An Interview with Alene Snodgrass - Author of Graffiti

For the past several weeks I've had the privilege of taking a writing course, Tribe Writers, taught by Jeff Goins. Not only have I learned a lot, but I've also been blessed to meet some fantastic people! Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to my new friend, Alene Snodgrass. So grab your favorite beverage and enjoy reading about this amazing lady!

Maria: Welcome to Life Lessons, Alene! Tell us a bit about yourself:

Alene: I grew up in south Texas, married a military man, traveled the world for 23 years, had three children, and then ended up back in south Texas. I went from a country girl to a suburban girl. I love my camera. There are days when I could live behind the lens just capturing life. There is nothing like a photo that takes your breath away with a story.

Maria: How did you get started as a writer?

Alene: I began writing in 2007 at the prompting of friends. It was a struggle for me, because all I could remember was cheating my way through English in college and all those red F’s. But I took baby steps and followed the dream that was being birthed within my soul.

Maria: I'm glad you pursued your dream! How has your relationship with Jesus Christ impacted your writing?

Alene: My writing has only came about because of the love I have for Jesus. When the nudging became so strong to write and I knew in my own weakness I couldn't, there were years that I put off writing. It wasn't until I was convicted that delaying my obedience was being disobedient. I became diligent in writing at that point and published my first study Dirty LaundrySecrets.

Maria: Give us a sneak peek into your eBook, Graffiti: scribbles from different sides of the street:

Alene: Graffiti is dear to my heart. Three years ago I left my nice, fancy church to begin serving at a church in the inner city. I had been there for a few months when I met Rick, a homeless man. We became great friends and we both loved to write. Our friendship grew as we began sharing writings and the stories of our lives. I learned so much from Rick. The most important thing being that it doesn't matter that we think we don’t have much in common with those that are “different” and from “the other side of the street," we are more alike than we know. It’s a beautiful story and one that is told in Graffiti.

Maria: It's amazing what God teaches us when we follow Him in obedience! What do you hope readers glean from your book?

Alene: I believe in this message so much. I think most of us living in America live lives too comfortably. We get caught up in our daily routines and schedules, while missing so many in need around us. It doesn't have to be the homeless; it can be your neighbor across the street that needs a hand. This book challenges us all to live in the moment, keep our eyes open to those we can help, and then step out of our comfort zones to help meet their needs.

Maria: Challenging stuff! What steps can we take to step outside our comfort zones?

Alene: For each of us it will be different. I used to think I had to be a missionary in a foreign land, but that is not what Christ actually teaches. He says start in your own neighborhoods and streets - see those who you can serve and then do so. Yes, the homeless need help. But so do our neighbors across the street, children in our children’s classrooms, single moms, and sometimes even the elderly or disabled in the grocery store. Needs are everywhere. We have to slow ourselves down and peek out from behind our comfortable zones to see.

Maria: You're absolutely right, Alene! What words of wisdom would you like to leave with our readers?

Alene: Many I often visit with are looking for meaning and purpose in their life. They are looking to gain significance through material things, more money, and even a title at work. They seek and search for more and more. But the odd thing about our purpose is that it will show up when we get our eyes off ourselves and begin serving others. I know we've been taught to chase the American dream for fulfillment, but really it is in helping others that our true purpose is found. 

Maria: Thanks for those words of truth! It's been a pleasure interviewing you and getting the message out about your new eBook, Graffiti! I look forward to hearing how God uses it to impact the lives of those who read it! God bless you!

Connect with Alene:

alenesnodgrass@gmail.com

www.alenesnodgrass.com

www.graffitithebook.com

Great news! November 26th - 30th, Alene is giving away over $75.00 worth of resources FREE to anyone who buys Graffiti. If you buy the book this week, she'll send you nine resources as a gift. Here's all you need to do:

1. Buy the book for $3.99 BEFORE November 30th.

2. Email a copy of your receipt to graffitibookgifts@gmail.com When you buy it, just forward the Amazon email receipt you get. Do not submit questions there. If you have a question, email alenesnodgrass@gmail.com.

3. Check your email and enjoy your resources!

*Alene Snodgrass is an energetic and motivational  Christian speaker, Bible teacher, and author. Her relevant messages and Bible studies have created drastic changes in the lives of people, as well as helped many step out to serve the broken, abused, and downhearted in their communities. She is the author of Dirty Laundry Secrets - a journey to meet the Launderer, and I'm a Fixer-Upper - a day-by-day remodeling guide. 

Alene has been published in numerous books, online publications and writes regularly for WHOA Magazine. She serves as the Bible Studies director at Bay Area Fellowship Westside Campus in Corpus Christi, Texas - a church that ministers in the inner city.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Are you ready to take a step outside your comfort zone? Come join in the discussion!

What Are You Wearing?

The card came in the mail. It announced the big clearance I’d been waiting for. The end of the season sale at the Talbot’s Outlet meant they were slashing prices by as much as 75%. I glanced at my calendar, determined to work this into my schedule. I love shopping for clothes! And who doesn’t enjoy having new outfits to choose from?!

Back at home, I grimaced as I hung up my purchases. I didn’t really NEED these new clothes – in fact, my closet was already packed with things I rarely wear. The sad reality is that I probably only wear a small fraction of the clothes I already own. I tend to gravitate toward the things that are comfortable. The things I know that go well together. You too?

Sometimes I find myself doing the same thing spiritually. I get stuck in a groove, content with my ‘comfortable’ routine. Forgetting that spiritual growth takes concentrated effort, I turn away from challenges that would require a step of faith, and settle for walking the same old path I can see. God’s Word reminds me, “But without faith it is impossible to please him…” (Hebrews 11:6a; KJV).

He desires a vibrant relationship with me. His plan for me is clearly outlined, “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection , and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death,” (Philippians 3:10). I can sign up for the first part of that verse without reservation. Knowing Christ and the power of his resurrection sounds exciting. But the second part is a bit more difficult. In fact, suffering and denying myself doesn’t sound like fun at all. Trials require faith in my Heavenly Father. Trials help me realize my need for Him. Trials allow me to grow beyond my comfort zone. No doubt about it, trials are difficult. But they’re the prescription for growth.

Time for a spiritual wardrobe change! My clothes for His. My will, doubts, and hesitations, for His truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:14-17). My clothes encourage me to sit on the sidelines, avoiding participation. His armor reminds me I’m in a battle and my participation is necessary. Every piece of armor is necessary for me to be successful against my enemy, the devil. And His wardrobe fits me perfectly and is always in style!

Today, I know what I’ll choose to wear. What about you?

Do you have difficulty walking by faith? Do potential trials cause you to stay in your comfort zone? What will you do today to trade your ‘wardrobe’ for His?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for loving me and showering me with Your grace and mercy. Thank You for reminding me that faith pleases You! Help me to be willing to leave my comfort zone, put on Your armor, and join the battle. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Embracing Change

Welcome to 2011. A brand new year. A new beginning. A blank canvas. An opportunity to consider the possibilities that lie ahead. And embrace change in areas where growth is needed. I have to admit that I’m a creature of habit. Change doesn’t come easily for me. But as I’ve reflected on the past year, I’ve seen the hand of God most clearly when He has coaxed me out of my comfort zone.

Early last year, as we enjoyed a leisurely dinner, I remember sharing an idea for a devotional series with my husband. He was very supportive and gave me some excellent things to consider. Hmmmm. Once I had put my dream out there, I realized that I needed to follow through with the project. How to get started? I was already spending several hours a week blogging, and now I needed to begin writing this series.

Several months went by and my devotional idea remained just that, an idea. I thought I knew what the Lord wanted me to write, but the words just wouldn’t come. I had determined to illustrate the fruit of the Spirit with short entries written in traditional devotional format. My timeline was structured so I would finish one of the books in the series before I attended my first writer’s conference. As I began writing, the Lord began to stretch my vision. Instead of a simple devotional, He showed me a different plan, one that included an interactive Bible study. Oh, wow! This would require much more research and time. Was I willing to face the challenge?

As I contemplated this change in plans, I thought about the familiar words of Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths,” (KJV). “Ok, Lord,” I prayed, “if You want me to change the format of this series, You’re going to have to help me!” Things started coming together. I joined a critique group and found the accountability I needed. Slowly, lessons were written and valuable feedback was given. I saw the importance of taking one step at a time.

As I continue to work on my series this year, I’m convinced that the Lord will continue to guide me each step of the way. David’s words ring true, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” (Psalm 119:105). God’s word gives me plenty of light to navigate today’s road successfully, while keeping me focused on Him for tomorrow’s needs.

Where do you need to embrace change and experience growth this year? Accept the Psalmist’s challenge, “Trust in the Lord, and do good…delight thyself also in the Lord…commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass,” (Psalm 37:3a,4a,5). This year, step out in faith and experience the mighty hand of God in your life!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for an opportunity to live for You. What a privilege You’ve given me to experience Your miraculous presence. Help me to tune in to Your still, small voice, so I'll recognize those areas where I need to grow. Allow me to be used for You this year. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Worth the Effort

It wasn't advice I wanted to hear. In order to rise above my current level of fitness and reach my goal, I'd have to increase the intensity of my workout. Ugh! Push myself harder, sweat more, endure pain, and be willing to vary my routine. I'm a creature of habit, so I didn't exactly embrace the change that was required. But after just one week, I can say with a smile, that I'm glad I did!

The advantages definitely outweigh the disadvantages. More energy, better focus, and just an overall sense of taking better care of the body God has given me, trumps the extra effort, sweat, pain, and change I was dreading. Honestly, I can even say that changing up my cardiovascular activity has been surprisingly pleasant.

It didn't take me long to see the application. It's easy to get comfortable in my spiritual life. But God desires for me to be sanctified - the process of becoming more like Christ in my attitudes, ambitions and actions. Simply put, He wants me to grow. But I know that becoming more Christ-like will involve hard work. It will involve introspection and evaluation, and that can be painful. I'm tempted to stay right where I am - but the voice of my Savior from the pages of scripture, woos me to get up and continue to follow Him.

I can learn a lot from the Psalmist David's approach to this matter, "Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:6-7; KJV). I can learn volumes from this king described by God as, "a man after his own heart," (1 Samuel 13:14).

Am I careful to identify wrong behavior in my life and agree with God that it is, indeed, sin? Or do I try to justify my behavior? If I truly desire to grow in my relationship with God, I must put off those things that displease Him. The idea of purging isn't exactly pleasant, but just like strenuous exercise, the benefits are worth it. The definition of the word purge, is to free from impurities. To be clean. Nothing beats the feeling of being clean after a hard day of manual labor. My heart longs for that same cleansing.

The question becomes, will I listen to and heed my Savior's words? Will I choose to leave my spiritual comfort-zone in favor of following Christ more closely? Not doing more things to win His approval, but truly giving Him access to my heart, that I can be cleansed of my selfish ways and have sweet fellowship with my Heavenly Father. Today, I desire a thorough cleansing so I can reap the eternal benefits of a life lived for Him!

Panic Or Peace?

Today is her birthday. She's four years old. We've had the pleasure of raising her from the tender age of six weeks old. She's our Golden Retriever, Precious. We couldn't comprehend all the fun that was in store for us, when we brought her home. And yes, she certainly has lived up to her name!

This past weekend, we decided to take her out on the boat for a little pre-birthday celebration. The sky was bright blue and the air was thick with humidity - the perfect day to enjoy Lake Lanier. She sat at full attention, eagerly taking in the sights and smells of her new surroundings. She was ready for an adventure. And what could be better than sharing the adventure with her 'people'?

After cruising around the lake for awhile, we dropped anchor in a cove, sheltered from the traffic of the main channel. With a heat index topping one hundred degrees, the lake offered cool refreshment. Even Precious seemed eager to put on her float coat, the equivalent of our life vests, and clamber onto the inflated tube. The tube provides a great platform for lounging and later, rolling off into the water when the heat gets too intense. Precious had the lounging part down pat.

With my husband, daughter, and I, lazily floating around the tube, coaxing her to jump in, Precious edged closer and closer to the water. Although she clearly wanted to join us, she was unsure of herself. This was new territory for her and she wasn't convinced that she should leave her comfort zone. After several unsuccessful attempts to get her to jump in, my husband finally lifted her into the water.

Panic overtook her. Precious dog-paddled furiously to get back to the tube. Legs thrashing wildly, she didn't realize that the float coat was providing the buoyancy needed to keep her head above the water. She refused to relax. In a desperate attempt to reach safety, she literally wrapped her front paws around my husband's arm and refused to let go. He reached the rear deck of the boat and carefully lifted her back to solid ground.

Sometimes my Heavenly Father coaxes me to leave my 'comfort zone. ' Maybe it's moving to a different location, starting a new job, or developing a new friendship. Whatever the case may be, it's unfamiliar territory to me, and may even prove uncomfortable. I see how the Lord has blessed others in similar circumstances, but I'm too comfortable with my familiar routine to step out in obedience to His call.

He continues to beckon until I can no longer refuse. I step out of my comfort zone to unfamiliarity. The choice is mine: panic or peace. The Lord is my divine 'life jacket' - providing safety and guiding me every step of the way. His word offers reassurance, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27; KJV). His presence, a lifeline, "...and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen" (Matthew 28:20b).

When you're challenged to leave your comfort zone, step out in confidence knowing that your Father's presence and peace are there to accompany you on a journey that is sure to increase your faith, and draw you closer to Him!