INTERVIEW | Renee Allen McCoy

Renee, describe yourself for our visitors.

I’m a writer, a wife, but most importantly a Christian. I’ve been married three years and currently reside in South Carolina.

How do you find time to connect with God?

It’s actually a lifestyle for me. I base this on Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” I seek Him in the decisions I make, the people I entertain, and in the stories I share.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse and or quote you wish to share?

My favorite book in the Bible is Matthew 5 (so far), so if I had to choose a verse I would say Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.” This scripture tells me that those who will see God have a pure heart, those with a pure heart love God, and those who love God will obey His commands.

Who are your favorite authors? Favorite books?

I really don’t have a favorite author right now, but I will say that my book shelf consists of multiple non-fiction books by Derek Prince.

Tell us about your journey to publication.

When I first began writing, I sought agents (only a handful), but soon realized that if this is something I wanted to do, I was going to do it. I originally self-published the previous editions (with good reviews), but this time around I was able to secure an offer from a publisher where my books (The Fiery Furnace series) found a home. I appreciate God for where I am and look forward to where He’s taking me. There’s a season for everything.

Tell us about your current book.

My current book, The Kiss of Judas (third edition), is due out July 27, 2010. It is about a young, successful CEO, Isaiah Johnson, and a savvy ad executive, Justine Dasant. The pair has been in a relationship for just over a year when Isaiah feels the pull to draw closer to God. Justine is use to living a worldly relationship with her boyfriend and doesn’t understand why things must change now. She’s adamant on keeping things the same, regardless of Isaiah’s protests. As the story unfolds, Isaiah finds the strength to step out on faith, but at what cost will he say no to the world and yes to God?

What influenced you to write this book?

The misconception that many believe they should be a certain way before they come to Christ. In this book, you’ll read about sinners and how the light of God affects their lives. It’s disheartening to hear how some believe they can actually “get themselves together” and then come to Christ. The road to salvation is different for each person, but the destination is the same. I’ve found that many stay away from the church because they feel as if they must be perfect before they approach God. The only criteria for salvation is to believe (confessing with your mouth and believing in your heart) that Jesus Christ is the Son of God raised from the dead, and to accept Him as Lord and Savior. He never said wait until you’ve disciplined yourself into sounding saved. He simply wants us to believe and confess. If a person can clean themselves up and straighten their lives out on their own, then Jesus died in vain. And we know that’s not true.

I wanted to make it plain that ordinary people who may be devout Christians now haven’t always been that way. I wanted to let readers know who may be struggling with sins of the flesh that God is indeed able to deliver. Also, that no matter what trials a person may endure, God is right there in the midst for He promised to never leave us nor forsake us.

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

My favorite character is Isaiah. He shows vulnerability that many can relate to, but when it matters most he displays strength. The realness exhibited by Isaiah is one that I’m sure many will be able to identify with at particular points in the story. I believe the reader’s capacity to sympathize with him will grab them from the very first chapter.

What’s next for you?

I’m looking forward to penning more Christian-based novels. It gives me joy to share Jesus with the world. Not everyone accepts Him and at times when I share my faith it feels like a personal rejection, but like God has told me many times before, it’s not about me … it’s all about Him.

Where can visitors find you online?

Currently, I have several online sites: www.reneeallenmccoy.com (home website), http://renee-mccoy.blogspot.com (devotional site), http://renee-straightup.blogspot.com (newsletter), http://inhisnamebookclub.blogspot.com (book club blog), and http://inhisnamebookclub.webs.com (social site for the online book club).