How did you get into writing, and tell me about your career as an author?
My writing actually began with writing songs in the early eighties as I would sing in church and travel as an evangelist. The music evolved into writing Christian articles and sermons and through the years of personal studies, the Lord blessed my labors. In Seminary I was required to write a lot, but this was an area that I really enjoyed. About 10 years ago, I started a blog on my website and it gave me even more experience as I worked hard to become a better writer. I can look back now and see that God was training me and today He is still teaching me the importance of listening to His voice and allowing Him to speak through me.
What inspired you to write this latest book?
4 years ago I stepped out in faith and spoke with the editor of our local newspaper about submitting an article. I brought him a couple of examples of my work and was surprised when he asked if I would be interested in writing a weekly column. This was very encouraging and in January 2016, “Living on Purpose” began. The inspiration for my writing is simply to relay God’s message. As most of you already know, I intentionally avoid arguing about political and social issues, and I have no desire to be dogmatic about trivial religious issues or to appear hyper-spiritual. This format has opened doors and I’m grateful for publications around the country who run the column as my readership continues to grow beyond my highest expectations. With all the positive and encouraging letters and emails I receive, I felt the Lord leading me to gather a collection of these stories into a book along with other styles of my work that have never been published before.
What is the book about?
In a world of chaos, strife, and fighting, the vision for this book and my newspaper column is to be a refreshing voice of peace, faith, and hope. Within these pages you will find short stories, a biography, song lyrics, quotes, uplifting stories, and plenty of Biblical commentary and insights, and are all meant for the reader to contemplate and examine what they believe and why. I see this book as a spiritual resource for those who could use a word of encouragement and who enjoy being challenged to think about the meaning of life. My goal is to motivate the reader to ponder about the will of man versus the will of God and to realize that our Christianity is measured according to how serious we are to yielding our life to His Lordship.
What works have you previously published?
In 2015 I released my first book, “A Lifestyle of Worship – Living in the awareness of God’s presence.” It’s a combination of my personal experiences as a worship leader along with in-depth look at what the Bible teaches about our intimacy and devotion to God. (Our obedience has more to do with worshiping God than singing a song about Him). This book is for those who are interested about entering the holy place of His presence instead of settling for an empty religious ritual. I have several teaching series on my website that can be read or downloaded along and I also offer full-length CD’s of my original music. In my latest recording project, I narrate over 100 Bible passages pertaining to healing, joy, peace, faith, and victory in Christ. It has beautiful background music, original worship songs, prayers, and is a great way to relax and meditate as you become saturated with the life-changing power of God’s divine truth.
Do you have plans for future projects?
actually have at least 10 other books that are already written but have not been published. It’s fairly expensive to publish going through the large companies, but technology is paving the way for books to be produced much cheaper. I’m hoping to keep releasing my work as long as the Lord continues to give me the green light to keep going. I love to write and invest at least 6 hours a day recording my thoughts. I’ve had the idea of starting a podcast on the back burner for 2 years, and I’m hoping to start video recording soon. Just some short and simple chats about God and our relationship with Him while filming in different locations.
Where can people purchase copies?
The book is offered on Amazon and all the major booksellers. I’ve ordered some books myself and would be an honor to sign and send them to whoever wants a copy. You can read more about the book on my website at billyhollandministries.com. You can contact me about mailing information at [email protected]
How much are copies? Is it available in different formats?
Amazon currently has the book for $20.99, but you also have to remember it contains 368 pages. I can ship a signed copy for a little less and I would be happy to do so. The e-book has not had time to be posted on Amazon, but it should be ready in a few days.
