Wednesday Book Giveaway & Guest Blogger, Edie Melson

Wednesday means Book Giveaway! And I am thrilled to have Edie Melson as my special guest today. 

Welcome Edie.

Edie Melson—author, editor, and blogger—is a leading professional within the writing industry, as well as a popular inspirational speaker and mentor. She’s the author of While My Soldier Serves: Prayers for Those with Loved Ones in the Military (Worthy Inspired). She’s also the military family blogger for Guideposts at While They Serve. In addition, as a respected expert in social media, Edie has the proven expertise to teach others how to plug in without sacrificing valuable writing time. Her bestselling eBook on this subject, has recently been updated, expanded and re-released as Connections: Social Media & Networking Techniques for Writers. Connect with her on her popular blog for writers, The Write Conversation, which reaches thousands each month, and through Twitter and Facebook.

A word from Edie -

Sword of the Spirit—My Weapon of Choice

  For although we are walking in the flesh, we do not wage war in a fleshly way. II Corinthians 10:3
  Our oldest son was a wild child during his teenage years—never in serious trouble—but always on the ragged edge of crossing the line. Even though Jimmy flirted with disaster, I knew he and his friends never hesitated to live out their faith. One night they had an encounter many will never forget.
  Several of them were staying the night with a friend, and before they settled in for the night, they couldn’t resist one more ride in Jimmy’s Jeep—in spite of the fact it was well past midnight. As they drove dark country roads, inevitably a county deputy pulled them over, checking for mischief.
  Three of the boys were big jokesters, but one of four never seemed to say a word. Unfortunately he chose this night to break through his shyness. Just as the officer was passing their open window he commented to his seatmate, “I hope he doesn’t make us walk a straight line.” Despite a sharp jab from his friend, the damage had already been done. The policeman ordered them all out of the car.
  He proceeded to search the car, with my son’s permission of course. He found nothing illegal or even slightly damaging in the car so he turned his attention to each of them individually. As he patted them down, the situation quickly became comical. One of my son’s friends—wearing cargo shorts—dutifully emptied his pockets. Of course he forgot one, though. When the officer reached that pocket, Ryan’s sense of humor got the better of him. “Be careful, I keep my sword in that one.” My son said the policeman visibly flinched, and then demanded Ryan remove the weapon.     Ryan proceeded to extract his well-worn Bible for the deputy’s inspection. At that point the officer realized he’d find nothing incriminating with that group and ordered them on their way.
  As my son shared that story with us the next day, I couldn’t help but be challenged. God has given us His Word for protection and offensive warfare, but how few of us view it in that way. We use it for comfort and instruction, but it’s meant to be so much more.   During those times of deployment, it became my weapon of choice when fighting my own war at home. And many times since, it has defeated the enemy and the fear he uses to attack.


I love this story, Edie! Thank you for sharing.

Edie's New Book

YOU CAN DO MORE THAN WAIT, YOU CAN PRAY

There is nothing stronger than the power of prayer. While your soldier is serving their country, you want to pray for them but sometimes it is hard to find the words.

These rich, powerful prayers for protection, peace, strength, wisdom and faith are written from the heart.

This book is perfect for the spouse, parent, friend or even prayer group who is praying for one special soldier or for all who may be in harm's way.  There is also a special section of prayers for the one who waits at home.


Many Americans have friends and family serving our country. This is a powerful book that will help those who wait. You can win a FREE copy. All you need to do is leave a comment. Make sure to include your email address so Edie can contact the winner.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie