Author Donna Shepherd is joining us again today to tell us more about her experiences in the field of Christian devotional writing. If you want to learn more about her work as an author of picture books, please see our interview here. You can also say hello to Donna on her blog at Devotionals by Donna.

Hi, Donna. Thanks for visiting us again.

Thanks for having me back.

Can you tell us how you got interested in devotional writing?

When my children were little, I didn’t have time to sit and read for long periods, so I got into the habit of reading devotionals. I’ve taught Sunday School for many years, and I’m studying for a Theology degree, so expounding on a Scripture is a fun exercise for me. I came up with the slogan “Lessons Learned from Everyday Life” because I want to emulate the teachings of Christ. He taught using everyday objects and events.

I like that slogan!

I started posting my devotionals on a blog. Someone saw them and recommended me to an editor. (Thank you, Elece!) That’s how I ended up with a contract to write devotionals for Daily Grace for Women: Devotional Reflections to Nourish Your Soul, which was published by Honor Books in April 2005. I’ll also have devotionals in the upcoming book, Anytime Prayers for Everyday Moms, which will be published by Warner Faith in November this year.

Wow — congratulations! Those sound like great books! Do you recommend any resources for moms or others who want to learn how to write devotionals?

Alyice Edrich, editor of The Dabbling Mum, called on me to write an article on writing devotionals. It’s called Help! I Want To Be A Christian Devotional Writer. I included links to many resources. My main resource is the Bible. It’s vital that you don’t take Bible verses out of context and that each scripture has a clear and supportive connection to the devotional. Quote scripture briefly and be sure to include proper references. To me this is of utmost importance.

Thanks for telling us about that article — it’s full of great links! I notice you mention The Upper Room, which has always been one of my favorite daily devotionals. Do you have any more tips for aspiring devotional writers?

Devotionals may be short, but that does not mean they are simple. Write a short, vivid article focusing on one theme – a single, spiritual teaching. My best recommendation would be to re-read your favorite devotionals. What touched your heart? What made it memorable?

Can you tell us a few places that publish devotionals?

When I first started putting devotionals on a blog, I was criticized for sharing them freely, yet I felt led by the Lord. Because of the exposure, I ended up writing for pay doing something I love; so don’t overlook nonpaying markets – at least not in the beginning. When you’re ready to find paying markets, look through Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers Market Guide or Writer’s Market. Other possible markets are The Upper Room or The Secret Place.

OK, one of my favorite devotionals of yours is Smelly Saints. Can you tell us a quick version of this funny story and how you found spiritual insight from burned popcorn?

Oh, my! The smell of burnt popcorn lingered in our home for days! I thought there had to be a spiritual lesson in this experience, and then I remembered the verse that says sin is a stench in God’s nostrils, and wrote “Smelly Saints.” What has been so wonderful about that devotional is how it has been seen by so many people searching for a way to rid their home of burnt popcorn odor. I guess my husband isn’t the first person to make that mistake!

Why do you think it’s good for parents to write down things our kids say and do?

When your children are young, be sure to write down everything. Don’t delay. You’ll forget the cute details, the facial expressions, and the darling statements. If I have one regret, it’s that I didn’t do that. God has blessed me with many memories, but I’m sure there are many more I could have written about. Keep a notebook in the kitchen (I seemed to spend a lot of time there when my children were little!) and a file on your computer.

I know that you’ve had several speaking engagements lately. Do you have any tips on helping people overcome the jitters about public speaking?

I’ve sung in church for many years, and gotten used to being up in front of people. The first time I spoke, I sang first which helped me overcome my jitters. I’ve had people tell me they can’t imagine that singing calmed me, but it did. When I speak in church or at women’s conferences, I always incorporate music. At a writers’ conference, I have to rely on my words. I make tons of notes, an outline I can refer to as I speak, and work to make sure the time spent with me has takeaway value. Handouts are good, and if you do a PowerPoint presentation, the eyes in the room are on the screen more than you!

Well, this has been so inspiring chatting with you, Donna. Thank you for your time!

I’ve enjoyed this too. It’s my desire that my children’s writing would impart joy and that my devotionals would teach, inspire, and encourage readers. I feel incredibly blessed to write – whether it’s about singing snakes or smelly saints!