5 {Surprising} Tips For Being a Successful Christian Blogger

 

I’ve been into Christian blogging for many years now. Christian bloggers are some of my favorite people in the whole world and I have a few good Christian blogs I read regularly.

But lately I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be a successful Christian blogger.

More accurately, how to biblically evaluate our efforts at blogging and writing.

This morning as I opened God’s Word, He surprised me by talking about this very thing. So I guess I will too, lol!

But first can I state the obvious? Blogging is a form of writing.

I point that out because you won’t find the word “blog” in this passage from I John… or the word “blog post”… but you will find the word “write.”

In fact, I went through this short book and circled all the times John said, “I write.”

It amounts to 13 times.

So turns out, this little book has a lot to say to writers {and, by inclusion, bloggers.}

 

5 Tips for Being a Successful Christian blogger

{From the book of I John}

Whether you are looking at creating a Christian blog, or learning how to write a Christian blog, you'll find tips for measuring the success of your Christian blog - taken from the book of I John.

 

Successful Christian Blogging Tip #1: Know your reasons for writing.

So this seems too simple but it’s actually foundational. Because our reasons for writing help evaluate our success.

In the first two chapters, John repeatedly gives reasons for writing. If you want a fun and interesting dip into God’s word, read through the book of I John and list out all the reasons you can find for John’s writing. Some are:

to expose  “those who are trying to lead you astray,”

“so that you may know you have eternal life,”

“so that you will not sin.”

Our reasons for writing help evaluate our successfulness. So if John wrote in order that his readers could identify false teaching and they, in fact, began to recognize false teaching… he was successful.

If I write to record God’s faithfulness to me and my family on the mission field, that means every time I record an incident, I am successful. Success in blogging can’t be determined by numbers and stats. It has to tie back to our goals and reasons for writing a piece to begin with.

So let me ask you: What do you want to accomplish with your Christian blog ideas? Can you clearly articulate your reasons for writing? 

Successful Christian Blogging Tip #2: Know your “what.”

Some people call this finding your niche. You identify your niche, then several categories within that niche.

Funny enough, John did this in I John 1:1. Sounds simple enough, right? Well honestly, this is simple for some and not for others. If your niche is homeschooling or photography, it’s pretty straight forward.

For me, I’m in the “Christian Living” niche. Pretty deep & wide…just like the song. And vague. Nevertheless, it is a starting point.

If John had a blog, his niche would have been pretty huge too. According to this verse, how might he have defined his niche and categories?

“This we proclaim: that which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched- all things concerning the Word of Life.”

Can you pick out his niche? Here’s what I came up with:

Niche: All things concerning the Word of Life. Hmmm. So he was a deep-and-wide Jesus blogger too.

Categories: eternal truths, life principles {practical instruction}, personal experiences {story}

Undoubtedly John could have broken those categories out into sub-categories, especially given the fact that he wrote to “children,” “fathers,” and “young men.”

{Maybe I’m a nerd, but I’m jivving with this book of I John in a whole ‘nuther way right about now! Somebody please tell me you can relate?!}

What about you? Have you defined your niche and categories? What about sub-categories?

         

Successful Christian Blogging Tip #3: Nail story telling.

Story is the most basic (and effective) way we communicate. No matter what your niche is, you can always incorporate personal experience. 

John says “I proclaim what I heard, what I saw with my own eyes, what I looked at, and my hands touched.” He is writing about what he has firsthand experience of. This is foundational to writing.

And look at what he said here: “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you may have fellowship with us.” (I John 1:3)

Story provides connection with your reader. It always has and always will.

This article explains how brain activity actually synchronizes between someone telling and listening to a story. Talk about connection! John knew his stuff.

P.S. Sharing your story can seem overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be with these Christian blog prompts! Use these 30 creative writing prompts to start getting your story down on paper!

30 Creative Writing Prompts and Journal

Successful Christian Blogging Tip #4: Incorporate a life principle.

John shared personal experience but he didn’t just go around telling stories for the sake of story telling. His stories had a point. There was eternal takeaway value.

I try to do this a lot here on my blog. Just this week I shared how my son failed at his swimming competition.  It was very personal to me and I felt my readers could relate to the topic of failure. But I didn’t just tell the story; I also drove home the takeaway truth I myself learned through the experience:  rank does not equal worth. 

I am sure I’m not always super great at nailing the story and life principle combo, but it is a goal I have for each personal experience post I write. I’ll let you tell me how I’m doing with it :)

Are you planning on creating a Christian blog? Are you a Christian blogger looking at how to write a Christian blog? Here are 5 surprising tips for being a successful Christian blogger.

Successful Christian Blogging Tip #5: It’s okay to derive pleasure from blogging.

Have you ever wondered if it was unspiritual to run a blog? Because there are so many more “spiritual” things you could be doing?

Right?

Well our godly example John, said this: “We write to make our joy complete.”

There are some things that make our joy complete. And if we don’t do them, it wouldn’t be complete.  I’m with John: writing makes my joy complete because it’s one of the works God has given me to do.  It is not the only reason I write, nor was it the only reason John wrote. But it was one of them.

And that’s okay.

There you have it~ what I learned from the book of I John this morning on blogging. Wow, was it ever unexpected! I hope you’ve been blessed by it as much as I have.

Read these 5 tips for being a successful Christian blogger -- taken from the book of I John.

 

And finally, if you know a blogger or writer who would be encouraged by this post, would you share it? One of the main reasons for writing this post is to encourage others with the encouragement I received from God’s Word. Thanks friend! May we each blog for the reasons God has given us and bring glory to His Name! 

Related Resources for Christian blogging:

New Blogger Focus Guide

5 Book Recommendations for every Christian blogger

3 Deadly Mistakes Most Christian Bloggers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Best Resources for every Christian Blogger

 




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162 Comments

  1. Oh my this post resonated with me! Of course God would have some things to say about the written word, as that was His way to speak to His people. I’ve pinned this on my blogging board and shared on FB, tagging several blogging friends whom I thought would enjoy reading. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

      1. This is amazing i am so grateful for this post. But i tried to enroll in the bootcamp and it kept going to an unknown page. it is as if it isn’t working. can it be fixed?

      2. Thanks for your interest in CBB! It is currently not open for enrollment but keep your eyes peeled because it’s opening again soon :)

  2. Thank you for breaking this down into “blogging” terms. Sometimes it’s so hard to remain focused on our why with all the details that come with running a “successful” blog. Peace and joy, sister. I just read in My Utmost this morning…. “This bewildering call of God comes into our lives as well. The call of God can never be understood absolutely or explained externally; it is a call that can only be perceived and understood internally by our true inner-nature. The call of God is like the call of the sea—no one hears it except the person who has the nature of the sea in him. What God calls us to cannot be definitely stated, because His call is simply to be His friend to accomplish His own purposes. Our real test is in truly believing that God knows what He desires. The things that happen do not happen by chance—they happen entirely by the decree of God. God is sovereignly working out His own purposes….And we begin to see that the compelling purpose of God lies behind everything in life, and that God is divinely shaping us into oneness with that purpose. A Christian is someone who trusts in the knowledge and the wisdom of God, not in his own abilities. If we have a purpose of our own, it destroys the simplicity and the calm, relaxed pace which should be characteristic of the children of God.”

    1. Thanks for sharing that quote Jen. I am doing Chamber’s devotional readings for Holy Week. Isn’t it great to receive encouragement from our brothers and sisters in Christ. Thanks for leaving a comment :)

  3. Thank you so much for writing this post. As a Christian woman and new blogger myself I felt as if these words were written just for me. Another on time reminder from God through you my sister. Awesome post!

  4. This is a way to analyze me. Analyze the true intentions and reasons why I write. I wanted to be very careful with the words I write, keeping me according to the fundamental reason why I started blogging. I think it’s great what you’ve spoken according to what God gave you through his word. Word purifies, the word cleans. And everything we do must pass through this filter: The Word of God. Thanks for sharing and writing about it, because it is essential and necessary for writing to the glory of God. I’ll be using as a filter not only for what I write, but for all that I share on social networks and my blog in general.

    Love and Blessings,
    Tayrina from TGAWrites

  5. This is really good. I like the idea of using those three things that John said as a focus for my writing- I will do that. Thank you for sharing this.

  6. Arabah…I have always enjoyed your blog and today you did it again. Thank you for sharing your insightful wisdom from 1 John concerning blogging. I have gleaned much. Blessings to you.

  7. I am crazy about this post, friend. So practical, yet such truth! I, too, fall under the Christian living niche. I also feel like my writing is teaching Biblical truth. In fact, that one may be more my niche than the Christian living. Thanks for helping us think through our writing. Happy Resurrection Day!!

  8. I read this the other day and didn’t comment, but it is really helpful. I especially like #3 and #4. I’ve noticed that when I nail storytelling, my posts are more effective! Your story about your son really encouraged me the other day!

  9. I love how you began with a disclaimer about how to blog, but I think this was one of my favorite lessons on the process of the why we blog. For me, blogging is a way of putting my thoughts into words to bring a blessing to others, but mostly…a way of being able to share what He is doing deep in my heart. I want my words to be about HIM and not about me and in the same way, testify to His goodness. It makes a huge difference because it takes it out of my hands, making me consider rank, numbers, and status, and puts it in His hands to reach the very heart that it is destined to touch, even if it is just one person. :)

    Thanks for sharing!
    Blessings,
    Dawn

  10. Super helpful for this fairly new blogger! Your post came along at Grace and Truth just in time to encourage me in a season of “what in the world have I gotten myself into?” Thanks for taking on the topic.

  11. Arabah, I have always struggled with niche and finding categories…until I read this post. Great stuff here. And Yes! I will be reading 1 John in my quiet time tomorrow! Thank you

  12. Thank you for this writing tips. It makes a lot of sense identifying the real reason for writing! Today I followed your post from the “A look At the Book” linkup!
    God Bless

  13. Love this post, Arabah Joy! I wholeheartedly agree with every word you wrote. Isn’t it neat, how as writers, we see everything as a story to be told or a life lesson to be shared?

    I’m going to go read 1 John with new eyes. Thanks!

  14. I needed to read this, especially, “Success in blogging can’t be determined by numbers and stats. It has to tie back to our goals and reasons for writing a piece to begin with.” I love writing what God lays on my heart. But the numbers can get discouraging. Thank you so much for the encouragement, and the reminder to stay focused on whats important.

  15. Thank you so much for this biblical encouragement!! I especially loved #5. I definitely feel that writing makes my joy complete but I want my blog to be a ministry and have found myself feeling guilty about finding pleasure in writing at times. It seems kind of silly to me after reading this, so thanks!

  16. Love these tips. I have to confess, I do not yet know what my blog is about, after nearly two years! I named it a vague name because of that very reason. I like Christian living. I like writing family history. I like sharing personal stories. I just *love* writing. It sort of matches my “jack of all trades, master of none” type of personality. I’m also ambivalent about people actually reading what I write. When I write family history things, I hope relatives or people who knew the family member(s) will see it. When I share about a personal experience, I long to help someone else who may be going through something similar. It’s likely my focus will narrow at some point. Perhaps I will have to branch out and start new blogs that carry a certain focus. But I’m in my happy spot, for now. The most interesting thing I learned about writing non-fiction this past year, is that one has to be able to tell a good story. With the encouragement from my local writer’s group, I have finally branched out to add dialogue, and it has been a good tool to use! Blessings to you Arabah! I love your blog—have followed it for many years. You simply have excellent content that touches my heart, challenges, encourages, and keeps me coming back for more.

    1. Karen, I just love you! You have encouraged me many times throughout the years. I’m so thankful for you and for how God has crossed our paths. Your blog is unique and your stories are powerful. I love the mix you provide and especially the way you share your family history. It is just beautiful. I’m glad you are in a writing group… and a tad bit jealous :) God bless your writing, my friend.

  17. Arabah, I’m so amazed at how your blog is developing, and how you are sharing so much with us. I definitely associated with the last one, that our joy may be complete. I went for a season not blogging so that I would know if I was supposed to or not and I definitely am because I was not very joyful when I wasn’t processing what I was learning. Blessings

    1. Thanks for the encouragement Lizzy! It’s good to know you are back blogging again! It is such a great way to process life, isn’t it? I’m with you on that one :)

  18. This is my first time at your site, and this was soooo nourishing to read. I love it. I can see that I have some goal-setting to do. I’ve been praying for direction lately, for God to move me, like a cog in a wheel, into the place he wants me because I am all over the place. I never thought about searching for writing in the Bible! This is part of the answer to my prayer.

    I also wonder where in Asia you are. Perhaps you keep that secret. I now live in France and have forgotten all my Mandarin, but I used to live in Taiwan, and also spent 2 years selling advertising out of NY to Asian financial institutions. I traveled all over Asia when I was young and single and part of my heart is there. ;-)

    1. I lived in Taiwan for two years… how neat to have that connection! Never been to France but I’d love to go one day. Thanks for the visit and comment~ it’s a blessing to have you :)

  19. This post is such an encouragement to me. I have wanted to start a blog for some time now, but simply haven’t had the time. I have decided that this is the year and am truly taking the first steps. Your post helped me to see some of the questions that I need to answer before I write the first official post. I do not want to write a blog just for me, but instead wish to reach others for Christ. I John has some of the answers that I will need to focus on as I begin this journey far out of my comfort zone.

    1. Thank you for letting me know this post encouraged you, Pam. Truly, seeing these things in the word of God encouraged my heart too. God bless you as you follow His leading and step out into the unfamiliar. Hugs, sister!

  20. love this! It is encouraging and validating. I have questioned myself numerous times if writing is really what God wants me to do with some of my time. Thank you for confirming!!

  21. Thanks for this very helpful post. I “fell into” blogging by virtue of the fact that I wrote detailed updates on Facebook when my teenage daughter was dying and people asked me to continue writing after she died in January 2014. Then people were joining Facebook for the sole purpose of accessing my writing and I didn’t want that, so I started a WordPress blog.
    For a long time, every blog post that I wrote was going to be my last. Even still I wrestle with feelings of doubt and inadequacy over my writing.
    However, I absolutely love to write. Whenever I feel like giving up writing, somebody contacts me to tell me how much they have been helped by reading about my blog.
    I’m currently praying about the future direction of my blog. I have a very diverse readership; evangelicals, people of no faith, people of other faiths, many drawn by the common link of childhood cancer and/or bereavement.

    https://victoriawhyte.wordpress.com/

    1. Wow, you are a light and hope in the journey for many, many people. May the Lord give you clear direction and guidance as you seek to serve Him and others through your blog. {{Hugs}} AJ

  22. Thank you for the great tips. I have been using these tips for a while now. I always try to use an anecdote when I am writing. I learned that this helps to draw the reader into my world.

    On a different note, I have prepared a monstrous 6,200-word post on helping believers fulfill the Great Commision using blogging. The post was born after reading Acts 2, Peter’s sermon at Pentecost.

    May you please refer your readers to the post, if you consider it useful. I will be honored. Thank you.

    http://gracemusing.com/2015/08/13/successful-christian-blogging/

  23. What wonderful encouragement! I’m a new blogger and determining my niche in the travel blog world. I love how you mention that success in blogging isn’t determined by numbers–such an affirming reminder to “do all to the glory of God”!

  24. Thank you so much for this post! I just started my blog and I have been researching on how to become a “successful” blogger. This is such a great reminder of why I started my blog. My goals are to share my heart in hopes of reaching other moms and be involved in this community.

  25. I just spent the day with this one purpose in mind, to discover what God wants me to do with my blogging. After 4 years, I’ve only had feedback from friends, so I’ve never committed to a schedule, let alone an absolute theme – kind of like you said about John (and yourself), guess I’m also a “wide-and-deep Jesus blogger”. You’ve given me a lot to think about and to work on – thank you!
    http://www.StirMeUpLord.com

  26. I really loved this post! It was very encouraging to me as I am sort of just starting out as a Christian blogger. Writing has always been so fun for me and its great that you’ve found scripture to support writing :)

  27. Loved this post, Arabah! So many great insights. Opening up my Bible to 1 John today. Thank you for always point and guiding toward Truth!

  28. We started blogging when we first took off on full-time camping missions. Then it became an outlet to share the Word while at times writing about where we were. Thanks for this. I needed it. I try to write every few days but sometimes life gets in the way and the words are not close enough to pick up and put on fingers to press the keys. Because of our lifestyle we don’t always get to be in a church setting, many others don’t want to be, so putting the words down that hopefully with touch something in their hearts will be rewarding for them. Thank you again.
    http://campsaintsnowallsministry.blogspot.com

  29. This,”Tip #5: It’s okay to derive pleasure from blogging.” This most certainly resonated with me! I love writing and with a very, super busy household I often felt like I couldn’t blog because I should’ve been doing something else. Now, I just blog or write anyway and I am a lot better mama because I am doing something else that gives me joy. I am so glad you shared this!

  30. Thanks for this, Arabah… I am just now struggling to “define my niche”, and it’s so very difficult for a multi-passionate individual like me! I hate feeling “boxed in”. As such, I only recently discovered that my best bet is probably to just call myself a “Christian Lifestyle blogger”, and then put whatever topics interest me under that heading.

    Of course, my primary purpose for writing will remain: “to show who Jesus REALLY is”… everything else is just icing on the cake, so-to-speak. ;)

    Glad to hear, though, that others have this same struggle. Thanks!

    Jenn

  31. This is amazing and so very helpful. I am a teen and I have a blog, but I’m alwayd looking for ways to improve it because I’m afraid it’s not very good. You dont know gow much your post just helped me. Thank you so much. You kinda just blew my mind.

    1. Sam, you are very welcome and I do hope to see much writing from you for the glory of God. Don’t worry about being good, just focus on being authentic and writing for His glory. We need more voices that do that, especially young ones. Keep up the good work, AJ

  32. Wow I love when God speaks through His Word!! I am so grateful you shared your new take on 1 John relating to other writers! I feel this was so timely as I have been praying how to walk out this “joy call” God has planted in me as well. Last year the word for year I felt was “write” but a lot of trials and crazy situations kept popping up and I wasn’t able to share like I wanted to, but now God has made a new season and I long to share some things I have walked through over the years, and I have a lot typed out but I have not published them because I really want to make sure I am doing it in a Christlike manner, according to the Word and in His time (not rushing just for the sake of posting). I am very interested in the boot camp thing. I will be checking that out!

  33. My daughter pinned this post for me this morning and I have been looking forward to reading it all day. I felt the Lord would have a word for me here and He did not disappoint! I have thoroughly enjoyed my time spent here! I feel recharged. Thank you!

    I have been sporadically blogging for a year now hoping to reach out to young adults who have gotten lost in the world and it’s ways. My main inspiration being two sweet girls, now aged 3 and 4. They are my great nieces and they have lived with us for just over 3 years now. We became their guardians last year. We love them so! But will admit parenting is a bit more challenging energy wise in your 50’s! My heart breaks for them and other children living without their parents all because they did not stand on the firm foundation that is Jesus and slipped into the muck and mire that the world dangles in front of teens as a right of passage.

    The stats page of my website shows people are passing through and nearly 10% are repeat visitors! (Wheeeeeeee!) But it’s very quiet in the comments section and sometimes I wonder if it’s something I said. ? I do feel, though, that I am being led to write about the topics chosen and if it helps even one find their way… praise be to God!

    I will be back! And am considering the Bloggers Boot Camp. It’s getting a bit late so will check that out soon. Hopefully tomorrow… errrrr later today, I mean.

    1. Welcome! Praise the Lord for how He speaks to and through us! Keep writing for Him and sharing what He lays on your heart. I’m sure it is a blessing to many. We’d love to have you join Christian Bloggers bootcamp when it opens again :) You can sign up to be notified on the site. Thanks for visiting! AJ

  34. I really appreciate this post! It was very encouraging to me as a newbie Christian blogger trying to decide how to pursue God’s will with my writing. Thank you for sharing.

  35. Thank you so much this is so inspiring!Isnt it funny how God shows us things like that.I am starting a Christian Instagram and this helped

  36. I have a Facebook page and Pinterest site and a blog. I kind of knew where I was going with it but I wasn’t sure of the next step.

    This has given me some things to look at. Isn’t it amazing how bloggers teach this stuff and then we find it in the Bible. Nothing is new. God has the perfect instructions for success We just need to read and meditate on the word and the Holy Spirit will lead us to truth.

  37. Love this post, Arabah, especially the first point. I’d never thought of success that way. I was thinking of it as just doing what God wants me to do, but I do have a reason I write and I think it will be helpful – and comforting! – to evaluate success in light of that. Thanks for the insight!

  38. I love this! I never thought of blogging in this light, though I have felt called to write, and my blog is my current medium for doing that. I especially liked point #5 – I actually find so much joy out of writing, and it’s especially encouraging when someone mentions that something I wrote impacted them in some way. For some reason, I have second-guessed myself so many times in my writing, partially because I enjoy it. I guess there is a fear of becoming prideful or selfish in the process. Yet, all the signs point to pursuing this, so I appreciate the insights from a Biblical perspective.

  39. Thank you for the post – It really spoke to me. I stopped blogging 2 years ago because of various reasons and in the last month have started up my website again. This post came at just the right time for me as I decided that I would just write what I was learning in my own life this year and not stress about what niche I am in. I am taking this year to “find my voice” and your post has given me some really good food for thought.

    I am so glad that I came across your website.

  40. What an absolutely profound, timely, and encouraging post, Arabah Joy! Wow! I’m blown away, and I can see all that you’re pointing out from the book of 1 John so clearly (now that you point it out, LOL!)…

    I’m so blessed by reading your words, my friend.

    I think the most challenging thing for me, is actually your last point – finding joy in blogging. I enjoy it so much, but I almost hold myself back from letting myself love it because I’m still not 100% sure where blogging fits in into my life… Is it a source of income (hardly, yet), is it a hobby (I think it’s more than that), is it a calling (I don’t have the confidence to call it that either)… I’m still unsure about what place blogging has in my life…

    All that to say, the thought of having it “make my joy complete” is such a beautiful sentiment, and I really want to adopt that into my search for what blogging is in my life…

    Sorry for rambling :-)

    Love and hugs to you, beloved one! xoxo

    1. I hear you, friend! I’m glad this helped and maybe this passage will give some guidance as you figure out some of those questions tumbling around. {{Hugs}}

  41. Wow. Great post. I was looking for blog post ideas for a Christian blog and I fell on your page. Really inspiring. I even took some notes.

    I was thinking also the way look started out his Gospel… How didn’t see it first hand but heard the story from others… and now he was reporting all he had learned from his research to a guy named Theophilus.

    That’s really an interesting view on how to look at what the Bible writers wrote and comparing with Christian bloggers today!

  42. I’m a new Christian blogger, and know I have made so many mistakes already. So much to learn! Thanks for this post, as it offers some clarity and perspective for me. Now to go write my categories and subcategories more succinctly…I think I need that to keep me on track.

  43. This is greatly encouraging. As of late, I have been speaking with God as to how turn my blog back over to Him. Your post has reminded me of how imperative the application of God’s word to are lives is, and the understanding of it, as well. Thank you for following the Holy Spirit’s lead.

  44. Thank you for sharing this. I’m going to read 1 John soon & write out the ‘why’ I want to blog. You’ve given me such inspiration!

  45. I love this. Christian blogging is, in some ways, very different than other niches. I so appreciate your help and advice, and I’m loving the new free course!

  46. What a great way of approaching this topic via the Word. I loved this.

    1) It made me want to search the Word for things I could apply to my life in ways I have never thought of before.

    2) It reaffirmed the reason I blog and revealed some areas where I can improve (and have already in some ways been approving). For example, I love to write instructive posts to help people grow in the relationship with Christ, but I think I could benefit from including more story-principle connections as well!

    And my favorite Scripture highlight: “We write to make our joy complete.” Wow, this reveals why I have been yearning to write more and more these days.

  47. For over four years i have not discover my purpose and niche when it comes to blogging untill dis morning. You are God sent! God bless you.

  48. I’m so glad I came across this post! I started a blog (I don’t post often) about my journey with God and how He’s making changes in my life. I haven’t written recently because I had been going through some things (spiritual attacks, questioning my faith and God, etc.) and it’s been a struggle to write again. Not only that but I started wondering if I was focusing on myself too much in my posts (I share my personal experiences); I also wondered if blogging about my experiences was considered prideful. I remember reading a comment on a Christian article where someone said we should only look at the examples in the bible and not bloggers. Reading the stories in the bible is great but I enjoy reading other people’s stories as well! I find them encouraging and look at them as a way to build faith. I also enjoy writing and want to encourage readers/strengthen their faith. So to AJ and other bloggers, keep up the good work! People need to hear your stories/experiences.

  49. May Hod bless your efforts!

    I think Christians think they can never be professional writers. Therefore they do not write or blog!

  50. I have to say, this was a very timely read for me. I am a new blogger, with my focus being teaching women about living in God’s grace, and it is so overwhelming to think of all the “stuff” I should be doing for my blog. I was so blessed in how you used God’s word to show how to make goals for blogging. If He has given us this medium for sharing His truth, then His word will give us wisdom for its direction- I really believe that! And your post encouraged me in that way this morning- thank you!

  51. Wow Arabah! I cannot tell you how much I needed to read this tonight! It was exactly the kind of encouragement and direction I needed– I’ll be digging into 1 John this week with some fresh revelation! Thank you!

  52. I may just print this entire post and have it sitting next to me before I sit down to write every time. Thank you for this! I know that spreading God’s Word requires a soft heart and willingness to listen to Him. I pray I can always do His will through my writing. Beautiful post!

  53. I like how you put these together. Really, it’s true for any “niche” or writing. Sometimes I think Christians struggle with knowing the message they want to get across but fear getting too personal. Or showing too much personalty. But especially in blogging, it makes connections easier.

  54. You did that lady! I was definitely jiving with you. I’m a Christian mindset and energy coach and I love writing. I see how Coaching and Blogging go hand in hand and I love how you connected this with the word of God

  55. Thanks for the encouragement. As a mom of three, it’s easy to feel as if blogging is selfish, even though some (okay, one, haha) of my most deeply spiritual posts have been read by thousands. Since I’m not really making money yet, it still fits under the “hobby” category, even though I like to think it’s “ministry.” Balancing my blog and family has never been easy, though.

  56. Thank you for this post because it kinda gave me the push I needed to try to start a blog with God. I don’t know how I’ll go with it but at least I cab do is try.

  57. Great piece! As a Christian blogger you must know when to draw the line between making money and being a blessing to your readers. While it’s very OK to make money as you blog as a believer money should not take the day. Thanks Joy!

  58. I am absolutely loving this post! I have never thought to look at the word “write” in scripture this way. I will have to go read 1 John again for myself and will probably have to read your post again too so that it all sinks in! Thank you!

  59. Thank you so much for writing this blog! I started my blog this week and have been asking the Lord to help me with making my blog successful. I appreciate your view on how success is not defined by the numbers and stats, but our reason for writing the blog.

    My first blog was on the beauty of singleness. I wrote it to encourage single women in their singleness – that singleness really is a beautiful thing given from God. And should be used to His glory. Many women were encouraged by it. Though I’m new to blogging and my numbers aren’t huge, I could still consider that blog successful because single women were encouraged!

    So again, thank you for this blog. You gave me a fresh perspective on success in blogging!

    Alisha
    BecomeLess.net

  60. I stand in awe of God’s ways of reaching out to His children. I’ve wanted to start a faith blog for too long and this post was my word in season to get started. God bless you Sis.

  61. Hi Arabah, this is so beautiful! You seeker the Lord and he revealed you the truth behind writing to bring glory and honor to Him. Thank you so much for sharing. God is so good, his timing is perfect- this is my first time on your blog and I have been so blessed, this is exactly what I needed now that I have an urge in my spirit to start the journey of writing/blogging! This will certainly keep me focused!

  62. I should be in bed, not reading a blog post and not commenting. I have less than 5 hours before my alarm. Will go off. And I just spent 2 hours trying to get my little one to sleep….. BUT oh how I am glad I sat back down and found this! So much encouragement for me here! Thank you for speaking to my heart tonight. Now I can go to sleep with a joyful heart.

  63. Hi Arabah Joy,

    I just joined your list and love getting info from you. I am an MK from the DRCongo and can relate to you on that level as well as being a member of Ruth Soukup’s EBA. I loved reading this from the perspective of 1 John! I teach a Precept class and we just finished John’s epistles. I am learning a lot about blogging from your posts. Thanks for sharing your tips and encouragement with someone just starting out with my blog as a ministry. You inspire me! Blessings to you!

  64. I’ve recently started a Christian blog of my own and definitely was needing some reassurance that it’s not about stats, it’s what it means to me. So thank you! :)

  65. Wow. I am preparing a session for Christian conference on being a Christian blogger. I had all your points here plus a few others (like needing a thick skin) but I didn’t have a good way to tie the points together. 1 John 1 has nailed it! Thanks so much for this perspective.
    Regards & God bless,
    John

  66. These are some good tips! I just started a Christian blog called Walking Out Our Faith, and I am hoping to fund it 100% through advertisements and donations. I want to keep my content free, because it’s about helping people through telling them God’s truths.

  67. Great post! I especially like your point about incorporating life principles – we can definitely find a lesson in both failures and successes alike, and both kinds of lessons are important to understanding our world. Thanks for sharing!

  68. This is so good! Thank you for sharing! I am just starting out as a Christian blogger, and finding your post couldn’t have been more timely! I love what you are doing!

  69. Thanks for this post! I just stumbled across it and am so glad I did. I’m a new blogger myself and feel myself stumbling around in the dark but trying desperately to be obedient to the call God has placed on my heart to share what He’s taught and continues to teach me.
    Thanks for this encouragement!
    Darci

  70. Wow, It seems this post has been resonating with people for years! I will be studying 1 John soon. Thanks for the encouragement. This message of knowing your reason for writing has been on my heart lately. My goal is to use my writing to share in the mission of Jesus Christ, to reach the lost and bring others closer to Him along the way.

  71. I have read this post before and enjoyed it but here is proof of God’s revelation :). I am currently reading 1 John and stumbled on this article on Pinterest (again) and thought I was due for a re-read. Everything was CRYSTAL CLEAR! I have struggled with all of these things lately and now I’ve got my mission statement on paper, my purpose is clear, and I feel encouraged (not guilty!) about my blog.

    THANK YOU!!

  72. Arabah! This is gorgeous! Thank you for sharing His Word and giving some encouragement as we seek to glorify the Lord in our modern day culture.

    Recently, I have been grappling with and praying over all of the points you touched on. I am glad you pointed out the deep and wide niche! Just from that, I felt some freedom as we try to focus on Biblical living in community. We’re still in the early stages. Do you feel you have narrowed down in the past two years?

  73. Wow! Gods word is amazing! Blogging tips recorded before computers were invented. Thank you for allowing Holy Spirit to revel this and sharing it.

  74. Wow I love this post, very insightful, and extremely encouraging! I’m preparing to set out on my own Christian living blog venture! I would love to learn more so I will be signing up for the e-course. I believe there are some great Christian blogs by men for men but very few and I feel called to reach men in the same way your blog has just inspired me to walk out this calling of mine. Thanks so much! Blessings

  75. Thank you so much for sharing these tips! For the past few months it’s been a little difficult narrowing down and “niche”, but I love where you consider yourself – and I’m right there with you! (I agree it sounds vague, but it works). For me now, it’s making it more personal and sharing what God’s Word says to me.

    Lauren ❤︎

  76. Hi,
    I just found your blog while searching for ways to change my food blog into a Christian food and life style blog. What a blessing your 5 tips have been to me. I can hardly wait to start and am brimming over with ideas thanks to your lovely insights into writing that you found in scripture. As a retired English professor, teaching college freshmen academic writing has been my livlihood, and food blogging my hobby, but changing to Christian blogging opens up a whole new way of approaching people that I do not yet know how to do. Thanks to this article, I feel I have wings and can’t wait to apply your beautiful and spiritual suggestions. It is 11:44 at night, a time when I am usually in bed, but instead I am here at your website with tears in my eyes for God’s way of helping me fulfill a dream to make my life be more about Him, and your blog was here with just the right message for me. I hope to visit often to learn from you. Thank you for your Christian service.

  77. Do you mind if I quote a few of your posts as long as I provide credit
    and sources back to your site? My blog is in the exact same
    area of interest as yours and my users would really benefit
    from some of the information you present here.
    Please let me know if this ok with you. Thank you!

    1. Hi Emily, I’m glad this post encouraged you! Sharing is always appreciated provided it is properly credited and linked back :) Thanks for asking!
      AJ

  78. Hello, Arabah Joy!

    I am about to (re)launch my formerly mishmash I called a blog, having completely redone it (from soup to nuts) into a Christian Lifestyle blog. Your post today was so very inspiring that I plan to use it as a script when I write posts so that I can consistently turn my readers (of which I have very few right now) to God at every point.

    My tagline is “Life in the Light,” and my purpose is to help women fully create a life in the light of their Savior. It is a creative blog, so I offer some crafty ways to glorify God, and my intent even in those posts is to point others to the light.

    I only know one other Christian blogger, and I’ve only known her since yesterday when she joined my group learning to create beautiful Scripture Journals. (I’m turning that into an online course.) Since you recommend making friends with other Christian bloggers, I’m starting with you.

    Thank you for your beautiful post and encouragement. I have signed up for your newsletter and will be visiting you often!

    May God’s grace surround you!

    Suzi

  79. thank you for this!! it was a much needed reminder that we as bloggers should be concerned with fulfilling God’s purpose for us and our writing – being unashamed and unafraid of what others may think, the stats, and the hits. thank you for your little piece that warmed my heart today.

    here’s to filling the internet with more of Christ, His perfect work, and His glory! :)

  80. Thanks for this, Arabah! I’m still growing in most of these areas, but the one that resonated with me most is #5. Blogging blesses me in so many ways, and it’s a great reminder that the joy I glean from it is a good thing – not something to be guilty about!

  81. I came across your blog and I’m grateful to God that I did. I was so blessed by the illustration you shared using the book of 1 John. I am a new blogger looking for ways to improve and I think that your site does just that. Thanks Joy for sharing.

  82. Arabah,
    Thank you for sharing the word God gave you. I have read 1 Joh before, but not since I have started my blog and I am so glad to have been pointed back to that scripture.
    It was the right word at the right moment. Thank you!
    Theresa Margaret

  83. Arabah,

    I am so grateful that I came across this particular Bl9g today. I too am in the process of beginning a “Christian” Blog and have wrestled with the idea if this would be of spiritual significance to HIM. Look forward to reading and connecting more with your Blog.

  84. “It’s okay to derive pleasure from blogging.” – You don’t know how much I have felt guilt for loving blogging. I have to constantly balance it with my love for Jesus, but there seems to be a lie deep down inside of me that says “If you enjoy it, it must be wrong.” That voice needs to go!
    Of course, you know my main blog RadicalChristianWoman.com, but what you might not know is that I decided to split it up into multiple blogs because, like you said, NICHE! I was blogging on too many subjects! So I created Jesus-Blogger.com so that when I talk about my 10+ years of blogging experience I’m talking to the right audience!
    I love your stuff and I just signed up for your blogging course/challenge. I’m hoping to look at it with a fresh perspective. <3

  85. Thank you so much for sharing this. I am a new Christian blogger. I look forward to reading all the additional articles you provided. May God continue to bless you with great works that help others.

  86. Thank you for sharing these tips and i really am sure that these will give a boost to Christian blogs. I appreciate that you have not written those same tips that aware blog containing.

  87. Thanks so much for this post. It came in at the write time as i search the web to get information on christian bloggers.
    It helped answer some questions on category and niche.

    thanks once again.

    Ese

  88. Thank you for your post on this! I know my whys and whats.. but its the formatting and story telling.. the title writing.. sub heading.. structure of it all that tells me i have a LOT to learn yet. But I am encouraged by posts like this which brings to me hope and wisdom to keep going and GROWING! I love the passage you used about John writing.. nice to bring in a Biblical perspective to every matter.

  89. Great tips, but they seem like the same tips one would give any new blogger. Was looking for more believer specific tips. Anyway, thanks for these.

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