There are so many things about being an agent that I love. Finding new writers whose work resonated with, and moved, me. Building relationships with my amazing clients. The joy of working with them on their projects. Playing “matchmaker” and finding just the right publisher for them. Seeing publishers treat these wonderful writers with such enthusiasm and respect. Working with Steve, Tamela, and Dan. Oh my gosh, you guys! These people are so very smart and talented. And so passionate about serving the Lord and their clients. I savor our video meetings, where we share and laugh and work together to better understand this crazy world of Christian publishing. And, every once in awhile, commiserate. And the times we meet in person? We laugh so hard that I often have trouble breathing! And what an honor to be part of this team. So many blessings and lessons and opportunities to grow.
And yet…
When my dad died in September 2016, something happened within me. Actually, I think it had been happening for quite awhile, but I was too busy with working and caring for Dad to listen to it. But after Dad slipped the bonds of time, I found myself being quiet and just…sitting. Listening. Watching. For what, I wasn’t sure. I just knew I’d been missing something.
And, as He’s done so often, God spoke into the silence. Whispered into my spirit words I’d so often spoken to others. Words He now directed back to me: Karen, what is your real passion? What do you feel born to do? What have I asked you to do, daughter?
As I pondered all this, understanding dawned. My passion? Writing. Speaking. Editing. Ministering to and encouraging writers.
And even as I realized this, God whispered again…
Then why, my child, aren’t those things your focus?
Ouch. You know, I love when God speaks truth. To others. But this time? It was hard to admit that while I loved working with my agenting clients, and while I adored being mentored by and working with Steve, being an agent really isn’t my truest passion.
And so I prayed. And talked with Don, my hubby. And I called Steve, as I often do when I have a hard decision to make because I always receive honest, wise counsel from him. He and Don both echoed God’s whispers:
“You have to do what God is calling you to.”
“You have a gift as a writer, and you haven’t used it to write books for a long time. That’s not right.”
“You need to focus on the passions God has breathed into you.”
I confess, it took a long time for me to really embrace all that. I didn’t want to let my clients down. I didn’t want them to feel abandoned. I didn’t want to let Steve or the team down. I didn’t want to quit something I’d committed to. I didn’t want…
Yeah, you see the problem? All my objections were about what I didn’t want to do. But God was calling me to what He knew I not only wanted to do, but needed to do. So finally, I got it.
Two weeks ago (I told you it took a long time) when Steve called to see how I was doing, I told him I’d finally made a decision: It was time for me to step away from being an agent. To let go of the good so I could embrace the best.
And now, as I prepare to step onto the new path, I want to say thanks:
To Steve, my dear friend and mentor, for giving me the opportunity to join him in his remarkable work as an agent. For extending more grace and patience to me than I could ever deserve. For always, always making me laugh. I’m blessed—and I mean BLESSED—to have you as my friend and my agent. I want all of you reading this to know you will not find a man, let alone an agent, more grounded in God’s Truth and in wisdom than Steve. Nor one with a better sense of humor. So thank you, Steve, with all my heart, for everything.
Thank you Dan and Tamela, for sharing your experiences, knowledge, and laughter with me. I will miss our meetings—and you. A lot.
Thank you, my dear, dear clients, for bringing me such joy. For being so kind and gracious as we walked this path. You are all so very gifted. May God bless you in abundance in every word you write for Him. And thank you that our friendships will continue beyond our business relationships. What a gift you are, one and all.
Thank you, friend editors, for giving my wonderful clients a chance, for giving us guidance and feedback on proposals, and for being a resource for me as a new agent. You are the best in the biz. Really and truly.
Thanks to all of you reading this blog. For being a part of this leg of my journey and for sharing your hearts with me here. God has used you to encourage and refine me, not just in my work, but in my faith.
Thank you, Don, for being the most tolerant and patient of husbands. For listening to me vacillate for all this time, and for speaking truth in love.
Most of all, thank you, Father, for opening the doors and, as You so often have to do, pushing me through them. For loving me so deeply and tenderly, and using me for Your purposes. Can’t wait to see what this new path will bring.
Oh, and speaking of the new path, here’s what I’ll be doing after today:
I’ll continue working as a freelance editor. Editing is a part of the fabric of who I am, and I’ll be partnering with writers, helping them bring out the power of their words, as long as God allows.
I’m also going back to something I haven’t been doing for 10 years—writing books. I’ve already got both novels and nonfiction rolling around in my brain, and can’t wait to bring them to the page. (And yes, Steve, I’ll get you a proposal. I promise!)
Last but certainly not least, I’m putting more focus and time into the From the Deep ministries that God moved Erin Taylor Young and me to start. I’m so looking forward to going deeper into the passion we share to encourage others in the deep places of faith. Actually, Erin and I are at the Oregon coast even as I’m writing this, planning where we’re going with this ministry. We’ve had such a great response to our podcasts and website that we know we’re on the right track. But there’s more we can do. So please pray God will guide us. Oh, and if you miss my blogs, never fear! I’ll be blogging in our From the Deep newsletter. So here’s the link to come join us: http://eepurl.com/bsmpBP
May God bless you, friends, as you seek to serve Him through your writing. And may He make your truest passion clear to you.
In His love,
Karen
[on Monday July 10th Steve Laube will make an announcement about the agency and their future plans. Look for it!]
Brennan McPherson
A bittersweet shift, but there really is a season for everything, and who are we to demand that people don’t change? That they abandon what they believe their calling to be to continue trying to fit a mold that wasn’t built for them (at least not forever)?
I’ve been wondering when you’d announce this, and hope that this shift is one that brings you more into God’s grace. It’s a courageous thing to make such a commitment. I’ve been told you were a great agent. But we can be great at a good many things that aren’t our central calling. So, being great really isn’t a reason to dedicate yourself to something, especially when your spirit is being pulled in another direction. Praying for God’s blessings in this next period of your work life!
I definitely will miss your blogging, so I subbed to From the Deep. I look forward to what you do with the ministry, and to what books you put out in the near future! Blessings, Karen.
Amanda Cleary Eastep
Best to you, Karen! I have been in a similar process and shift. Your writing here has been so helpful to so many. God go with you…
Karen Ball
Thanks, Amanda.
Karen Ball
Thank you, Brennan. Your affirmation and encouragement are a blessing.
Look forward to seeing you at WftD!
Karen
Suzy Parish
God bless your new journey!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Suzy.
Lillian Cascamo
Dear Karen,
For years now I’ve been wondering, “Why has
God led me to writing a musical play about the lives of my grandparents in Croatia? It’s been years of research, years of listening through music which had the right words and tempo for that part of the play, and years of revising.
It’s been discouraging, to say the least, to find anyone who would even agree to look at it. That is until I read online today about a message you passed on to writers in a 2012 workshop. “Why do we write, if not for God and to spread his word?” These words lifted all the heaviness in my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Thank you!
The play about my grandparents is a true story about 5 “miracles” that happened to them–one in which the Blessed Mary came to him during WWI and saved his life. He had 3 experiences during the war in which he was the only survivor in his regiment. It’s a very poignant story about their lives up until they are both together in America, from their isolated and very poor existence on an island in the Adriatic Sea, to my grandmother’s job as upstairs maid to a wealthy Italian family, my grandfather’s job as a gaucho in South America, to their arranged marriage by their mothers, to WWI, interspersed with 5 very dramatic “miracles.”
This story would uplift the lives of many people in this day and age. That is why I believe God had me write their story.
I am wondering if you offer editing services for this type of writing. I would be grateful if you could get back to me with any information at your disposal. Thank you.
Kailee Diaz
I’ll miss your posts, but I wish you the best in these new endeavors. God can do much with a willing heart.
Karen Ball
“God can do so much with a willing heart.”
Kailee, wise words!
Loretta Eidson
Karen, blessings to you as you follow God’s calling in your life. May peace, joy, and happiness abound today and always.
Karen Ball
And may they do the same for you, Loretta. Thank you.
Frank Ball
Sounds exciting to me.
Karen Ball
Me, too! 😉
Henry Styron
It takes courage to surrender the good in order to choose the best.
Blessings on you in your future adventures.
Karen Ball
Thank you, Henry.
Laura
Blessings! As someone who has benefitted tremendously from your podcast with Erin, I’m very excited to see how you grow and expand that ministry. And I’m curious to read your novels!
Karen Ball
I’m so happy you enjoy the podcast! Thanks!
Karen Saari
I always had it in the back of my mind that I’d send you a manuscript someday, but now I know that isn’t God’s plan for me! 🙂 Walking in His plan is such a glorious thing, I’m really very happy for you 🙂
Karen Ball
“Walking in His plan is such a glorious thing…”
Amen and amen, Karen!
Hilary
Best of luck in your transition! I love that you are listening and being obedient to His call (something that can be a challenge sometimes! ). I’ve appreciated your posts and articles, and can’t wait to read your books!
Karen Ball
Thank you, Hilary. Just FYI, I do have books out there already. If you’re interested, you can find them at:
https://www.writefromthedeep.com/books/
But new ones are on the way!
Andrew Budek-Schmeisser
Karen, your faith and wisdom will be missed here.
So.
Very.
Very.
Much.
Karen Ball
Thank you, Andrew. I’ll miss the same from you.
Be sure to come visit us at Write from the Deep.
Judith Robl
I’m delighted to know that you are following God’s call on your life. May you find blessings a-plenty as the fringe benefits. Will be following your posts assiduously. Grace and peace follow you always.
Karen Ball
Oh, Judith, how I love knowing someone who not only knows the word ASSIDUOUSLY, but knows the correct way to use it!
Blessings to you.
David L. Winters
Karen, Thanks so much for the great words shared on this site. It has been such a pleasure reading and knowing your heart for writers. As a new guy on the block, I have felt loved and nurtured through your words. I look forward to seeing your new books in print.
Karen Ball
Thanks so much, David. It’s a heart blessing to know you felt that way. Please come visit us at http://www.writefromthedeep.com. Our heart there is to minister to all writers, beginners and long-timers alike.
Blessings to you!
Ginger Solomon
Many blessings on your future pursuits.
Karen Ball
Thank you, Ginger.
Richard Mabry
Karen, thanks for all you’ve done for so many. And blessings as you follow your heart and God’s leadership in this change. As we say in Texas, “Don’t be a stranger.”
Karen Ball
Doc, thank you for always being a blessing to me. And you know me–NEVER a stranger.
Sandra Orchard
May God bless you on your new adventures, Karen.
Karen Ball
Thank you, Sandra.
Elaine Tomski
I have loved reading your blogs, Karen. I know I’ll love reading your books, as well. God will bless your obedience.
Karen Ball
Elaine, thanks so much! If you haven’t already discovered my books, check them out at http://www.writefromthedeep.com under BOOKS.
Peace to you.
Nancy C Anderson
I’m very sorry for your loss. My father also passed this year, and I understand the unteatherd feeling of re-evaluating to find your True North.
I’m happy that yours has come into view and your new journey has begun. Blessings to you as you navigate.
Karen Ball
“…that untethered feeling…”
So very true. It’s losing the anchor, isn’t it? So grateful that God is still there, still anchoring and leading.
Thanks, Nancy.
Carol Ashby
As one who has read and enjoyed your books, I’m delighted to hear you’ll be writing again.
Your posts have helped me grow from total ignorance as a new writer of fiction to someone with her arms around at least part of this writing enterprise. Many thanks for all you’ve given us here. May God mightily bless your new direction and calling. (I’m sure he will!)
Karen Ball
Carol, thank you so much!
Kimberley Woodhouse
Love you, dear friend. Can’t wait to see what the future holds!!
Karen Ball
You and me both, dear friend.
Patti Jo Moore
Prayers for you as you follow God’s call on your life, Karen. May the Lord direct your path and pour out many blessings. You’ll be missed here on the blog, but what an exciting adventure awaits you, I feel certain! 🙂
Hugs from Georgia, Patti Jo
Karen Ball
And hugs back from Oregon!
Karen Ball
Thank you, Rebekah!
Stacey L Zink
I’m excited for you, Karen. I know when I heed God’s prompting and act in obedience God opens the right doors. I look forward to seeing what God is about to do. God bless!
Karen Ball
He is an amazing guide, isn’t He? You never have to worry about missing the best sights.
Martha Whiteman Rogers
I’ve known you a long time, Karen, and I’ve never been so proud to be your friend as I am right now. From the first time I met you at PIW in Tulsa to now, you’ve been faithful in whatever hat you wore. Following God’s leadership is sometimes, scary, risky, uncertain, but it’s always right., and brings great joy and peace. I loved your books before and am looking forward to more. Thank you for praying with me at Mount Hermann and at ACFW when things were rough in my life.
May God richly bless your new endeavors. I’ll miss you here, but I’ll be looking for you in From the Deep. Love you and your wonderful sense of humor, dear friend.
Karen Ball
Oh, Martha, thank you for being with me on so much of this journey! And no worries–I saw your heart, not typos.
Martha Whiteman Rogers
And a big thank you for all I learned from you both at PIW and ACFW. You’ve been a blessing in my life.
Martha Whiteman Rogers
Duh! With the type so small and light, I can’t see typos. Take off your editor’s hat this time and overlook them, please. 🙂
Elizabeth Thompson
Karen, you continually pour into writers’ lives! It’s been a blessing to read your posts here and to learn from you at conferences. You are gifted in many ways and will continue to bless the writing community. As you walk this new path, I pray you’ll experience God’s pleasure and abundant favor. I look forward to learning from you in new ways as you grow your ministry.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Beth. I know you understand and have been in a similar place yourself. Here’s to more time together at conferences!
Robin Jones Gunn
Yes and amen!
Karen, what a beautiful example you’ve given all of us in how you’ve listened, waited, served and then listened again and taken the steps to follow the Lord’s leading into the “next”. You have treasure buried deep in you — stories that will bring clarity, hope and encouragement to so, so many.
As you begin to once again mine the depths and bring up that treasure, please know that I am cheering you on.
Always.
I am among the many grateful writers who have experienced a life change due to the way you taught me and challenged me to dig deeper so that I might haul up treasure from the depths. Now it’s your turn. Go write your heart out, my friend.
The Lord will accomplish His purposes for you.
May He continue to abundantly bless the work of your hands.
Karen Ball
My dear Robino, you always, always bless and encourage me. Thank you.
Wendy L Macdonald
Good on you, dear Karen, for listening to God’s still small voice. I love what you’re doing at Write From the Deep. I also adored your book 5 star novel: Reunion. Yes, you absolutely should be writing again. Hooray!
Blessings on your return to writing ~ Wendy Mac
Karen Ball
Thank you, Wendy. What a blessing your “Hooray!” is.
Roseanna White
It’s been such an honor to claim you as my agent, Karen! I’ll miss that aspect, but I’m also SO EXCITED for you! Can’t wait to see what words come to life for you and see where the Lord leads you. Know that I’m praying for you as shift paths. ~ Ro
Karen Ball
And I’ll continue to pray and root for you, Ro. May God continue to take your words to readers who will be blessed and drawn closer to Him!
Kirsten Panachyda
I am so glad I will continue to benefit from your wisdom and heart for God as you write more books and grow From the Deep. I’ll be praying for you as you transition. Brave and exciting choices!
Karen Ball
Thank you, Kirsten!
Jackie Layton
Karen, you will be missed, but as I’ve recently learned when you follow God’s lead, He’ll bless you beyond anything you can imagine.
God asked my husband and I to alter our lives drastically last year, and it wasn’t easy to say yes, but in the end we followed Him. It’s not easy every minute, but we feel blessed to be called.
I hope you find peace in His calling. Blessings to you!
Karen Ball
Jackie, yes, peace. That’s what I feel. And anticipation.
Blessings right back atcha.
Edward Lane
I have especially enjoyed your references to the Bible. Blessings.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Edward. I look forward to doing that more in what I write!
Linda
God’s blessing on your future endeavors. Write from the deep has been a source of inspiration to me and I thank you and Erin for that!
Karen Ball
And I thank you for letting us know!
Jennifer Deibel
Oh Karen, my heart aches with you as I read this. I have been where you are – on the precipice between where I was and where God was asking me to be…in fact I’m doing it. I was Inreturn to the classroom to teach after 16 years away. It’s amazing how hard it is to give up something when He asks….especially when it’s something so very GOOD. But the freedom in obedience always astounds. The weight that lifts. The breath that comes more easily. I pray God’s richest blessings on you and I’m so thankful for you and your obedient heart, and your willingness and transparency to share with us. Blessings, dear one.
Jennifer Deibel
Wow…those are some epic typos. Sorry about that. ?
That one line should read, “I’m doing it now as I return to the classroom.”
Karen Ball
“But the freedom in obedience always astounds. The weight that lifts. The breath that comes more easily.”
Oh, how this resonated with my heart! Thank you, Jennifer.
Robin Caroll
My sweet friend, I’m praying for abundant blessings upon you as you move into where God’s been leading you. And I, for one, can’t wait to read some new fiction from you! Big hugs and lots of love!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Robin. You’re the best!
Melissa Henderson
Blessings to you and your family.
Karen Ball
Thanks!
Janet Ann Collins
I’m sure you’ve made the right choice. I won’t stop praying for you and hope to see you again at Mount Hermon with your author hat on. Hugs from me.
Karen Ball
Please don’t stop, Janet. Prayer is the most powerful gift you can give anyone.
Georgette Beck
I am so happy for you Karen…how exciting! I do have to say though, I did have your name on my list of potential agents to contact when my manuscript and proposal are ready. God has the best place for each of us at all times. When it is time, He will connect me with the agent He planned for all along. God will connect you to everyone and everything you will need now in this new season and new territory you are heading towards. Be blessed! I look forward to see how God has blessed your heart and your hands in the days to come. Hugs!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Georgette.
Linda Rodante
It’s been great reading your posts over the years and learning from them and you. Now may God lead you in your writing and speaking! Enjoy!
Karen Ball
Thank you, Linda.
Beth Vogt
“You need to focus on the passions God has breathed into you.” What a beautiful thing to be pursuing, Karen — bittersweet, to be sure, as it entails saying goodbye even as you embrace something new.
I enjoy your podcasts and will be looking forward to them in the future.
Karen Ball
So happy to hear you enjoy the podcasts. See you there!
Cecelia Dowdy
Karen, follow your heart! So glad to hear you’ll be pursuing what the Lord has guided you to do!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Cecelia.
Christina Suzann Nelson
Working with you has been such a blessing for me. Thanks for keeping me focused on the reason I write. I’ll miss you as my agent, but I’m sure we’ll still be in touch. Blessing on this new adventure!
Karen Ball
Christina, you now I’ve loved working with you. And I’m always in your corner!
Love to you.
rochellino
Matthew 4:19 New International Version (NIV)
19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
What better place than from “the deep”.
Many, many thanks,
Good luck, God Bless Karen!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNd_SeapzEU
Karen Ball
Beautiful Scripture, beautiful song. Thank you.
KT Sweet
I enjoyed your worship leading at Mt. Hermon. And, your creative workshops.
Wishing you all God’s best in this next life chapter. Glad we get to keep learning from and with you via Write From the Deep.
Karen Ball
Thanks, KT. See you at Write from the Deep.
Alice Klies
Wow Karen, this is so exciting ? You are so very gifted and I so look forward to new books by “Karen”
Sending oodles of prayers for your new adventures ??
Karen Ball
Thanks for the oodles!
Patti Iverson Iverson
Hey hey—and the circle goes round ‘n round, eh? Such a God-thing! Maybe now we’ll see what happens with those twins you had hatching—“us twins, Peggy ‘n Patti) wanna know!!! I love you, friend, in all your ages ‘n stages of life and wherever you are!! One of these days we’ll get you–maybe you ‘n that man of yours, here to SR! <3
Karen Ball
That would be great fun! Love you, Patti.
Kristi Woods
May His voice be ever clear as you follow. God’s best, Karen. And I must mention, what beautiful writing! I’m a “recent follow” here at SteveLaube.com, so although this seems “goodbye”, perhaps it’s really “hello.”
Karen Ball
“…although this seems ‘goodbye,’ perhaps it’s really ‘hello.'”
What a great thought! Thanks, Kristi.
Tracy Morgan
You have been appointed for “such a time as this.” Life is about new seasons and changes. My sister and I talk all the time about when was the seed planted that we should stay in one position for a life time? Long story of how the Lord moved me away from being a principal because I wouldn’t listen. So, I too share your pain about taking time to listen, and He moved me after my mom passed away. So, I’m a kindred spirit in that regard too.
You have such a soaring spirit. It is always so present when you speak or write. We ,your loyal readers, catch the breeze of excitement you share in your voice and in truth.
I am excited for you and this new journey. May the Lord fill you with words and tremendous joy. Blessings! And, I thank you for all of the encouraging words you have shared so freely.
Karen Ball
Tracy, you’ve got such great thoughts here. Thank you so much.
CJ Myerly
Oh, wow. I am excited for you, Karen, but I’ll definitely miss seeing you here. I follow your podcast and I am so excited to see you return to writing. Your books really touched me when I was a teen.
Karen Ball
That’s so great, CJ. And by the way, those books you read as a teen? I wrote them when I was two.
Linda Kozar
Karen, may the wind of the Holy Spirit be at your back as you travel forward on this new adventure in life! All the best! ~Linda Kozar
Karen Ball
Thanks, Linda.
Kathy Collard Miller
Karen, I’m so excited for you and since I’ve loved your books in the past, I’m so glad there will be more in the future.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Kathy!
Sandy Nadeau
Good for you!!! I’m so happy God moved you toward this. I read your books years ago. You were among the handful of the first Christian writers I ever read and loved. I just know God is going to do amazing things with you. He does that. Especially when we are obedient to his leading. I’m really happy for you and for all of us that will read your books! Congratulations on moving forward to live the dream.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Sandy. I’m delighted you enjoyed my books. Can’t wait to get back at it.
Ann Shorey
Karen,Thank you for sharing the route you’ve taken to make this decision. Following the Lord’s leading is absolutely the best thing you can be doing! I look forward to seeing what He holds for your life in your next season.
Blessings to you, my friend. xo
Karen Ball
And blessings to you as well!
Sharron Cosby
Karen, I met you and Erin at the FCWC in February this year over a meal. That short time together provided a glimpse into your heart. I could kick myself for not taking yall’s workshop.
Thank you for your candidness in sharing your journey. I am in the vacillating stage with my decision to retire. Obedience is better than sacrifice, but when I stack up the “what ifs,” obedience loses it nudging power.
Your blog will be reread tonight when I get home from work. I’ll be on my knees as I do, asking for God’s confirmation on what to do.
May God richly bless you as you step away from the tried and true into the unknown (not from God).
Blessings and hope for today.
Karen Ball
Sharron, I promise you, if He is nudging, obedience will bring you blessings beyond your imaginings. I can’t begin to explain the peace and delight I’m feeling. Not because being an agent was a bad thing, but because I’m doing what He asked. His delight is all around me. Please, listen. And if His nudge is there, obey. You won’t be sorry.
Janet Ann Collins
Congratulations on entering a new stage of your life. I hope I’ll still get to see you at Mount Hermon.
Norma Brumbaugh
Dear Karen,
The Lord bless you as you make this step into further calling. I have appreciated your voice of wisdom on this blog forum. I’ve thought should we ever meet face to face that we would understand a connection of common ground. I know this from the sort of client you represent. You will be missed here. You will be blessed there. God knows what He is doing. The Lord be with you.
To God be the glory,
Norma
Karen Ball
“You will be missed here. You will be blessed there.”
Thank you for those words, Norma.
James Watkins
I affirm your decision. You are such a talented writer and speaker. We could team up for the “Beauty and the Beast” tour. (We could take turns being the beast.) At 50-years-old I vowed to only do things I was passionate about. (I still have had to do some editing projects to pay bills, but I’ve really concentrated on writing, speaking, loving on grandkiddos.) Praying for God’s best in your new–or resurrected–journey.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Jim. For your affirmation and so much more. Hugs to you, friend.
Marianne
I enjoyed meeting you at the SoCal Writers Conference! Thank you for your advice, honesty, and encouragement! I look forward to following you on this new journey! You inspire me! Blessings Karen!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Marianne!
Gail Helgeson
Shattered Justice.
Such a great book. That’s where I first “met” you…by reading this fabulous book you wrote. Then I got to meet you in person while attending ACFW in ST Louis a few years ago. (Julie Klassen introduced us.) Such a blessing for me!
Honestly, I have dreamed of one day maybe possibly having you for my agent! Shoot! But you are a gifted writer and I commend your walk with Jesus and obeying His call on your life.
I wish you God’s richest blessings as you journey forward. You are going to do great things. You are His gem.
I’m so sorry for the losses you have experienced recently in your life. There are no words. I know. He sees you, He knows you, He loves you. Jesus loves you. I’m excited to hear of the joys you will experience in the months and years to come.
Blessings,
Karen Ball
Gail, thank you. Just…
Thank you.
Michael Emmanuel
Karen, thank you for letting the Light flow through you to others. God be with you this new stage. Amen.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Michael!
Joey Rudder
Oh my! God bless you, Karen, as you follow His lead! I’m SO going to miss your blogs here but will follow the link you provided above…
God bless you always, dear Sister in Christ, as you shine your light for Him.
Karen Ball
Thanks, Joey.
Tracie Heskett
Karen, this post affirms your decision. You have such a great writing voice! When I read this post, it’s as if I hear you speaking. Best wishes on your writing endeavors!
Karen Ball
Thanks, Tracie.
Mesu Andrews
Love you, dear friend, and I’m proud of you for doing what you’ve challenged me to do over and over again–listen and follow the Lord’s leading, wherever it takes you. May He bless your obedience a hundred fold! ❤️
Karen Ball
And may He bless you, too, you amazing writer, you!
Deb Gruelle
Congratulations on following the nudging of God to leap into who you were created to be in this next season. No one else can do that! I look forward to seeing what you create out of that deep place!
Amber Schamel
Karen, I have enjoyed following you through this blog. So many of your posts have been inspiration and encouragement at a vital time for me.
God be with you in your future endeavors.
Karen Ball
Thanks!
ARHuelsenbeck
Congratulations on graduating to this new (old) phase of your life. Joy and success to you.
Karen Ball
Appreciate it!
Anita Estes
God is doing a new thing in many of us. while you feel led to be called into writing books, I feel led to be called out of that! I wasn’t that successful at it, so I’m hoping to help other writers and form a coalition of Christian Writers in upstate New York. God’s blessings on your journey!
Karen Ball
And on yours, Anita.
Carol Hamilton
Karen, I’m so pleased you’ll be writing again and will look forward to your next book.
You are in my prayers, as are Don, Steve and company, as you transition.
May God encourage and uphold you as you serve Him with the talents He’s given to you for His glory.
Karen Ball
Thank you so much.
Shannon McNear
After my mother’s passing in January 2016, I went through a similar season–listening, reassessing, feeling a renewed need to not waste time in following God’s call. Thank you, Karen, for following His call in your own life, and sharing your journey with us! Way back when you spoke at ACFW 12 years ago, God gave me a word that has helped sustain me through more than a decade of writing and seeking His timing in publication. He’s encouraged me often through your blog posts, especially recent ones on obstacles and lies. I’d been going through a particularly hard, dry time with my writing, and then … God opened a door I’d never dreamed He would–again, just the way He told me years ago it would happen! LOL But your posts have helped nourish me along the way, and I just wanted you to know how much I’ve appreciated that. Blessings in your new venture and continued writing! (Doesn’t it feel amazing to be doing what you know you’re supposed to?? 😀 )
Karen Ball
Shannon, so delighted you’re seeing God’s promise come to fruition. And yes, it feels grand!
Angela Breidenbach
What a brilliant choice, Karen! Congratulations.
Angie
Karen Ball
Thanks, Angie.