Presents a compilation of writings that explore the variety of Christian belief, practice, and faith in modern society, with contributions from a wide range of Christian authors.

This collection of the finest contemporary Christian writing is "a prime example of diverse beliefs among Christians." — Los Angeles Times This year's volume brings together an elegant and engaging array of essays by Christian luminaries tackling relevant issues. These writers distill the riches of belief into lucid explorations of faith and truth, reflecting the many dimensions of today's Christianity. Includes contributions from a diverse group of distinguished writers: David Batstone J. Bottum Andy Crouch Scott Derrickson Jennifer Holberg Philip Jenkins Douglas Jones Jeremy Lott Frederica Mathewes-Green Wilfred M. McClay Kathleen Norris Julie Polter The Preacher James Calvin Schaap Lewis B. Smedes John D. Spalding Tim Stafford James R. Van Tholen Lauren F. Winner Albert Louis Zambone Wendy Murray Zoba

Cross-referenced with the Chicago Manual of Style (15th edition), this little guide will be a welcome resource for all Christian writers and editors.

An essential tool for writers, editors, proofreaders, designers, copywriters, production managers, and marketers too.The Christian Writer’s Manual of Style is an essential tool not only for writers of religious materials, but for their editors, proofreaders, designers, copywriters, production managers, and even marketers. Rather than simply repeating style information commonly available in standard references, this newly updated and expanded edition includes points of grammar, punctuation, usage, book production and design, and written style that are often overlooked in other manuals. It focuses on information relating to the unique needs and demands of religious publications, such as discussions on how to correctly quote the Bible, how to capitalize and use common religious terms, and how to abbreviate the books of the Bible and other religious words. Also included are rarely found items such as:• an author’s guide to obtaining permissions• guidelines for using American, British, and Mid-Atlantic styles• discussions of inclusive language, profanity, and ethnic sensitivities• discussions of Internet and computer-related language style• a list of problem words• style issues regarding words from major world religions• a discussion of handling brand names in text• a list of common interjections• issues of type design, paper, copy-fitThis edition has been completely updated since the 1988 edition and contains more than twice as much information as the previous edition. This is the most detailed and comprehensive guide of its kind.

In this remarkable New York Times bestseller, Joel Osteen offers unique insights and encouragement that will help readers overcome every obstacle in their lives.

Writing lays bare the soul. All serious writers know that each word reveals something significant about themselves, granting outsiders a glimpse at their most cherished beliefs and foundational convictions. In this series of intimate reflections on life and writing, critically acclaimed and best-selling novelist Bret Lott explores the author's craft through five letters covering a range of fascinating topics, from exploring the value of literary fiction to discussing the humility of Flannery O'Connor. In the final and longest letter, Lott contemplates the death of his father and his struggle to convey his complicated thoughts and inexplicable emotions in words. Intensely personal and yet universally relatable, this powerful collection of essays will encourage and enrich writers and aspiring writers everywhere.

With more than 184 Christian writer's groups and 155 conferences, thousands of writers are looking for encouragement and insight. Yet, every Christian who writes faces the same issue: finding daily inspiration and creativity. Designed to be both encouraging and practical, "Writers in the Spirit" guides writers from the novice stage to becoming dedicated authors, something that Carol Rottman achieved when she put aside all other "paying work" to write full time. Included in these pages are insight and practical tips on such topics as: Writing Realism: "Take yet another scroll, and write on it all the former words that were on the first scroll ..." (Jeremiah 36:27). Popular media have romanticized writers' lives to be devoted entirely to making beautiful stories. Writers in the Spirit explains the practical issues that writers face and shows how it is possible to overcome dry spells, endless revisions and even self-doubt. Writing with Fervor: Much of the Apostle Paul's writing was done in prison. Paul's passion to win people to Christ overcame any obstacle. While many new writers feel restrained, Writers in the Spirit shows how to find the passion that fuels the writing process. Writing in the Spirit: "This is what we speak, not words taught by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit ..." (1 Corinthians 2:13). Rottman shows that a personal relationship with God is the best source of inspiration. Mediating on God's word will yield creativity from the Creator. "Many of us are called as witnesses to the life-experiences God has entrusted to us. If your witness takes the form of the written word, this book will go with you as a trusted companion traveling the same path." - Former President Jimmy CarterAuthor, Statesman, and Thirty-ninth President of the United States "'Writers in the Spirit' helps connect me to God while reminding me that writing is a gift from Him and a calling to be both treasured and nurtured."- Sally Stuart, Editor, Christian Writers' Market Guide