How to Write Devotionals

Are You Called to Write?

As a child, Diana wrote short stories and essays. But as she grew older and began a family, she put the dream of writing on the back burner to nurture her marriage and raise her child. 

She home schooled her child and later worked a part-time job which later morphed into a full-time career. When she finally retired, Diana suddenly had plenty of time on her hands. Her husband already earned more than enough money and he was supportive of her. He encouraged her to choose a hobby or passion and pursue it earnestly.

Diana longed to write. But she kept stumbling over the question, “Am I called to write?” As a Christian, Diana’s biggest goal was to honor God. She wanted to glorify Him in everything. But she wondered if she was on the right track.

Writers like Diana aren’t alone. You see, Diana is me. She may also be you.  It’s common to wonder if you’re called to pursue writing or not. While no one can tell you for sure, there are a few signs that God might be calling you to write…

You Hear Positive Things

The note card you wrote to a friend years ago to encourage her? She told you recently that she still has it tucked in the front of her Bible and re-reads it when she needs a reminder of how loved she is.

Your high school teacher said you showed promise after she read your essay. A co-worker said your words got her through a rough day when you sent her a funny email. Your boss always selects you to write the annual company report because you liven it up.

You Feel A Nudge

Some writers describe this feeling differently. Some call it “creative stirrings” or “Holy promptings” or “inspiration”. But no matter how you define it, you feel a strong urge to write. 

For many writers, this shows up as collecting blank notebooks, journals, and office supplies. Even if you don’t use it right away, you’re also looking for that next page you can scribble on.

You’re the Storyteller

You may not enjoy being the center of attention but when the moment calls for it, you can weave a story that leaves others hanging onto your every word. When an event—funny or serious—happens, you’re the person friends and family want to hear it from.

In fact, you may constantly find yourself sharing stories throughout your day. They might be stories you read on the news, stories about what happened to you, or stories about other people you know.

You Feel like You’ll Burst

When you can’t write, you feel like it’s all building up inside of you. There are so many words you want to express but they’re all trapped behind an invisible dam, keeping them locked up.

In Psalm 39, David (the great poet) talks of trying to hold his words in. But the more he tries to hold back, the tougher it is to keep his thoughts to himself. He explains, “My heart grew hot within me; as I mused, the fire burned.” (verse 3)

You’ll Write No Matter What

Another clue that God might be calling you to write is that you want to do it regardless of the outcome. The truth is that not every writer is called to write a New York Times best-seller and make a million dollars.

While there’s certainly nothing wrong with achieving that level of success, think about why you want to write. Is it because you have stories burning inside of you? Or is it because you’re chasing some outward measure of success?

It’s easy to crave the results and accolades of being a writer. It’s another thing to crave the journey, to let yourself fall in love with the process. Especially when that process isn’t always easy or pretty.

You Love Books and Words

You could spend hours lost in the library. When you’re going to the bookstore, your spouse jokes about hiding the credit card. You know all of the best sites for getting secondhand books cheaply.

You may not always have as much time to read as you want, but you’re constantly lost in other worlds. You’re fascinated by new words. You’re curious and frequently find yourself asking, “What if…?”

Now, How Do You Begin?

After reading this list, you’re convinced that God is calling you to write. You’re excited and delighted. You can’t wait to see where this next creative adventure will bring.

There’s just one problem. You’re stumped on how to begin. You don’t know what type of writing you want to do. One style of writing that’s popular with Christians and a good starting place for new writers is devotionals.

Devotionals are short meditations that focus on a core theme and usually feature a Bible verse along with a prayer. If you’re interested, this short workbook will guide and teach you how to get started with this fun and exciting writing style!

Realizing that you’ve been called to write is energizing. It’s wonderful to imagine all of the cool projects you could start. Ask God to guide your writing endeavors then dive into a new adventure. You never know what may happen!

Need writing advice or ideas? Get “How to Write Devotionals”!