Casting Away Anxiety

I spent approximately 48 straight hours formatting the e-book for my newly published book The Tower Builder. I took a few breaks to toss and turn in bed, and wish I were dreaming about sleeping. But then, finally, my woes were over and the e-book was successfully formatted. It went live on Amazon.com, and is now available for purchase as well as the print book. I am filled with joy.

There were many times I was very tempted to just give up. Because there are so many photos in the book, and so many different types of e-readers now available, it is near impossible to format for all reading platforms. I literally uploaded new files over fifty times in the past two days. Then, feeling totally frustrated and overwhelmed, I prayed.

Why is that almost always a last resort?

I uploaded the files (again!) and settled back with a cup of coffee to start previewing the e-book online. As I electronically turned each page, my excitement slowly mounted. The troublesome spots seemed to be gone. I got half way through the preview, and my computer crashed. This has happened multiple times over the past few days. I suspect the data overload is so great that my poor computer can only take it for a half hour at a time. Each time I go through the entire preview it takes about an hour. (yes, that is correct, I spent a good fifty hours in the past few days previewing the files. When you see me, you will now understand why I look the way I do.)

I rebooted the computer and started where I had left off. As each troublespot came and went with the issue resolved, I felt hope bubbling up. Finally, I reached the last page. As far as I could tell, it was perfect. I sent the files on to the publisher, and the e-book was in the bag. Elated, I went on a walk and realized the world was a beautiful place outside of a computer screen.

God relays this message to me in a thousand different ways: in this world you will have troubles, but take heart. He has overcome the world. Do not grow weary for He will provide the increase. When we think we are looking into a grave, rejoice, for He has risen.

In other words, don't give up. Look up.

 Here is the link to my e-book:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JXP8B72

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1 Peter 5:7 

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Romans 12:1-2 

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

John 16:33 

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Psalm 103:1-5 

Of David. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.