How to Write Devotions for Single Parents

A devotional for single parents is meant to connect the dots between emotions, experiences and spiritual life.

Short devotions are meant to be thought-provoking and emotionally uplifting. Somewhere between 200 and 300 words, a short devotional for single parents will focus on topics that affect daily life, such as child rearing, financial planning, dealing with burnout and other subjects likely to influence and challenge the single parent's emotional and spiritual health.

Things You'll Need

• A Bible
• A pen and pencil
• A quiet place to think and write

Instructions

1. Choose an outline for the devotional. Most devotionals start with a central thought encapsulated in a short title. The devotional then tells a story or example, relates this story to a scriptural reference, and closes by quoting scripture and/or writing a short prayer. This method is illustrated by the anagram PIER: Point, Illustration, Explanation, Reference.

2. Choose a point that focuses on an experience familiar to single parents. Topics such as daily stress, financial pressures or dealing with the child's non-resident parent each influence single parents' life on a daily basis.

3. Choose an illustration or personal experience that creatively connects the dots between the single parent's experiences and an encouraging idea.

4. Explain the connection between the point and the illustration. In just a few sentences, connect the dots between how the single parent's feelings and experiences can be reinterpreted or applied to the chosen illustration.

5. Complete the devotional with a scripture reference that speaks encouragingly to the point and illustration. For example, a scripture reference speaking about forgiveness could be used at the end of a devotional on handling the child's non-resident parent. A scripture reference on patience could be used at the end of a devotional discussing the trials of raising children.

6. Re-read the completed devotional. After setting the devotional aside for a short period, re-read it for clarity and conciseness. A devotional's power comes from its brevity and clarity of thought. Check for and replace any typos, unclear words and poor grammar.

References

• Pine Forge: Single Parent Families
• Writers Conference Guidelines: Tips on Writing Devotionals
• Writing to Inspire: 10 Steps to Writing Devotionals: Verda Glick: 200

Resources

• The Upper Room: How to Write Devotionals