Shoud the Christian Writer Fit In or Stand Out?

 

The world tells us we need to all look a certain way, dress according to the latest trends, and listen to the same music. Even churches fall into that trap. Probably at some point we have all wanted to fit in. Is that what we should do?

God has told us what He expects in His Word. He said we need to fit in the unity of faith, building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:12b,13

We are also to fit together with Christ and other Christians. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit. Ephesians 2:19-22

Christian writers also need to fit into the right genre when writing. Be mindful of the expectations within every genre. From the book cover to the storyline, make sure you add the elements that are expected within each genre. You will need a good story arc and character arc along with powerful edits that make for a good reading experience. 

If you include only "clean" elements (no sex or profanity) you will fit into a clean or cozy genre. If you include sexual scenes or strong language, be sure to label the work accordingly. You don't have to be evangelical. It can be clean, wholesome, and be filled with biblical truths without being preachy.

It's also understood that Christians will write from a Christian perspective, with a Christ-filled heart and a Christian worldview. If you add strong Christian themes, you will fit into both the cozy and Christian genres. A powerful storyline and meaningful characters can be written without the sex and profanity outside Christian/clean genres.

Christians are also called to stand out from the world, but not like the world tells us. It's common for people to try to stand out among the crowd to get attention for themselves. You can see it in their clothing, attitude, and hear it in their voice.

Christians are told to stand out. In God's Word we read, for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light. Ephesians 5:8

As Christians are different from unbelievers, Christian writers are also different from other writers. While our books might include trauma, demons, or other disturbing elements, the evil will always be shown in contrast to what God has to offer. Unbiblical actions might take place, but will be clearly understood as"wrong" from the theme of the book, sometimes by including a godly protagonist to shine truth on evil.

The same with humor. Christians find ways to add humor to their books without deriding someone or including lewd content. Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29

Jesus illustrated how to stand out like that. He said in this world of darkness, believers are to allow His light to shine through us, overcoming the darkness. Christians often handle tough topics but with an overall theme of showing God's redemption and provision. 

I always pray my books fit in and stand out. 

I pray they meet the reader with something they expected within the genre, and provide some meaty nuggets pointing them to God, above all else. 

~

Dear Christian writer,

While we are on earth, we will need to both fit in and stand out, but not like the world thinks. We can write simple or monumental books that will be on bookstands alongside popular fiction or nonfiction titles. Even so, our books must stand out as lights in a dark world, shining for Him.

Understand that you might be criticized for writing Christ-honoring material. Jesus said, If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. John 15:18,19

But, remember, we are not writing to please the world. We are writing to glorify God.

Father, bless the writer reading this today. Fill them with the wisdom to write what You have called them to write and the courage to share it with others.

In Jesus' name, amen.

The Marks of a Successful Writing Career

Dreaming of the day your novel will be on the big screen and you will be basking on an island in luxury? Longing for that multi-million dollar contract for your next novel? 

In reality, most writers will sell a few hundred copies to friends and family. With some training and marketing experience, they might sell a few thousand. After the training and marketing expenses, their income might outweigh the expenses. However, not always, especially in the early years. 

When you are a budding writer, it's easy to despair over a minimal income while learning the craft and developing contacts and marketing skills. We tend to compare ourselves to other writers who are winning awards, signing huge contracts, and speaking at conferences. Isn't that out measure of success? If so, then does that mean you are failing?

If a high income is your measure of success in your Christian book writing career, it might be time to re-evaluate. King Solomon had more wealth than anyone at that time. He wrote that the person loving money "will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income."  Ecclesiastes  5:10 

Perhaps he understood that when he longed for money and gold, he always wanted more. As he grew old, he realized all his gold and possessions were temporary and he would leave them behind. 

Please don't confuse notoriety with success. Often a writer's income increases with their name recognition, meaning the more books they write, the more they are known. If a reader hears of a book written by an author they have read and their prior book(s) inspired them, challenged them, entertained them, or helped them understand something, they likely will read another book by that author. But should our ultimate goal be to be known and sell millions of books?

My first book was written from the heart and included a Bible study on suffering. According to industry standards, it should never have gone to press. Who wants to read a book about a hummingbird and backyard critters with a Bible study on suffering? 

Not many people have read it. It will never be my best seller. But I still get notes from people who read it. They often tell me how much it touched them and helped them. Each one of those notes is a far greater reward than the royalties I could have made on a different type book. By sharing truth from the word of God, my income might be delayed, but the impact on their heart might change the world--at least change their world. 

I realize my books will probably never earn a Pulitzer or have contracts with six figures. However, I also have learned that my income matters far less than my impact. 

Every penny I have earned in royalties will be left here on earth. But, when I have lifted one desperate heart, or gave hope to someone I might never meet in person, I have increased my treasure in heaven.

That's an eternal treasure.

• Pray about what God wants you to write. 
• Pray about the themes He wants you to address. 
• Study the writing craft and give it your best effort. 
• Listen to those who offer constructive critiques. 
• Make your book the very best it can be. 
• Then, let God provide the increase. He may bless it in ways you never imagined.

Dear writer,

It's easy to compare our writing income to others and feel as though we are unsuccessful. May I remind you that writing for income is far different than writing for impact. When you touch even one heart with a truth that draws them closer to God, you are storing up treasures in heaven that will last for eternity.

I pray God blesses you with ideas for faith-building books, with the confidence that He will use them in mighty ways for His kingdom.

Blessings,

Lisa

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, 

where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, 

where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 

for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 

Matthew 6:19-21(NASB95) 

Three tips to help readers love reading your book

Today's readers expect stories to read as if they are immersed in a well-crafted movie. How do you make your book read like a movie? 

Books consist of words that form mind pictures. We want to craft them in a way that draws readers in so they want to read more. Sometimes, we miss the mark. That can leave readers frustrate or bored.  

Three ways to make your book more readable. 

  1)  Keep each sentence simple, focused on one thought or idea. In general conversation, we sometimes ramble before we get to the point. We don't have that luxury in writing. 

Example: "After the unnerving discussion with Louise late last night, I had such trouble sleeping, I barely got up in time to smear some cream cheese on a bagel before I gathered my papers and left in my SUV for work on the new project my boss laid out for me."

Better: "The unnerving discussion with Louise kept me awake most of the night. The next morning, I smeared cream cheese on a bagel and rifled through my papers. I had to be at my best today. My boss just gave me a new project." 

The first sentence had so many thoughts, it was hard to determine what was important to the story and how that piece of information contributed to it. 

The second one eliminates some unnecessary information and is broken into smaller bites. In it, important information is organized in a way that lets each element be part of the framework for the story, and keeps the story moving along. 

 

2)    Don't backload the information.  Most of the time, give the information in logical chronological order. It might be necessary to change the order now and then, but it's easy for readers to grow tired of having to think out of order.

Example: "I ate a small bowl of yogurt and a slice of sprouted bread to fuel me for the new project my boss wanted me to start today and knew I needed to impress her with this one."

Better: "I need to impress my boss with this project. Rather than my usual breakfast donut on the way to work, I'll toast a slice of healthy bread and grab some yogurt. That way, I am fueled and ready to do my best."

In the first example, the reader neither knows the reason or the importance of the food choices until several phrases later. 

In the better option, the reader walks through the decision process with the character and understands the motivation from the beginning. This helps the reader comprehend as well as identify with the character.

3)    Vary the length and style of your sentences. While active voice is preferred, not every sentence needs to begin with the subject/verb structure.

Example: "I entered the room. I saw the man standing in the corner. He looked at me. I met his gaze. We approached each other with open arms."

Better: "After I entered the room, I saw a man standing in the corner. My gaze met his. We walked toward each other arms ready to embrace."

The writer earns points for having short chronological sentences but, risks losing the reader with repetition. The five sentences began with; I entered, I saw, he looked, I met,  and we approached. Unless you are creating a dramatic scene or writing under the constraints of music lyrics or a children's book, it becomes boring to read sentences so similar. 

A better version might include a time phrase and link a couple of the sentences together to bring variety in length and style.

It's also a good practice to take the time to look at the first sentence in each paragraph and include variety there, too.

Dear writer,

Remember that your story is important. The world only has one of you and your words can make a difference. 

Keep working to let your words shine, glorifying God. Brush any discouragement off your fingertips and write. You will never learn all there is to know about writing. 

Write anyway. 

Let a trusted critique group help you refine your words, paragraphs, and pages into something lasting for His kingdom.

I'm praying that 

"... the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; 

and do confirm for us 

the work of our hands..." 

Psalm 90:17a (NASB)

Blessings,

Lisa

   

 

Two things to remember if you are doing your best and still don't win an award.

While being genuinely thrilled to hear of fellow writers achieving their goals and being recognized within the industry with awards, writers can still be disappointed about their lack of one. Other writers'  walls fill with plaques and certificates but yours lacks that one elusive award or perhaps your latest work has yet to earn any recognition. It is so common in the industry we call it the "imposter syndrome." 

It is natural to want your work to be noticed, even praised. You worked hard on it and expected it to make an impact on the world. When it doesn't happen in the form of winning a contest, we can feel as if we aren't really doing what we should be doing. We doubt if we should even call ourselves "writers."

First, remember your calling to write. God gave you the mind, the words, and the desire to write. You are writing to honor Him. Your obedience to obey His calling is what He desires. He will provide the fruit from your labors in His time. 

You may never know this side of heaven of the impact of a simple comment, an article, devotion, or novel made in one person's heart. Those words you prayed over and wrangled into place hit home with someone. It could have changed their response to a situation from a volatile response to a more measured one. Your words might have prompted someone to open their Bible one more time, read and pray. The story you wrote might have touched their heart into action for a ministry or service. It could have been the one thing that God used to prick their heart into a deeper faith.

1) You are working for God, not the praise of men. He will reward you.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily (from the soul), as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve. Colossians  3:23,24 (NASB95) 

2) If you are writing/working to please men, it is not likely you will be writing for the Christian market. Christian writers rarely have comparable income or praise as secular writers. 

You aren't writing to impress. You're writing to bless.

For am I now seeking the favor or men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

Dear Writer,

Please remember your audience is the Lord God. He will use your words in ways you might never realize this side of eternity. But, oh, in heaven, how great will be your reward!

Keep writing for Him, precious writer! I'm cheering for you! Encourage another writer today. They need the boost as much as you do. Your encouragement might inspire them to write a little more.

Blessings,

Lisa

Father in heaven,

Encourage the writer reading this today. Remind them of the calling You have for them. Strengthen them when they feel discouraged and empower them with the message You want them to share.

In Jesus' name, amen.

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Three things writers need to remember

Keep it simple. When a reader stumbles over difficult words, that distracts them from the story and becomes frustrating and mentally exhausting. If you want your readers to stay with the story, keep it simple so they will enjoy it. Try to use one or two-syllable words with the same meaning that are easily understood, when possible. 

Your goal isn't to impress the reader with your fancy words 

but to bless them with the story. 

Take the time to edit out any stumbling block words. 

Stay with the theme and expectations of the genre. If your book is an adventure, don't let the action lull. If it is a devotion, make every sentence point to the main thought. If it's a memoir, not every detail needs to be included unless it plays a part in the overall theme of the book. Always choose the important elements that hone in on the major theme of the book. 

If the sentence or scene doesn't move the story along consider deleting it. Put plenty of interest, adventure, or excitement into the storyline rather than adding unnecessary details that distract from the main theme. Think of moving forward on a journey, instead of stopping to discuss every roadsign along the way.

Consider having the main theme in front of you while you write to keep you on track. You could put it on a sticky note on your monitor or write it in the header of each page. 

Evoke emotion.  People read for education, escape, and entertainment, but they usually aren't looking for a list of information or a statistics chart. They want to experience something. An ordinary book will provide information, but an extraordinary book will evoke an emotion in the process so the reader feels as though he has been immersed within the story. 

Let the reader identify with the main character and feel what they feel. Let them experience the joy or pain of the characters. Put them inside the action rather than describe it from a distance. 

People will remember how they felt more than what you say. To give them something they will remember, it will need to touch their heart and leave them changed. 

Dear Father in heaven,

I pray we as writers will consider our words carefully and use them to bring blessings. I pray You will shine through our words and be glorified. May we be obedient to Your calling with all we do.

In Jesus' name, amen.

Dear writer,

Keep writing. Keep learning. Keep editing. 

As He prunes and shapes us, we can prune and shape our words to have the best impact and bear fruit. There will always be room for improvement but keep striving to make your words the best you can for Him. 

Let His light shine through you!

Lisa

Click here to listen on Spotify

I want to write but I feel stuck

It's not uncommon for every writer to go through a slump. Writing can be a roller coaster of highs and lows. Some books and stories can be well received, others seem to never gain momentum and take flight.

Writers with Christian elements and themes in their books face the same ups and downs. Life circumstances change our writing habits. A negative review makes us hesitant to put our work out there. The plague of "imposter syndrome" is rampant in writing communities, often settling in when we compare our success with that of another author. 

What can we do when we're in the low part of the ride? Below are four "whos" for the Christian writer to remember when it's hard to write.

Who called you to write? 

When God called Moses, he didn't feel qualified. When God called Elijah, he sometimes ran in fear. As He did back then, God often calls people to do things they do not feel qualified to do. We might have to spend time in training, but probably not the decades Moses spent in the wilderness before leading the people out of captivity from Egypt. 

Hone your skills while writing. Seek critique groups to help you find areas to work on while you write. Attend seminars, conferences, or work with a coach while you are writing. Don't wait until you feel equipped. No writer has achieved perfection, and it's not likely you will either. He expects and will use your obedience to His call. If God asked you to write, what could be more important? Prayerfully ask God to renew your desire to write and have His words flow from you.

Who will receive glory from your book/stories?

When God called you to write, He didn't do it to put your name in lights. If the fear of not being good enough is a hindrance, remember it isn't about the critics. It's kingdom work. 

Writers with a Christian theme or elements are drawing readers closer to God or perhaps introducing them to the Savior. That's far more important than my fear of rejection from man. Remember the reason for the words--to gently draw another soul toward heaven.

Who did He call to write this story? 

Sure. There are many great Christian writers out there. However, He called you to write the one in front of you, or in your heart. This is your chance to obey the God who knows who needs to hear this story--the one He wants you to write. He chose You. 

Who wants to stall your message?

The enemy, Satan, has the most to gain if we set our calling aside. He will not be happy with anyone who speaks the truth that expose his lies. He will find ways to distract you and delay you. He often slips in a little doubt to sway you from being obedient. 

He planted doubt in the heart of Eve in Genesis by asking if God really said to not eat from the tree.

He plants doubt in the heart of the Christian writer by asking if God really called us to write, if God really want us to write boldly about Him, if God really wouldn't rather you make a lot of money by writing more lucrative stories with unbiblical themes. 

You know the gift He has given you. You know the responsibility that comes with it. You also know who would love to see you give up.

Meanwhile, God is cheering for you. I am too.

Father in heaven,

remind us of your call on our lives and give us the courage to stand against anything that tries to draw us away from it.

In Jesus' name, amen.

Dear writer,

Prayerfully recall the desire God already planted in you. Write it down and keep it front and center of your writing space. You could make it your mission statement to keep you focused.

Remember He is the one who will bring the fruit from it if you cultivate it and keep at it. Don't quit. Your cheering section is rooting for you.

Blessings,

Lisa 

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Types of Editing

First, understand that your editor(s) wants to help your book be its very best. It might feel like they are tearing your work apart, but their end goal is to make it shine. Having a "teachable spirit" and willingness to accept their constructive critique is essential to becoming a good author.  

Editorial Assessment When an author doesn't know if they’re ready for developmental editing--of if their budget is a major concern--they might need and want an editorial assessment. An assessment is a fairly broad evaluation of issues like characterization, plot, structure, and style. After an editorial assessment, the author usually receives an letter with detailed feedback and suggestions for revision.

Developmental editing. Developmental editing is the first phase of editing. Sometimes called, structural or substantive editing, developmental editing looks at the larger structures of your book including; plot, characters, themes, and tone. They will notice story plot holes, determine if the character development is appropriate, and make sure the tense and point of view are consistent.

They will critique the plot, story arc, organization and structural elements, characters, and dialogue, and then make recommendations to improve the manuscript. Don't be surprised if you need to have major rewrites during this phase. (A great reason to have your developmental editing done before copy editing.) 

Good developmental editing will consider your target audience and assess your work in relation to industry standards and expectations for that genre. This takes place before your manuscript is ready for a copy edit and proofreading, as major rewrites may need to take place to polish your manuscript to be its best. A developmental editor will help you make sure these wider story elements are strong before your manuscript moves onto the line by line details of copy editing. Cost of developmental editing ranges about $.05 per word or $12-$15 per double-spaced page to $2.00 per word.  

Copy editing. A professional copy editor will thoroughly work through your text, and make changes that polish your manuscript. They will look for clarity, syntax, and flow of the manuscript while also checking for inconsistencies, inaccuracies, and errors in the grammar, punctuation, tenses, spelling and typos. Copy editors eliminate unnecessary words and phrases and find redundancies in your text. They will substitute weak words, phrases, and sentences with powerful alternatives. When needed, they will restructure sentences to improve the impact. 

After a thorough copy edit, your manuscript will be more efficient, accurate, and focused on your voice. In fact, your manuscript will be in such good shape that it will be ready to be reviewed by a proofreader.

The difference between developmental and copy editing.  First, understand that all types of editing include some overlap. Generally, developmental editors are looking at the overall story and the copy editor will look at the words, sentences, and details.

Proofreading. The proofreader provides the last line of defense against spelling, punctuation, grammar, and text errors before publication. Think of proofreading as the quality control check, ensuring that only the most professional product will be going to press.

Again, keep in mind the editors want your book to be a success and their edits will likely make your book better for your readers.

Dear writer,

Keep writing. You have a story the world needs to hear. If you want to improve and reach more readers, editors will help you. I pray you will follow what God has led you to do and persevere to do it. 

"Whatever you do, do your work heartily, 

as for the Lord rather than for men, 

knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. 

It is the Lord Christ whom you serve." 

Colossians 3:23,24

Blessings,

Lisa

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Editing - cut unnecessary words

The literary style of describing every leaf of the magnolia tree, each scent that wafts over Tara, and the details of the ruffles of Scarlett's dress, has passed. Today's reader expects a tight read with simple and direct wording that moves the story along. Jerry Jenkins often uses the term "fierce editing" to help writers get to the point.

How? 

Here are five things to look for. 

Many times "that" can be eliminated.

Example - "Did you know that tomorrow is a holiday?" "That" only takes up time and space. The meaning is the same without that word.

"Just" is often unneeded.

Example - "Now, wait just a minute!"

Up and down when understood from the context.

Example - She sat down in the grass. He stood up. 

Repeated words. They may be great words, but they show up far too often. We all have them. When you spot a word or phrase used more than once within a page, perform a search for it. It's likely you used it in other places as well. When I wrote my first book, I didn't realize how many times the words "tiny" and "little" came on the page. In my defense, a hummingbird is tiny and little, but I should have found a variety of descriptive terms. 

Replace as many adjectives and adverbs (end in "ly") as possible with active verbs. Some editors allow no more than one adverb for every three hundred words in a manuscript. 

Example - "I'm getting out of here," He said angrily.  

Better -  "I'm getting out of here." He slammed the door behind him. 

This will strengthen your writing and your readers will thank you for it. 

After you have self-edited as much as you can, you will want to have your manuscript professionally edited. What type of editing do you need? Here are some tips. 

Dear writer, 

I commend you for taking the time to learn how to make your words count. While words are wonderful tools, we need to learn to use them wisely and judiciously. Too many words can frustrate the reader and take away from the beauty and power of the story.

I pray you will make every sentence and phrase be a blessing, and you will continue to hone your writing skills. 

"Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought 

to bring up a matter in the presence of God. 

For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; 

therefore let your words be few."

 Ecclesiastes 5:2 

Keep writing. I'm cheering for you!

Blessings,

Lisa

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I want to write but don't know where to start.

I want to write. Where do I start?

12 tips for beginning writers

Set aside a regular time to write. It could be a daily routine or several times per week, but schedule it as you would an important meeting. 

Write. Don't let the blank page or computer screen intimidate you. 

Start small. Don't expect your first work to be a full-length novel. I suggest starting with a single truth you noticed in Scripture. Expand on it. Find a practical application for it and write it out. Let God's Holy Spirit guide you in expounding on His Word, being careful to stay within the context of Scripture. Stay within the one single theme of the verse or verses. 

Edit. Clean it up using tools that are built into your word processor and products like Grammarly, look for errors in spelling and punctuation. Read it aloud. Does it make sense? Does it have an easy-to-understand message?  

Expand your edits to look for repeated, flamboyant, and unnecessary words. Keep it simple.

Critique. After you have cleaned up your story, let a critique group look at it. (Not family or friends. They are biased.) Put on your thick skin, and remain silent while they show you where and how you can improve. We all need to improve and hone our skills. If you are part of Word Weavers, the group will give you both positive feedback as well as help you find areas to work on.

Re-write. Don't be afraid to write it again. Writers write and re-write. That doesn't mean you have failed. It means you are learning and growing.

Share it with the world. Share it on social media. That's a great way to gather readers no matter the topic. Start a blog and add to it regularly. Write an editorial or article for your local newspaper.

Keep writing. Set aside a regular time to write and have a general goal, whether one or two pages or a thousand words. Set your time. Write, and keep to your goals.

Study the craft of writing. 

Attend writers' conferences.

Join writers groups to sharpen your skills.

Be patient. It takes time to learn the craft.  

 

Dear writer, I pray that you will seek out what God wants you to write and that you will be obedient to that calling, fearless to pursue His will and do His work.

Lisa Worthey Smith

 

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