On Writing, Blogging 2

I recently shared that I would be making periodic posts on writing. Here is my second such post.

I started this blog over five years ago with the purpose of equipping the Church for the multiplication of disciples, leaders, and churches. I even put that phrase in the header. And I have attempted to stay focused on this purpose with each post.

If you are going to blog, post with consistency and do so frequently. I post something Sunday-Thursday with my Thursday post connected to my new podcast, Strike the Match. I take two days off, Friday for fun and Saturday as a day of rest. I used to post three days per week.

Someone usually says, “I do not have that much to say. I couldn’t write that often.” Don’t think that way.

You are a leader. You have something to say not just five days a week but everyday. Yes, you can write something. Show up and do it.

This does not mean you have to be like some, writing 800-1000 words at a time. Some people can do that really well. Most can’t. And many people will not tune in each day if your posts are that long. While I used to write such lengthy posts, I was sporadic and not frequent. I now don’t have the desire or time for such length. My posts are often brief (this one of 525 words is lengthy for me).

Some people write blog posts that mainly consist of lists. Ten of these. Twenty-four of that. Again, some people can do this really well. If you can do that, great! I try to follow this philosophy every now and then, but usually do not. People like reading such posts. However, that is generally not me. I consider writing art and reflection of life. And consistent life and art are not comprised of lists.

Each post should communicate a single matter. Stay focused. This is much easier with brevity.

Pray. I pray before, during, and after writing. I pray for you the reader.

Blogging allows you to practice writing. If you want to write a book and have never published anything, then start blogging. Develop your writing muscles first.

Blogging allows you to develop your thoughts. Many people are afraid to post because it is not “just right” in their minds. You must push through this barrier and ship your work to the world. There is a place for wise stewardship and revision, but when it leads to perfectionism, stewardship has been left behind. It will never be perfect. I often use my blog to post ideas that are just formulating. Share today’s stories later today.

Leader, start a blog. There are free options out there, but I don’t like their unexpected ads that show up next to my post. Blogging is inexpensive. Begin by writing for the 5 or 10 people you know will read your work. And write consistently and tell us something at least 5 days a week.

Next time, Lord willing, I’ll say something about writing books.