Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose.
– Proverbs 18:21 (MSG)
Have you ever wondered who you’re “fighting” for when you write? Knowing our audience and those we fight for can sustain us through the discouragement, loneliness, and long slog that writing a book often becomes.
I was reminded of this truth at the Write With Us Retreat today when one of our attendees shared an insight she heard from Jess Connolly: If you know who you are fighting for, it’s easier to keep fighting. Such powerful advice, right?
This also points us back to a fundamental reality as Christians: God has always loved and fought for us.
He desired and delighted in us before we were born, sent us His written Word in Scripture, and gave us His Living Word—Jesus—so we’d never doubt His commitment.
Here’s how this spiritual truth can apply to our writing:
Why Defining Your Audience Matters
When we know who we’re writing for, we can show up consistently with passion, authenticity, and clear focus—even if we sometimes stumble along the way. It’s like running a marathon or even a 5K race. When we see who’s waiting for our words, it can propel us to keep moving forward.
Persistence is our superpower!
4 Practical Ways to Clarify Your Audience
1. Ask the Three Big Questions
These questions get to the heart of what moves you, what breaks your heart, and what ignites your fire:
- What moves you to tears?
- What makes you angry?
- What change do you want to see in the world?
Your answers here highlight the deep motivations God’s placed in you—and those motivations will fuel your writing.
“The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”
― Frederick Buechner, Wishful Thinking: A Seeker’s ABC
2. Pray for Your Future Readers
Carve out time to pray for the people God is calling you to serve through your words. I love to play worship music during these prayer sessions, asking the Holy Spirit to bring specific characteristics or people to mind. Jot down the insights and ideas that surface.
Ask God what He has to say about your audience and writing. He has so much He longs to share with you.
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3. Notice Who Resonates
You’ve likely shared snippets of your message in everyday conversation or on social media. Notice who leans in, asks questions, or expresses excitement. These are your potential readers—the ones God is already drawing in.
Observe their needs, struggles, and dreams; your book could be the very answer they’re searching for.
4. Map Out the Journey (Especially for Nonfiction)
If you’re writing nonfiction, think about the transformation you want readers to experience. How do you want them to grow?
Often, the best place to start is reflecting on your own journey. Chances are, your ideal reader is a version of you from the past—someone who faced the same problems and longed for the same solutions.
Jot down their fears, hopes, and frustrations. You’ll speak directly to their hearts when you share these details in your writing (and your marketing).
Write & Fight with Purpose
God’s Word reminds us that our words carry power—power to give life, to transform, and to break chains.
So, who are you fighting and writing for?
Tell us in the comments so we can pray with you and celebrate your clarity.
Stay curious and keep writing!
Your words matter, and someone out there needs them more than you know.
Deanne Welsh
Writing Coach & Spiritual Director
P.S. Longing for feedback and support?
Check out my Momentum Mastermind, where a small group of Unstoppable Writers comes together to encourage one another, share insights, and stay accountable to our God’s nudge to write. Don’t let the journey overwhelm you—join us, and let’s move forward in faith together!