Can you guess what my news is?

I don’t want to raise expectations too high. For some of you, this might not seem all that exciting. Before I go too far, I should probably respond to all the guesses y’all made on Facebook.

No, I’m not a grandmother (unless my grand-dogs count, and they totally should!). Yes, I am going on a trip, but that’s not the fun news.

Violin lessons? Um, I’m tone deaf and musically challenged, though that won’t stop me from belting out praise songs when the mood hits. Earning a theology degree? That would be interesting. I’ve long fiddled with the idea of getting my master’s. But no, that’s not it. Leading my own ministry? Sort of, although Wholly Loved isn’t “mine” per say. Praise God we have an amazing team of nearly thirty talented and Christ-led individuals passionate about helping women experience freedom. But while that’s a praise, that’s not my news. 🙂

About a month ago, I decided we’d find a fun way to celebrate once I reached the ten book mark–the tenth traditionally published book. At the time, I had 8 traditionally published books (and others that I had published myself). I assumed my tenth contract would coincide with my 50th birthday, which I also planned to celebrate–preferably by going on a trip with family.

But then …

I received an email from my agent. My publisher offered me my first two book contract. This means I’ve hit the ten book mark! So that feels fun.

Celebrate with me?

Oh, and before I go, I should probably mention, LifeAudio.com dropped another Faith Over Fear Podcast episode. This one was on one of my favorite topics, or at least, one I’m coming to believe is of utmost importance in so many areas: Having the Courage to Set Boundaries. You can listen here:

When a Terminal Diagnosis Meets the Bigness of God: The True Story Behind I Can Only Imagine 2 – Faith Over Fear

When we experience intense pain and hardship, our view of God can shrink.  When circumstances overwhelm us, prayers seem unanswered and our suffering endures for any length of time, we may fear God isn't actually big enough to handle what we’re facing, or loving enough to do something about it. Singer, songwriter and author Tim Timmons, whose story is shared in MercyMe's Imagine 2, knows what it means to live with those types of questions. After receiving an incurable cancer diagnosis and being given five years to live more than two decades ago, Tim has learned to bring his grief, questions and uncertainty honestly to God. In this episode, Tim and Jennifer discuss what it looks like to trust a God who is bigger than our understanding and meet Him within the tension of pain and hope. They explore the intimacy that can develop through honest wrestling, why acknowledging grief doesn’t diminish faith and how shifting from “working for God” to joining Him can change the way we approach each day. Wherever life feels confusing or painfully unresolved, God remains present, attentive and at work. Scripture referenced: Genesis 32:22–32; Matthew 5:44; Matthew 16:24–25; Matthew 22:37–39; Mark 12:30–31; John 5:17; Romans 8:28; Malachi 1:6–14 Resource Referenced: Waking Up Again: A Journey of Grief & Gratitude Connect with Tim Timmons: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

1. When a Terminal Diagnosis Meets the Bigness of God: The True Story Behind I Can Only Imagine 2 36:55
2. Bonus: Saturday Scripture Reset: When You Feel Unloved By God 16:27
3. Why It's Hard to Receive God's Love and Rest in His Delight 35:13
4. How to Move Forward in Seasons of Grief 35:16
5. Did I Hear God Wrong? What to Do When Your Calling Doesn’t Go as Planned 28:22

Is there a fear related topic you wish I’d cover? If so, let me know!