Seven Practices for Writers Pursuing Publication

The pitching process can sometimes seem like a never-ending battle. Have you ever felt this way? I have. But when discouragement attempts to win, I go back to God’s Word over and over. Are you seeking confidence and direction in your writing career? I encourage you to consider these Scripture passages and seven practices for writers pursuing publication.

Read the original article on the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference Blog

1. Meditate on Scripture

“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8-9).

It’s tempting to skip this step and dive right into our writing. Our minds are full of ideas begging to be written. Yet, communing with God is a critical practice for Christian authors. We cannot bear fruit unless we remain in Jesus. He is the vine, and we are the branches. If we remain in Him and He in us, we will bear much fruit; apart from Jesus we can do nothing (John 15:4-5). In order for us to communicate God’s words of love and healing, we must first nourish our own souls.

2. Ask for Direction

From newbie authors to bestselling writers, Jesus teaches all of us to continually pray to the Father, “Not my will but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Ask God if it is His will for you to pursue publication. Then, look for confirmations—a compliment from a professional, winning a contest, or positive feedback from your critique group.

We envision what will fulfill us. But God may have something better planned which may look very different or not include publishing at all. He promises that if we take delight in Him, He will give us the desires of our hearts (Psalm 37:4). God dreams bigger. He “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us” (Ephesians 3:20). 

3. Prepare Your Writing

“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord” (Proverbs 21:31).

Your job is to prepare the horses, so to speak—write your manuscript or piece, get professional critiques, then rewrite. Then rewrite some more. Continue to grow and become a better writer. Read. Attend conferences. Do your homework researching agents and publishers who are looking for similar projects. Work diligently on query letters and proposals. Pray about which agents or editors to approach. Then, send out your writing.

4. Petition for Protection and Success

I’ve noticed a pattern. When I begin to build momentum in my writing and ministry, I feel attacked by the enemy. Usually, it comes as a severe illness of a close family member. Recently, as I was preparing to attend a conference, it took the form of a serious accident in our business. “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Ephesians 6:10-12).

Then, boldly petition in the Spirit for God’s favor to be upon you and establish the work of your hands (Psalm 90:17). “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).  Doors may begin to swing wide open without you trying to budge the wrong ones.

5. Watch God Work 

Sending out query emails, submitting proposals, and pitching in person can be intimidating and stressful. But this process is not yours. The querying battle belongs to the Lord. Take up your position; stand firm, and see what God is going to do. And do not be discouraged (2 Chronicles 20:15-17).

Remember, this is just as much a spiritual battle as it is a mental, emotional, and physical marathon. “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6). Trust in His timing, because it’s perfect. Wait. Wait for it. Then watch what amazing things God’s going to do.

6. Link Arms with Others

Don’t stand on the battle line watching alone. Link arms with other Christian authors. Join online Christian writers’ groups, connect on social media, or attend conferences and form relationships. Support and pray for one another. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

7. Worship with Thanksgiving

Months, years, decades—regardless of how long you’ve been pursuing publication, worship in thanksgiving for all that God has done and is going to do. Do not retreat or hide. And whatever you do, DO NOT GIVE UP unless you receive clear confirmation that God has other plans for your life, ministry, and writing talents. If God has called you to be a writer, you will become even more passionate and determined. Finally, “Be confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).

What practices do you think are important for writers pursuing publication?

All Scripture references are from the New International Version

Kristin Faith Evans, MA, MS, LMSW

Kristin is an award-winning author, a mental health therapist, and a mother of two children with rare genetic disorders and complex needs. Her greatest passion is walking with others on their journeys to deeper faith and mental health wholeness. Kristin has written articles for Key Ministry, The Joyful Life Magazine, Alive Now, The Upper Room, and Different Dream Living. Her short story, “The Rare Gift,” is featured in the Triumph from Tragedy anthology. She lives with her husband, Todd, and their two children in the Nashville, TN area. When she’s not enjoying life with her family, writing, or working with clients, you can find her training for triathlons, reading, or simply being out in nature.