Publishing powerhouse Joyce Meyer has written some 100 books and in the past 12 years alone racked up more than 30 million in sales, since Hachette division FaithWords acquired her backlist in 2002 for more than $10 million. And that’s to say nothing of Meyer's previous publishing history. FaithWords continues to release three original Meyer books a year, and in 2014 added twice-yearly releases of newly titled books using repurposed content. With a friendly price of $10, the books bring readers quick information in a no-frills package; the December offering is Good Health, Good Life: 12 Keys to Enjoying Physical and Spiritual Wellness. Meyer—who also has a television program (Enjoying Everyday Life) and a traveling roadshow of arena events--spoke with PW about her popular message and her bestselling books.
How did your 2008 bestseller Look Great, Feel Great: 12 Keys to Enjoying a Healthy Life Now influence this new book?
Look Great, Feel Great was the result of a major turnaround in my life that led me to better health spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Good Health, Good Life is another way to take the 12 practical keys that I discovered through my own experience and share them with people who need to make the same kind of changes.
What started you on this journey to a more healthy body?
About 10 years ago God spoke to me, saying that if I wanted to be strong and able to fulfill his call on my life, I needed to start taking better care of myself physically. It has taken time and lots of discipline and self-control to develop a healthier lifestyle. I can honestly say I feel better today than I did when I was in my thirties!
Why is good health so important to experiencing a fulfilling life on Earth?
God cares about every area of our lives. He wants us to be healthy in every way. When we’re healthy and whole, we can really enjoy our everyday lives and fulfill God’s plans and purposes for us. And that’s the most exciting, fulfilling life anyone can have.
How are you able to create so many new books each year?
I love to write, and books are a wonderful way to teach the Bible because they can go anywhere we send them. God has given me the desire to do this, and he has given me the ability to write. So every book ultimately comes together by God’s grace and the direction he gives me for it.
What are you working on now?
In April 2015, my new [original] book Get Your Hopes Up: Expect Something Good to Happen to You Every Day will be released. I’m really excited about this because so many people need more hope in the world today.
