GOD'S GENRES (Psalm 7-9)

I thought I had my thought for today when I read God in solemn honor does things right, but his nerves are sandpapered raw. (Psalm 7:11) God has nerves?

But my writer's eye got caught on the references to writing and storytelling in Psalm 9. It lends itself to different writing genres. I'm referring to fiction genres.

These psalms refer to lifting up God through story and song, praising God, thanking God, describing His glory in nature and in our lives. But use your imagination to travel with me to different kinds of stories. And for us as Christian writers, we teach about God through our characters and stories.

David starts out with my favorite, the one I have written from the beginning:

I'm thanking you, God, from a full heart. I'm writing the book of your wonders. (Psalm 9:1)

Can you guess? What genre depends on a heart full of love? Romance, of course, telling parables of God's love affair with us.

How about my favorite genre to read, from childhood on?

Tell his stories to everyone you meet: How he tracks down killers. (Psalm 9:11)

Ah, nothing better to read or watch than a good murder mystery. What a perfect fit to showcase God's justice.

This last verse fits several genres, in my opinion.

Once you've pulled me back from the gates of death, I'll write the book on Hallelujahs. (Psalm 9:13-14)

What genre focuses on "the gates of death"? Hmm, mystery's companions, suspense and thrillers. Medical stories. Women's fiction that deals with grief or terminal illness. Think of your own stories. Whether the character dies in your story or not, God has conquered death. "Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, hallelujah!" Our stories reflect that foundational truth.

Oh, and by the way, guess who our publisher is? God Himself! Publish your mandate for us. (Psalm 7:9)

Today's favorite verses: You get us ready for life: you probe for our soft spots, you knock off our rough edges. And I'm feeling so fit, so safe. (Psalm 7:9-11)

NEWS FLASH/BOOK GIVEAWAY: I just received copies of my first ever devotional, It Is Well With My Soul. I would love to give away one copy for every five comments, up to a total of five. The giveaway will continue for a week, until Saturday, 7/14/13. Leave your name and email address as well as the name of your favorite hymn for a chance to win.