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Writing is writing is writing. Writing
for the Christian audience is similar to submitting to secular markets, with a
few exceptions.
· Be
real. Whether fiction or non-fiction, Christian
writing must reflect reality. Don’t be self-righteous, appearing to stand on a
spiritual pedestal. We all are schlepping through life and both readers and
writers experience times of defeat as well as times of victory. If you honestly
share your spiritual struggles, you will connect with your readers in a very
personal way. One word of caution: don’t assume the martyr stance. Sometimes,
in their attempt to be real,
Christian writers go overboard in rehashing the details of their tragedies.
They take on the role of suffering servant instead of emphasizing the strength
God provides.
· Do
not use “Christianese”—jargon
known only to those growing up in the faith. Jargon usage cuts out a good
portion of your readers, making them feel like outsiders. Replace cliches with
fresh, innovative wording that communicates clearly. Show, don’t preach.
· Perfect
your craft. Good
writing is just as necessary for the Christian market as it is for any market.
Check for wordiness, grammar and sentence structure (of course), flow,
character development, and plot movement. Do not let your writing be second
rate just because your audience is steeped in Christian forgiveness. Christian
editors and agents are just as demanding (and rightfully so) of excellent work.
· Write
the truth based on your
Christian beliefs—which means the Bible. And speaking of Holy Writ (a very
old-fashioned term for the scriptures—I just wanted to impress you), use a
Bible translation that fits your audience. If you’re writing to older people
familiar with the faith, you might want to use the King James Version or the New
King James Version. It is written in Elizabethan English—think Shakespeare.
On the other hand, if you’re trying to target young people, the Message is very modern and easy to
understand. There are many translations and paraphrases to choose from, making
it easier for writers to connect with readers. Use the one that fits your
audience.
o Another thought about writing the
truth: I frequently pray my
writing will encourage readers to survive life’s curve balls by exercising
their faith. What I often find, I am the one challenged. My shortcomings are
highlighted, and I’m reminded of God’s care as my words
speak to me. I guess truth goes both ways.
· Do
your research. There are
many fine resources to help strengthen your message as you share your Christian
faith with readers. Thanks to the internet, these are readily available. Here
is a list of trusted resources for Bible research and for publishing
information:
6.
Christian Writers’ Market Guide, by Jerry Jenkins
So, there
you have it. Writing is writing is writing. All markets make the same demands:
excellence, honesty, and just plain good work. Go and do your best.
Follow Sue:
Blog: “Grow with God” at www.sueraatjes.blogspot.com
Website: www.sueraatjes.weebly.com
Sue Faris Raatjes is a former high
school English teacher and writer with credits in various Christian magazines.
She’s taught Bible studies to all ages for many years. She has four children, ten
grandchildren, and lives in Phoenix with her husband, Bob.
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