Sarah Francis Martin

A graduate of Texas A&M University and Charles Colson’s Centurions discipleship program, Sarah Francis Martin has a passion for life and ministry to women. She encourages them in her new book to RISE UP! and make Jesus famous. Sarah is also the author of Stress Point: Thriving through Your Twenties in a Decade of Drama.

A stay-at-home mom, she lives with her husband and son in North Carolina.

What started you on your writing journey?

It’s a funny thing as I don’t feel like a writer or author. I have a hard time actually claiming that title. For me, writing is a means to articulate the message so heavy on my heart. As I evaluate how the Lord has planted seeds in the past, I do see signs in my grade school years of leaning toward my English and reading classes more so than my math classes. (Math is not my strong suite as I still have to count on my fingers!) In the seventh grade I penned a story for an assignment in which I titled it, “God’s Not Finished With Me Yet.” Oh I wish I could find that little booklet, bound with gold braids and its hand painted cover page!

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Just as all good novels include a plot twist, the Author and Creator of our lives often writes in a twist that ultimately blesses us more than our original plan. Have you ever experienced such a “Divine Detour”?

My Divine Detour is the point where I transitioned from working in corporate America to working as an author from home. I spent over ten years working in sales and loved the challenge and daily interaction with people face to face. Now that I am a stay at home mom and author, I can clearly see how God doesn’t waste any past experiences. So much of what I learned in the sales force translates into what I do now!

Just Rise Up!Let’s talk about Just Rise Up! A Call to Make Jesus Famous (Thomas Nelson, October 2014). Please tell us about it.

It’s common to look at our faith as something that just “is.” It’s not strong, nor is it weak; it’s simply part of us. But faith is something we desire to strengthen. It’s a vital relationship with our Lord that should be nurtured, celebrated, and shouted from the rooftops as the most incredible gift we will ever receive.

Just RISE UP! is a call to do just that—a call to get off the couch of complacency. Based on Psalm 145, this invigorating study motivates women to do life differently by making Jesus famous in all aspects of life. Many have the itch to make a difference with their lives but don’t know how. By living a life of praise, with a humble posture and Kingdom perspective, women will step into their life purpose. With Just RISE UP! readers will evaluate their present stance before the Lord and become excited to RISE UP! and take their place in the Kingdom to make the name of Jesus renowned.

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What was the inspiration for the project?

Just RISE UP! started with a twenty-four hour prayer chain that I was a part of about four years ago. One of the Scriptures that we were asked to read was Psalm 145. I sat there with my Bible captivated by verse 7 which says, “They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.” The idea of making Jesus famous with every square inch of our lives fires me up. It was from there that I began to study Psalm 145 and David’s call for believers to live a life of praise, with Kingdom perspective, a humble posture before the Lord to make His name renown. This is how we find our purpose in life!

InScribed Studies BoxA few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

Sushi! I love it because it is an indulgence that feels somewhat healthy because of the veggies, etc. At least that’s what I tell myself when I have a full plate.

If you knew you couldn’t fail, what dream would you pursue?

I honestly have a hard time moving forward with dreams for fear that I’m dreaming out of my own desires rather than God’s plan and agenda. But, these days I do feel released to dream out of what I know is my God-given calling. Right now that is clearly writing books. So … I would be honored to keep putting pen to paper and encouraging women to RISE UP! to make Jesus famous.

What Bible passage or story best describes your journey of faith?

I would say Peter. He had quite the roller coaster of ups and downs with Jesus. Peter also had some fiery conversations about his role in the Kingdom. Yet, at no point did Jesus ever say, “You’ve messed up one too many times. You’re done.”

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

I’m the strong female lead because I’ve been told I’m bossy. I like to get things done! It’s a spiritual gift. (wink, wink!)

I’m a dog lover. Please tell us about your pets, if any, or your favorite pet as a child.

I’m so sorry to say this. I’m not an animal person. I love to pet cute, furry dogs and then let their owners pick up the doggy doo. Not sure why. I’ve been like this all my life.

Thanks, Sarah! It’s great to have you as a guest at DivineDetour.

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For more information about Sarah, visit her website.

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