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Mentor Counts Blessings

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 4, 2009

Evelyn Johnson Taylor of New Tampa never expected to be a published author.

Growing up as a pastor's daughter in North Carolina, putting pen to paper never crossed her mind. Years later, after raising two daughters, working as a nurse and earning a degree in women's studies, she felt led to try something new.

Inspired by childhood memories, Taylor started a women's ministry out of her home. Soon afterward, she began to write. Her first book, "Seven Blessing Blockers," was the result.

The book, published by Axiom Press, is a Bible study about the things that separate people from God and how to break free from those chains.

Taylor, 49, is still shocked to see strangers skimming the pages at local bookstores.

What made you take the leap and start writing?

I never took any writing classes. I just prayed about it and wrote from the heart. Working in ministry, I had many women come to me and say they read scripture and knew about God's promises but didn't see those promises coming true in their lives. What many people don't talk about is that God's promises come with conditions. That's what inspired me to write the book.

Does mentoring others come naturally to you?

It didn't at first. To know what direction God wants you to take you have to pay attention to the people he puts around you and what they ask of you. I had women come to me for advice, and I would think, "Who am I to help them?" but God saw something in me I hadn't been able to identify.

How long did it take you to write the book?

More than a year. Some days I would write and write. Other days I wouldn't write at all.

How did you find a publisher?

I self-published first and then, by word of mouth, I was able to get a literary agent. My agent was able to get me a deal with Axiom Press. They printed an updated version of the book. It's now available through all major bookstores and online.

In addition to writing, you run Good News Global Ministries alongside your husband. When did you start the ministry?

We moved to the Tampa area in 2002. My husband, Scott Taylor, had been a pastor at a church in Maryland, and he felt a calling to move to Florida. We started Good News Global Ministries in Wesley Chapel in 2003. My husband is the senior pastor. I work in the women's ministry, Women of Promise.

Has the congregation been supportive of your writing?

Yes. They are very supportive. I also work as a substitute teacher in the public school system, and the teachers have been some of my biggest supporters.

What was your experience like at the book signing?

I was very pleased by the experience. Every book I brought was sold.

What are your goals for the book? Any more books to come?

I've been very pleased with the success of the first book. I've been able to lead study groups, speak at events and meet so many women who love God. I do have another book coming but I'm going to wait until next year to release it, to let this book have its time.

What is your advice for aspiring writers?

Follow your heart.

Sarah Rothwell

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