Blogging Misconception 1
I am not a good writer, so why would anyone read my blog?
For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. –2 Peter 1:16
Blogging is not a writing exercise. Your goal is not to create “cleverly devised” stories. Peter was an eyewitness to the majesty of Christ, and so are we. Don’t let your need to perfectly dictate your experiences hinder you in sharing the amazing things God is revealing to you everyday.
Blogging Misconception 2
I don’t feel like my stories are important.
But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and hear what you hear but did not hear it. -Matthew 13:16-17
When Jesus revealed truths about the kingdom of heaven, he often did so in the form of parable. The disciples constantly asked him to explain the meanings of the parables. It was a privilege that the crowds didn’t often receive.
Everyday on the race your learning a little more about the kingdom of heaven. Don’t withhold this gift from the world. Many people long to see what you see, and hear what you hear. Don’t worry whether or not the whole world understands what you’re trying to communicate. Your stories are important. Trust that whoever has ears will hear.
Blogging Misconception 3
I don’t know what to write about.
Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written. -John 21:25
If you don’t know what to write about, it’s because you’re not recognizing the majesty and presence of God all around you everyday. Jesus ministered for three years and John said that the whole world would not have room to record his majesty. Furthermore, we live with the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit that was alive in Jesus. We are invited to do the same work. How could you not recognize him in an environment like this?
Pro Tip 1
Who Gets the Glory?
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:14-16
My host in Costa Rica spent some time one night reading through world race blogs. He pointed out that we are really good at letting our light shine before others, but so often we miss giving the glory to God. That’s a pretty scary place to be in, not only on the world race, but also as a church. He asked, “Do you want to see miracles? Then give God all of the glory that He deserves.”
Pro Tip 2
Nightly Reflection
Here is another cool exercise our host shared with us. Before you go to bed tonight, look back on the day and think about all of the moments that would not have been possible unless God showed up. Spend some time thanking Him. Ask Him for even more!
Pro Tip 3
Use Your Teammates
Ask someone to review your blog before you submit it. Ask them who is being glorified. Ask them to check for obvious grammar and spelling mistakes. Ask them about the length. Ask them if you’ve forgotten any important details that add to the story.
Pro Tip 4
Pray
Ask God to bless your work. Invite Him to have His way. Then trust Him!
