Are you struggling to write devotionals that truly connect with readers? You’re not alone. Writing devotionals that make a lasting spiritual impact requires more than just good intentions—it demands biblical depth, authentic vulnerability, and a clear understanding of your purpose.
Writing devotionals is hard. I say that because people think it’s easy. What could be hard about telling people how to live the Christian life?
The truth is, effective devotional writing requires careful study, spiritual sensitivity, and communication skills that many underestimate. It’s not simply sharing religious opinions—it’s facilitating an encounter between your readers and God’s Word.
Firstly, a devotional writer is not ‘telling’ people how to lead their lives. They’re communicating God’s Word to people in a relevant and structured way that will bring light and encouragement to those that read it. At the centre of this great ‘communication’ is the Bible.
While writing a devotional for this website, I was ‘reminded’ by the Holy Spirit that my devotionals were supposed to draw people to God through His Word not through my experiences.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying it’s wrong for devotional writers to use personal experiences to complement their devotionals. However, I do think it becomes a problem when the writer’s experiences become the focus of the devotional not God. For some reason, it’s easier to relay personal experiences than it is to study the Bible. But study the Bible we must if we are to call ourselves devotional writers.
As a devotional writer, I have to confess that I approach my devotional writing times with fear, joy and trembling. With trembling because my head (or maybe it’s the devil) tells me I’m writing rubbish, that no one reads what I have to say. With fear because I know the time for Bible study has come and I’m not particularly keen on a convicting session with the Holy Spirit, and with joy because, in spite of what I said before, I do love reading the Word and hearing what God has to say to me through it.
The authentic devotional writer understands this tension. The calling to write devotionals isn’t simply about sharing pleasant thoughts or inspirational quotes—it’s about wrestling with Scripture and allowing God to speak through your writing. This requires vulnerability and a willingness to be changed first by the very words you hope will change others.
There is a plethora of devotionals on the market (you may also want to check out Christian Writer’s weekly devotionals for writers). They range from the pithy to the trite. And there are some fantastic ones.
What makes the difference between a forgettable devotional and one that readers return to time and again? Often, it’s the writer’s willingness to:
What about the devotionals you read? Why do you like them? What makes you go back to them again and again and again? Make a note and put those notes in mind when you’re writing your own devotionals.
Consider creating a “devotional journal” where you record passages, phrasings, or approaches that resonated with you.
Was it the writer’s honesty? Their ability to unpack a familiar verse in a fresh way? Their skill at connecting Scripture to contemporary issues? Studying effective devotionals can help you develop your own authentic voice.
A devotional needs to be relevant and ministerial without sounding trite. They should be concise, short and to the point without sounding dry. They should not be too preachy, neither should they shy away from hard hitting issues. And they shouldn’t court controversy for its sake. The keyword here is ‘balance’. And yes, it can be done. Approach your mission with holy fear, joy and trembling and trust God, you’ll be fine.
Effective devotionals typically include:
The most impactful devotionals maintain a consistent structure while allowing room for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the writing process.
Many beginner devotional writers fall into predictable traps:
Remember that effective devotional writing isn’t about showcasing your knowledge or experience—it’s about creating a space where readers can encounter God through His Word.
Consistent devotional writing requires establishing rhythms of Bible study, prayer, and reflection.
Consider:
The best devotional writers are lifelong students who approach Scripture with humility and wonder.
While devotional writing may feel solitary, it flourishes in community. Consider:
Your growth as a devotional writer will accelerate when you learn alongside others who share your calling.
Remember, at the heart of impactful devotional writing is a passionate desire to help others encounter God through His Word. When you approach this ministry with reverence, authenticity, and dependence on the Holy Spirit, your writing will make an eternal difference in readers’ lives.
Are you ready to take your devotional writing to the next level? Start today by selecting a passage of Scripture that has recently touched your heart, and prayerfully craft a devotional that points readers to God’s transformative truth.
What Scripture is God calling you to explore through devotional writing today?