Helpful Resources for Writers to Share God’s Word
All I can think about is the deadline looming before me as I stare at the contrast between the starkness of a blank screen and a blinking cursor. I whisper out loud, Lord, I don’t understand what’s going on; creativity flows freely and often profusely when I’m casually enjoying Your presence, yet words evade me when facing a deadline.
Oh, the woes of a writer’s life! They are as varied as the words we write. However, we all have one goal as faith-writers — sharing words that compel people to follow Jesus. Ours is a privilege that comes with divine accountability, which can be more than a little intimidating.
I’ve discovered my bouts with perfectionism and writer’s block described above are often connected to this sacred duty. Fear of saying the wrong thing clogs up my creativity and ability to be led by the Holy Spirit. I wonder if this might be an “Aha!” moment for you. If so, I’ve got great news!
Friend, there is no end to the resources God will provide when His purpose and our passion collide. As my thirst for His Word and yearning for revelation grows, so does His generous supply of biblical resources. Today I’ll share some of my favorites with you.
Perhaps the best-kept secret regarding resources for biblical studies is the free version of Logos Bible Software. Logos 9 Basic Software includes a collection of 40 digital resources for your personal Bible study. I use the iOS app on my iPad most of the time, but you can also access it online from your desktop. Logos also gives away a free resource each month; make sure you subscribe to their email list to add these to your Logos digital library.
Blue Letter Bible is the first online resource I discovered several years ago and one that I continue to use today. It’s available as an app for your phone or tablet and online. If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for free, this would be the best pick because you have access to more biblical reference tools than I can list within the allowed word count for this article. In addition to text commentaries, encyclopedias, dictionaries, charts, outlines, maps and images, you have access to audio and video commentaries — something I’ve not found in other free resources.
Dallas Theological Seminary offers free online Bible courses taught by past and present faculty members, including Dr. Mark Yarbrough, the President of Dallas Theological Seminary. “How to Read the Bible Like a Seminary Professor” is a great place to start. It’s taught by one of the most celebrated teachers in DTS’s history, the late Dr. Howard Hendricks. This is the first class I took, and the curriculum is very similar to Bible Study Methods & Rules of Interpretation, the first course in the BTCL training program. (See below.)
Bible Training for Church Leaders offers seminary training without the high cost of tuition. Bible Study Methods & Rules of Interpretation is the first of five sequential courses in the BTCL program that teaches how to observe, interpret and apply God’s Word, emphasizing personal application. Classes are usually held through church partnerships and meet once per week.
Friend, when our Christian ambition supersedes our desire for fame as Christian writers, God goes out of His way to prove He’ll do the equipping as long as we respond to His call! Learning God’s Word to better share it with others helps us to focus on what really matters.
Blessings,
Kelly Kirby Worley
How often do you struggle with writer’s block or perfectionism? Which of the resources above would help you feel more confident about your writing ministry?
Kelly Kirby Worley
Kelly is a marketing-savvy Christian communicator, writer and artist passionate about encouraging and empowering women to trust God and know who they are in Christ. She serves as a volunteer leader for a COMPEL Critique Group and is a member of the COMPEL Training blog writing team. You can follow Kelly's writing on Instagram @kellykirbyworley or connect through her website: www.kellykirbyworley.com.
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Thank you, Kelly, for directing us to these resources. They do look great and will provide some much needed resources as I continue my writing journey.
GREAT job, Kelly, sharing these resources! Though I am taking courses at LU right now, I will check into the free classes at some point!
Hey Kelly! Love this post of great resources. Love Dr. Howard Henricks, too! I didn’t know about the free classes. I can’t wait to check these out. Thank you!