As is the case with many curious people, Dana M. Peck’s book idea began with her need to find an answer to a question. “I often wondered about the origin of many catch-phrases that people cite in regular, day-to-day conversations. So many of them originate from the Bible, and this underscores the importance and relevance of the Word today. I wanted to gain confidence in whether the origin was, in fact, the Bible and if so, the context of the phrase in an effort to better understand the message. When preparing for this project, I learned that not only is the Bible the most read book in the world, it is often the most quoted (or misquoted) book. I took a deep look at 20 Scriptures — and in one case, one chapter — as a start of my understanding, using three different translations of the Bible — King James, New American Standard and New International Version.
“If you want to take a deeper look into the Word of God and how it applies to your life, this book is for you. In this book, you will have the opportunity to record your reflections after each chapter. You may choose to read and reflect in its entirety or use this as a devotional over a period of time by yourself or with a small group of people,” says Peck.
Read on for what else she has to say about her book and writing process.
What inspired you to write your first book?
The desire to dig deeper into the Word of God and demonstrate to my children the ability to accomplish my goal of publishing an original work.
What do you hope to accomplish with this book?
Share the Word of God and help others look deeper into 20 Scriptures.
What challenges did you face in writing your book?
Choosing which Scriptures to use and keeping it interesting enough to catch a person’s attention while thoughtful enough to share the essence of the Scriptures.
Do you have a specific writing style?
I would characterize this writing as a blend between expository and persuasive writing since my intent is to explain various biblical ideas while including personal details and testimonies for support.
Any advice for other writers?
Set aside time to write daily and be consistent to move forward to complete the story you have inside you. Also createspace.com is an excellent user-friendly, affordable platform to self-publish.
What can readers expect from It’s in the Bible?
They can expect to learn a few things they never knew and encouragement that the Word of God should not be so daunting and that God’s teachings are relevant today.
What books have most impacted your life?
Of course the Bible; Letters from a Skeptic: A Son Wrestles with His Father’s Questions about Christianity, Gregory A. Boyd, Edward K. Boyd; 10X Rule by Grant Cardone, Jesus Feminist by Sara Bessey
What books are you currently reading?
For wisdom — various writings from Mike Murdock; for fun — Get Your Own Damn Beer, I’m Watching the Game by Holly Robinson Peete; and for motivation — Life Happens…But You Can Finish: The Trials, Triumphs and Truths of 12 Amazing Finishers! by Frances M. Draper and Pam Love.
It’s in the Bible: See With Your Own Eyes: 20 Phrases Inspired by the Bible is available on Amazon.com.
