In less than a week I will be in Nashville at the annual conference of American Christian Fiction Writers. It is my first large conference. I am so glad I attended the much smaller Taylor University Professional Writer’s Conference in August on the advice of an Indiana ACFW member. It was a great way to prepare for the large on next week.

At Taylor I was able to meet with editors, agents, and other industry professionals. We discussed my one sheet, my pitch, my platform and other necessary tools, of which I am still just learning. While I still feel unprepared, I at least know more about HOW I am unprepared.

The first-timers email loop was a huge help. I was able to read answers to questions about appointments, sessions, meals, and what to bring and wear. It was also fun to meet other first-timers before arriving.

This week I have edited and polished chapters one, two and three, revised my one sheet, practiced my elevator pitch, and put in some time on my synopsis and longer pitch. I still need to organize my folders and write a full proposal. I’m not sure if that last one will actually get done, but… we’ll see.

I need to do more research on my requested agents and editors too. Right now, I’m shaking my head. This may not all get done. The next thing is to keep praying about my attitude and expectations. I have been doing this for a while, but I need to amp it up because the best thing I can do once I get in my car to meet my fellow conference road-tripper, is to give up the anxiety and worry about what didn’t get done, and worry about letting God do His thing.

My job, as I see it, once I arrive, is to enjoy and soak up every little bit of the atmosphere, the inspiration, the information, the advice, and the contact with other professionals that I can get. I want to make new friends, connect faces with names, and create relationships that will last and become sources of encouragement for years to come. God will take care of the agent and the editors in His own time.

So I close with these verses about God’s timing:

Habakkuk 2:3 “For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.”

Psalm 27:14 “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”

Read more: https://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/8-favorite-bible-verses-about-gods-timing/#ixzz5R8MErrmE

I will post about my experiences at the conference once I return. Until then, pray for all of us attending that we will wait for God’s will. May the Lord Bless you all.