3 Tips To Develop Your Focus for Writing That Inspires

Have you ever suffered moments of blah when trying to write a blog post that inspires? If so, have I got a story for you! Years of average snapshots prompted me to sign up for a beginners’ photography class, and I’ll never forget something that instructor shared: “Anyone can take a picture. But capturing moments that move people? That’s how photographers speak.”

I entered that classroom fatigued and overwhelmed from years of missing great shots. The instructor’s passion for photography, coupled with her engaging lessons, renewed my hope for capturing great pictures. And oddly enough, I gained insight for writing. Here are three truths about capturing great pictures, and they also apply to writing great blog posts.

Be Inspired: 

My photography instructor lives in a state of preparedness by keeping her camera near; she seeks inspiration. Capturing images is her way of sharing inspiration with others. As writers, we seek to express inspiration by stringing words together. We desire to share our experiences with our readers. If we desire to share our experiences, doesn’t it make sense to ensure we have the means to capture our moments?

Just like we fumble for our phones to capture a glorious sunset, we should pause long enough to record words for offering. Seek inspiration — be prepared to capture the moment — and give yourself permission to revel in awe. 

 

Be Specific: 

After years of frustrated attempts to capture the beauty of my surroundings, I learned the reason my photos were so … meh. My subject was always too broad. My instructor broadened my understanding by teaching me to narrow my view: “Point your camera at a tree. Now use the zoom feature to locate a single, auburn leaf bathed with sunlight.” Choosing a subject that is too general, or too broad, makes your post hard to write. It also renders it quite ordinary. 

For example, instead of writing about God’s love, narrow your focus. What is it about God’s love that inspires you to write? The process of “zooming in” as a writer might look like this: 

• God’s love. 
• God’s love for you. 
• God’s love for you when you sinned. 
• God’s love for you when you sinned as a Christian. 
• God’s love for you when you sinned as a Christian by refusing to forgive the one who abandoned you. 

There it is. That last statement captures the specific source of your inspiration. 

 

Be Focused: 

One of the most challenging things about photography is learning how to bring a snapshot into the best possible focus. Choosing the best angle is one way of defining whether a photograph garners a passing glance or stuns a viewer into awe. How is this achieved in writing? Choose the angle from which you write, and develop your topic with your story, support from God’s Word and application from your personal experience. Use your inspiration as the motivation for others to experience a more intimate relationship with God.

Did you catch the angle? You capture your personal experience of God’s love in order to share it with your readers. Much like we know a photographer was present in order to capture a photo, your reader will know you speak from experience. From your unique angle, you create a bond with any reader who relates to your words.

Can you see how applying these tips to every blog post gives depth to your topic? When God offers inspiration in our lives, we feel compelled to share it with our world. There’s a reason for that desire, and there’s a reason He’s allowed you the gift of inspiration.

“So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him,‘If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’” (John 8:31-32, NASB1995)

There are multitudes in need of truth for a very specific need, the truth that will set them free.

Are you ready to share your inspiration with the world? If so, give us a sneak peek in the comments below. Can you name one specific way God has stopped you in your steps with inspiration to share with your readers? Share in the comments below!

Blessings,

Charla Matthews