Joan Clayton releases new book

Joan Clayton mixes Scripture and poetry in her book “A Time For Praise” to encourage people in their walk with God.

Clayton uses her writing to praise God in what might be new ways to someone who is new to the Christian faith.

The poems are sometimes playful and endearing as she lets God speak through her words. For example, in the poem “I Shall Love,” Clayton ventures on the subject of what many Christians might struggle with when it comes to dealing with life’s problems:

I shall love, when my heart is aching from unkind words spitefully said.

I shall love, even though people are rude and hostile instead.

I shall love, although I feel uncaring or sharing.

I shall love, though injustices and accusations at me are thrown.

I shall love, for the greatest love known to me was shown.

I shall love because Jesus loves!

If you are familiar with the Bible, some of the poems might remind you of a verse or a particular Scripture and may build a stronger conviction in faith. Clayton says we live in such depressing times, and in the Old Testament, every time Israel turned against God, foreign warriors overtook them.

The book will be good for study time and as a good gift for someone who loves to read spiritual poetry. It is a good way to clear people’s minds after they have time to pray and read the Bible.

Clayton says she wrote this book to encourage others to praise God for the many blessings he has given to us.

This is Clayton’s ninth book, and her son Lane designed the cover.

All proceeds go to the Hope Center in Clovis. The center has food and clothes for people in need.

“I don’t write for money; I write for Jesus,” Clayton said.

The book cost $16.95 at Master’s Books and Gifts, which had 20 copies of “A Time For Praise” as of Wednesday. Master’s Books and Gifts is located at 810 E. 21st Street in Clovis, 762-1924.

— By PNT Staff Writer Clarence Plank