Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s
Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s is an honest, down-to-earth guide for anyone going through difficult times. John Dillard challenges you to faithfully lean into Christ as your suffering brings you to seek God’s will and purpose during this time of difficulty. Since everyone suffers at some point in their life, this book is for anyone wanting to cling to Jesus and seek the purpose he has for them.
Jerrie Berry, North Atlanta Mission Board Disaster Relief www.namb.org
John Dillard’s story is going to really bless and inspire you. Thank God you have been inspired by what the Lord Jesus Christ has done in your life. God has pulled you to another level closer to His presence getting aside and quiet before the Lord where God can speak to you. You are much more than a CPA but you are a man of God that was not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are more people that need to get involved to step up to the plate and they can make a difference!
WATC TV, Atlanta’s Christian Television Station
In the timely book, Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s John Dillard deals with a very relevant issue: how we should react when suffering comes in the life of a believer. You need this information. You need to assimilate it into your faith walk. You need to get it ingrained in your thinking–so that if and when tribulation knocks on your door–you are ready to overcome.
Mike Shreve, Shreve Ministries www.shreveministries.org & www.TheTrueLight.net
Life, as you’ve probably already discovered, is an interesting little proposition. One of ups, downs, ins, outs and goofy little quirks that we as Christians call trials. Whether you call them trials, tests or emergencies an understanding of the lessons in the book of Job can be an incredible source of encouragement. John Dillard’s book Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s is insightful and encouraging look at overcoming situations that seem impossible.
Robert (Bob) Heath, Founder, Kids for Christ USA www.kfcusa.org
Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s is a wonderful reminder of God’s faithfulness in every situation – not matter what. John Dillard has woven this reality, that God’s faithfulness is in every situation, because he lives this reality daily. What encouragement from someone who willingly admits life doesn’t turn out as planned!
Jan Hinton,
Founder www.epastornetwork.com Leadership, Fellowship, and Support for Christian Ministers
Mr. Dillard is currently writing Overcoming Life’ 9/11s. This book examines Job’s tremendous faith throughout a life of unimaginable loss. This work discusses God’s sovereignty and how God is always in control. Mr. Dillard studies Job’s life and expands his discussion to include God’s presence in our lives in time of suffering and tragedy.
Inside Gwinnett Magazine
October, 2006
Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s [reminds] the reader that suffering is very much a part of a Christian’s journey towards eternal life. Throughout the book, John Dillard encourages Christians to wholeheartedly put their faith and trust in a mighty loving Savior, seeking His wisdom and guidance while being honed and shaped fit for His purposes here on earth and for a future life in heaven.
Judith Brooker, volunteer for the Editorial and Transcription Team of Torch Trust for the Blind. Torch Trust is a Christian faith mission that publishes Christian books in Braille, large print and on CD for blind and partially sighted people. North Wales, UK.
John Dillard’s book, Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s, is truly a well researched and written book. There are very few books that portray the life and conduct of Job during his trial as well as does this book. As you read this book, if you have any trials that you are facing, it will help you to understand perhaps what is happening in your life. One can follow the insight of Elihu, the youngest of those that had words of advice for Job, and in so doing, will find that life’s 9/11’s in your life are trials that can be overcome.
I highly recommend reading this book! I believe that it will help you in those times when you face your Life’s 9/11’s.
E. Richard Bridgeforth, Sr., Author/Founder, World Prophetic Outreach Ministries
Author of the book: HOUR OF CONSUMMATION: God’s Prophetic Calendar Of Time
“John in a simple but profound way, shows in this book how great God is, that even though we are going through real hard times, God is in control of everything. Reading the way John writes about Job’s situation touched me and inspires me to know God better and to trust and pairse Him during tough times”.
Edison Quevedo
Hispanic Minister Campus Church of Christ
“I have read both of your books. You’re a good writer and Bible scholar”.
Mike Smitley
www.FathersPress.com
A Voice of One
As Jesus own bride, the church waits eagerly for her Bridegroom. And waiting can be hard work. But a profound gospel-centered resting in the Bridegroom fuels her resting, and there’s a great accompanying promise that an ultimate rest is to come following the Great Wedding Supper. John Dillard has found a helpful instrument in Nehemiah’s prayer—a biblical utensil, among the Bible’s many tools, that will help the church eagerly await her Bridegroom. His perspective as a lifelong layman is helpful and illumining in taking up this text. I was strengthened to be reminded of Nehemiah’s restless reliance on sovereign, sustaining grace.
David Mathis, Executive Pastoral Assistant, Bethlehem Baptist Church www.bbcmpls.org , Desiring God www.desiringGOD.org , Minneapolis, MN
John Dillard’s inspirational A Voice of One speaks to everyone who is seeking spiritual guidance in our modern, chaotic world. It is especially suited to those who yearn for a reunion with the infinite. The reader will feel compelled to return to this book, again and again.
Jean Sasson, International Bestselling author of PRINCESS, MAYADA and LOVE IN A TORN LAND: Joanna of Kurdistan
Very well done! The story of Nehemiah has never been made so clear. You have cleverly woven other strong leaders and bits of history into the book. From Nehemiah to Douglas MacArthur to Winston Churchill to Benjamin Franklin and more! I have had a well-rounded history lesson and enjoyed every moment of it. You have beautifully drawn on the story of Nehemiah to help us reflect on ourselves.
Pamela Jackson
Author/Speaker
On This Side of Heaven
www.HeavenlyNovels.com
“I finished your book A Voice of One over the weekend… and was encouraged and inspired. What a wonderful book! If you’ve ever felt discouraged, down and useless (and haven’t we all?) this book will change your life. It is a powerful call to “normal” people to make a major difference. Practical, clear and Biblical. Read this book and you’ll thank me for having recommended it to you.”
Steve Brown is a radio broadcaster, seminary professor and author. He previously served as a pastor for over twenty-five years and now devotes much of his time to the radio broadcast, Key Life. Professor of Preaching at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. He sits on the Board of the National Religious Broadcasters and Harvest USA. Steve is the author of numerous books including Born Free, When Being Good Isn’t Good Enough and When Your Rope Breaks. His articles appear in such magazines and journals as Leadership, Decision, Plain Truth and Today’s Christian Woman.
John Dillard’s A Voice of One, is a moving and inspirational account of Nehemiah’s call from God to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. John’s retelling of the historical biblical account is full of inspirational messages based on Nehemiah’s attending to God’s call and instructions. John has clearly described in depth the call of God to individuals as portrayed in the life and work of Nehemiah. The story line is detailed and captures the historical energy and movement of the time. The spiritual and didactic application of the “message of the Bible” is clear, scripturally sound, and pertinent for this generation of go-getter’s and trend setters not only in America but throughout the world.
How exciting the reading was for me as I discovered new information and was challenged to know more of the underlying meaning of the writers of the Old Testament as they tried to tell God’s purpose for mankind.
I especially enjoyed the intertwining of the quotes from distinguished statesmen, historians, and leaders in the history of the world. The quotes punctuated the significance of Nehemiah’s leadership and spiritual journey. Thank you, John, for yet another testimony of your faith and the use of your talent and abilities to glorify God’s kingdom on earth.
With appreciation and respect for all you have contributed,
Reverend Dr. Peggy Mayfield, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist and Ordained Minister
John Dillard is a gifted storyteller. Extracting the essence of “pure gold,” John tells a story of old to awaken truth and inspire hope. A Voice of One is a must read for those who desire a deeper spiritual life.
Ann Platz: author of The Best Is Yet To Come and the author of thirteen books. Ann is a frequent public speaker and has appeared on many television programs, such as: PBS, HGTV and the Travel Channel. www.AnnPlatz.com
“‘Regardless of your life circumstance, God has a plan of miraculous proportions’, writes John Dillard in A Voice of One. John takes us on a tour through the life of Nehemiah to show us how one person trusting in God can accomplish great things, and then John shows how God used Nehemiah as a role model for him to accomplish something great for the people of his whole state in spite of obstacles in his own life. What is great about A Voice of One is that it makes practical application of God’s Word to your life, and I should know because I’m one of the Pastors at John’s church who can testify that it really happened just the way John says it did.”
Herschel Hatcher
Area Pastor, Perimeter Church, Duluth, Georgia, www.perimeter.org
A Voice of One has touched my heart. It has reminded me of June 2002, when I felt God tugging at my heart to go on a short term mission trip… a trip I had no desire or inclination to go on…a trip that I was totally unqualified for….too old for…I felt that God was calling me to do it.
On that first short term trip…and it was life changing…I truly felt broken over there…alone…I had to turn TOTALLY to God to sustain me…no one else could or would be able to do it…but GOD is an awesome God and all He asked is that we be obedient and then HE will show up and take over. THANK goodness…because I still do not know HOW I knew to say just the wise thing to so many, many curious, and interested but hurting young people. I was shocked on the last day of the Mission trip when the students came to say Goodbye. I had young person after young person tell me how much I had helped them…how I was the only older person who had ever complimented or encouraged them in ANY way….by the time the day was over…I had so many blessings from GOD over and over and complete reassurance that I was in Macedonia because GOD wanted me to be in Macedonia…and that only GOD could have made me so useful…when I wasn’t truly equipped to do so.
That trip…that entire experience was my first time…of TOTALLY stepping out in faith….and being totally obedient…and dependent on God. And it was AWESOME to feel HIS power in me. I prayed so fervently morning…noon, dinner, and at night…spending so much time praising and thanking the Lord for the blessings He alone has given me.
Just reading the Introduction, and the first 44 pages…has already reminded me of what is different in my relationship with GOD right this moment. I must find the time to be as diligent in prayer as I was before and he ALSO wants to be the MOST IMPORTANT part of my life.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the book.
Sister in Christ, Rena Ballard
Director of Servant Care
www.Handsforchrist.com
A Voice of One is a valuable resource for leaders and laymen alike. John Dillard has a passion for inspiring vision in others. He does a great job of combining both scriptures and modern day heroes to help us realize that we are all called to greatness in God. This book has encouraged me personally in my ministry.
Joey Nicholson www.JoeyNicholson.com
Worship Leader/Recording Artist, Gainesville, GA
A Voice of One is a timely book with a much-needed message for the Church. It helps to express God’s heart to use ALL of His people in the restoration He is in the process of moving us into in greater ways in this crucial point in biblical history. For some time, He’s been seemingly saying much more loudly to His Bride, “Arise, wake up!” This book calls to the Church to ‘wake up’ as He prepares us for the last days. Without vision the people perish. God is in the process of restoring to His Church His vision of the Kingdom of God, and He is raising up many Nehemiah’s to be catalysts to help facilitate this process by the leading and empowerment of His Spirit. John Dillard’s book encourages every believer to seek God’s specific vision for themselves within the context of the bigger picture and as a vital part of the community of believers.
A Voice of One encourages believers to consider God’s ability to do the impossible through them as they listen to His voice doing what He says. God has something for everyone to do which He has uniquely created them to do.
I have felt the Lord leading me to use the “Nehemiah strategy” in the networking I have been doing for about a decade in the Body of Christ. I believe this is a book, which is very relevant to the generation in which the Church finds herself! The need for the Church to move forward in God’s restoration vision is also very relevant in this point in history!
Grace Wiebe,. http://DiscipleTheNations.org
A Voice of One and Overcoming Life’s 9/11’s. In reviewing these books especially I find many things about these stories I have been previously unaware of. Originally believing the God of the Old Testament to be harsh and judgmental, I have learned the error of my understanding and a God who loved his people offering grace, teaching faith, and an unyielding love.
Leaving God’s word, the Bible, we have a standard and benchmark in which to live our life by. In frequently going back to God’s word we are able to more aptly see his hand in our lives and the miracles which occur along its way.
By living our life in accordance with his precepts we come closer and face to face with who he truly made us be. Our God is one of order and not happenstance. In journeying through this life we are able to fulfill our God ordained appointments keeping those meetings he has for us along the way. Maybe there are those about us who are in need of our hearts, experiences, and helping hand to comfort those about us. Just as Nehemiah was able to look after those about him so are we called to help those about us who are in need and hurting. In our service to others we learn more about God’s love and grace growing deeper in our faith.
Leaning not on our own understanding but seeking after God’s wisdom we are more aptly to be able to accomplish great things in God’s name. Though God will never violate the free will he has given us, he stands at the door of our heart gently knocking calling out our name.
Just as a runner trains to run the race set out before him so should we train our soul and spirit. By putting on the very armor of God we will find super natural strength lifting us in our direst time of need. Reading these words reminds me of a creator who is aware of my fears, strengthens my spirit, while making me more steadfast in his ways.
Atlanta Christians in Business Network, www.acibn.net
“Can one person make a profound difference in this troubled world? In his book, A Voice of One, John Dillard affirms the God-given ability that each of us has not only to make a difference but also to accomplish the seemingly impossible as we discern the plan God has for our lives.”
Rev. Tamlyn Collins
Lead Pastor, Berkmar United Methodist Church, Lilburn Georgia
“God has significant purpose of each person. We discover it through prayer and Gods word. God confirms it through wise counsel from Christian mentors, Christian friends and life experiences. I think your thesis is right on.”
Lt Col. Gene Griffin
United States Air Force Chaplin (Retired) and former pastor of the Roanoke Baptist Church, Roanoke, Texas
John Dillard’s book on Nehemiah reminds us of the power of prayer and God’s unique purpose for our individual lives. Putting a contemporary application to a biblical time of history makes this book a readable and practical help to those seeking godly direction in their lives.
Dr. Bob Horner, Former Lead Pastor
Peachtree Corners Baptist Church, www.pbconline.org
While reading A Voice of One, I thought of many instances where Nehemiah’s experience would parallel times in our own lives. His persistence and continued reliance on God is exactly what so many people need when faced with a crisis or major difficulty. We often turn from him when the answer isn’t immediately provided. John does a wonderful job of letting the reader know that one person, when humbly reliant upon God, can make quite a difference. A great guide when ministering to others!
David Farmer
Former Stephen Minister, Perimeter Church, Duluth, Ga.
“I am pleased to have the opportunity to issue you a formal offer for your work, “A Voice of One.” It is not only my honor, but the entire staff here at Tate Publishing is truly blessed to have the possibility of partnering with you to see this project succeed on every level! I can see from your submission you have an excellent ability to write and communicate your ideas. Congratulations!
I am very pleased with your ability to weave a readable storyline through your work and make it flow well. We do not hesitate to select only the very best in which to invest our resources and efforts. Your idea has such an important appeal and I believe there is a significant market. I have not seen anything similar in the stories related to your subject, and I can see how unique it could be.”
Richard Tate, PhD
Founder, Tate Publishing & Enterprises
In the book, he explains that we all encounter people that we have the unique ability to help. We have opportunities to reach out to others and help and if we let it pass by, maybe no one else will help them. The book explains how we can make the most of our unique circumstances. Mr. Dillard says the book is “geared to people who want to step out of the box to accomplish God’s life mission for them.”
Inside Gwinnett Magazine
October, 2006
I appreciate you sending me a manuscript of your book, A Voice of One. You have accomplished the difficult task of integrating the biblical story with both and practical application for our times. This could be an important resource for many as the Lord is raising up marketplace leaders and ministries all around us these days!
This book has the potential of being both a Bible study and a manual for those seeking to influence and impact their communities for Christ.
Phil Miglioratti,
National Pastors’ Prayer Network Loving Our Communities to Christ www.nppn.org
A Voice of One delivers a powerful message–that it only takes one person discovering and acting on the will of God for their life to make a difference in their world. Full of spiritual insight, John Dillard’s newest book teaches us the inspiring secrets of Nehemiah’s prayer. If you’re searching for God’s will for your life, this book is one you’ll definitely want to read! As powerful and potentially life changing as the prayer of Jabez.
Martha Bolton www.MarthaBolton.com Past writer for Bob Hope for fifteen years, Phyllis Diller, Ann Jillian, Jeff Allen, Mark Lowry, and Kathy Troccoli.
A Voice of One exemplifies the deep and everlasting faith that John Dillard clearly has in the Lord. I am in constant awe of the clear understanding John has of the word of God. The depth of his thought and conviction is obvious in A Voice of One. John, much like Nehemiah, has faced long odds several times during his life and met those challenges with the help of God. His writing draws from his very personal experiences to glorify the word of God, as told through Nehemiah, which has served as a personal inspiration in his life. John truly understands the exhortations of Nehemiah when he writes, “There will be those who will do everything in their power to purpose to see you fail. But press on as you are doing the very work of God and thereby accomplishing his best and mission for your life.”
Rob Keith
Business Banker and member of Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church, Duluth, Georgia
“In his work A Voice of One, the author, John Dillard, won’t let us escape the truth that we’re here because God wants us here and has a very specific mission for each one of us, otherwise He’d take us home. A general wouldn’t send soldiers into battle to put their lives on the line without a mission; he’d bring them home.
A Voice of One points out that the only possible answer for why the Creator of the universe has us here in the midst of battle is that He plans to use us in the campaign. Ultimately, all we have was given by God for His kingdom purposes and His specific mission for us, and we shouldn’t make the mistake of using these things for our own desires. As A Voice of One reveals, we need to diligently seek God out as to His specific purpose for our lives and consecrate everything to this end. He accomplishes great things through surrendered lives.”
Dan Bennett, Microsoft
Suwanee, Georgia
“I just finished it, I couldn’t stop once I started reading. That is an awesome devotional work. I personally have been praying the Prayer of Nehemiah for over a year now and you could not have blessed me with a greater gift.”
Rohn Palmer, FBI
Daphne, Alabama
“I have enjoyed several studies in the past on Nehemiah – most of them on his leadership principles. This is a wonderful guide of the importance of the prayer component. Blessings to you as you continue to pursue the direction God is calling you.”
Gus Henne
Belleville, Ontario
Charleston Dawn
“Wow I can’t believe it! I was just getting on-line to e-mail you. I’ve finally been able to read Charleston Dawn. I was excited to read it when I first got it, but was involved in so many Bible Study preps, that I couldn’t fit in reading a fiction book. Then, we got started on the mission trip and couldn’t find time.
But I picked it up 2 days ago and I’m nearing the end. I love it! I loved remembering our mission trip verse with ‘Joseph’ reading Psalm 27. I love how Mary and Joseph’s life helps all of us, especially new Christians, know how to recognize and experience God’s presence.
I’m sure many times new Christians feel new and different, but don’t understand that it’s the Spirit now in them. John’s book will help them see clearer what the new experience really is. Also, the way the book gives examples of how and what to pray and to pray continually. Great examples for prayers, again, beneficial to new Christians. It will be a book that I will give as gifts. Right now, Mary in is the hands of the wrong person…looking forward to reading what God is ‘up to…’
Congratulations John on a wonderful use of the talents God has blessed you with, He is glorified”.
Joan
Canton, GA
“Charleston Dawn is a sensitive and spiritually driven love story set in picturesque Charleston, SC Intrigue, mystery, and adventure bring suspense and counter-play to a tender, unfolding love story enhanced by the growing and deepening of the faith of a tender, bright, searching young woman and a self-discovering and seeking young man. Charleston Dawn is well worth the reading as well as pondering its theme of growth in the knowledge of the Lord, Jesus Christ in the heart of two seekers falling in love. Read it, you will be blessed.”
Rev. Dr. Peggy Mayfield
Licensed Psychologist and Ordained Minister
Frederick, MD May 1, 2006 — PublishAmerica is proud to present Charleston Dawn by Duluth, Georgia author John Dillard. The author’s debut book is the fictional story of Joseph and Mary. As their relationship is deepening, Mary is abducted. During their darkest days, both Joseph and Mary face their fears and turn to God for guidance. They soon discover a love like no other that will last forever.
PublishAmerica
Charleston Dawn, by John Dillard Christian Fiction Romance Charleston Dawn is set in the city of Charleston, South Carolina. The book is a murder mystery and relates to how its characters find God amidst real life issues. It speaks boldly about the Christian life and how God wants us to live.
Hometown Gwinnett,
September 14, 2006
Charleston Dawn, a Christian fiction romance, is now available. Combining Charleston’s history about everything from homes to lighthouses, chase scenes, a hurricane and a tornado: Charleston Dawn keeps its reader on the edge of their seat as they turn its pages. Learn about the uniqueness of the city’s past and the story’s characters faith in God abounding despite and amidst life’s trials and difficulties. Charleston Dawn combines ambiance, action and is completed by a spiritually uplifting revival offered by God’s grace at its story’s end.
I pray that I have edified the Body of Christ in this writing and that through it that my family and others are brought closer to our Most High God!
PR Web Press Release, April 30, 2006 www.prweb.com
Frederick, MD December 14, 2006 — Publish America is proud to announce John Dillard’s new book which is a Christian Fiction Romance Charleston Dawn set in the city of Charleston, South Carolina. The book is a murder mystery and relates to how its characters find God amidst real life issues. It speaks boldly about the Christian life and how God wants us to live.
John Dillard, Author
John Dillard has stepped outside that box. keeps on going. “God has allowed me to be here, so my mindset is that I’m writing checks that only he can cash.”
Gwinnett Daily Post
May, 2006
I dream that God might use me in ways to help further Him and His word. I pray that God will use my book, Charleston Dawn, to reach out to people to bring them closer to their creator.
Gwinnett Business Journal
July 2006
John Dillard of Duluth, for personal reasons, was seeking justice for children that serious crimes have been perpetrated upon. He feels that individuals who have perpetrated crimes against children, such as molestation, should be forced to pay for their victim’s medical and counseling expenses. John feels one voice did make a difference, but he feels the voice was not his own. He considers himself nothing more than a messenger and thanks God for all that was accomplished.
Gwinnett Daily Post
July, 2005
Having managed my own successful CPA practice in Gwinnett County for over fifteen years, I continued to feel God’s calling on my heart and his desire for me to be more about Him. I had always felt it was my mission to witness to those I came in contact with in both my business and social contacts, but God continued to lay it on my heart that He wanted much more.
Although I was willing to share my Christian faith with people to whom I came in contact with, God was calling and he wanted me to be much move overt, but loving, to share the love of God. Having practiced the Golden Rule in my CPA firm for years, God was calling to be the true center of my life and not just a major player. With my new bride, we set out on a journey that has led us on mission trips, publishing books, changing Georgia law, and starting a new accounting firm, HIS CPA, P.C.
To this end we have been faithful and continue to spread the Good News of our faith and Christianity to anyone who would like to hear. Our faith and our lives intersect. Though we still have much to learn to grow to be like Him, we have studied his word and continue to work in Bible studies to share his love with others.
John Dillard’s Testimony