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| Author Lisa Norato |
LISA Norato, welcome back to the Overcoming With God blog. Congratulations on your newest release! Would you share something in your life recently that you had to overcome, with God’s help?
Lisa says: I deal with anxiety issues. Fear, worry, discouragement. Just like many of us, I guess, living in a stress-filled world. This year brought uncertainty, challenge and an opportunity to trust God in a greater way in the form of change. Change is very unsettling and scary for an anxious person.
Just before Christmas, without advance warning, my co-workers and I learned that the law firm where we worked would soon be dissolved. Health coverage would continue for another month, and but after that, we had no idea what was to become of us in Rhode Island’s poor employment market. I had worked at this firm for nearly twenty-five years, and in all that time for the same attorney, a fellow Christian.
It was a time of trying to stay in peace and putting my trust in God, reminding myself to lean on his love, day by day, hour by hour and minute by minute…. I leaned on scripture (Have no anxiety. Pray about everything and the peace of God will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7), the encouragement of daily devotionals and other inspirational material, listened to Christian music, and found comfort in family and friends. I gave my anxiety, fear, worry and discouragement to God only to have a fearful thought creep back in and be forced to do it all over again.
My boss decided he would open his own practice and bring me with him. But with this incredible opportunity came the concern of launching a new business in a difficult economy and the challenge of a hundred and one decisions to be made. One of the many challenges was where to locate this new private practice. It had to be in a location convenient to all and offer a professional environment, yet still be affordable and provide the amenities we’d need. God answered with in an unexpected way through my sister, who saw a television news story on the opening of a local work-share office space. Whatever problem I am stuck in is not too big for Him! Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you. Psalm 50:15.
Starting a new job and saying goodbye to the familiar, most especially people who had been part of my everyday life for many years wasn’t easy. I parted ways with friends who promised to stay in touch with the best of intentions, but with everyone’s busy lives, that hasn’t happened. But all has worked out with the new law firm and business is growing, to God be the glory!
Seems there’s always something to get me nervous. My latest stress is the release my new book. What will readers think and how will it be received? Now that my day job is secure, what does the future hold for my writing career? I may approach change, the future or a challenging task with trepidation, fully aware of my limitations, but I know I can ask for God’s help and hold on to the confidence that He will give it. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
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| The Promise Keeper by Lisa Norato |
What has been the most important thing you hope your readers will get from your book and why?
My goal, as I write, is to tell stories rich in historical detail which will hopefully enable readers to feel they have been transported back in time. More importantly, I hope to offer Christians encouragement in their faith and in finding the courage to place their trust in God…because we all need encouragement and to lift each other up.
As you researched your book, did you learn anything that particularly touched your heart?
I believe animals are a blessing from God. They are miraculous and precious creatures that bring love and comfort to our lives. In my historical research, I uncovered one such real-life creature that brought friendship and comfort to a lonely lighthouse keeper. I couldn’t resist portraying their relationship in The Promise Keeper. Salty, the one-legged seagull, is based on the actual companion of lighthouse keeper Harry Salter, who manned the Duxbury Pier Light Station (commonly known as "Bug Light") during the 1940s. He called the gull "Pete," short for pegged-leg Pete. Keeper Salter fed Pete raw bacon strips from the lighthouse fog bell, and they were close companions, often going fishing or clamming together.
In this latest work, do you have any topics useful for bibliotherapy, or therapeutic influence through reading about a disorder or situation?
The Promise Keeper deals with grief after the death of loved one. Further, it deals with death itself and the hope of resurrection and eternal life we have in Jesus. Also in the story is a mentally-challenged character, a gentle, young man called Peter, who struggles for acceptance and his purpose within the community.
Sea Heroes of Duxbury
Seafaring Inspirational Romance
Purchase Lisa's books on Amazon. Buy Lisa's books on Barnes and Noble.
Purchase Lisa's books on Amazon. Buy Lisa's books on Barnes and Noble.
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| Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato |
Lisa, welcome back to the Overcoming With God blog! Loved both of these two recent inspirational novels! That is so cool about the seagull being based on a real life bird! Hugs!
ReplyDeleteHugs, Carrie, and thanks so much for having me back! Blessings to all your angel crew! Funny, that in doing research, you sometimes find the most amazing things are true.
DeleteCarrie, thank you for another interesting interview. Lisa, your book sounds so good. I know it's true that things all sem to happen at once. Praise God the last few years, I've been in a sweet time of rest and blessings. More recently, back to one thing after another, but I know God will see me through. He always does. It's that awesome faithfulness we can count on. Your books all are set around water. I'm in Texas and have always lived inland. Are you on a shore? :) I'm looking forward to reading your books!
ReplyDeleteHi Caryl! Thank you for kind words. Yes, I've lived in Rhode Island my whole life, which is mostly surrounded by water. The beach is a day trip from anywhere in Rhode Island. I hope you return to that sweet time really soon. I was just listening to a message about this this morning by Joel Osteen. Do you life anywhere near his church? Anyway, he was saying, in times of difficulty, to recall all your past victories when God has brought you through and know He will do it again. It was very inspiring.
DeleteI'm looking forward to reading The Promise Keeper, Lisa. What a beautiful cover. Much success in your new job situation and in your writing.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Janet, for all your good wishes! You are always so kind. I hope you enjoy The Promise Keeper when you get a chance to read it. Blessings!!
DeleteIt was a beautiful book, Lisa, and...I loved the seagull - especially the part where it loved bacon - there's just something about bacon that makes me smile.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you not having been given the pleasure of reading Lisa's latest novel - it's a fabulous read.
All the best,
~ Jen ~
Thank you, Jen! Salty the seagull was a really fun character to write. And speaking of fabulous reads, I loved A Match of Wits, as I've loved all your books. Keep them coming!
DeleteYour cover is just lovely! It touches a special place in my heart. I really empathize with your anxiety. It can be crippling when in the midst of extreme worry. Remember to give it to God and leave it with him. Have to remind myself often too!
ReplyDeleteMary, I will remember your encouraging words, thank you! "Crippling" is a very accurate word and I appreciate your understanding. I'm so happy everyone seems to like the cover, because I know I was thrilled and inspired when I first saw it. Blessings!
DeleteHi Lisa, Carrie.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new book, Lisa. The cover for The Promise Keeper is lovely as is the cover on Prize of My Heart.
I have not read any of your books yet, but they sound great.
Blessings, Tina
Thank you, Tina! So good of you to stop in an offer those encouraging words. Bless you, too!
DeleteEven after giving over worry and anxiety to God, it's hard not to snatch it back! That has long been a struggle of mine as well. Your new release sounds lovely, and the cover reminds me of old fashioned paintings - beautiful! God bless you with tons of peace!
ReplyDeleteThat's exactly right, Rachael, so true. I sympathize with you in this struggle we both seem to face. Thank you for sharing, and may God fill us us both-all of us-with peace and calm! It's always nice to hear kind words about my book, thank you. Blessings!
DeleteWhat a lovely interview, Lisa! I can't wait to read The Promise Keeper. The cover is absolutely gorgeous. Congrats on the release.
ReplyDeletecampbellamyd at gmail dot com
Thank you, Amy. I'm so pleased you enjoyed the interview and that you took the time to comment I hope you will enjoy The Promise Keeper and thanks so much for the congratulations. Have a great day!
DeleteLove your cover! And sometimes it's really hard not to take back what we give to God. You would think we would learn that He can solve our problems better than we can. :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Patricia. I agree; you'd think we would learn. But as long as we keep doing what we know is right and remember He is there for us always. Blessings!
DeleteLISA - A huge welcome to OWG this week!! Thank you so much for sharing your testimony on overcoming anxiety and discouragement. I don't think any of us learn the lesson of trust immediately, and isn't He gracious that He allows us plenty of opportunities to learn, lol! ;) I have so been where you have and spent many a time praying and seeking Him until I get that 'peace that passes all understanding'. Praise God for your business and how it all worked out!! And believe me, you need have no doubt concerning reactions from your new book. It was outstanding!! :) You'll be able to read my review here on the blog on Tuesday. Btw, that was great to learn that bit of history about Salty! Blessings!!
ReplyDeleteNoela! thank you, thank you! I'm thrilled to be here and so appreciate you having me on OWG. Your words are such an encouragement to me. Yes, that is exactly the goal! To keep seeking Him until we get peace that passes all understanding. Thanks for the reminder and all your kind words and thoughts. I can't wait to read your review! Blessings to you, too!!
DeleteLISA thank you for the beautiful reminder that God is our help when we find ourselves in trouble. One of my favorite scriptures I have been clinging to since my husband was diagnosed with cancer the second time back in June is Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear that GOD provided a new job for you just when you needed it! Isn't He amazing?
Congratulations on the release of the Promise Keeper, it is a wonderful book and I enjoyed it tremendously. :-)
Thank you so much for hosting me, Teresa. That is an awesome scripture to cling to, and I'm so glad you shared it with me. I'll have to make note of it for future use, lol. My prayers continue for your husband and you. I know all these prayers will be answered for you both! And so glad to learn you enjoyed The Promise Keeper. Hugs and blessings!
DeleteWhat a wonderful interview! I love the story about the sea gull. I too agree that animals are a blessing from God. I have recently gotten a collie puppy to train as my service dog. He is loving, willing to please and full of puppiness (I know its not a word. lol) He brightens my day will all of kinds of blessings. Laughter to lift up my spirits along with love.
ReplyDeleteMany blessing to you and yours.
wendyshoults(at)gmail(dot)com
Wendy
Wendy, a new puppy, how wonderful! May God bless you both with a long, happy life together, caring for and loving each other. Collies are such beautiful, elegant dogs. Thank you for sharing with me and blessings back! I'm glad you enjoyed the interview. Give the puppy a hug from me.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that your job situation has worked out well for you. I've never had to face that situation myself, but how difficult that must have been after 25 years! I know God was your strength and assurance during that anxious time. What a blessing!
ReplyDeleteKay, thank you for your encouragement and kind words. Yes, God was/is my strength-Amen to that! Blessings to you!
DeleteGreat post, Lisa!! Very inspiring! And your book looks great; I have not read anything by you, but am headed to A. to correct that!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway.
jacsmi75 at gmail dot com
Jackie, so glad you found the post inspiring and thank you for your interest in reading my books. I hope you enjoy it! Happy reading!
DeleteThank you for a great post and giveaway. Great writers write great books!!!
ReplyDeletemauback55 at gmail dot com
Thank you reading, Melanie, and for joining me on OWG! I appreciate your kind words! Blessings!
DeleteThanks Carrie for having Lisa here. Lisa your book sounds so good .I would love to have it. Was so neat about the SeaGull. It is not always easy when we are trying to put things in GOD's hands and still not worry. My youngest daughter got layed off middle of June, and has been so worried. She is trying to trust GOD to lead her to the right job. They aren't easy to find, but she found two for her kind of work and near home. She was so in hopes this was GOD's will. But they never called tho they seemed interested. It's been over a week already. You see she had worked for this company for 11 years will no complaints and really good people. Well sometime this past year the owner's son took over and is destroying everyone's life. How can one be so different than his dad, uncles, and grandfather. He started making changes right away, and started letting people go. Then he let her CPA go after working for the family for years and was a very nice, kind man. He brought in a new man for this spot and is a horrible man and boss. Then they let her go. Now, they are trying to keep her from getting un-employment money, by telling made up lies and complaints that are not true. She never ever had a complaint in the eleven years before they came. Please pray for her. and especially today., as she has this telephone meeting. Thanks to you all. Maxie
ReplyDeleteWe'll be praying Maxie! Encourage her to keep the faith that all things work together for good for those that love Him. Sometimes things really don't go the way we expect them to, but at the right time it will all work out. Hugs and love!!
DeleteMaxie, I will be praying for you daughter today and asking that God leads her to her perfect job. I understand her stress and anxiety in this situation, but I know God has her in the palm of His hand and he won't let her enemies prevail. Noela said it very well, and remember that that sometimes things look grim right before God moves in our lives.Hugs and blessings!
DeleteMAXIE remind your daughter of this verse..."No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord." Isaiah 54:17 Love you Maxie and know that I am praying for you and your daughter.
DeleteI always appreciate the historical detail in the books I read. Both of the books shown have the most beautiful covers.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mary! I do love writing historical detail and share your appreciation.
DeleteLisa,
ReplyDeleteWonderful post. I've been in the same spot concerning the job - 30 years with a company and the new owners eliminated my position. But God is good and faithful and His plans for our lives are never thwarted. Thank you for sharing your story. I loved Prize Of My Heart and can't wait to read The Promise Keeper. Blessings, Anita
Anita, wonderful to hear from you! I do remember you telling me your similar situation. It's encouraging we're not alone in our problems. When you suffer from anxiety, sometimes the anxiety is harder to deal with than the situation itself. But thank God we can always put our faith and trust in Him. Great encouraging words, Thank you. I'm looking forward to reading your upcoming release, too! Hugs.
DeleteLisa, thank you for sharing your struggle with anxiety, the ways you have dealt with it, and and the help your faith has provided!! I'm so glad that God provided another job for you and that you continue to rely on Him in times of anxiety.
ReplyDeleteBecause we're human and imperfect, I think we all have had periods - in times of great stress - in which we give the situation over to God and then tend to take it back. God has blessed me in so many ways, has always been faithful to provide for my needs (as stated in your comments re: Joel Osteen), I trust that His plan for my life is for my good and yet - there have been times in the last few months, after being diagnosed with cancer for the second time and additional new health issues afterwards, when it has been difficult not to be anxious. However, as you said - constantly surrounding myself with scripture, devotionals and other inspirational material, Christian music, comfort from family and friends, and prayer, are the ways I help keep the fear, worry, and discouragement from creeping back in.
As with you, there have been times in my life when situations changed and I no longer had contact with a friend who had inspired and meant so much to me. As you said - change isn't always easy, I questioned why this happened but scripture tells me there is a season and reason for everyone and everything. God's timing might not agree with my timing but I can be assured that His timing is always best. Perhaps God used that friend in my life for a season that was now over and a reason that was now fulfilled.
Thank you for using the writing of your books and this post - as an encouragement in faith for others, Lisa!! May God bless and encourage you tenfold!!
Bonnie, God bless you and give you the strength you need. Thank your sharing your story, It is an encouragement to me, as I'm sure it will be to others here who read it. I will start praying for you and keep you in my thoughts for good things and healing to come. Have you read the little booklet Healed of Cancer by Dodie Olsteen (Joel's mother)? There are a lot of good scriptures to cling to in there. Yes, people come and go from our lives. I have lost friends several times when their season in my life was over. It is hard for us to understand, but that's where faith comes in. You are a very lovely woman, Bonnie, and I know God hold you safe in the palm of His hand. Be blessed! Hugs!
DeleteThanks for the info on the booklet by Dodie Olsteen, Lisa, I'll look for it. I have been referred to three other books in the last couple of weeks re: healing one's body by standing on the Word, change of diet and lifestyle, etc. and have been praying for direction in health issue treatment options.
DeleteI really feel God is using these books and my cancer to speak to me, I relayed this to my oncologist today and opted out of a CT scan (in search of answers for another health issue that has come up since my having a mastectomy a couple of months ago) that had been scheduled - in favor of making the above mentioned changes in my life. I am on hormone therapy and today's appointment was also for a follow-up re: the med effects.
I have been very calm and controlled at every doctor's appointment, testing, and surgery for months now (even when my cancer was diagnosed) but unexpectedly broke down today when sharing with my doctor. I think he was surprised and wanted to prescribe some anxiety med, but I feel it was the presence of the Holy Spirit. My doctor said "I'm not going to bother you anymore, nor am I going to do the scheduled blood work today - but will set up an appointment to see you in three months!!
I had prefixed my discussion by telling him that I didn't know if he was a man of faith or if he believed in the power of prayer, so am praying that God was in that doctor's office for the doctor's benefit today also!! In light of your post being on anxiety, I thought you might enjoy hearing this. Blessings and hugs to you also, Lisa!!
P.S. Post shared!!
DeleteThanks for sharing, Lisa! I won't say I never have anxiety because I do, but when it sneaks in, I try and remember that it is the enemy seeking to gain a foothold. Turning to prayer and Scripture in those times is the only way to manage my lack of trust. Only the true Healer and the One who holds ALL things in his hands is truly capable of restoring my trust in Him. I am thankful to know Christ Jesus as Lord and Savior!
ReplyDeleteI LOVED The Promise Keeper!!!
I really enjoyed Prize of my Heart, and would love a copy of The Promise Keeper.
ReplyDeleteWaving at Lisa! I'm a bit late, but I had a story to finish writing. :) Thanks for sharing and God bless!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to win a copy of The Promise Keeper!!! Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteecriggs1990(at)aol(dot)com