Today concludes the conversation with author and speaker Susie Larson. Find Susie on-line at www.susielarson.com

What have you most enjoyed about your writing career? Or Least?
I’ve most enjoyed my times alone with God, having to work out a message, or explore a spiritual truth. Every book project is a mountainous task and when you face that empty page and then put your hand in His, you realize that anything’s possible with Jesus at your side.

Once I get on the other side of a project, I find my faith has been stretched and my awareness of the presence of God more tangible. I’ve also thoroughly loved ministering to women and leading them to places of wholeness and freedom. I’ve loved getting to know other authors at conferences and from my association with CAN (Christian Authors Network).

My least favorite thing about my career/ministry is the business side of things. Thankfully my husband and my agents take care of a lot of that work. I used to be petrified about marketing but more recently I’ve approached it like I approach everything else. I do what God tells me to do with the strength He provides.

What advice would you give to those who are aspiring writers?

First, I would say, be much with God. Spend ample amounts of time with Him. Find out why He created you. You have a specific call on your life and His story for you is your best story! If you can start out from a place of rest and faith, you will be miles ahead of the multitude who are striving.

I think we all need to put this verse on our computers, “Cease striving and know that I am God.” When we get into that whole self-ambition thing, our motives get muddied, our joy recedes, and our heart for the Kingdom takes a back seat to our strivings.

First and foremost, abide in the Vine.

Second, save your money and regularly attend a writers conference.

Third (which can be a by-product of attending conferences), learn the craft, learn the proposal process, and have a teachable spirit. Refuse the rat-race. Work hard and trust the Lord.