Writing Inspiration

By Lynn U. Watson

Where does one find inspiration to bring exhausted material to life in a brand new way? Joy sprouted in my heart when God asked me to write a devotional based on essential oils in Scripture. The journey began in Solomon's Locked Garden (Song of Solomon), where Solomon describes his bride as nine spices and essential oils. Lost for months in that garden, breathing in its aromas, and gathering impressive amounts of research prepared me to write a tedious account of an otherwise fragrant and flavorful topic – an account I was sure would be the perfect antidote for insomnia. I expressed numerous concerns to God, especially when He insisted I showcase their kinship to the nine fruits of the Spirit and the Proverbs 31 Woman.

“Proverbs 31 and the fruit of the Spirit! But Lord. . ..  You do have a plan connecting these two overcooked topics with this garden, and You will help me turn into something special, right?”

Unashamed to admit my discouragement, this daunting task required serious creativity. God delivered in ways far beyond my wildest expectations.  The Essence of Courage: Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in Solomon's Locked Garden and inYour Heart, sprang to life with fresh, unique, eye-opening insights.

·       From her Coffee Cottage fictional character, Cinnamah-Brosia (and friends) pour out wisdom from lessons learned of the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

·       Scriptural glimpses into each spice and essential oil bloom with insight.

·       Up close visits with real women of the Bible provide snapshots of how they displayed fruit of the Spirit in amazing ways in their lives.

·       Fun facts and activities bring each essential oil and spice right to the reader's table.

In the book the reader enters effortlessly into casual conversation at the Coffee Cottage, relates to timeless struggles women face, and gains dear friends. Contemporary women and women of the Bible together challenge the reader to discover faith and fragrance-inspired courage for their lives, regardless of era or circumstance. Far from boring, the snooze button no longer holds a spot on the menu.

Writers, where do you find inspiration to overcome the mundane, and create fresh perspectives and inspiration for your readers?

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Lynn U. Watson was pulled reluctantly into women’s ministry nearly four decades ago, Lynn Watson now treasures the opportunities that were provided to lead, encourage and mentor women through relationships and Bible studies. She wrote a few of the studies, too. Drawing from those experiences, along with years serving others professionally in the complementary healthcare field and her love for essential oils, Lynn delights in bringing her readers freshly inspired insights drawn from and focused on the many fruits, plants, oils, and spices mentioned in God’s Word. Married since 1973, Lynn and Steve call Bartlett, Tennessee home. Their home is filled with handmade treasures and lots of love for family, especially their five beautiful (of course) grandchildren.