Quiz for Movers and Shakers - Those determined to move the world and those shaking in their boots

For gift chocolateCircle all that apply .

Are you ready for Indianapolis ACFW conference?

a. Preparation is frenzied and I’ve bought chocolate.
b. I want to go, but I can’t.
c. Go? I’m not even sure I want to keep writing.

My biggest worry is...

a. I won’t be prepared.
b. I’m going to miss my one big chance.
c. Other people. (Will anybody talk to me and share chocolate?)

Besides free chocolate, I expect ...

a. To get an agent, publisher, and/or book contract.
b. To learn the craft of writing and meet other writers.
c. To get away from my family, have others bring me meals and cleanup after me.

Whether you attend conference or not God will accomplish His purpose. I’ve met more people who strive in their own strength than those who are lazy so forgive me if I’m redundant, but RELAX.

Rest in Him. He is enough. “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy in drought.” Isaiah 58:11. Prepare but don’t be frantic or anxious.

Expect God to give you what you need. “Whatever is good and perfect comes from God.” James 1:17. He never withholds what is best for you.

Laugh—at yourself, with a friend, out of pure pleasure of being loved by the Redeemer. You are who God made you. Don’t puff yourself up, nor put yourself down. A tip to the timid: crowds are made up of individuals each as important as the next, regardless of fame or acclaim.

Analyze your reasons. You might mine more riches from classes then from riding in on a charger trying to spear contracts and change the whole world in one weekend. Think of this as seed-planting time. Let God determine whether it brings an immediate harvest or a delay. “God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished…” Philippians 1:6

X out bad stuff. Repent of envy, jealousy, prejudice, judging others, pride and un-forgiveness. “Lead me; teach me; for you are the God who gives me salvation. I have no hope except in you.” Psalm 25:5. Critiques or meetings may not go as you hoped, but God can still bring about his purposes. For instance, there is no gift chocolate for leaving a comment. Can you forgive me? Think of the pound you saved and give thanks. BTW Some of you think entirely too much about chocolate!

Noah readied the ark for a hundred years. Anointed king, David still waited fifteen years before God put him into power. Jesus lived thirty quiet years before the three years of ministry that culminated in the most life-changing event ever. Not one of them were motivated by chocolate, but that’s not my point.

The timing is God’s. Movers and shakers can both pray, “God, help me get me out of Your way so I don’t delay Your will.”

I’d love to see your quiz responses and favorite conference scripture. Okay, if you insist, list your choice of chocolate. I can’t wait to meet you there and share chocolate.

Mary Allen