Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Ten Writing Tips from the Apostle Paul

Attributed to Rembrandt [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
The Apostle Paul wrote prolifically. His letters are the earliest books of the New Testament, some written from prison and others written while he traveled. Although he suffered from a painful physical ailment, and, for the most part, had to dictate his writings for others to pen, he did not allow anything to stop the flow of inspired words.

Contemplating all the obstacles that could have prevented Paul from writing, I realize that my own excuses for NOT writing pale in comparison. While I often view life’s challenges as stumbling blocks to writing, Paul used them as abundant fodder for letters of encouragement to fellow believers. Paul can teach us a great deal about being a writer:

Ten Writing Tips We Can Glean from Paul 
  • Others will benefit from reading your faith story. (Galatians 1:13-24)
  • It’s ok to write on the same theme often. (Philippians 3:1b)
  • Write from what you have been taught. (Philippians 3:2-6)
  • Write from your experiences. (Philippians 3:7-11)
  • Write despite opposition or persecution. (2 Cor. 4:8-13)
  • Start with the positive. (Rom. 1:8, 1 Cor. 1:4-5, Eph. 1:1-2)
  • Write despite personal challenges. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
  • Rely on God. (1 Cor. 2:1-5, 2 Cor. 4:7)
  • Write what God calls you to write. (Ephesians 3:3-8)
  • Write with the reader in mind. (1 Corinthians 3:1-3) 

Paul's letters brought a revolutionary change in how people thought about and lived for God. His writings impacted many religious leaders including St. Augustine and Martin Luther. Perhaps if we contemplated the influence our writings might have, even just on family and friends, we will be less inclined to put off jotting down those thoughts and ideas God nudges us to write.

As you daily read and meditate on God’s Word, take just a few moments to look for insights into writing hidden among the words and lives of the writers. We would love to have you share them in the comments section.

©2013 Pamela D. Williams

11 comments:

  1. I copied the ten writing tips! These are great to keep in mind. I especially like this one: Rely on God. (1 Cor. 2:1-5, 2 Cor. 4:7. If we rely on Him to guide us in our endeavors, the road is so much more clear, even with the sharp curves and potholes. smiles! Take care and many blessings to everyone. Cynthia

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    1. Glad you found the tips worthwhile, Cynthia. I love it when a voice speaks from the past and teaches me something.

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  2. Pam, these are such great tips. The one that sticks out the most today is write despite personal challenges. I find that when there's inner turmoil, I seem to pull away from writing. As I have time I'll come back and read the accompanying scriptures for each of your tips. Great job.

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    1. Thanks, Wanda. I love that the tips match up so well with Scripture.

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  3. Thanks for sharing these on 1st Writes. This was a good study in class and good for sharing.

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    1. We have had so many good lessons in writers' group. Looking forward to Fall!

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  4. Oh my goodness, I LOVE this! I, too, wanted to immediately copy the ten tips down...and it had the profound effect of making my want to stop reading immediately and start writing myself!!! Thank you! Can't wait for your devotional book for writers to come out - looks fantastic! Thanks for sharing! So glad we've met...!

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    1. Glad you found them helpful, Elaine. I will keep posting on the progress of my book. I, too, am glad we met!

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  5. Love these tips on writing from the apostle Paul!!! This made my morning! Thank you!

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    1. Paul seems to be able to teach on a multitude of subjects!

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  6. this is great. Timely wisdom from so long ago.

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