Twelve Reasons Why I Love Being a Writer

by Crystal Bowman

Though Valentine’s Day has come and gone, February is known as the month of love. Here are twelve reasons why I love being a writer: 

Seven D Words for Writers

by Crystal Bowman

I’m a little bit OCD so my brain is wired to crave order and organization in my world. That’s why I love lists. I came up with a list of D words for writers. Maybe you can relate to some of these. 

Writers, Give Yourself a Christmas Gift

by Crystal Bowman

Do you have a lot of names on your Christmas list, or just a few? No matter how long your list is, don’t forget to add your name to the list as well. Writers work hard and it can be a lonely world, so treat yourself to something that will put a smile on your face. 

Applying "Just Do It!" to the Writing Life

by Crystal Bowman

"Just Do It" is one of the most iconic and effective advertising taglines of all time. These three simple words—the slogan for Nike athletic shoes—embody the essence of motivation, ambition, and perseverance. It encourages sideliners to get off the bench and into the game. The slogan was introduced in 1988 and propelled Nike from a footwear contender to a global sports company with universal recognition. 

Why Writers W.R.I.T.E

by Crystal Bowman

Writers write for a variety of reasons. For some it’s a hobby, for some it’s a ministry, for others it’s a career, and for many it’s all of the above. We write because God has called us to write. We write to process our thoughts and emotions. And we write because we have something to say. 

Bible Verses and Prayers for Writers

by Crystal Bowman

As Christian writers, we cannot write without partnering with the Holy Spirit. As we commit our writing and publishing to God, I pray these Bible verses and prayers will be an encouragement for you today.

11 Bible Verses—With Prayers—For Writers

Common Sayings from the Bible Many Writers Use

by Crystal Bowman

Whether we are aware of it or not, many of our common sayings and idioms have their origins in Scripture. I’ve gathered a list, but there are many more. 

Ideas for Writing Devotions

by Crystal Bowman

Whether you write for children, teens, adults, fiction or nonfiction, most Christian writers have the opportunity to write a devotion. It may be for an online site, a magazine, a church event, contribution to a compilation of devotions, or your own book of devotions. And when it comes to writing a devotion—ideas are everywhere!

Ten Friendly Tips to Help Writers Stay on Track

by Crystal Bowman

Throughout my decades of writing, I’ve learned much from editors, mentors, writers’ conferences, and seasoned writers. I have kept a list of helpful tips that I read now and then to brush up and refresh my writing brain. No matter where we are on our writing journey, it’s always good to review best practices.

Why Writers Need to Keep an Open Mind

by Crystal Bowman

I have heard writers say, “I will only write something if it’s my idea.” Well, that’s fine if you plan on self-publishing. However, if you want to work with a publisher, either traditional or independent, a writer needs to be open to direction, critique, and even a different idea.

The Benefits of Working with a Writing Coach

by Crystal Bowman

Back in the day—like thirty years ago—I met with a children’s editor who was interested in my idea for a beginning reader series. He liked the first two stories I had submitted and said they had potential. Then he passed me off to his assistant who worked with me for several months to make the stories worthy of bringing to the publishing board. My rewritten stories finally went before the “powers that be” who liked them enough to offer a contract for a four-book series. The books were published years later, and another four-book contract followed. 

How Things Have Changed Through the Decades in the World of Publishing

by Crystal Bowman

My first book was published in 1993, so I’ve been in the publishing biz for more than thirty years. Things have changed a lot, so let’s take a trip down memory lane. 

What Part Does Divine Inspiration Play in Our Writing

by Crystal Bowman

Several decades ago, when my hubby and I began listening to contemporary Christian music (instead of oldies from the 60s), we enjoyed the music of Dallas Holm. Born in 1948, his musical ministry spanned nearly four decades. His 1977 live album (with the group Praise) featured his best-know song, “Rise Again,” a powerful song about the resurrection of Jesus. Before he sang the song, he spoke to the audience and his words have stuck with me. He said (paraphrasing according to my memory), “On most days, I write lyrics and music because that’s what I do—it’s my job and it’s the gift God has given me. But every once in a while, an idea for a song comes to me that I believe God has given me. This next song (Rise Again) is one of those songs.”

A Proverb for Writers

by Crystal Bowman

God’s Word is alive and active. It speaks to us no matter what season of life we are in or whatever circumstances we face. As God speaks to us through His Word, He offers hope, guidance, wisdom, and encouragement for our everyday lives.

I recently read a verse in Proverbs that spoke loud and clear to me as a writer: “The person who gets wisdom is good to himself. And the one who has understanding will succeed” Proverbs 19:8, ICB.

Writers Can Always Give the Gift of Reading

by Crystal Bowman

The Best Birthday Gift

My sister celebrated a milestone birthday a few months ago and I struggled with what kind of gift to give her. Flowers die, clothes go out of style, and who needs another “thing” to set around the house? Then the obvious occurred to me! She loves reading novels and I know a few authors who write novels. I typed a quick email to bestselling author, Eva Marie Everson, and asked her for suggestions. I not only purchased two books from her, but I asked her to sign them and personalize them for my sister. In a few days, they arrived at my house. I tucked them between pink and yellow tissue paper, placed them in a sparkly gift bag, added her favorite chocolates, and voilà—the perfect gift for a special sister. When she opened the gift at her birthday party, I took a picture of the two of us holding the books and sent the picture to Eva to use on her social media. A win-win-win for all!

Four Things Writers and Runners Have in Common

by Crystal Bowman

My hubby and kids are marathon runners. Me? Not so much! I’m not a runner but I can walk fast—especially if a dog is chasing me! I recently signed up for a 5K, and as a writer, I found the parallels intriguing. 

A Few Common Mistakes Writers Make

by Crystal Bowman

In both speaking and writing, grammatical errors are common. In light of eternity, it really doesn’t matter, but as professional writers we want to strive for excellence (not perfection). Here are some words and phrases that often get used incorrectly: 

Six Reasons Writers Need Friends Who Are Writers

by Crystal Bowman

Last month I spent four wonderful and amazing days at the AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) conference. I was reminded once again how important and rewarding it is to have friends and acquaintances who are also writers. Here are six good reasons why writers need friends who are writers:

Encourage and Impact Your Readers When You Write Devotions Using These Tips

by Crystal Bowman

Opportunities for writing devotions are plentiful in the Christian market. Whether you’re writing an online devotion, contributing to a compilation devotional book, or writing an entire book of devotions, here are some basic things to keep in mind.

8 Things to Remember When Writing Devotions

As Writers We Must Never Forget the Power Behind the Words We Write & Speak

by Crystal Bowman

When I was in the 4th grade, my teacher, Mrs. Beckman, gave the assignment to write a poem about something we enjoyed. I knew right away my poem would be about our summer cottage. And so, I began writing my very first poem: At the cottage, warm and blue, we go swimming two-by-two. I continued writing a few more verses then turned it in at the end of the day.

The next day, I was pleasantly surprised when Mrs. Beckman passed out the poems. I had a big read A on the top of the page. Seeing the A made me smile, but the words Mrs. Beckman spoke planted a seed in my heart. “Crystal, someday you are going to be a poet.”