It’s taken me three years to get to this point. So, I had to do something extra special. Because I have extra special news to share with you!
I went to my favorite local coffee shop, ordered my cappuccino, sat down and recorded a video message. I didn’t get too many weird stares, but I didn’t care! It’s the next best thing to asking you out on a coffee date and catching up. Just you and me.
I told the barista I’m doing a special video for my friends online and I asked him to make it really pretty, to make a heart with the frothed milk — because it represents God’s love — which has come to me through you.
Click the video below to watch what I recorded from my heart: “Step Out New As God’s Beloved & Why I’m Writing Book #2”
The video includes a passage of Scripture God used to encourage me to step out new. And I believe it will encourage you as you follow God’s whispers for you too! I hope you enjoy today’s #OneWordCoffee Devotional For Your Soul, sweet kindreds!
Stay Quiet Or Do Something?
Here is an excerpt of the video message from my heart, transcribed in words — if you prefer to read:
Right away after my first book Finding Spiritual Whitespace was written, people immediately asked me, “When are you going to write your next book? And what will your book be about?”
I didn’t want to even want to ask that question. I just wanted to rest and savor the book’s release. But after a year of doing the interviews and going to speak, sharing the message of God’s rest and the different ways he helps us find rest — I started getting an idea. I was prompted by the idea to write another book.
But, to be honest with you, I was very apprehensive because just because Finding Spiritual Whitespace did well, what is it to say that my next book would resonate — that the next set of things I wanted to share would become an invitation you would accept and welcome as well?
As I debated whether I would write a second book, I had to decide: would I continue to write what God’s bringing me through or would I put down my pen and just stay quiet and not say nothing?
What He Said Afterwards
The scene takes place in a garden. And Mary Magdalene was really sad. She couldn’t find Jesus. She was visiting him in the tomb where he would’ve been buried and his body was gone.
And I think I really resonated with that. Because in one moment, we are pretty sure where things are at in our lives and everything is humming along at a certain place.
Then suddenly, things are out of place. Things are out of order and it’s very confusing. And we’re not even quite sure how we feel about everything.
But, it’s in the place of confusion that Mary hear’s Jesus voice. Mary hears Jesus say her name.
And in that moment, Mary realized that it was Jesus.
But, what was interesting is not so much that moment – of course it was amazing — but what spoke to me was what Jesus said to her afterwards.
Very Little
So, she’s clinging to him, right? She’s finally found something she was missing – which is this love that has been a part of her life and her change, and Jesus says to her, “Don’t hold on so tightly to me. But go and tell my brothers.”
John 20:17-18 says,
“Jesus said to her, “Go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”
Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.”
And it’s so interesting because Mary just went and left and told the disciples something so simple – and as we know, they didn’t believer her, because they didn’t see him.
It makes you wonder. Shouldn’t Jesus have given Mary more information – more evidence or proof that he was alive?
But, no, instead Jesus just told her was basically tells Mary, “Go and tell them what you have seen. Tell them what you’ve heard.”
What Jesus said was very little.
One Thing That Makes Sense
So, I felt God was whispering to me,
“Bonnie, whatever little you have, you heard me. Say something.
You’ve heard me say something.
You’ve heard me whisper something to you.
It may not be tied up in a bow, and it all may not make sense.”
But, one thing we know that makes sense is hearing God.
Hearing God in our quiet places, in our special moments. And that’s all we are invited to do.
I Signed It!
I want to thank you because I am so thankful that we have this connection through our stories. And it’s only because of you, I have the opportunity to write a new book, book #2.
Because the truth is, if you didn’t pick up my book and support me by recommending the book to your family and friends — without you allowing me into your heart and your stories by taking this book into your hands — I would not have a second book to write. That’s the reality of how books work.
So, I want to share this moment with you. I’m so happy,
I just got this last week. I just signed it. It’s a contract. A contract for a book. A new book!
The Important Thing
As you know, I’ve been writing a lot here on the blog about starting new. To step into being God’s beloved.
And I have to say no matter how much time has passed, God doesn’t necessarily bring clarity over exactly what he’s going to have us do.
But, the important thing is that God’s whispers don’t stop. Even if they are quiet and gentle. Even if his words are simple and few. God is kind and tender. He doesn’t push.
But, it’s undeniable when he plants a seed you in you. The important thing is that God has said something. God has put a book on my heart.
What is God Calling You To Do New?
I first got this idea last in the summer. But, it takes a while to have the book finds its way.
And I’m so happy I can share this moment with you. Because its’ really only because of you that I’m able to share this journey of writing and sharing encouragement with you.
It’s because of you that I’m writing.
I hope that something today in where I am currently at encourages you.
You may not be signing a book contract. But, God may be calling you to do something.
What is that? And it might be something that he’s been putting on your heart for many years. Just like me, it’s been three years, since I’ve written Finding Spiritual Whitespace — and it’s been germinating to now, where I’m going to take a step out.
We should be encouraged by what Jesus told Mary –
Just go. Go and share the truth of what you’ve heard and seen with me.
From the Bottom of My Heart
And with God guiding us, with us holding onto those moments that we share with Jesus, we can do wonderful things.
Not because of what we can accomplish but because of who we are. Because of who we are hearing and who we are seeing. And we share God in whatever way God is calling you to do – in your family, in your job, in your relationships.
So, I hope that you’ve been encouraged and I want to thank you again. To celebrate this moment with you.
Because if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be writing. There wouldn’t be another book.
That’s just the truth about how books work.
So, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. That you are on this journey with me.
Just Like a New Baby
I just cannot wait to tell you about this new book. I am so excited about this new book.
I’m saving the title of the book to announce later, because just like a new baby, you want to save the name, so that when the baby arrives, you want to celebrate that moment and surprise everybody with the title of the book.
I just can’t wait to share the new book with you. I’m thinking of you with every line that I write.
So, I hope you have a great day. Take some time to have a cup of coffee. And as you can see, I also have my blueberry muffin, so I’m going to enjoy that now as I think of you and wrap up my post this week. Just for you.
Remember you’re loved, you’re cherished and you’re worth it. Just rest.
See you next time!
Love, Bonnie
P.S. Please pray for me and for the words to flow, friends. I am praying for courage. To set my heart free to share myself with you and God unfiltered and at rest, to bring us closer on this journey of faith with God and each other. As is. Let me know how I can pray for you too! Thank you!!
~~~~~~
How has today’s Scripture encouraged you to step out new and beloved?
What one word speaks to you this week?
Pull up a chair. Click to share a comment.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts, friends!
Who can you share today’s encouragement with?
For more encouragement, get a copy of Finding Spiritual Whitespace: Awakening Your Soul to Rest.
#OneWordCoffee Link Up
Soul Writing With Jesus — Together
This new #OneWordCoffee Wednesday series inspires us to create space in a simple way, to be present, hear God’s whispers, to be refreshed & renewed. ?
Every Wednesday, I’ll invite you to stop, pause, & reflect on One Word God’s put on your heart this week.
Share how One Word speaks to you: 1. Simply post a comment (or) 2. Write a blog post, link up on Wednesdays. Visit the post before yours to comment and encourage. Please use the #OneWordCoffee badge (click here) in your post& link back (or) 3. Tag photos #OneWordCoffee on Facebook or Instagram inspired by your one word.
#OneWordCoffee ☕️ A simple invitation to create a new rhythm for your soul. Stop and hear God’s whispers. Let’s swap some stories together.
April’s writing theme: new
Month of May’s Writing Prompt: the one word that speaks to you each week
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40 Comments
I’m very excited for you Bonnie and I will be praying for you as you write your book. I am so looking forward to it. Thank-you. I need to be in prayer for myself right now, asking God what He wants to do through me and where He wants me to go. I am struggling with my mother’s boyfriend, my mom is 76 years old and is living with a 63 year old man. He is living in her home and basically living off her. I just don’t get it and I ask that you would pray that my mom would be delivered and set free. I also ask for prayers that God would grant me the wisdom and understanding in this situation. it looks like God is asking me to stay rather than go, for I too live here with my mom and her boyfriend until I can get on my feet to go. This is a very hard place to be. God Bless
Praise the Lord Bonnie!!! Our Lord is so faithful to have you continue to tell your story to us. Your expression is so sweet and medicinal!
May you continue to hear from on high to bring forth this new creation and present us with the truth God has you to share.
Blessings my friend..:)
Congratulations on your new book contract Bonnie. I wish you well in your journey ahead and cant wait to see where it takes you. I hope and pray that the inspiration will flow freely and that you get a heap of joy on the journey. x
Yay! Such good news and I can’t wait to read it! I am so excited for you, and will be praying for you as you write His beautiful message. <3
Bonnie, I’m not a crier by nature, but no matter what you post, I seem to drop tears at least once. We may never meet this side of Heaven, but your words penetrate me like a kindred sister’s understanding. I adored your first book, but more than that, through your words, I felt understood and validated. So many books can leave us feeling guilty and nearly hopeless in our mess, but your story helped me to see more clearly that God is with us in the process, and He doesn’t just tolerate us; He longs for us “just as we are.” I can’t wait to read your next book. Thank you for stepping forward in the midst of unknowns and fears. Doing so helps empower us with God’s courage and purpose as well. May His Spirit rest over you as you write. Blessings.
I’m so excited for you! You are so brave to write another book! I can hardly wait to read it!
It will be my honor to pray for you once a day for this new book!
I have no words to explain the depth of healing I received from “Whitespace” and it is the least I can do for you!
Hugs!
Sharon
Congratulations! What an encouragement and example to step out and do what you are called to do, whether or not you know exactly the ending or the outcome. That’s how we’re called to live. Excited to read it!
I am praying for God’s voice to tell me what He wants for me in this life. Since I didn’t listen the first 52 years- now I’m ready and willing to open my heart and mind for what God wants me to do. What I do know is that sometimes He wants me to sit still and wait – not in my timing but His. I know there is so much I can give to other’s and share the Word, but I also need to learn to sit still and be silent. One thing I have concluded is that God needs me to be silent for me to hear what He wants to tell me. Living in the moment and listening to the Spirit’s guidance is my goal for right now. 🙂
Can’t wait for the new book. I will be ordering it day one 🙂
You’ve spoken straight to this lil heart of mine today! I’m combining all of my ideas and sticky notes into a pretty notebook I found for just a couple of dollars. Going to really take time and pray over my notebook of ideas. I’ll ask God which ideas are seedlings and have him help me weed out what isn’t going to take root.
Thank you for all of the encouraging posts Bonnie! I’ll be praying for you as you set sail in this new journey you’re writing.
((((HUGS)))) 😉
Krista…I just read your comment and will do the same….thanks for the suggestion. Be blessed today.
Congratulations on signing the contract. And for sharing your journey which I know encourages, inspires, and ministers others. And so true that these whispers He gives us does not reveal the whole picture but sure can develop our faith by taking that step like Mary did. God’s led me to Solomon’s words lately as I just wait. I recently heard the words “let it go,’ however unsure of what I am to let of. And ‘not doing’ is really hard for me–to not have a plan. Yet, think He is building my faith’ to find true and and lasting meaning in God alone,’ preparing me for the next step. Thanks for sharing yourself today and loved your video. Craving a cappuccino now!
I’m so excited for you, Bonnie! Lots of love, hugs, and prayers to you as you write. I can’t wait to read it!!! XOXO
What I find encouraging is that 1) we can hear Jesus in the confusing, out of order places in our lives and 2) that sometimes it can take time for the seed planted in our hearts to come to fruition. So I found more encouragement in what you said about the verse and what you shared than in the actual words of the verse. Yet the word “go” keeps sticking out for me. I’m not sure what go means. I have one more year of school and then who knows what ministry God will lead me to. I have an idea and a longing that I have shared with a few people. What I truly believe is that over the next year God will bring things into greater clarity. In the meantime I can pray that God will prepare the path ahead of me and lay the groundwork for this new ministry in my church. May God’s peace and God’s words flow through you Bonnie in the days and months ahead as you work on this book.
I loved listening to your video and God bless you for being brave! I have been thinking about a book. I write on hope and I write poetry and would like to combine them into one book. I feel God has put this on my heart. I don’t even know where to begin. I linked up with you during the lent season and now am on a short break, but still writing poetry. I have not yet read your first book, but am planning on it….really I am! I love your writing and your heart.
Dear Bonnie,
You have a lot of goodness my dear. You go out of your way to help others. I am very proud of you, sharing your messege has helped me so much. God may only speak in his own way but it is coming through all the love we feel from you. Looking forward to your new book.
God bless you and your family.
Dear Bonnie,
With tears I share in your joy and excitement! I too and penning a book, my first ever, to encourage those the Lord has brought to me. I am nervous, excited and really glad to be stepping out in faith with something that has indeed been germinating for some time now in my heart. I ask you to pray for me as I pray for you. For God’s filling, prompting, timing and peace along the way. Much love and thanks for your encouragement to take this step.
Love,
Deena
My new thing that God has been doing over the last 6 months is preparing me to be a teacher (early childhood-special education). I complete my fast track program next week (please pray for my observation next thursday!) ‘Teacher’ wasn’t ever really my plan, but I have been growing into it and hope that I will be a good one! Really excited about your new book and love to see the joy radiating through your vlog!
Congratulations on your new baby, Bonnie! Thank you, as always, for sharing the good news!
Congratulations, Bonnie. I am so happy for you and for us. 🙂 May God give you further courage and may the words flow from Him to your heart to your fingers!
Pulling out an old post for a “new” theme.
Blessings as you tackle this new writing project.
I cant wait to read your new book. I am new at this! I have been struggling with b cancer for the last 4 years- and it has left me very weak – physically. I Feb I had to have surgery on my neck because of cervical stenosis. I have not been able to attend church lately, though I do keep in touch with our pastor and some of our small church family. I, too, like to write- I have just written my first children’s book- and am working on my second- but I am having difficulty in knowing how to have them published> Each book I write- gives glory to our God- ad my one word for today would have to be “desire” because I so desire to be able to share God’s word- even though I am physically unable to reach many- I know God will make a way.
Oh Bonnie what a blessing you will be through your book. I will have to start saving now because I ended buying a heap of Spiritual Whitespace as encouragement to others so I am sure this will have the same effect. God has been speaking to me in so many ways lately but the most profound was in October last year. My husband was diagnosed with cancer which thankfully has been removed and not spread…but in God’s preparation of me through other circumstances…a dear friend died of cancer and I sat with her and her family for 5 days in palliative care…right in middle of my husband’s diagnosis. ….Gods word resounded in my heart…the things I learnt from your book resounded in my heart….the continual reminder through Dr Caroline Leafs books with on Your Brain…to bring all thoughts captive to God….my sisters in Christ who prayed for me….all these things streno the new me and pushed out the fears so God’s promises could be prominent and take hold and…..I didn’t have one panic attack….so Bonnie you may think that what you have to say isn’t important…don’t believe it for one minute because God uses your experiences and your words gift to build us up and encourage us in miraculous ways to bring H8s freedom and life back to us. I will be praying for you…that the words will flow and God will reveal His heart through you. You can also pray for me as I have had ideas for a book of my own through my journals but no idea where to start…how to start or if indeed it is what God wants me to do…be blessed beautiful girl…your soul us shinning through you to bless others.
Bonnie I need to spell check before sending Caroline book is How to Switch on your Brain…excuse the otger errors…doing it on a small pad with tiny keyboard!
Bonnie,
Thank-you so much for sharing your gentle, kind words with us, they are always soothing. And I also wanted to congradulate you on your upcoming book.
have a blessed day,
Penny
Bonnie,
Thank you for your lovely encouraging videos. You have such a sweet, humble presence about you and I feel as though it really is just ‘you and me’ sitting and talking. I love that about you. Congratulations on your new book signing! I know God will give you the words for your new book as he did with “Finding Spiritual Whitespace”. I can’t believe it’s been that long since you wrote it… I can’t wait for your new book! I will be praying for you as you hear what to write down on paper…
Bless you!
I am so thrilled for you! Matt and I see his specialist for his cancer to start treatments Thursday. I am encouraged that in the midst of grief and turmoil Mary was not alone and she was able to hear him. Your words today calmed me as I read.
Katie,
I’m adding you and Matt to my prayer list. Cancer is a difficult battle. I don’t know if you have read Margaret Feinberg’s book, Fight Back with Joy, in it she shares her battle with cancer. I only just finished it, but wish I had read it as we went through the C battle with my husband. Treatments can be hard and you will be the most important person to your husband. I suggest you begin a journal to help you through, In it document what drugs are used, what reaction he has, and crazy details like what foods he ate/what reaction they caused… I even wrote down what the weather was like (realizing how that affected his moods, helped prepare me more).. I am praying right now (thursday at 10:50 a.m.) that God will give you both the strength and stamina to endure, that He would bless you husband with courage, that He will protect you both from “outside” illnesses, that He will place kind, loving caregivers in your lives… and mostly, I am praying for healing, for victory in the battle. God be with you!
Thank you! Results of endocrinologist oncologist appointment : 1. Sceduled ultrasound of neck to double check lymph nodes to see if cancer has spread, Tuesday next week. 2. If ultrasound showes anything, then will have third surgery. But only if showes anything. 3. If surgery is not needed low iodine diet 2 weeks then radioactive iodine isotope treatment for one week. If surgery needed then #3 put off until sugery is done and increase thyroid hormone.
Results of sleep study: We already have been treating his sleep apnea with cpap. He also has narcolepsy which will be treated with medicine.
THANK YOU EVEYONE! We appreciate all the support.
Congratulations on this new adventure, Bonnie! You’re such an encouragement and inspiration and I look forward to what God want’s to speak through you next.
LORD, I just want to pray right now for Bonnie. I pray that you guide her words. Give her courageous openness and joyful rest in this journey with You. Thank you for Bonnie, LORD. Amen.
[…] & Bonnie Gray […]
How exciting! Will be praying for you as you write & continue to “do life!”
Congratulations, Bonnie! I’m so happy for you. Cannot wait to hear more.
I’ve been waiting for this, Bonnie. I’m so grateful for the treasury of healing that God has opened in my life through your words.
May you have great joy in the writing.
You are an excellent speaker! I see great things ahead for you and for us. I am praying for a new found peace for you while writing this book. Keep up the good work!
Congratulations on your book #2 in making, Bonnie! I am looking forward to reading what God had planted in your heart. Keep me posted and reserve a signed copy for me. 😉 God bless!
Hi Bonnie,
Thank you for your obedience to God. Thank you for leading the way. I started reading your blog during my first semester in college. I struggled with anxiety and depression throughout my teenage years but my conditions got worse when I started college. I remember reading your blog and being comforted by how you made God’s voice and His word come alive in my heart and mind. And although college can still be a battle, I have experienced so much healing since. There are so many people, especially youth, who can benefit from the revelation God has given you about the power of rest. Keep writing!
Congratulations on your new book! I am in the middle of your first one now, (savoring it slowly,) so I will be eager to read the thoughts you bring forward in this new one! May Jesus bring you GREAT BLESSINGS as you open your heart to Him, for all of us, once again!
We praise God for you, Bonnie, and the inspired work you’re accomplishing through your writing. Only a glimpse of the ripple effect has been revealed! No doubt many more lives, within the circle of influence of each reader, are impacted through the truths you write. May God bless you with clarity, creativity, and JOY as you write Book Two!
I love this, Bonnie. You are bright and beaming with joy! I am so thankful and proud of you!!!! Praise God!