What do you do to pay the bills?

That’s a good question because there’s a popular notion out there that someone who publishes a novel is instantly wealthy. Wrong, wrong, wrong. I love getting an advance, but it’s not enough to support my family. My first priority is to provide for my family. That’s why the first hat I wear is as a freelance writer and editor (after being a husband and father, of course). I assist several ministries by meeting their writing and editing needs. Most ministries can’t afford to pay the industry standard, so I won’t get rich this way; but I’m gratified to be serving those who want to make a difference in lives for the glory of God.

As long as I can pay the bills and somehow still find some time to write, I’m content; God promises to meet my family’s needs as long as I put Him first. During my first year of working from home, I worked part-time as a Fed-Ex early morning package handler to pay the bills. That wasn’t my cup of tea, but it was necessary at the time. I’d rather not return to secular part-time employment if I can help it. In other words, buy my books. (-;

Back to FAQs.