Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)
I’m continuing my series for July focused around my blogging journey and the lessons I’ve learned now six months in. There are a few blogs which have become favorites, but I pay special attention to those centered around the Christian faith, which is my life’s path. I’ve previously self-published from a faith perspective, and it’s often a hard road to follow, honestly. What qualifies me to share these words? Are they in line with what the Word says? Is anyone going to be interested?
What does it take to form a solid writing ministry, one that honors God and draws readers to your words? I offer the following starting points from my experience:
It may go without saying, but pray first. Ask what you should write, if you should write. Be sure you’re in line with God’s will. Maybe meet with another writer or your minister for guidance on recognizing that tug in your spirit and where it’s taking you.
Then… write! Put pen to paper and go for it! See where your words fall, what your style and voice are. Reading and studying works by other writers can often show you what not to do, but the right ones can help establish your direction. As I shared in last week’s post, though, write who you are and what you know. You don’t want to be a copycat.
What’s your writing platform? Fiction? Inspiration? More of a blogger than a book author? This might actually take some time to figure out, but as I just mentioned above, getting started, at least, will (and should) guide where you want to go. I enjoyed the small article and prose format of PRAISE!, the magazine I published for seven years. I also wrote and included poetry in it as well. Now, this blogging format seems to suit me, and I enjoy it, too.
Find a course for learning to write effectively, for being a good editor, etc. Oh please do this! I have a journalism degree and have appreciated the gift of words and writing for as long as I can remember. And I STILL take classes and training and read and study and everything! And I STILL get it wrong sometimes! What you put into it will reflect in your final product. You want to show as professional and as one worthy of your gift and calling. I think I’ve mentioned COMPEL Training about five times lately – it’s just a great source for us faith writers to strengthen our craft, and to connect to a community of other writers for support and encouragement.
Keep at it. This sums it up. The verse above says to study to show yourself approved. Write, write some more, then more after that! Pretty soon you’ll have the confidence to share the gift placed in your heart.
You know, I guess you can go wrong with your writing or other line of work. But you can be successful, too, if you put the time in. Now… GO!
What tips do you have for establishing an effective writing ministry?
M E L C H E E 