Like many Christian and inspirational authors, I like to start each of my books with a verse from Scripture that captures the theme of the book. Sometimes I know the theme verse before I start writing, but more often, it becomes clear as I write and see a theme appearing over and over in the story.
As I was looking back over the theme verses I’ve used in the Hope Springs books so far, something became clear to me: in almost all cases, the verses are ones I’ve needed to be reminded of or focus on in my own life at the time I was writing. I don’t think this is an accident. When my husband was in seminary, one of the things he was taught was to “preach to yourself first,” and I think that’s true of writing too. The messages in my books are ones that I not only need to share but that I need to hear too.
So here’s a little look at the theme verses from each of my books and why I chose them:
Not Until Forever
In this book, Sophie really wrestles with the idea that she has to be “good enough.” She’s always striving to prove herself. Thankfully, Spencer and her friends are there to remind her that God’s grace is free and unconditional and there is nothing she has to do—nothing she can do—to earn it. This is a reminder I need often. As a bit of a perfectionist, I have always worried about falling short. And I think that was especially true when I released this first book. Because what if I failed? But time and again, God reminds me through his Word that he has saved me through his mercy, not because of anything I have done.
Not Until This Moment
Jared and Peyton are really struggling to figure out God’s plans for them. In the end, Pastor Dan reminds Jared that God’s plan for us is that we honor and serve him—and that there are a lot of ways we can do that. I can’t even count the number of times I’ve wished that God would hand me a map for my life and say, “Here’s what I want you to do. Live here. Take this job. Do this thing.” But that’s not how it works. Instead, he gives us a free will to make those choices, trusting that he will guide us and bless us as we do.
Not Until You
This books was hard because Nate was holding onto guilt over a sin from his past. A sin he didn’t think he deserved to be forgiven for. And quite frankly, it’s a sin we might not think he deserves to be forgiven for either. But that’s the thing Pastor Dan points out to him (and that I have to remember too)—he doesn’t deserve to be forgiven for that sin or for any other sin. None of us do. But in his great mercy and grace, God sent his Son to die for every single one of our sins.
Not Until Us
In this book, it’s Jade who’s dealing with the sins of her past and her rebellious ways. But the thing I really love about this book is that Pastor Dan faced the challenge of letting go of his hurt over Jade’s sins. Sometimes it feels like forgiving others is one of the hardest things we’re called on to do. We’d much rather hold onto old grudges. But remembering God’s great mercy for us, how can we not forgive others as well?
Not Until Christmas Morning
I admit, this might be one of my favorite theme verses, simply because it ties in so tightly with the theme of the book: “even if.” Austin feels like he’s lost so much already, and he doesn’t understand how he’s supposed to trust in God after that. But he’s reminded that even if bad things happen to us, even if the mountains fall, even if we lose everything in this world, we can still trust in the Lord. Because he promises to be with us through it all. It’s a reminder I need—not to put my hope in the things of this world but in God alone, no matter what circumstances I face.
Not Until This Day
This is my newest book, which will release next month. Right now, there are a few verses vying for the theme verse position, and I probably won’t make a final decision until I’m done with revisions. This book centers pretty heavily on Isabel’s fear and worry and the need to trust in the Lord, so it will likely be a verse that focuses on that theme.
And here’s where you come in…I’d love to hear your suggestions. When you struggle with fear and worry (and it feels like the whole world is struggling with that right now, doesn’t it?), what verses do you turn to?
And don’t forget, today is the last day of the birthday bash, so be sure to comment to be entered for one of the amazing prize packs! (Need more details on the bash? Check out this post.)
Valerie M. Bodden has three great loves: Jesus, her family, and books. And chocolate (okay, four great loves). She writes emotion-filled Christian fiction that weaves real-life problems, real-life people, and real-life faith. Her characters may (okay, will) experience some heartache along the way, but true to her tendencies as a hopeless romantic, she will always give them a happy ending. Valerie is living out her happily ever after in Wisconsin with her high-school-sweetheart-turned-husband and their four children. Visit her at www.valeriembodden.com to get a free story.
God bless you. The verse that is always in the front of my mind is trust in the Lord with all your heart lean not on your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6
So many great books to be given away to some lucky readers! Can’t wait to see who the winners of this contest are but really all of us are winners to have some great authors year round to read!
Hi Valerie! Inspiring blog this morning. During times of worry, two verses come to mind. As Angela posted Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Often difficult to take Jesus’s words to heart: Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” It is the thirty-fourth, and final, verse of the sixth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament and is part of the Sermon on the Mount. So may we take one day, which is gift from God at a time. Especially during this world wide pandemic with its uncertainties. Praying for calm and health to writers and readers.
I love that verse from Proverbs too. It’s so easy to get caught up in our own ways and our human reason, but God’s ways are always right. Blessings to you!
I agree that there are so many awesome prize packs! I’m so excited for the winners! Thanks for your comment!
One of my favorites:
John 16:33 King James Version (KJV)
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Thank you, Renate! Those are all wonderfully comforting verses. I agree that it can be so hard to be still and set aside our worries for tomorrow, especially in the face of uncertainty. But what a blessing to know that God holds us all in his loving arms!
The verse that helped me with fear for years and years is Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): “fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
I usually try to have a theme before I start my first draft to help keep me on track. For example, my current series is based on the descriptions of agape love in 1 Corinthians 13, so each book is based on one phrase. The first, “Her Heart’s Decision,” is based on “love is not arrogant or rude.” The second, “Her Heart’s Jealousy,” is based on “love does not envy or boast.” The third, “Her Heart’s Impatience,” is of course based on “love is patient.” I’m still working on the fourth, “Her Heart’s Disappointment,” and it is based on, “love is not irritable or resentful.”
Hi Lila! Isaiah 41:10 is a beautiful verse of comfort and reminds us exactly where our strength lies. Thank you for sharing it!
I think it’s a great idea to have your theme verse before you start your draft–somehow even when I try, I often find the book goes another direction, and the verse I thought was going to be the theme verse isn’t. Not sure how that happens, lol! I love your idea to base your books on 1 Corinthians 13!
Ps. 91:4 is my verse for comfort
I’m with Lila on Is. 41:10. The NASB translates “be not dismayed” as “Do not anxiously look about you”. My mom said she recited this verse to herself when she was learning to drive as a teenager back in the 40s, LOL. My other goto verse for fear is Phil. 4:6-7. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (NASB) Seems like God knew that fear might be an issue, don’t you think? :) :)
Hi, Valerie!
Excellent post! 2 Timothy 1:7 and Isaiah 43:2 are a couple of my go-tos when I’m afraid!
Blessings to you and your family! ❤️
11Corinthians 12:9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Jeremiah 29:11 has been a long time favorite, especially during difficult family times. It helps me to remember God loves Me, and He is not surprised by the events in my life. He has a Plan. Yay! More recently, I have embraced Ps 46:10. “Peace be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” It reminds me that God is God. Nothing surprises Him; He is Who He Is – Wow! I can quit fretting, worrying, panicking, and just Rest in Him. It takes such a load off.
I appreciate that your novels begin with a scripture in the beginning. It provides a frame of reference for what follows. :)
Beautiful verses! Great reminder of God’s love, grace, and mercy ❤️ Thank you for sharing!
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Ecc 3:1-8 are my verses for everything!!! They get me through everything!! Songs help alot, too. I’m looking forward to this book!
Psalm34:4,5. All of psalm 34 is reassuring. Psslm91 and psalm 37:39 as well as all of psalm 37. God is faithful!! I do enjoy the book verses. It’s one way I can quickly screen books. Generally verses point to a Christian author.
That’s a beautiful verse. I love the picture of God covering us with his wings. It makes me feel so safe.
I love looking through the Bible to find the prefect verse which “speaks” to me.
I love how many verses God gives us about fear–you’re definitely right that he knew it would be an issue for us. :) It’s so funny–and perfect–that your mom recited Isaiah 41:10 when she was learning to drive. I might have to recite it as I teach my oldest, lol! And Philippians 4:6-7 has always been a favorite for me too. This world definitely needs that peace “that surpasses all comprehension.”
Thank you, Caitlyn! Those are both great verses! And they fit so well together, with 2 Timothy’s reminder that we do not have a spirit of fear because, as Isaiah tells us, God is with us through all our hardships and trials. Blessings!
Hi Linda! I love that verse from 1 Corinthians so much! What a beautiful reminder that our strength isn’t in ourselves–it’s in Christ.
Jeremiah 29:11 is definitely one of my favorites as well–such a beautiful promise that God knows what he has planned for us, even when we face the uncertainties of this world. And Psalm 46 is so comforting–you’re exactly right, God is God and we don’t have to try to be in control but can rest in him. I’m so glad you enjoy novels that begin with Scripture–I do too! ;)
Thank you, Natalya! Joshua 1:9 is such a bold and clear statement of why we don’t need to be afraid or worry–God is with us wherever we go. What a beautiful promise!
Hi Trudy! Ecclesiastes 3 is a powerful reminder that God is in control of everything, from the seasons of the year to the seasons of our lives. And he will see us through them all.
There are so many Psalms that offer reassurance in the midst of life’s storms! I love how they remind us that our refuge is in the Lord who delivers us–and because of that we do not need to fear anything. That’s a good point that verses at the beginning of a book are one way to tell if it’s by a Christian author. :)
Yes! I remind myself often of this verse because it’s no surprise to God that we have troubles in this world. But we can rest assured that he has overcome the world!
Yes! And the wonderful thing is that there are so many! :)
Thanks for sharing those verses.
I always like to remind myself of 2 Timothy 1:7, about God not giving us a spirit of fear but of power, of love and of a sound mind. It reminds me that the awful fear I can feel sometimes doesn’t come from God, and that instead of focusing on my fear I need to remember God is in control and what He wants to happen will happen, no matter what.
You’re welcome, Merrillee! I always love to share Scripture. :)
Well said, Megan! I love that reminder that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and love. We can rest sure, knowing he’s in control!
Joshua 1:9 which has already been mentioned!
Thank you for sharing this wonderful post I Love all of Psalms and I love John 3:16 ! I Love reading All The Bible verses they give me such a peace of mind! Thank you again for such an amazing Post!
It’s such a great verse, it’s definitely worth mentioning again. :)
Thank you, Sarah! I’m glad you enjoyed the post! I agree that the Psalms all hold such great comfort. And John 3:16 really sums up the promise of all of Scripture–God loved us so much that he sent his Son to save us.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Phil. 4:6-7
I love that verse from Philippians too! A beautiful reminder that instead of worrying, we need to bring everything to God in prayer. That peace that “transcends all understanding” is a peace I wish the whole world knew!
Thank you for your thoughts and good books.
You’re so welcome, Nancy! And thank you for your encouragement!