the Lord put on my heart to invite several women to contribute stories of redemption and restoration to a collection that created a book. As authors to the collection, we agreed to put profits into ministries for healing of women. The book, A Strand of Pearls has completed one printing. We are now making the book available as an e-book and a print-on-demand 2nd Edition hard copy book. Additionally, there is a set of audio CD's, and soon-to-be DVD set with the narrative of the book as well as interviews with the authors.

Each story is especially crafted to speak to the heart of the reader.  The book is designed to let women out there know they are not alone, that there are people who understand, and most importantly - that our Heavenly Father cares enough to work his plan for our life to perfection.  And, that He wants to heal the hurts, wounds, disappointments, and mayhem that have been experienced in life.

Each woman's story speaks of the bountiful transformation offered to those who seek salvation and healing from a higher power, who choose to work through hard places, rather than pretend they do not exist, ignoring a festering wound that needs tending.  Each of these women makes the commitment to NOT let the "enemy" win, and to do whatever it takes each day to move upward in the spiral on this journey through life. 

There are numerous potential audiences for A Strand of Pearls.  The widest appeal will be for women, however it would benefit men as well to sensitize them to the trauma issues that their wives, mothers, sisters, daughters and friends are exposed to and experience.  A Strand of Pearls also has the potential to open up a dialog in families to facilitate healing of family members.  The book is a great one to provide to church members or new converts, or as an evangelical tool for individuals experiencing or in need of learning about the depth and breadth of God's love for every person.  A great "book club" book to read and discuss.  Another potential use is for a victim support group.  It can simply be a book for all readers who are fascinated by the many facets, twists and turns of life, and how God has a plan for each of us.  This book is an excellent resource for church resource rooms/bookstores.

Dr. Debra A. Newell is, among many things, a mother, mentor, teacher, worship dancer, intercessor, inspirational speaker, writer and healer...

I have always been a writer, but did not remember so until a couple of incidents merged.  Writing became a tool for healing after my own trauma and attending a writing conference where I first wrote about the trauma itself.  The opening served as a catharsis for finding my voice on the written page.  During the process, I moved into a smaller home and went through all kinds of things that I had carted around for years - only to discover very good writings from back in high school that I did not even remember writing.  Subsequently, I felt lead to share the writing process with other women in a variety of venues and formats.  The rest is history, as they say....though the adventure continues in very exciting ways!

As the Writing for the Spirit ministry evolved, I came to understand that offering the tool and process to others as a mechanism for unblocking and healing was the tip of the iceberg to a bigger dream of my heart.  This revelation lead to the birthing of the dream as a ministry that could be shared world-wide.  I knew I could not be everywhere at once, so this initially presented a conundrum.  In 2010, while on a ministry trip to train international leaders in Writing for the Spirit as a healing and equipping mechanism, a friend suggested making the offerings available online.  This suggestion took the dream to the next level. 

Hello Everyone!

Please check out the work of award winning author John Brewer.  Below is the featured poem "Prisoner of Fear."  Also check out more work of John Brewer by friending John Brewer on Facebook, mentioning the upcoming Interview with Dr.Debra in the message.  Check back soon for the link to Dr. Debra's interview with John.  Below the poem is John's Bio.

PRISONER OF FEAR

Trapped in a prison

Of your own making,

Is breaking out

A chance worth taking?

You can sense the end

Is drawing near,

But what can you do

When you’re a prisoner of fear?

The bars of the cage

Which hold you in place

Are anchored in time

And they leave no trace

Of how they were made.

You just know that they’re here

And you’re caught in their embrace,

A prisoner of fear.

There’s fear of the unknown.

Fear of the dark.

Fear of being alone

In a park.

There’s fear of a mother.

Fear of a dad.

Fear of relationships

Which somehow go bad.

There is fear of failure.

Fear of success.

A thousand different fears

Put you to the test

There is fear of the future.

Fear of the past.

Fear without end, all holding you fast…

Keeping you trapped

Like bars of a cage.

And all you can do

Is silently rage,

But don’t voice it aloud

Or someone might hear

Then everyone will see

That you’re a prisoner of fear.

How do you break the chains

Which hold you so tight

You try and try

With all of your might,

But unlike Houdini

There is no escape.

You’re a prisoner of fear

And that is your fate.

You need a hero…

Someone to set you free,

But who would or could do that

For you or for me?

Is there anyone

Who would cry even a single tear

Out of mercy and compassion

For a prisoner of fear?

The answer roars like a lion.

Is gentle as a lamb.

Is the Alpha and Omega.

The great I Am.

Is a sacrifice paid

Through guiltless blood

Bearing the sins of all

To prove perfect love,

And perfect love

Casts out all fear.

And the cage door is open.

It’s abundantly clear

The chains have been broken

From the prisoner of fear.

The chains have been broken

From the prisoner of fear.

© 2005, John Brewer

Writing for the Spirit

Writing for the Spirit is an emotive and creative expression of layers of self; layers which may have been hidden or not fully formed until the point in time when the spirit connects with the conscious expression. Writing is an avenue of creativity straight from the heart. When authentically accessed, powerful truth is released to transform one's life. While believed true for many years, research now proves that writing aids in physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual healing processes with dramatic effect.

Writing for the Spirit is a linking mechanism connecting our innermost thoughts and emotions to the exterior self and world we function in. Utilizing this form of creative expression smooths the sometimes seemingly disconnect between our hopes and dreams and our reality. Inner healing occurs at the junction of the connection; there is birthing in the spirit of an idea, concept, realization of an aspect of self.

As we explore our thoughts, emotions and dreams in the written expression, patterns and a new level of connectivity to the spirit self emerge. Through this process, a higher level of awareness bursts forth, freeing up and catalyzing trapped energy that is released to move one upward in the journey of life.

Writing for the Spirit, as a para-ministry, is an operational framework of the covering ministry that facilitates tending to the Father's Business. He puts us here on earth to be His hands and feet, to take care of His children and His creation. As we are gifted, so we are to serve Him to the fullest. The shape and form of the “work” may vary from time to time, but is always consistent with scripture and His righteous ways.

Continual amazement flows that He uses us to be co-creators with Him on this journey. As we move upward on the spiral of life's journey, we are able to hear Him and see Him more clearly. This greater clarity allows Him to use us in increasingly complex situations, knowing we will choose His will and direction over our own fleshly understanding and desires.

With this understanding, Writing for the Spirit and its related ministries was birthed by Dr. Debra A. Newell, in obedience to the Lord's direction. Writing for the Spirit is a Kingdom project born out of Dr. Debra’s own trial, suffering, redemption and restoration. It is a mechanism the Lord brought her to for the healing path. As a long-time author and student of narrative works, this mechanism became the conduit for the healing flow to pour in and through her.

As she continued on the healing path, opportunities to share the healing “tools” with others sprang up over and over, and the spirit-led results are astounding. Through the process, great truths for life were revealed which brought forth a life of freedom from bondage and choices made from a wounded self – and result in living in the light and with abundance.

The venues and tools utilized, and audiences reached are expansive and tailored to each group or individual, as appropriate. Dr. Newell encourages, trains and coaches pastors, leaders, lay ministers, and individuals, as the invitation arises – locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Much fruit has been born in large and small ways through the great love the Father poured out on Dr. Debra during her healing season and beyond. 

Workshops and retreats are offered periodically, by invitation, with some opportunities regularly scheduled.  Online courses are offered as well for those who prefer distance learning modality.  Check out current offerings by visiting http://www.writingforthespirit.com.