Marti Pieper
Greetings from Marti Pieper in Mount Dora, Florida, where we’ve had lots of rain every day this week. And we’re not complaining, since drought conditions have led to increased fire danger. The subject of today’s interview, Cheri Cowell, has also had extra rain in her area. Since she’s one of my fellow Orlando-area CAN authors, when my home has rain, hers usually does, too!
Welcome, Cheri! I’m so glad to share this time together. My first question is one every author loves: Would you please tell us about your latest book, One Story, One Mission, One God?
Cheri Cowell
This workbook-style Bible study is an overview of the whole Bible in two six-week studies. The Old Testament and the New Testament studies help readers see how the Bible is one story about the same God with a single mission from the beginning to the end.
I love that! So what inspired you to write this book?
I’ve heard people say they’ve gotten bits and pieces of the Bible but have a difficult time pulling it all together. I’ve also heard some say there appears to be an angry God in the Old Testament and a grace-filled God in the New. I wanted to help people see how all those stories come together to tell a story about God’s mission of grace, from the opening scenes in Genesis to the closing one predicted in Revelation.
One Story, One Mission, One God by Cheri Cowell
That’s fabulous. And what was your greatest challenge in writing this book?
I think most people struggle with God’s instructions in the Old Testament to destroy whole groups of people. I discovered an answer to why that’s in there that stays true to the Scriptures and true to who we know God to be.
And to find out, we’ll have to dig into your book, won’t we? Cheri, how has being a writer impacted your relationship with Christ?
I love sharing what I’ve learned as I have sought answers and struggled with difficult Scriptures. I think a lot of people think those of us with seminary degrees have all of the answers, but we don’t. We struggle just like they do, and some of us are privileged to write about it.
Exactly. So what’s one thing about writing that you wish non-writers knew?
It’s a discipline. When some people hear I work from home, they think that means I am always available, but my husband says I work harder than most people he knows.
I know that’s true! Do you have an unfulfilled dream?
My husband and were born and raised in Florida, and it has always been our dream to move to the mountains of Tennessee. Well, that dream just came true, and so we will be snowbirds, living winters in our Florida home and summers in the Smoky Mountains.
I’m so happy for you. Congratulations! Cheri, what ministries are you involved in, and why?
I operate a publishing company that helps others get the words God has given to them out into the world. The profits from EABooks Publishing go to fund microloans through my 501c2, Living Parables, for start-up funding of Christian nonprofits. Our goal is to expand our reach by helping others succeed.
That’s amazing. Can you share with us your hobbies, activities, or passions outside of writing?
I don’t have much spare time, but I love nature, so we hike and travel to national parks. I also do scrapbooking to preserve those family memories.
You’re such a well-rounded person, Cheri. I know that’s part of what makes you such a wonderful author and friend. Can you tell us about your next book?
On my blog, I’m giving a sneak peek of my new Bible study: Wow! Women of the Word.
The title alone sounds intriguing, Cheri. Thanks so much taking time to share with our readers. Blessings!
Learn more about Cheri at her website and her blog.
For His Glory,
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Marti Pieper
