Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: ESCAPE (03/04/21)
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TITLE: The Gardener | Previous Challenge Entry
By matt renkema
03/06/21 -
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Does a rose bush look at the Gardener and say, “What business is it of Yours to cause me to suffer?” No! It welcomes the pruning process. The storms come, and the thunder’s roll, as the rain nourishes the roses. “For it is God that gives and takes away.” (Job 1:21) paraphrase NKJV The Gardener decides what needs to stay, and what needs to be thrown into the fire. To make a beautiful creation, God must allow suffering in order for us to continue growing. Yes, God cares, but how can we become worthy of being used without character? Pain and discomfort is never fun, but it is fundamental for our good. Just like pruning at first causes the rose bush to look barren, in time it shines forth, and the flowers bloom with life. In the spring the flowers brings forth wonder to a child’s nose, and the people can enjoy its beauty.
In the summer time the roses are germinating at their peak, and in the fall they begin to die. When the winter comes they wither away. Just like there are seasons to nature, so there are seasons to our lives. Our spirit can not always remain in the spring or summer time. “For there is time and season for everything: there is a time to live, a time to die, a time to laugh, a time to cry, and a time to reap a harvest as well as a time to suffer. paraphrase, (Ecclesiastes chapter 3:1-4) NKJV. If the birds of the air and the plants have their seasons, then why would we be any different for us. But take heart, that when we deal with various trials, there is always a hand to hold. For God will always carry you through your seasons of discomfort. So rejoice in your trials, for your time will come to shine. (James 1:1-4) paraphrase NKJV. Remember God sees the complete picture of your purpose. So don’t look at the single piece and complain that God is doing nothing to help you. “He will never leave or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) NKJV
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The topic felt like a bit of stretch, yet your article has incredible potential. While I think I can see your path, it doesn't feel like the most productive path to take. Really focus on a situation that fits the topic. Write down the first five ideas that popped into your head. Then throw them away because it's likely very similiar to other's. Try tackling it from a fresh perspective. Don't be afraid to make unlikely people as the MC. I like how you started with rose bush POV, but go all in by adding dialog, thoughts, maybe some thorn pricks to bring the piece another conflict. but don't be afraid to stretch it even more.
Writing biblical fiction can be tricky, but if done correctly can be beyond amazing. You've a nice foundation here. I know it's not easy to place your words out there to be critiqued. Also be careful about paraphrasing verse with quotation marks. You don't want to fall into the trap of writing a paraphrased section and put quotation marks around it, which indicates that words are exactly as written. Instead paraphrase, put it in MC's POV, add body language, thoughts, and dialog. In an author's note, you can link the verses you used and encourage reader to read it from the Bible.
Most of all, don't doubt yourself. You are doing some powerful writing that touches my heart. You are doing an awesome Job!