The extensive utilization of multisyllabic terminology and obfuscatory phraseology, coupled with an overabundance of manufactured verbiage, runs counter to the goals and purposes of an effective communications methodology. — David Bly
Every piece of writing is an invitation to a conversation. Whether you are writing a blog, a book, a sermon, or a story, you are not merely placing words on a page. You are opening a dialogue with the reader.
Where to Start
Discussion always begins with a topic. People naturally talk about the things that interest them: work, sports, family, vacations, frustrations, and daily life. Writers work in the same way. If you want readers to engage with your writing, you must begin with something that genuinely matters—something people already care about or something that touches a deep human need.
Great writing often begins where real conversations begin—with life.
When we connect our message to everyday experiences, readers feel invited rather than lectured. A story about perseverance might begin with a runner training for a marathon. A lesson about faith might begin with someone facing uncertainty. By starting with familiar experiences, we create a bridge that leads readers toward deeper ideas.
Jesus himself often taught this way. He spoke about seeds, farmers, bread, sheep, and vineyards—ordinary subjects that opened the door to extraordinary truth (Matthew 13:3–9).
The lesson is simple: Start where people already live.
The Topic Many People Avoid
While people freely discuss countless subjects, there is one topic many avoid. What is that? God. Some people worry they might say the wrong thing and offend someone. Others feel unsure about their beliefs. Still others simply live in environments where spiritual conversation feels out of place. Yet if God truly exists and cares about human life, then he is the most important subject anyone could discuss.
With our stories, we can gently open that conversation. We don’t have to begin with theological language or formal doctrine. In fact, it’s a good idea not to do that. Instead, begin with questions people already wrestle with:
- Why do we feel empty even when life seems successful?
- Why do people long for purpose?
- Why do we struggle with guilt and hope for forgiveness?
Questions like these naturally lead readers toward deeper reflection.
The Writer’s Hidden Resource
One of the most powerful habits we can develop is an ongoing conversation with God. For that, we don’t need a special location, ceremony, or audience. No matter where we are, we can talk to him—while walking, driving, sitting at a desk, or when we’re staring at a blank page.
Writing often involves uncertainty. We wonder if our ideas make sense. We question whether readers will understand. We struggle to find the right words. Our conversations with God turn the writing process into a partnership with him. Instead of relying solely on our own insight, we invite divine wisdom into the conversation.
Many writers discover that clarity appears after quiet reflection and prayer. The result is writing that carries not only information but also insight and depth.
Shallow Conversations
Many conversations remain shallow because people hide what they truly think. In everyday conversation, people tend to say what they believe others want to hear rather than what they really believe. The same thing can happen when we write. We may feel pressured to imitate popular opinions and to avoid difficult topics.
But meaningful writing requires honesty.
Readers are remarkably skilled at sensing authenticity. When we speak sincerely—even when exploring complex or uncomfortable ideas—readers are far more likely to engage.
The Power of Questions
One of the most effective tools in both discussion and writing are the questions. They invite participation. They encourage reflection. They open the door for discovery.
Instead of telling readers what to think, we can guide them through thoughtful questions:
- What if the problem you are facing is preparing you for something greater?
- What if your deepest frustration contains the seed of your calling?
- What if God is already working behind the scenes of your life?
Such questions transform readers from passive observers into active participants.
Guiding the Conversation
Effective discussion rarely happens by accident. Someone usually guides it. In a group discussion, a facilitator asks questions, listens carefully, and encourages participation so one idea naturally leads to another.
Our writing can work the same way, guiding a conversation that takes place in the reader’s mind. Each paragraph should lead naturally to the next idea, much like stepping stones across a stream.
Consider the flow of a strong article or chapter:
- Introduce a relatable idea or problem.
- Ask questions that deepen curiosity.
- Explore insights or perspectives.
- Connect the discussion to a larger truth.
- Leave readers with something to reflect upon.
When this process works well, readers feel as though they have taken a meaningful journey.
Discussion Leading to Discovery
The most rewarding conversations are those where understanding grows. One idea sparks another. A question leads to an insight. A perspective shifts. Suddenly something becomes clear that wasn’t clear before.
Readers begin with curiosity. As they continue reading, the discussion deepens. Eventually they arrive at a realization that changes how they see something.
Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. With our writing, we want to sharpen minds, strengthen faith, and illuminate truth.
Conversation Starter
Do you ever feel pressure to have all the answers? If so, you’re part of a very large group of writers who want to get the words right. That concern can either produce “writer’s block,” or we can simply be a “conversation starter.” You can’t write what’s not on your mind, which is what writer’s block is waiting for. Instead, we can always start a conversation with whatever bothers us, excites us, or just happens to be on our minds.
- Raise important questions.
- Explore meaningful ideas.
- Invite readers into a thoughtful discussion about life, truth, and faith.
Some readers may continue that discussion with friends. Others may reflect quietly. Still others may carry the conversation directly to God. And that may be the most meaningful outcome of all. Because when writing leads people toward honest conversation—with others and with God—it has accomplished something truly significant.
In the end, writing is more than words.
It is an invitation to think, to question, and to seek truth together.
For a practical guide to storytelling, check out Storytelling at Its Best
