Thursday, November 3, 2011

Debby Giusti: Clear The Static

by Anita Mae Draper

When Debby Giusti and I were discussing her Author Memories blogpost, I suggested she post with us here at the Inkwell, as well. I was pleased when she chose the Faith day because I like to know about this aspect of the authors I choose to read.  Debby didn't disappoint and I'm blessed every time I read this post. I hope you are blessed as well.


Clear the Static

By Debby Giusti


I carry a portable radio with me from room to room when I’m doing housework. Reception is good, and I’m able to listen to the music or news as I complete my chores. However, if I inadvertently place the radio near my cell phone or other electronic devices, static fills the airwaves and makes the program impossible to hear.

Long ago, televisions had the same problem. Growing up, I remember all too well the snow that clouded the TV screen when an electrical appliance—a razor, a mixer, a vacuum cleaner—was in operation nearby. Either the appliance causing the interference had to be turned off or an adjustment needed to be made to the television to bring the picture back into focus.

As writers, we know our writing clouds when we get off track. A secondary character takes over a saggy middle, the plot turns in a direction that doesn’t fit the storyline or our own writer ramblings and information dumps muddy the work’s clear creative flow. The solution is to refocus on the initial vision for the work, cut the parts that have strayed off course and rewrite until the story returns to the path it was originally meant to follow.

The same applies to our faith. The world around us clamors for attention and can interfere with our journey to the Lord. Busy schedules, troubled relationships, past hurts, financial concerns or worries about the future blur our focus and throw us off track. We need to keep our eyes on Jesus, but to do so requires clear vision.

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” When my life seems hectic and the demands of the world pull me away from the Lord, I need to made adjustments. For me, sitting in His presence, whether at church or a quiet corner of my house, and tuning into His kingship over my life, clears the snow and stops the static. Once again, I can see through eyes of faith. I hear His voice and am ready to move forward on the path He has chosen for my life.

Can’t see the picture? Interference getting in the way? Turn off the distractions and focus only on Him.

How do you tune in Christ and tune out the world? What kind of static clouds your relationship with the Lord?

I’m giving away a copy of The Captain’s Mission, the second book in my Military Investigations Series. Leave a comment before midnight, Sunday, Nov 6th to be entered in the drawing.

Wishing you abundant blessings,
Debby Giusti


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THE CAPTAIN’S MISSION, Love Inspired Suspense,
By Debby Giusti

A DEMONSTRATION TURNED DEADLY.

When one of his soldiers is killed by live ammunition during what was supposed to be a simple training exercise, Captain Phil Thibodeaux wants answers. Even if it means working with the Criminal Investigation Division that seems certain to pin the blame on him. But after CID agent Kelly McQueen defends his conduct, Phil realizes that there’s more to the dedicated agent than meets the eye. Maybe she’s someone he can trust, after all. And he’ll need someone to rely on as investigations lead him to doubt everyone else—even his own soldiers.

Military Investigations Series

Book 1: THE OFFICER’S SECRET, May 2011, still available
Book 2: THE CAPTAIN’S MISSION, Oct 2011
Book 3: THE COLONEL’S DAUGHTER,Aug 2012
(Each story stands alone so the books can be read in any order.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Debby Giusti is a medical technologist who loves working with test tubes and petri dishes almost as much as she loves to write.  Growing up as an Army Brat, Debby met and married her husband--then a Captain in the Army--at Fort Knox, Kentucky.  Together they traveled the world, raised three Army Brats of their own and have now settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where Debby spins tales of suspense that touch the heart and soul. 


Anita Mae says: If you want another chance to win Debby's book, head over to Debby's Author Memories blogpost about growing up at Fort Knox, Kentucky.



38 comments:

  1. I remember static. It makes a very good analogy for those things that try to crowd into our lives and demand our attention.

    I've been trying to take more time each day to turn off everything. Television, radio, even put the laptop down. We have some great tools available, but not of them help foster quiet reflection.

    I don't know if Debby will show up today, but I sat with her at the 2010 ACFW awards dinner. I have no recollection of what I or anyone else said. (I hope I didn't embarrass myself.) I was a double finalist for the Genesis, and I think I was too terrified that I might actually win and have to walk up and give a speech.

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  2. I forgot about static. It's one reason why moms used to avoid running the vacuum cleaner when dads were watching the tv!

    I agree, Barb. Perfect analogy but I had no doubts. I, too, had the pleasure of meeting Debby at conference and she's on my list of people who generate the calm peace of Jesus. Right, Anita? She prayed for me--life was very crazy at that time--and I walked away feeling so much better.

    So I'm confident she knows her stuff when it comes to tuning out static and tuning in to the Lord!

    Debby's suspense stories with Love Inspired are amazing! And you'll love the detail that comes from her experience and research. I wish you could all meet her! She was the first contest judge who went out of her way to encourage and support me and I'll never forget that. Yes, she signed her name (which doesn't happen very often).

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  3. Debby, the exasperating thing in our house while growing up was when the TV went snowy for no reason and someone had to fix the rabbit ears. Two steps from the TV, it cleared. Two steps back, and snow. Even when they weren't carrying anything. It was always a joke that the person would have to stand there until the show was over.

    A couple years ago, I started shutting off the TV as soon as the kids went to school. And I stopped myself from putting the radio on. For the first time since I was a teen, I didn't want to listen to anything.

    Because I had enough noise in my head with all those people talking at once. And I began to pray before writing each day.

    I still do. In the stillness of solitude, He and I discuss all sorts of things including scriptural passages. Most are for my writing, but I'm always amazed at how they relate to my current life as well.

    Nelson has since converted our 2 car garage into a recreation centre for his music (Nick and Nelson lead worship), an exercise room, and my office. Out there, I can write in solitude regardless of who's home and what electronic device is blaring.

    No TV.

    No Radio.

    No electronic war games blowing things to smithereens and making me jump. (Only good ol' TNT on my paper.)

    And I can hear God's voice above the rest.

    There's still static... web surfing gives me the most interference, but at least when everything else is quiet, I hear His gentle murmurs and can usually close those extra open windows not needed for research after only a couple nudges. :)

    Thanks so much for being here today, Debby. I appreciate you as a friend who prays with me at each conference, too.

    Anita.

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  4. I am so anxious to read Debby's book. I think she is a great writer and a great inspirational example to us.
    jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot[]net

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  5. The greatest thing that can separate us from God is static. You nailed it.

    Static =Distractions.

    My sister can email me that one word and it makes me instantly move my focus back to where it should be.

    It's insidious too. Starting with little things that grow bigger and bigger. Every you see it happening, give yourself a key word to whisper to get your focus back.

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  6. Hi Barbara,
    Sounds like you're able to tune out the static and spend quiet time with the Lord. You're so right that our modern inventions take up so much of our time and our focus. I need quiet in my life to find that special peace that only comes from Him.

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  7. Hi Deb,
    Such kind words. Thank you.

    Your writing was so powerful and your voice stood out from the rest. You need to be published!!!! :)

    I remember when we met..so special for me.

    Love you!

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  8. Anita, you need to cut and paste your comment and use it as next week's Faith blog. Beautiful!

    God is working in all our lives, isn't He! And He is calling forth writers who will spread His message of love and foregiveness. You've answered that call, which I know brings Him joy.

    I laughed when I read your comments about rabbit ears. That happened so often, didn't it. I had forgotten. Thanks for a fun memory of times past. Ah, not too distant past, I might add. :)

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  9. Thanks, Jackie S, for your kind words! Hugs and love!

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  10. HI Tina, love the key word idea. I need to do a sticky note with the word static!

    I still focus often on your Seekerville blog about subliminal space. Remember that one? It still makes me pause and seek the quiet.

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  11. OH, AMEN, DEB!!!! This is crucial for anybody, but for authors who write for HIM??? An absolute must!! Thanks for the beautiful reminder, my friend.

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  12. Debby, you did it again.
    I long to have your heart of encouragement. I think it's because you keep so close to Him!

    thank you SO MUCH! Wow.
    God Willing... I'd love to be published OF COURSE!

    Great post and comments ladies. I agree, Anita can take these thoughts right into a faith post or devotional. I am so blessed by these ladies... the way we pray for each other and stand together in times of trouble is incredible.

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  13. When I was growing up, there was always something on. Always TV or radio or the stereo. It didn't bother me at the time, but when I got out on my own, I found I loved just quiet.

    I don't have the TV on unless I'm watching. I don't leave the radio or CD player on just to have it on. I like the quiet. It makes those things I actively watch/listen to that much better.

    Of course, I may burst into spontaneous song at any moment, too . . . ;)

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  14. Wonderful post, Debby. I notice that I tend to create my own static/distractions by multi-tasking. Sometimes I think I'm hiding from the things that God wants me to deal with by keeping too busy. Something I need to work on.

    Your book sounds amazing! I definitely need to check it out.

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  15. Go check out Anita's AUTHOR MEMORIES page and find out lots-o-cool stuff about Debby!

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  16. Well you all are very encouraging, too. Thanks.

    And hello Seeker friends. Nice to see you here. :)

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  17. Hi Julie, I know you tune out the world and tune into Him as you create your wonderful stories!

    Love the scriptures you provided for our Seekerville booksmarks. Perfect!

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  18. Debbie Marvin wrote: "I am so blessed by these ladies... the way we pray for each other and stand together in times of trouble is incredible."

    I agree, Debbie. There is a sisterhood among Christian writers unlike anything in the secular world. I feel so fortunate to work with so many Spirit-filled women who trust in the Lord, including all of you! Your prayers, encouragement and love mean so much to me!

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  19. DeAnna, I'm with you about the importance of quiet and turning off the TV. Spontaneous song is good...I'm sure God loves your voice!

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  20. How insightful, Susanne! You're right. Often we busy ourselves with things we think have to be done, when in reality, we're shying away from a problem that REALLY needs attention.

    I'm looking around my office that needs to be cleaned! :) Yet, I always think I'm too busy to get started!

    Same way with interior problems. We let them fester as we work on other, less critical concerns.

    Thanks for providing such a thought provoking comment.

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  21. Debbie,

    I can relate to your posting...and I love the verse "be still and know I am God."

    Thanks for reminding me to take a deep breath and center my attention on HIM.

    karenk
    kmkuka at yahoo dot com

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  22. Be still and know that I am G-d is such an important statement for us all to remember. Not to lean on us but on Him. Very powerful!

    Thanks for the giveaway. I would love to read the book.

    Blessings,
    Jo
    ladijo40(at)aol(dot)com

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  23. Karenk and Jo - yup, you're both entered in the draw as well. Thanks for sharing with us today.

    Debby, I know you were busy today which makes me feel extra special because you spent part of your day with us. Thank you.

    Anyone else who comes in later - we're accepting comments for the draw for Debby's book until this coming Sunday night, so really, late isn't a factor until then.

    And after that, the comments are still open to talk. :)

    God bless you,

    Anita Mae.

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  24. Hi KarenK...

    I have a plaque in my kitchen with the Be Still scripture. Love it! A nice reminder to take time for God.

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  25. Hi Jo...you're right about leaning on Him. I always fall when I try to lean on myself! :)

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  26. Hi Anita Mae,
    I had a function last night that went much too late...then a storm in the area that kept me off line. Glad to be back today. I'll stop in later, in case there are more comments.

    Thanks for the warm welcome, Inkwells! :)

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  27. Lol Debby, you don't have to explain although it goes along with your graciousness. :)

    Your plaque reminded me of the one you see as soon as you walk into our house... "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Josh 24:15b

    We like to let our guests know who we are as they take their first step over our threshold.

    And that's even before they see the one that says, "Visiting today? ... It was clean yesterday."

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  28. Hey Debby! So sorry it took me a day and a half to get here. I think it's the first day I've missed commenting on Inkwell in a very long time.

    I remember those days of vacuuming and hearing the static in the television. Or when my husband would turn on the blow dryer and funny little waves would go across the television screen.

    And I remember my grandpa had an antenna on top of the house and he had a little box with a dial that he'd turn every time he changed the channel. I wonder what he'd think of cable and DVRs?

    I try to tune the static out by praying and/or listening to praise and worship music.

    Great post, Debby. Be still... I love that scripture and love the thought behind it.

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  29. I love Debby's books. As a new author I aspire to write like Debby some day. Would love to win this book.
    Deborah Malone
    debbiejeanm at gmail dot com

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  30. I'm with Debora, I'd just like to write half as well as Debby someday!

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  31. Thank you for the post. It's so easy to get distracted by the things around us in this world. We often need a reminder to be quiet before God so that He can remind us of His presence and what He wants us to focus on.
    cynthiakchow (at) earthlink (dot) net

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  32. Hi Suzie, it's amazing how fast technology has changed in the last few decades. I always said my grandmother's generation had amazing changes. She went from horse and buggy on the farm to autos and TVs and phones. But with laptops and iPhones and iPads, I think the present generation is seeing even more changes.

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  33. Hi Deborah,

    My real name is Deborah...spelled the same as you spell yours! Thanks for your kind words about my books. Good luck on your writing. Keep working and your writing dreams will come true!

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  34. Sherri, you're a wonderful writer!!! :)
    Hugs.

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  35. Hi Cynthia,
    IMHO, prayer needs to be a habit. A very good habit! :)

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  36. I am thankful to hear about your books, Debby, through this blog. My husband and I work together and while I drive us home he reads to me. Your series sounds like something we both would enjoy.

    My e-mail address is jsmithg@hotmail.com if it should be needed for the contest entry.

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  37. Thank you everyone who visited the blog whether or not you left a comment, as well as those who passed on Debby's post via Facebook and Twitter. We appreciate it.

    And for those who did leave a comment and email address, I've used random.org to pick a winner and that person is...

    Jackie S

    Congrats, Jackie! Keep an eye on your inbox for Debby's email. :)

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  38. Thanks, Debby. Great Faith post. You're welcome to post at the Inkwell at any time.

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We, the ladies of Inkwell Inspirations, would love to give free stuff to everybody. Since we can't, we will often have a giveaway in conjunction with a specific post. Unless otherwise stated, one winner will be drawn from comments left on that post between the date it was published and the end of the giveaway as determined in the post. Entries must be accompanied by a valid email address. This address is used only to contact the commenter in the event that he/she is the winner, and will not be sold, distributed, or used in any other fashion. The odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. NO PURCHASE, PLEDGE, OR DONATION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

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