Do you have an interest in learning how to write a Christian book? Perhaps you feel like the prophet Jeremiah who wrote, “But if I say I’ll never mention the Lord or speak in his name, his word burns in my heart. It’s like a fire in my bones! I am worn out trying to hold it in! I can’t do it!” (Jeremiah 20:9 NLT) Has the Lord given you a message that burns in your heart?
Years ago, Beth Moore said something that I have never forgotten and it’s so relevant to anyone who wants to write a book.
It’s a short but powerful little phrase, “IMPRESSION without EXPRESSION = DEPRESSION” In other words, we might have a message (like a book) that God has impressed on our hearts but when we don’t share or express that message, it can lead to feeling depressed. It’s like having fresh bread that eventually becomes moldy. We can all agree that fresh bread is best when eaten and shared right out of the oven. Below, we want to share three action steps you can take in order to see your desire to author a Christian book become a reality.
How to Write a Christian Book
How to Write a Christian Book Step #1 – Do Your Research
If you already have an idea for a book topic, it’s important to spend some time researching that specific topic thoroughly.
- Are you writing Christian fiction or nonfiction?
- Who is your primary audience?
- What other books have been written on that topic?
- Is there a niche within that topic that you feel more drawn to? For example, you might feel a pull toward devotional style writing. But your specific niche might be devotions for women.
Since we’re talking about how to write a Christian book, it’s important to make sure our theology is sound and based on the Bible. As Kingdom writers, we are seeking to glorify and convey God in the words we write. That should automatically lead to having a higher standard.
- What does Scripture say about the topic I’m writing about?
- How can I whet the spiritual appetites of others to seek Jesus in a deeper way?
One of our Christian Book Academy members asked her pastor to review her manuscript or draft before publishing it. We’re not saying everyone has to do this but receiving wise feedback and counsel can be helpful as we seek to help our readers see life through an accurate Biblical lens.
Even the Apostle Paul was held accountable for the things he was teaching, “And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.” (Acts 17:11 NLT) As we spend some time researching up front, this will pave the way for quality content in our books.
How to Write a Christian Book Step #2 – Streamline Your Writing Process
Let’s dive into creating a solid outline for your faith-based book. Think of it like sketching a map for your journey – you want to plot out the main stops (your key chapters) and the scenic routes (supporting ideas) that tie back to your spiritual themes. It’s a bit of planning that goes a long way.
When you’re penning down those sentences, keep it clear but don’t be afraid to add a personal touch. Use anecdotes or scriptures that you really connect with; it helps your readers get the feel of your faith journey, too.
Editing? Yeah, it can be a chore, but it’s super important. It’s not just about grammar nitty-gritties; it’s more about making sure your message hits home the way you intend it to. A well-edited book not only reads better but also resonates more with your audience.
And if you’re going the self-publishing route, don’t forget about the look of your book. Formatting isn’t just about making it look pretty; it’s about creating a reader-friendly experience. Think about layout, cover design, maybe some cool illustrations – all these elements can make your book stand out and speak to your readers even before they dive into the first chapter.
How to Write a Christian Book Step #3 – Organize or Recruit a Prayer Team
We can’t emphasize enough the importance of forming a prayer team that will gladly lift you and your writing up to the Lord. It could be as simple text to a few trusted friends leading up to a planned writing session. Or it could be an email you send weekly to two, twenty, or fifty faithful prayer warriors.
As Christian writers, we are engaged in a spiritual battle from the moment we sit down to write. There’s a real spiritual enemy who does not want our words to see the light of day. By having a prayer team, we have a powerful weapon to help us overcome any resistance we face. In Exodus 17, we read about a battle the Israelites were fighting against the Amalekites. As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage.
But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage (17:11). Thankfully, Moses received some help as we read in 17:12, “Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset.”
And what was the result of the help Moses received? “As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.” (17:13) As we attempt to hold up our pens and pencils to write the words God has placed on our hearts, we need our own Aaron and Hur to stand beside us, especially as we grow tired. With the help of a prayer team, we too, can overwhelm the army of our spiritual enemy!
How to Write a Christian Book Step #4 – Join a Christian Writing Community
Let’s face it, writing can become pretty isolated. We wonder if anyone else can relate to our lonely wordsmith lifestyle. It’s comforting to know there are others out there who can relate to the writing life. God created us to grow in healthy communities. Certainly, the local church is the means of community we have become a part of as we grow in Christ.
But within the church, we see like-minded people getting together in order to sharpen and encourage one another in a specific craft (like writing). There are all sorts of writers clubs and communities around the world. As Kingdom writers, we’re looking for the added element of joining with other writers who follow and write for Jesus. Christian Book Academy is an online community of Kingdom writers, just like you who desire to learn how to craft a Christian book.
It’s a place where you can receive the support you need. There are opportunities each month to write together, pray together, and move forward together! There’s no need to be a lone ranger when others are ready to walk alongside you. We want to encourage you to connect with new writing friends in our supportive community. Click here to join now. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1 NIV)
Resources for Writing
- Christian Book Academy – We help you write words that leave a legacy. self-publish books that fulfill your calling and connect with a wider audience. Bring your writing dreams to life!
- Kingdom Writers Conference – Free events to help you move forward in your call to write, publish, and market your books
- Kingdom Writers book – Inspiring stories and scriptures to help you overcome the resistance you gave as a writer.
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