When the Journey Becomes Slow

It’s been over five years since I started this journey. Five years of studying the craft, blogging, and pursuing a career in writing. 

Sometimes I get so accustomed to my life that I forget that I am living my dream. I become too focused on what I want to happen in the future—how much further I still have to go—that I forget how God has gotten me to where I am today. 

I found this essay I wrote for my English class when I was 13, the year that God laid it on my heart to write Christian fiction for teenagers. (I didn’t even know the genre existed.) 

It says . . . {Continue reading} 

{PS: Caroline and I have a new video posted! Check it out: 

When Writers Confuse Characters For Actual Human Beings}

Worshipping God through Our Creations

I first discovered my love to create when I was a toddler. Every time I was bored I would ask my mom, who was an art teacher, to lead me into a new craft. The stirring to create grew each time I completed a new project that consisted of finger-painting, play-dough, or even making a doll out of paper and stuffing it with napkins (my mom didn’t help me with that one ;)).

However, when I was three, my desire to make crafts transformed into a new desire to create stories when my mom suggested that I write a book. I began filling pages and pages with illustrations, dictating my stories to her.

That drive to create never faded. Throughout my childhood, a thrill rushed through me every time I sat down with a new set of blank pages and a pen, ready to watch a story come to life as I wrote.

I believe God has given each of us a creative spark, whether it is in writing, dancing, or even science and math. {Continue reading on Katy Kauffman's blog}

The Difference Between "Preachy" vs. Christian & Clean vs. Real

*ATTN. teens & young adults: Stick around for the end of this post for a chance to enter a virtual book club!

Many people seem to believe that if a Christian fiction book deals with tough subjects, the spiritual element has been watered down; on the other hand, others read Christian fiction and then complain that the book was far too preachy for their taste. ➙ So where should CBA authors draw the line between being "too preachy" and watering down the spiritual element? 
Many Christian fiction authors hardly mention God in their stories in fear that they will come across as preachy. However, we have to remember that our books are in the Christian fiction genre for a reason. It's okay to incorporate a spiritual theme. It's okay to mention a scripture or two. Just do it in a way that is natural to the flow of your story.

  There are several CBA authors who have accomplished incorporating a strong spiritual element into their stories, and yet I didn't feel as if I were being preached to at all. (Karen Kingsbury and Francine Rivers, just to name a couple.) How can you tell if your book is becoming too preachy? 

• The story is only about your protagonist's salvation or learning a certain lesson.
• Your chapters are filled with scriptures and sermons.
• You're trying to get a point across rather than allowing a story to unfold.

However, if the protagonist's journey comes naturally without any of your interference, then it should be considered Christian rather than preachy.  Fiction should be allowed to present all kinds of real life stories, and a person's journey to find redemption and healing is one of those stories. It happens in real life. So in my opinion, it is completely fine for your protagonist to find Christ in your book--however, you should not have anything to do with his/her journey. It should be completely natural, and the character's salvation should not be entirely what the story is about. ➙ What is the difference between writing "clean" versus writing "real"?
As mentioned, it is possible for a book to be Christian rather than preachy; similarly, it is also possible for a book to be both real and clean. When one picks up a Christian fiction book, they shouldn't have to fear that the story may contain negative content. However, this does not mean that the story may not incorporate real issues that real people deal with in their every day life--it simply means that this content will be presented in a way that strengthens the person's faith rather than weakens it.

  Many CBA authors avoid writing realistically. In effort to write clean stories, they may construct flawless Christian characters who are living their too-perfect, unrealistic lives. But these are not the kind of stories that will minister. Instead, they might cause a reader to feel bad that they aren't as "good" of a Christian. Instead, the readers might stop reading Christian fiction altogether and pick up a secular book that they can actually relate with.

  The kind of stories that really minister to people are the ones that present real issues in a way that pulls people to Christ rather than towards the world. People need to learn how to face their every day challenges and temptations. They need to see how one choice might cause severe consequences. Just because a Christian author writes realistically does not mean that the book shouldn't be considered "clean".  So how is it possible to write both real and clean?

• Create characters that your readers can relate with: imperfect people who struggle with sin and temptation, just like every human. People who are in need of a Savior who can heal their scars, make them new, and offer redemption.
• Offer Biblical solutions to the struggles your characters may face.
• Present real issues in a way that pulls people towards Christ rather than sin. Have your characters learn from their mistakes. 
• "Tell" rather than "show". This may come as a surprise to you since writers are often told to show--but when there are certain "real" scenes that need to take place, it is often best to tell
  
  what happens instead. For example: He cursed rather than showing the actual word he said. Or telling an incident that happens--such as rape--without going into much detail. Or you can infer that it happens by ending the scene right before it takes place, although the readers are aware that it happens. (The Atonement Child by Francine Rivers accomplished this very well.)

Think of the Bible, for instance. If it were to become a full-length film, there is no doubt that it would be rated R. The characters are full of sin. It deals with issues that the world still faces today (adultery, rape, violence, just to name a few). And yet, it is still (obviously) the most popular and impactful Christian book in the world today.

Teens especially need clean, realistic stories. They're going to learn about certain issues one way or another--through music, television, school, friends, online, etc. We might as well present these to them first through the Christian perspective rather than through the world's. That way, they can learn about the negative impact and consequences before they may face the temptation for themselves.

(Side note: Being the youngest in my family, as well as the youngest of 13 cousins, I had the advantage of witnessing the consequences of certain actions before I was faced with them myself as a teenager. This is what a YA Christian fiction novel should accomplish--introducing an issue in a way that makes the young reader want to avoid going down that path. The world will make the sin look appealing; Christian fiction, on the other hand, should present these temptations in a way that influences the young reader to steer clear of it.)

Also, teenagers especially need to feel as if someone "gets" them. They don't like to feel alone. So when we incorporate struggles that teens face into our stories, they can then face their own situations by witnessing how the character dealt with theirs. (Which would then show them that the solution they are searching for can ultimately be find through Christ only.)

So don't be afraid of tackling tough subjects in your writing. You will probably accomplish more on a spiritual level when you write realistically rather than when you only write clean.

♡  ♡  ♡

Speaking of clean YA books . . . 

Would you like to:

• discover new, clean YA/New Adult books?
• discuss these books with other young readers?
• participate in a monthly giveaway?
• support authors and promote clean books?
• possibly win some prizes?

If so, head over to my new website, ReadingClean to join a 100% free virtual book club! You can find everything you need to know about this club on its about page. I hope to see you there! =)

Using Our Gifts for His Glory: Fanning the Flame

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Growing up, my mom would constantly pray that God would stir up the gifts and talents within my sisters and me. 

He has definitely answered that prayer. Not only has the desire to use our gifts increased, but the desire to use our gifts for His glory has increased as well.

If writing is your ministry platform, it is important to allow God to stir up the gifts within you. Because let's face it: Writing can become exhausting. There are times when we are tempted to procrastinate, tempted to write for our own pride, and even tempted to give up all together.

Keep in mind that if God has called you to write for Him, Satan is going to do everything he can to keep you from writing. This is why it is so important that we continue allowing God to fan the flame inside of us. 

If you feel a stirring inside of you that your writing desire is bigger than a hobby, it might be because God has called for you to write for Him rather than for pleasure. (Now, this doesn't necessarily mean you have to write Christian fiction. It is possible to write for God while writing books for the secular market.)

When I write, I can literally feel God’s presence. And that’s what enables me to type faster, to envision the scene that I am writing. It comes very fast for me, and it is such an exhilarating feeling. No, not just because I love to write--but because I have allowed God to use my gift for His glory.

For me, writing isn’t just work. It’s not only a hobby, either—it’s a moment that I get to share with God as He infuses His creativity through me and into my stories. It is not about me. I am only a vessel, an instrument used for God’s glory.

2 Timothy 1:6 says,

“This is why I remind you to keep using the gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. Now let it grow, as a small flame grows into a fire.”

I believe that is what God wants us to do with the gifts He has entrusted us with. But how can we allow Him to fan our flame?

    ➙ Take time to be still in His presence. 

No distractions. No noise, other than worship music, if you would like. You could do this in the mornings, in the evenings, or just before you write. However, keep in mind that your time with God shouldn't just be about your writing. It should be about Him: surrendering all of yourself to Him, including your talents.

    ➙ Ask God to stir up the gifts and talents within you. 

As I mentioned above, God has answered this prayer tremendously for my family. Ask God to anoint your writing and let the flame grow, as mentioned in 2 Tim. 1:6.

    ➙ Allow God to direct you as you write.

Give Him control of the pen (or keyboard =) ). Don't try to write when you are anxious, not in the best mood, or are trying to rush. Also, keep in mind that your plan for the story might not be the same as God's. So be open to His Spirit and don't be afraid if He takes the story on a completely different route than the one you had in mind. You might just become surprised at the outcome, almost as if you were reading your story rather than writing it. =) 

    ➙ Continue to learn about the writing craft and write as much as possible. 

Don't do this just so you can complete a book ASAP, but because failing to use your gifts is a sin. 1 Corin. 4:2 states, "Now in this way those who are trusted with something valuable must show they are worthy of that trust." If you want God to use your writing to minister to others, then you must prove to Him that you are faithful.

♡  ♡  ♡

The flame of writing might begin as just a small desire. For me, the flame began when I was three-years-old and had the desire to create things, write stories, and learn to read. That flame continued to grow throughout my childhood. Now that it has increased in size, it has spread and reached

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several people who have read Purple Moon.  

This is what happens when we give God our time, talents, and desires. This is what happens when we allow Him to work within us. The flame becomes a fire. And because of God’s anointing, it will spread, reaching the hearts of many.

I know that this is only the beginning of my writing career. Not because I believe that I am just so talented that I will continue to get book deals.

But because—once God has begun a fire, there is nothing, or no one, that can put it out.

"Be generous with the different things God gave you, passing them around so all get in on it: if words, let it be God’s words; if help, let it be God’s hearty help. That way, God’s bright presence will be evident in everything through Jesus, and he’ll get all the credit as the One mighty in everything—encores to the end of time."
~1 Peter 4:10 (MSG) 

    ✎ Do you hope to use your writing as a ministry, or simply for entertainment? Has God ever taken your story on a different route than the one you had expected?

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How Important Are "Writing Rules"?

How important is it that writers follow writing rules? I'm not talking about grammar and punctuation rules; I'm talking about the rules we learn by reading writing craft books, industry blogs, as well as in writing workshops/conferences.

I'm sort of a perfectionist when it comes to my writing. I've edited my upcoming novel, Purple Moon, far too many times to count--and every time I read it, I have an urge to tweak it some more. This is because our writing can always be improved; I don't think there will come a time when I read one of my novels and am completely satisfied at the writing. As long as I continue writing, reading, and studying the craft, I will continue to grow as a writer. That being said, I will continue to find flaws. But I have learned that my desire to perfect my writing is not nearly as important as my desire to make an impact on someone's life through my story. 

I've heard many authors tell amateur writers that it's best to wait until their craft is perfected before they seek publication. It's even been recommended that writers throw away their first couple manuscripts, since it is not likely that they are good enough for publication. I don't necessarily agree everyone should do this, only because it generally depends on the writer, as well as the story. What if the manuscript you threw away could have impacted someone? What if it could have been a best-seller? I also don't think it's necessary to wait until your you've fully grown in your writing craft before seeking publication, only because our growth should have no limits.

Although I do feel as if I have grown a lot as a writer since I began writing Purple Moon, I do not regret having it published. Not at all. The reason is because I know the potential the story has to impact teenagers. Generally speaking, your writing isn't what's going to grip a reader's heart; it's the emotional and spiritual impact that will touch readers and possibly lead them to Christ. 

Don't get me wrong, developing our craft is very important. An agent/editor will not read your book if it's poorly written. However, as a Christian writer, following the writing rules should not be our main focus. There are a few Christian fiction books I have read that broke many writing rules, yet somehow they had a huge impact on me, as well as many others. I believe that the ability an author has to present an authentic and emotional story with a subtle, yet strong spiritual theme far outweighs whether or not their writing is perfect. 

If you feel that God has laid a story on your heart, then start writing, no matter how good of a writer you think you may be. You never know the amount of people who may be touched by reading your story.

"Look at your writing as a ministry, as something God has uniquely called you to do for His glory. The written word is a powerful tool you can use for the glory of God; and yes, you can even do powerful things through stories."
~Adam Blumer

Can Christian Fiction Really Be "Life-Changing"?

Over the past few years, I have heard several different opinions on the genre of Christian fiction. There are those who stay clear of these books because they view this genre as being "too preachy", while others see these books as clean, cheesy stories that only mention God every now and then. There are also Christians who believe that Christian fiction is "preaching to the choir", and that if authors want to minister through their stories, they should write for the Mainstream fiction.

However, I believe that it is possible to find a line between coming across as too religious in our stories, while staying within the Christian market. But can Christian fiction really be considered "life-changing", even for non-believers?

Recently I've started venturing out of YA fiction and have been reading books from several different authors, including Karen Kingsbury, who is known as "the queen of Christian fiction". I'm already in love with her writing, the way that she uses real-life issues to create authentic, heart-wrenching novels. Her books have proven that Christian fiction doesn't have to be just "preaching to the choir", and that people can be ministered to through Christian fiction. There really is power in story. And yes, this genre really can be life-changing. In fact, since Kingsbury has received so many emails from readers who have told her that her stories have brought "tremendous changes into their lives", she has branded her books as "Life-Changing Fiction". 

In an interview with the 700 Club, Karen Kingsbury discusses how she goes about writing deep stories rather than just "clean" stories. She talks about how God uses the power of story for His purpose, for His glory--exactly the way that Jesus did when He was on earth.

Another point that Kingsbury mentions in an interview is how Mainstream fiction can only deal with the physical, intellectual and emotional aspects of people--while Christian fiction can deal with all three of these, plus the spiritual.* 

The world can write about the physical, intellectual,

and emotional aspects of people. So can we.

Ah, but we also can tell about the spiritual--

and the story is nothing without that piece."

~Karen Kingsbury

I'm thankful to have found an author who uses the power of a story the way that Jesus did--not just for entertainment, but to teach. And to present the truth in a way that can relate to people.

What's your purpose behind writing Christian fiction? Do you write to offer a clean alternative, or to craft deep, life-changing fiction? As a Christian fiction author, we should pray that God would be glorified through our writing, and that our books would bless readers and ultimately point them to Christ.

"You hold the pen of hope and healing,you who tell of fear and feeling.Power to touch the jaded soul;power to make the broken whole.To entertain, to intertwine,to take us back in tests and time.Write you must--now go from here;write and keep the Savior near.Now, Spirit, lead us every page;through our words, be center stage.Give us love for those who read;give us words so they might see.Author God, now through your powerguide us from this very hour.Let us tell of love and lightand grant us strength so we might write."~Karen Kingsbury

~~~

Have you ever read and been touched by Karen Kingsbury's books? Do you think Christian fiction can really be "life-changing"?

*However, there are Christians who have the gift for weaving a spiritual theme into a Mainstream fiction novel as well. I'm not at all against this at all. In fact, I believe there should be more Christians writing for the Mainstream market. 

What’s Your Purpose Behind Writing Christian Fiction?

Fiction is powerful—in good ways and bad. This is the main reason why I don’t read many secular YA novels. Lots of the recent contemporary YA novels are filled with lots of trash, and I'd rather not open myself up to that kind of influence. This is also why I love Christian fiction. Because these stories can help people see the consequences of their actions and reach people right where they are in life. Christian fiction can show people that God offers love, forgiveness, mercy, grace.

When Jesus was on earth, he was aware that stories were powerful. That’s why he told parables—because he knew there were those who needed the illustration. He knew that some people would need to be told the truth through a story in order to fully grasp the message he was trying to deliver.

Luke 8:10 (MSG) says~

“You’ve been given insight into God’s kingdom—you know how it works. But there are others who need stories…”

Recently I’ve been going through the round of edits for my first YACF novel, Purple Moon. And I’ll be honest—there have been times recently when I've had doubts. Times when I start thinking “My writing is not strong enough. Why did I write this? No one's going to like it.” And sometimes, when I read bad reviews on other books, I imagine all the horrible things people might say about Purple Moon.

But every time this happens, God reminds that I’m not writing to glorify myself. I'm writing to bring glory to Him. I have to remember that this is the story God has laid on my heart. My purpose in writing Christian fiction isn’t so people can give me praise—if it was, I probably would’ve given up already. When doubts are flooding my mind, I try to remember: not everyone is going to love my book. But I’m not writing for those people. I’m writing it for the girls who will be able to connect with my main character. For the girls who might be going through similar situations as she is in the story and could really be ministered to by reading Purple Moon.

Yes, there are people out there who might be needing to read your book. As you write, God already knows what guy or girl is going to be touched by your writing, perhaps even feel as if they’re reading the story of their life. And yes, it is possible that a non-believer can become saved through Christian fiction. It’s happened many times before. One of my best friends is proof. She asked God into her heart a few years ago while reading the Christy Miller Series by Robin Jones Gunn.

It isn’t easy, the process to publication. And there will be times when you want to give up. But please, for the sake of your future readers, don’t quit. Especially if you really feel as if your story could minister to people. Keep going, because there are people out there who may need to read the book you’re tempted to throw away right now. Go back to the reason you first fell in love with your story. Robin Jones Gunn—the author of the Christy Miller Series I mentioned above—was rejected ten times before the first book in the series was published. She now receives letters from readers all over the world, thanking her for the book series and telling her what an impact they've made on their life.

Ever since I was a kid, I've always been very ambitious. But what's the number one dream I have that basically sums all of them up? To reach people. That through the gifts God has given me, He will shine through me and touch lives. That people might come to experience His love through the fiction I write, through a part I may play in a film, or through the words I may write in an article/devotion. And of course, through my every day life.

This should be every Christian fiction author's purpose behind writing too, as well as his/her motivation to keep going. No, not so they can bring glory to themselves. But to reach people. Even if it’s just one life that will be touched by your story, I'm sure it'll be worth it.

~~~Why do you write Christian fiction? Have you ever had doubts along your journey to publication or become tempted to give up also? What helps motivate you to keep writing?

Why Aren’t There More Teens Reading YA Christian Fiction, & How Can Authors Change That?

It seems as if every time I go to a bookstore it’s always such a struggle for me to find the YA Christian fiction section. And once I do find it, there are only a few shelves holding books from this genre. I then look at the YAF section and notice rows and rows of books, the covers of these novels filled with filthy images. For teens. And most of them contain all of the same storylines: teen drama, love stories, summer, and change. And vampires, of course. But most of these books are doing nothing but infecting the minds of teenagers. The authors are providing teens with the stories that we adore because it’s what we dream of or can relate to. If YAF is so popular now, then why isn’t YACF? Many teens have told me it’s because the books they have read in this genre have been cheesy, preachy, or boring. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Most of the time, a teen's view of Christianity and God is going to be based on the Christians around them, including the YA Christian fiction books that they read. And if they're boring and preachy, then they'll want nothing to do with Christianity. They'd rather read the YA fiction that doesn't preach to them, that reaches them on their level, that satisfies their desires accordingly. If they read even just one book in YACF that is cheesy/preachy/boring, they're not going to give this genre another try. Think about it. If you were a nonbeliever and knew someone who was a Christian who always tried preaching to you, shoving religion down your throat, and whose life is so boring because all that she/he does is read the Bible - would that attract you to God? No. That would only leave you with a bad impression of Christianity. And you’re going to want nothing to do with that religion.

I believe one of the reasons that YACF isn't as popular as YAF is because of these types of books. We have to keep in mind that it's not just Christians reading this genre, it is often non-Christians who pick up the book not realizing that it is Christian—or pick it up because of great reviews, a cool cover with an interesting back cover blurb, a recommendation from a friend, etc.

You don't want to preach to them. You want to offer them a story that believers and nonbelievers alike can both enjoy. But how can authors do this? How can we present Christianity in YA fiction without sounding cheesy, boring, or preachy?

1. Provide the same elements that teens love, except offer a clean alternative with a Christian perspective.

I'm not saying that Christian YA fiction books should be nothing but teen drama and vampire stories with the mention of God every now and then, but that we need to reach the teen culture on its level.

Reach out to the hurting.

There are many teens who have grown up in a broken family, teens who are barely getting through in life because they don’t know Christ. They may want to find encouragement by reading a book where the character is going through some of the same struggles as they are, because readers like to read stories that they can relate to. And they want to see how the character coped with the struggle and also to feel as if they’re not alone. So they pick up the book, and they find that the character deals with this situation by turning to God. Also keep in mind that not every teen is rebellious and against Christianity. There are some out there who are lost, confused, and hurting. Our books can offer the hope and encouragement they may be looking for.

Craft role-model characters.

Notice that I did not say craft perfect-Christian-unflawed-characters, but role-models that teens can look up to. This can be a very useful tool since we already tend to follow the lifestyle of those in movies and in books subconsciously. The character Christy from The Christy Miller Series by Robin Jones Gunn is a great example of a Christian role model that a teen may want to follow the footsteps of.

Don’t write YACF for the sole purpose of teaching youth how to handle situations in a Christian way.

As a teen,we can tell when an adult is trying to preach through fiction. And because of this, we’re reminded that it’s a made-up-story that we’re reading that was written by an adult. Instead, pretend that you’re a teen. Write because you want to write, not because you want to preach. Talk to a few teenagers and read other YA books to get a deeper understanding of the youth culture and teen struggles that are current to this time period—please don’t just go by your own view of the reputation that teenagers have. It annoys me so much when I read a book that I can tell is written by an adult, simply because it’s the perspective of the high school life from someone who hasn't been a teenager in years. It’s one of the things that makes YACF cheesy. However, I'm not saying that it's cheesy for any adult to write from a teen's perspective - just don't assume that you already know everything about the teen life based on the reputation we have.

Plant the seeds, but allow God to do the growing.

Although someone may not get saved just by reading your book, they probably will return to the genre and check out a few more books because of the fact that the story-lines are cool and they closed the book feeling inspired. The more one reads this genre, the more seeds that are planted. And the more seeds that are planted, the more God can work in them. Also, think of the new movie “Soul Surfer.” It reaches nonbelievers and believers. Why? Because it's an inspiring story with elements that people love. And even though a nonbeliever may not ask Jesus into their heart because of watching this movie, a seed was planted. The purpose of writing in this genre shouldn’t be only to get teens saved, but rather to plant a seed which can minister to them. It’s God’s job to do the rest.
The decisions teens make during these crucial years can affect us for years to come. It’s during this time of our life that decisions are made to set the course of our future. This is why I believe YA Christian fiction could be such a powerful ministry—if only authors knew which elements to include in their stories and how to use fiction to reach all of our youth culture in a subtle, yet profound way.

~~~

Why do you think this genre is small and not so popular?

If you’re teen, do you read YA Christian fiction?

Why or why not?

What other elements should YACF authors include

in their stories—

or perhaps leave out?

Take A Break From Your Creation & Spend Time With Your Creator

“Each one of us is God’s special work of art. Through us, He teaches and inspires, delights and encourages, informs and uplifts all those who view our lives. God, the master artist, is most concerned about expressing Himself - His thoughts and His intentions - through what he paints in our character… He wants to paint a beautiful portrait of His Son in and through your life. A painting like no other in all time.”

~Joni Enreckson Tada

All artists need a little rehabilitation at times. Some refreshment. So much energy is poured out of us into our pieces of work that after a while this passion of ours becomes a tiring and dreadful task. At least it has for me recently.

Why not give yourself a break this weekend? Spend some time with the Lord. Refocus. Refuel. Allow God to do some changes through you before you try to make some changes to your current project. Take a small break from your creation to spend some time with your Creator. He's the one that you inherit your creativity from, anyway. We are his character. Let him continue to paint us before we continue to paint our characters.

Don't just take a break, though. Allow God's light to shine in you so that it will shine through your story and into the life of your reader. Spend more time with him than you usually do and replace the music that usually inspires your creativity with a few worship songs. You may not be finished with your current project, but God isn't finished with you, either. Allow him to mold you into a "beautiful portrait of His Son" before you continue to mold your story and characters. You must always put your passion for God above all other passions.

We may get weary from working on our creations, but God never gets weary from working on his creations.

“If we are to write fiction that will touch hearts & change lives,

we must be God’s.”

~Karen Kingsbury

~~~

Do you often feel as if your creativity gets drained from working so much on your current project?

How often are your "artist rehabilitations" and for how long?

What are some ways that you enter into the presence of the Lord so that he can mold you into the person he wants you to be?

The Difference Between Being "Too Preachy" & Staying Within Your Genre

If you love reading or writing Christian fiction, then you probably can tell when an author is being too "preachy". Or perhaps you've read a few CF books that were nice clean stories, but they lacked spiritualness. There are always many complaints about this matter in the CF genre. So I've decided to do a little survey.

I randomly searched five different CF books on Goodreads.com and found that three out of five books were reviewed at least once as being too "preachy". Two of those books had at least one person complain in the reviews that the Christian aspect of the novel was too "watered down". And out of these five Christian fiction books, eight people considered it being too "cheesy/corny".

Here are some of the comments made on these books:

• "I liked the story, but it was heavy on the religious side."
• "It’s an inspirational romance that at times is quite heavy on the religious aspect in my opinion. " Another person said (on this same novel): "I think the purpose of this book was overshadowed by the very dark subject matter. A lot of people have called this a Christian Romance, I find that very hard to believe... For the subject matter and details given I would have give it at R rating."
• "The writing is very heavily Christian; there's lots and lots of talk about God.”
• "This book is sappy and overly religious. (Some Christian, Evangelical type religion) "
• "First of all, this book was PG 13--which I didn't know when I purchased it... I probably should have mentioned this first--she takes her clothes off way too much... I would not recommend this book."
• "Christian romance novels are just not my thing--too cheesy too often."
• "But, honestly. Christian Romance Novels?!?!? Who wants to like those? They're so cheesy, so...naive."

As you can see, we all have different opinions and beliefs. So if you are writing for the CF genre, there will most likely be someone out there who will think that your book is too "preachy”, "cheesy” or "subtle" for the Christian market.

How can we draw the line between sounding too preachy and simply writing a Christian fiction story, but without having to water down the Christian aspect?

1. First of all, understand the principles of how to avoid sounding preachy

. However, there will still be those who will consider your book too religious - simply because it's labeled under Christian fiction. I wrote this post a few months ago explaining a few tips that I have learned on how to stay away from this.

Don't be afraid of mentioning God.

Your book is, in fact, labeled under Christian fiction. I believe that CF is powerful and authors shouldn't shy away from using this power just because they don't want to offend their readers. Yes, we should weave the book's message around the story instead of weaving the story around it’s message - but still be able to write a story that is inspiring, uplifting, encouraging.

Don't abuse the power you have in writing Christian fiction

by trying to "save" people. Instead, reflect God's love without coming out and trying to shove religion down your reader's throat. No one likes this. Be nice to your readers.

Don't cross the borderline of Christian fiction.

What I mean is, people read books in this genre to draw nearer to Christ. Give them an inspiring story that they can come away from feeling encouraged, not having to question whether or not it is labeled under Christian fiction. If you're going to write in this genre, you shouldn't just mention God every now and then. He must always be the main focus of your books.

Avoid sounding legalistic,

and instead be real. One of the things that scare non-believers away are Christians who are judgmental, have unrealistically high standards, and act that they are much holier than everyone. The best way to stay away from sounding this way in our writing is by using real people with real issues that others can connect with, even if they do have different beliefs. Show love, not legalism or "religion".

Last but not least, allow God to direct your writing.

It is, however, His story. We're only typing it for Him.
Keep in mind that you can’t please everyone, so don’t try to. If you have a story to tell (that happens to be Christian), then write it. Of course, you should know the tips to avoid on being too preachy and use common sense when deciding which details to expose to your readers; but most of all, write the kind of book that you would love to read. Who cares if your readers consider it cheesy, or if they think that it should be an adult rating. Your purpose in writing CF is to please God, not please people. So do it for him.

“You can present truth through fiction. People love a good story,

and if they can come away from it with a stronger sense of spiritually,

the writer has done a good job.”

~Teresa Gayle

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What are some other ways that Christian fiction writers can try to add just the right amount spiritualness without sounding preachy?

What are some other ways that Christian fiction writers can try to add just the right amount of subtleness?

Do you mostly read Christian fiction or secular fiction, and for what reasons?

Do You Write To Serve Yourself, Or To Serve God?

"Martha was distracted with much serving... But Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."

~Luke 10:40-42

The other day as I was reading a Max Lucado book, I came across something that made me stop and think about the reason that I write. Sure, I love writing. But am I writing to serve, please, and bring glory to my Father - or to serve, please, and bring glory to myself?

In the above Bible story, Martha was having Jesus over for supper. She did everything she could to prepare dinner so that it would be perfect. Meanwhile, she became so distracted and obsessed with the serving part that she completely forgot the One she was serving.

I think many times we do the same. The reason I chose to write Christian fiction was so that I could use the words that God gives me to encourage those who hurt, and in the process draw people nearer to Christ. That was my main desire, as I'm sure it was for many of you. As time goes on, though, the focus shifts. We begin to spend more time concentrating on getting the work done and making it perfect instead of praying for God's guidance as we type. He is, in fact, the main reason that we write in the first place - so how can we, as writers, bring our attention back to the one who gave us this gift?

1. Don't focus so much on your writing schedule, trying not to be too hard on yourself if you don't meet your daily word count. Sure, it's important to be self-disciplined. But sometimes to-do lists become idols. Don't allow them to control your life. Instead, pray and allow God to lead you through the day. He is the one in control of your "writing journey". Everything is in his timing only, not yours.
2. Avoid losing yourself in the work, but instead remember the reason why you work. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says that we must do everything for the glory of God. Disaster is guaranteed to come whenever we become obsessed with our job, or allow our job to control us instead of God. If we put unnecessary stress on ourselves to get the job done just right, we may be drowning out the voice of God trying to guide us as we type.
3. If you seem to be going nowhere in your "writing journey", don't fret. Being fretful can also lead to discouragement and obsession with your work, wanting to succeed rather than allowing God to lead. He often tests us just to see if our heart is in the right place, to see if we write to honor him, or to honor ourselves. Put the scripture Philippians 4:6-7 to action and pray about the situation instead. He knows where you stand in your career, and he's willing to help if you let him.
4. Remember that it is not through our works, but through his. Sure you may work hard to create the perfect story, but don't forget that the Creator is the one who put this gift inside of you.
5. Spend time in prayer and worship before putting your fingers to the keyboard. Not only will doing this bring you peace and clarity as you write, but you're putting God first instead of yourself. If you become stuck at some point, ask God to lead you. There have been many times that God works something out in my story that I had been worried about. It just came together perfectly after praying, without any effort on my behalf. Had I tried to figure it out, I wouldn't have gotten anywhere. If you make sure to spend time with the Lord each time before writing, our focus shifts from ourselves to God. Click here if you'd like to read a "writing prayer/poem" Karen Kingsbury wrote that I find very inspiring.

Now that it is a new year, we should all take a step away from our work and shift our focus back to Christ. As Christian writers, it's important that we don't get so caught up in trying to achieve a dream and become a well-known name in the industry, that we miss out on using this gift to serve Christ better.

"It's easy to forget who is the servant and who is to be served."

~Max Lucado

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Is this something you seem to struggle with often?

In what way?

What are some other ways that writers can shift the focus from ourselves to our God?

Keeping It Real

"Art is a lie that makes us realize the truth."
~Pablo Picasso

Telling the truth through fiction is almost as hard as telling the truth through a fib. When someone lies, they do everything they can to make their story seem realistic. Fiction writers should have the same determination. We want our readers to almost wonder if our story was based on something that actually happened. Not so that they will believe a lie, but because the stories that are the most realistic are the ones that usually connect most with a reader. We don't want people to read our story and feel as if they're reading a made up fairytale. Writers must do everything they can to make their fiction honest.

But how is this possible, since fiction is... well, a made up story?
Here are a few tips I've come up with to help work some truth through your story:

• Think about what stirs up your emotions. What makes you laugh? Cry? Angry? Use emotions to enrich your story. Everyone has feelings, so this is a great tool to use to connect with your reader and have them almost convinced that this story really did happen. Keep in mind, though, that everyone experiences emotions differently. What I mean is, some people may be more sensitive than others, have different types of humor, etc. Whatever way that you weave in emotions through your story, remember to keep it real and relatable.
• Create characters based off real people, not imaginary people. If you ever had an "imaginary friend" when your were a kid, you probably made her perfect. She was good at everything, and she liked everything you liked. Or if you're a guy, then your imaginary friend probably had super powers that no other human had. The exaggerated "powers" may work if you're writing fantasy - but when writing fiction, such as Christian fiction, your characters should have the same qualities as a real person. One way to make your characters seem "true" is by basing them on of people you know. Real people have flaws. Real people have attributes. If you use some of the same qualities as another person you may know, and maybe add some of your own... I'm sure your character will be real to the reader also, instead of just an imaginary character in a book.
• Make sure that your dialogue isn't "cheesy", and that it moves the story forward. It's great to base the conversations in your fiction on of the conversations you have with people in real life, but some things that aren't necessary to tell the story should be left out. Also, keep in mind when writing your dialogue that each of your characters should talk in different ways based on their personalities. The people in your own life don't all talk the same way and say the same stuff, do they? If your dialogue doesn't seem like a real conversation with real people, then the story itself won't seem real.
  
• Base your plot on real situations. This is the biggest way to relate to your reader, because then they know that they are not alone. That's the power of fiction. But if the situations in your story seem unlikely to happen to an ordinary person - then most likely, others will find it difficult to connect with it, and therefore, your fiction won't seem true. Use the power of fiction by creating a plot that is intriguing but honest in a way that can relate to your readers. Use real problems, real life situations, and realistic events to create your plot.
  

Fiction can be a great tool to minister to others, only if it's honest. If you're writing Christian fiction, then remember that it can easily turn "cheesy". Don't try to weave your message into the events in your story, weave your story into a message. In other words, don't write in a way that is unrealistic just so you can shove a certain message into your reader's brain. That's when Christian fiction becomes cheesy. Write in a way that is honest. If you keep it real, then the story becomes relatable.

"The letters I receive most of all from readers say this: 'Thank you for writing such real characters.' The reason they're real? The reason your work will be real? Because we must write in a way that is honest."
~ Karen Kingsbury

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How are some ways you "keep it real" while you write?

Are You a Writer or a Preacher?

"The simple story can bring you a new awareness that can eventually be the key to turning your life and heart around... It may change your life!"

~ Sandy Muller

How can your Christian fiction change someone's life without coming across as "too preachy"? Many writers struggle with this question, including me. It's hard to relay a message to your readers that has to do with Christ without turning what you're writing into a sermon. But this is very important, especially in Christian fiction for YA.

Here's another question to ponder. Are you being to subtle with your message? If you're in the Christian fiction market, there should at least be one lesson to be learned from your story. It irritates me when I read fiction that is supposedly Christian but the book only mentions God a couple of times. If you're writing for teenagers, this is definitely something to think about. These years are probably the most influential period. Us teenagers have a lot of pressure, temptation, and choices to make during this time of our lives. Anything we read eventually becomes part of us and helps guide us to life after high school. There needs to be more life-changing books for teenagers. But it all comes back to the same question... how can I avoid being preachy - especially since most teenagers rebel against religion and consider it annoying?

Here are a few tips that I have discovered through research and thinking about this question.

1) Don't write sermons, especially long ones.

They come across as boring, and obviously preachy. If you need to include a sermon, show a couple of sentence that the preacher says in the story.

2) Avoid shoving religion down your reader's throat.

...unless, of course, you want the reader to immediately drop the book and possibly burn it. Think about it: why do teenagers ignore instruction and seem to get irritated with authority figures? Your Christian fiction can lead people to Christ or lead them away from Christ. Be real, not religious.

3) Don't create perfect little Christian characters.

Once again, this annoys people. Reach teenagers where they are in their life, don't create "religious" role models that just gets on your readers nerves since they can't relate to them. Give your characters flaws. Make them also rebel against religion. Shove some hard situations in their lives - have them make wrong decisions and mistakes, but let them learn from them and experience consequences.

4) Avoid adding too many scriptures.

Of course adding a few Bible scriptures every now and then in your story is a great way to "feed" the reader - but it's also a great way for the reader to stop reading. Make them feel like they're reading a story, not the Bible. If you really feel like you need to add a scripture, include it through dialogue, not narration.

5) Write a story, not a sermon.

If your characters are flawless, your plot is dull, and your chapters are full of scriptures and beautiful times your protagonist experiences with the Lord - you aren't writing a story that will reach where people are in their lives. You're writing a sermon, which is obviously a red flag that you are being too preachy. Weave the message through your story, don't come right out and preach it.

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What ways do you avoid coming across as too preachy - or perhaps too subtle? Please share!

"You can present truth through fiction. People love a good story, and if they can come away from it with a stronger sense of spiritually, the writer has done a good job."

~ Teresa Gayle

Write a Story, Not Words

You're probably wondering what this title means, considering the post I recently wrote about choosing your words carefully. But let me explain.

I'm not an author. But I've read many books and have been able to distinguish the difference between the flat, okay stories from the Nicholas-Sparks-type-novels. As I mentioned, choosing your words with careful consideration is important for an author. The words we write can either destroy or heal. But they can also be the same thing that slows down your novel. Yes, your writing may be perfect, you may even have real, well-rounded characters. But what about your overall story - your plot, the message that you want to send through your writing?

Some people get so focused on perfecting their writing skills. After every chapter they write, they go back over and read what they've written, making sure there are no grammar mistakes and that their words flow to create the next scene. Yes, this is very important for an author. But this shouldn't be your main goal.

Earlier today I was watching a concert that was on my DVR of Taylor Swift singing with Def Leppard. She always has put on a great concert, but while I was watching, I was wondering how she became so popular. Her vocals aren't that perfect. A good range is usually what people say that make a great singer, but honestly, she doesn't have that much of a range. She's so famous, and I always find myself listening to her music. Why? Because she has a major talent in writing lyrics in a way that reaches out to other teenagers. She's a great role-model. She even designs amazing stages for her tours. Adults highly respect her because of her maturity. Fans are drawn to her because of the songs she sings, and for how real and humble she is in the midst of her fame. There's more to singing than amazing vocals and range. There's also more to writing than perfect grammar and sentence-fluency.

While you write or plan your novel, what is your focus? Do you ever wonder why your novel hasn't gotten accepted by a publisher or agent, yet you feel your writing is almost flawless? Although that is obviously a very important part of writing a novel, that shouldn't be our only focus. There have been many authors succeed although their writing could use some improvement. For example, Stephenie Meyer's popularTwilight series. Why are so many teenagers attracted toTwilight? The answer is simple. The storyline she created about a vampire falling in love with an innocent girl is apparently beautiful.

So how can you turn your writing into a treasured story? Here are a few tips I've learned that can transform a dull plot into a Nicholas-Sparks-type-novel that your readers will love:

1) 3-dimensional characters.

Create realistic characters with flaws. Readers are drawn to characters that bring humor, and ones that they can relate to. Not perfect, stick-figure, no personality characters. Fiction is a genre in which the author creates a story that could probably happen, so make characters that probably could exist.

2) An appealing setting.

Choose a setting that will interact with your story and characters. Include imagery and senses so the readers can feel as if they are really there, but don't go on and on about the appearance of snow-covered mountains. Doing this can slow down the pace of your story.

3) Symbolism.

This is one that authors tend to leave out, but I think symbolism is a powerful way to attract readers and help them remember your stories. This can also be a great way to prove a point without having to come out directly and say it.

4) Real problems, real conflict.

Creating situations that people go through can reach a reader in a personal way. Choose carefully when deciding on your character's conflicts.

5) A journey.

Not only should your protagonist take your reader on the many rides he/she goes on throughout the novel, but the character should take him/her on a spiritual journey as well. Your protagonist should be a different person than he/she was at the beginning of the story, so take your reader on that journey also.

6) Positivity.

When creating a novel that deals with real problems, it can be hard to weave in a little positivity. But don't make the focal point your characters' problems. Your goal should be to uplift the reader by helping them through what they're going through, not making them feel more depressed. You can also use this through dialogue.

7) Create a story that is different but the same.

Another thing I've noticed that attracts fans to Taylor Swift is the fact that she's different. She's a teenage country-pop artist and is completely not influenced by Hollywood's glitz and glam. Read well-liked books and think about what attracts the readers to them, but don't completely write a story just like it. Twist your story so that it's different in a way that will draw people to it, but the same kind of novel that readers adore.

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So while planning your novel, consider the type of plot that will attract your audience. Instead of only paying attention to the way that you write, pay attention to the message you want to impact your readers with. Books can heal. Books can bring hope. Books can bring encouragement - but they can also bring boredom if your plot is not appealing enough.

Stop reading your previous chapters to make sure your grammar is perfect. You have a story to tell, not just words. So write it.