How to Write Christian Devotionals

A prayer is a component of most devotionals.

Many Christian publishers seek devotional writings for books and magazines. Some of these publications are large and well-known like "The Upper Room" and "Our Daily Bread". Others are small, denominational publications. Almost all of these follow the same basic format.

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Instructions

- 1
  
  Find a Scripture verse. Publishers receive many devotionals on the more familiar passages. You will have better results if you focus on passages which receive less attention. The Minor Prophets, Nehemiah, Ezra, 1 and 2 Chronicles, Lamentations, Jude, 2 and 3 John, and Philemon are places to find less familiar Scripture passages.
- 2
  
  Choose one theme. The piece should be short, so don't ramble. Find the message or truth in the verse and concentrate on it.
- 3
  
  Use personal examples, if possible. Illustrations from daily life are good. The devotional is more accessible if it is brought down to the level of daily life. People are better able to relate to the familiar. Keep in mind that most devotional publications have an overseas audience as well as an American audience. Don't use American slang. Don't discuss political issues.
- 4
  
  Don't exceed 250 to 300 words. This is the length required by major markets.
- 5
  
  End the devotion with a prayer related to what you have written. Don't exceed one or two lines for the prayer.