You’re a Christian author, how important is it that your faith be reflected in the work you produce?
It is incredibly important to me. Jesus is not just a part of my life. He is my everything.
Tell us about your book!
The Master Narrative The Master Narrative is a detailed look at the history, culture and context of the entire Old Testament. I guide my readers through this foundational part of the Word, book by book, and help to paint a picture of the overarching story being told. I genuinely believe it will help anyone who reads it understand God’s Word at a deeper level.
Tell us about the process – how long did it take you to write your book from start to finish?
Forever! Just kidding. But it did take me quite a while. I actually took a group of young Church leaders through the Old Testament, book by book, and studied with them as I wrote the book. So, I would say it took a little less than a year. What a journey!
Whenever I speak to writers there’s usually a fascinating back story that led to a career in writing, what’s yours?
Growing up, my mother always encouraged me to read. And by “encouraged”, I mean that she threw out the television and refused to buy a new one until I had the top reading scores in my school. You’d think it would have traumatized me. But it honestly gave me a deep appreciation and love for literature, and I decided I wanted to chase that dream.
How has your family supported your desire to write?
My mother was my first and greatest fan! She believed in me in ways that I don’t think even I understand. Her encouragement fueled the beginning of my career, and honestly keeps me focused even now that she has been gone for near a decade.
What were some unexpected challenges you encountered on the path toward getting published?
Ignorance and laziness. The same challenges most of us face in the early days of this career. There is just so much to know, and every day the game is changing and growing! It can be hard to navigate the waters early on. But I’m getting the hang of it.
As a writer of faith, I view my work as a calling, do you view your work the same way? What moment showed you this was your purpose?
Absolutely. This is what I was made for. I have no doubt. The number of people whose entire lives have been changed by simple words I’ve written on a page, it’s mind boggling. This is what I am here for. To equip the body. And writing helps me do that.
What’s a bit of advice you would give to new authors?
Educate yourself early on, and actually do what you set out to do.
Why do you think it’s important to pursue writing about matters of faith at this point in time?
Because the Church is hungry for something more. And they aren’t getting it in the places they have been looking. We can give it to them.
What are you working on now?
My upcoming book is called More Than A Number. It takes an honest (and painful) look at the condition of the Church and the design of God, and challenges us all to remember our roots. To be the people Jesus died to develop us into! It’s an incredible book and I truly believe it will be a game changer for countless men and women.
Thanks, Michael! We look forward to hearing more of your wisdom. You can follow Michael here. Also, subscribe to Aknowingspirit to read more of his writing!