A few years ago, my doctor did some genetic testing to find out why certain things were happening inside me.
It was nothing serious but could become a problem if not stopped. In addition to finding out about a few enzymes I was missing, I also found out I am 71% Irish/English. My great-grandfather came from Ireland to the United States, but I had no idea I had that many Irish genes.
Throughout my adulthood, I have been told by complete strangers how “Irish” I look. I have even been asked where I’m from because of my “accent.” When I said Ohio, they laughed and said, “No, it’s not an Ohio accent I hear.”
I have never been to Ireland but I am dying to go!
I started reading more about Ireland and things to do there. One interesting article I read had to do with the Blarney Stone located near the top of an old castle. Apparently, you have to hang upside down and kiss it to receive the gift of gab.
The gift of gab is defined as the ability to speak with eloquence and wit.
I need to kiss that rock!
The Irish American Mom, whose website you can visit here, quotes John O’Connor Power, an Irish politician.
“Blarney is something more than mere flattery.
It is flattery sweetened by humor and flavored by wit.
Those who mix with Irish folk have many
examples of it in their everyday experience”
~ John O’Connor Power (1846 – 1919)
I really love to talk but write, uh, not so much.
I want to speak with eloquence and wit. But, I’m not sure that is me.
Sometimes I write like I talk, too. Ugh!
So, when God called me to write I felt obligated to explain to Him that I was NOT a writer. He seemed unconvinced.
I wrote and taught a Bible study twelve years ago on Revelation. It was okay and my class seemed to like it. Soon after that I felt led to write a Bible study on the book of Ephesians. I included Spiritual warfare since it is covered in Ephesians 6 and I titled it The Few, the Humble, the Church; A Study in the Book of Ephesians and Spiritual Warfare.
I self-published it 11 years ago. Since I am inexperienced in marketing, I did my best to get it into churches and bookstores. I got very discouraged when it proved to be difficult.
I knew I was to keep writing, but I really had no interest in it. I avoided it for many years until 2017.
The Lord led me through the book of Hebrews during my quiet time. When I wanted to move past it, I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to write a Bible study on it.
I didn’t want to!
“Who will read it?” I asked. “What’s the purpose?”
He replied, “I can’t do anything with it if you don’t write it.”
“Okay, fine!”
It has been quite a ride writing this study. I have learned so much from Him and His Word. I have begun small Bible studies as well as attending writers conferences and a critique group while I finish it. My sister has been a great help by reading and working through it as I write each chapter.
Its title is: The Jewels of Hebrews
Each chapter is named after a beautiful gemstone, like amethyst, ruby, sapphire, emerald, plus many more.
You will also STUDY the Bible!
I take you through the Torah, or Law, the Prophets, and the New Testament as we study Hebrews. It is a mixture of reflection, teaching, and fill-in. I pray God will use it to set people free and reveal His Son to everyone who reads it.
It is not published, yet. That’s my next step.
But someday, Lord willing, I will be able to gab with you through my book while you read and study God’s Word.
I may not be the most eloquent or witty, but my desire is to teach you about Yeshua through my studies.
Be on the lookout for it!
A beautiful post, my friend. We, your Word Weavers group have been so privileged to read the chapters as you work on them. To a person, we all say, “I cannot wait until this study is complete!” Yeah, it’s THAT good. Praying for you and all who will be reached as you go through the publication process.
Thank you, Lisa! I appreciate all your time critiquing and proofreading!
Very interesting to hear about your Irish background. Yes, you are quite good at both, talking and writing. I love your Bible study on Hebrews and it has helped me tremendously with my walk with Christ. You will get published , I have faith that it’s God’s will.
Thank you, Carla! I appreciate your help!
Stephanie, how I can relate to this post in many ways.
I’ve always been a storyteller. As a child, I used to make up all kinds of tales and invite my friends to listen. I had the heart to write down my stories, but many times I write like I speak. God has helped me through a lot of my insecurities, but I’m still learning! It’s hard to believe I have published three books.
By the way, my YA book series “Beauties from Ashes” are supernatural, so I’d be interested in your study on Ephesians. My friend, Patty Schell and I self-published a Bible study called Legacy: Living NOW for Future Generations. I can’t wait to see your YESHUA study in print. I’m praying for you!
Thank you so much Beckie! I’d be happy for you to see that study on Ephesians although my writing has come a long way since I wrote that. I love your writing and can’t wait to finish your book “Secrets.”
Stephanie, Yes! Can I purchase it from you? Or do you have a word document you can send? And no worries about the writing. I’m growing right along with you. Thanks for reading “Secrets.”
Sure! PM me your address and I will send it to you.
Yeshua is going to the top of my “Must Read” list Ms. Stephanie. Can’t wait to receive my copy. And maybe one day, we can chat as you’re signing my copy at a writer’s conference where you’re instructing on perseverance. God’s blessings young lady; and Keep Writing.
You are too sweet! Thank you! Your words to God’s ear…as they say!
I enjoyed hearing all about the jewel-named chapters while at the Enrich Conference, and I remember the cool God-wink for you when we worked with our “jewels” that evening at the Kauffman’s home to fill our little boxes that I still have as a reminder! I know your bible study will be a blessing, and I look forward to seeing it in print one day!
I am so proud of what you are doing. I would love to read some of your Bible studies sometime. Blessings to you on what God has showed you to write. Love you, Aunt Carol
Thank you Aunt Carol! When or if it gets published I will give you a copy!
Oh, my goodness, publish that book on Hebrews. Just reading it my heart zinged! You must! Yeshua (Jesus) my treasure.
Thank you, Jackie! I needed this encouragement.
Thanks for your like of my post, “Twinkling Of An Eye;” you are very kind.
I enjoyed reading your post and hearing more of your journey than we did st Enrich. Looking forward to seeing how the jewels relate. And…your statement God can’t use itvifcwe don’t write it” was a gem too.
Thank you Marilyn! I can’t wait to finish this study…it has been a long process just writing it. I haven’t gotten to the really hard part, yet!
Stephanie, I enjoyed your entertaining post which gave glimpses into your writing journey. Your Bible study is sure to be a jewel of a read. (pun intended)
Thank you Jeannie! 🙂
I enjoyed your post, Stephanie. I visited Ireland with a student group several years ago. It’s beautiful and it’s people are kind and loving. I’d love to go back! I feel your pain as you’ve struggled on your writing journey. We don’t know how much we don’t know until we start on the journey of writing and that even greater obstacle–publishing! Wishing you the best.
Thank you Katherine! This time around I have better resources, (FB groups and conferences) and have meet so many other authors and writers. I have more confidence this time around. You’re right though, we don’t know how much we don’t know!
Thanks for your like of my post, “The Twinkling Of An Eye;” your kindness is greatly appreciated.
You are welcome! Thank you for all your posts and hard work.
Thank “you.”
Your genuineness is so evident in your writing, and so refreshing! I know Daddy God is going to bless you, as you have been faithful and obedient. His richest blessings on all your endeavors, empowered by His Spirit! (The Blarney Stone sounds like such a cool place to visit!)
Awww, thank you Jennifer! That is very kind of you to say. Blessings to you as well.
You are most welcome my sister! <3 🙂