Sometimes I write these long emails to readers of my blog to answer a question they have, and I’ve realized that some of these emails would probably make some pretty good posts. Maybe others have the same question.
Below is a modified version of an email I recently sent to a woman hoping to start a blog that mixes devotions and faith with everyday life stuff. Before she actually starts her blog, she’s been seeking advice from other bloggers. Here is what I told her…
There are two realms of advice I can give… one is what you are supposed to do to grow your blog if you want to intentionally try to increase your readership. This might include:
- posting regularly (at least 4-5 days a week)
- using social media to connect with other bloggers (especially Twitter and Instagram)
- using lots of pictures on your blog and making them BIG in size
- writing shorter rather than longer posts
- making sure you aren’t a “no reply blogger” so you can converse with people over email (read this post and this post for more information)
- perusing and commenting on a few new blogs every day
- responding to those who comment on your own posts through embedded commenting or email
But then there’s also the spiritual realm of blogging… which means acknowledging that God is in control of who and how many people read your blog. The above tips do work, and they are not bad, but I find that I must always keep them in check with what the Lord wants for my blog. Sometimes that means posting less often, because He has given me other duties and opportunities in my week that don’t allow for a lot of blogging time. Sometimes that means praising Him for a post that receives one personal email from someone asking about Jesus or seeking advice for Bible reading plans rather than 50 comments and 5 retweets. Of course, both these scenarios can be used for His glory, but I often see God at work through conversations I have in person with unsaved friends who read my blog or random emails I’ve received, instead of by gaining followers and receiving comments and other things that make me look popular online.
So there you have it… my straightforward advice for blogging. Because unless He wills it, your blog is not going to grow. And if you aren’t blogging for Him, what’s the point anyway?
well written. you have to look at the spiritual side of blogging. and remember all things are in gods hands. your blog touches me. so thank you for sharing.
so true. my tiny blog impacts a lot of really weak Christians or non Christians from the people I work with/have been friends with fb. None of those people show up on my followers. But I know the bit I do matters to them, which is humbling in itself. Not that the growing thing is bad 🙂 But your blog can 'matter' without being huge.
great advice, Jen!
That is great advice! I like the second half of it the most! Although I try to do all of those things.(except blog 4-5 times a week):)
I was just down on myself as I woke up thinking I'm such a horrible blogger because I never find the time to blog enough. But then I thought I only want to blog to help others know they aren't alone in hard times. So what you said hits the spot right on 🙂 thanks for this!!
This was so encouraging and helpful! My husband and I pray over my blog daily because I really want to be able to reach people. I'm new to blogging and I love getting comments from my readers on how a post has touched them or spoken to their situation! It keeps me encouraged and makes me feel like I'm really doing what God wants for me to do! Thanks for this post.
Thank you for posting this! I have not seen much growth in my blog, and I was getting frustrated. God gently reminded me that Blogging is for his glory not mine. This is a great reminder!
Great advice! Loved this post!! I've never written a post on advice because I feel like I'm a disaster half the time:) ha!!! But love reading advice from others!!!!
Definitely feel this way…would much rather of some great conversation with a few than a lot of hits from visitors.
Thanks for the reminder!