Happy Friday everyone! I am excited to share a beautiful book and an even more beautiful woman. I connected with Sarah Travis through the Compel online community and have truly enjoyed getting to know her better. In her book A to Z of God’s Character, Sarah walks us through 31 days of studying attributes of the character of God. At the end of each day there is space to write your thoughts and questions to encourage you to dig deeper. Sarah breaks down the Greek and Hebrew origins and meaning of words we read in Scripture and points us to a better understanding of who God is and what that means for us. The daily readings are packed with great tools to grow deeper in our knowledge and are short enough for even the busy mom to fit in her schedule. My favorite day was Day 12: God is Incomprehensible! I know you will love this book and I hope you check out more from our interview below.
What is your book about?
Over the years I have questioned many aspects of God’s character without even realizing it — maybe I’m not alone.
My fears show a lack of trust in His sovereignty and provision. My continual planning shows a lack of belief in His omniscience ~ He is all knowing.
When I question why I was placed in a certain situation I am doubting His perfect plan for my life.
When anger rises up in me while watching the heart-wrenching pain of suffering I am putting His loving kindness into question.
When I hold on to the sin of my past unable to forgive myself I am rejecting His atoning sacrifice, cleansing power and forgiveness.
All of the fears, doubts, questions, and emotions that rise up within me on a daily basis all count down to one common denominator…
They all show a lack of belief in the character of God.
I believe every Bible Study should result in us knowing our Father and His Son Jesus more. He reveals His character to us throughout Scripture and so I invite you to join me as I explore the A to Z of God’s Character 
How long did it take you to write the book?
I wrote the book as part of the Write 31 Days challenge, which many bloggers participate in each October. Knowing my intention was to publish the entire series as a book at the end of the month, I gave myself a couple of week’s head start, so it took around 6 weeks in total!
What was your favorite chapter or part of the book to write and why?
Such a difficult question as every characteristic of our God is incredible! One of my favorite days was writing about our Faithfully Forgiving God. I mess up time and time again…every day…so to really study and write about how faithful God is to forgive me was both emotional and releasing. I probably need to read that chapter every day to remind myself I am forgiven!
What was your biggest challenge or hurdle in writing and publishing your book?
The biggest challenge was definitely keeping to a word count for each characteristic. When you are writing about the character of God, it’s almost impossible to stop! I wanted to be sensitive to readers by keeping it manageable as a daily devotional.
I’m also not very gifted in technology so I bought an ebook telling me how to format and publish an ebook!
What is the one thing you hope your readers will walk away with after reading your book?
A deeper understanding of Who God is and how to be in relationship with Him, reflecting His character to impact the world around them.
If you could go back through the writing, publishing, and marketing experience would you do anything differently?
I would use the services of a Social Media marketing team to help promote the release. As for the writing, the commitment of the Write 31 Days month was awesome as it kept me to a deadline (which this girl needs!), but it was super stressful toward the end so maybe give myself a little extra time!
Do you have any suggestions to help others become better writers? If so, what are they?
Keep at it! I wish I could remember who I heard say it, but I heard someone say “You can’t edit a blank page” and also Lysa TerKeurst’s words “Writer’s read.” You don’t need to share everything you write and it’s ok to just write for yourself some days but try to both read and write something every day. I am also a member of Proverbs 31 Ministries (P31) Compel Training, which has been invaluable tool.
What other writers/books inspire you?
I love reading books by authors with a strong Bible teaching aspect such as Liz Curtis Higgs, Sheila Walsh, Wendy Blight…and of course, being a writer for P31 Online Bible Studies (P31OBS) I read all the P31 author’s books, which are all awesome!!
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I just happened really! I started a blog in order to participate in a “blog hop” with P31OBS and it just grew from there! Once I started writing it became a natural part of how I process life and all the Lord is teaching me. I can’t not write!
What do you like to do when you are not writing?
Relax watching HGTV or sports on TV with my husband! Our first baby is due in May so at the moment a lot of time is spent preparing for him! We also like to go out walking when we can.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
A nurse, a vet, a flight attendant, a show-jumper…I was never stuck on one thing!
What is your favorite quote and/or Bible verse?
Proverbs 16:9: “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.”
Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate/Vanilla swirl!!
Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?
I like to see the bed made and try to make it every day but sometimes in my mind I use the excuse I read somewhere that it’s better for allergies if you don’t make it!!!
In regards to toilet paper, over or under?
Over! And, yes, I am that person who will switch it if I visit you and it’s under!!
Is there anything you want to say to your readers?
Always remember, no matter what life throws at you, our God is unchanging and is with you through it all. He sees you. He loves you.
Where can we buy your book?
You can buy A to Z of God’s Character on Amazon.
Where can we connect with you?
I would love to connect with you on Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest – all @srhtrvs12, Facebook and my blog: www.sarahtravis.org
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