The Short Form Content: Digest a Point In 2 Minutes or Less

An online devotional for writers

A Word From The Word

I have much more to say to you, but … I hope to see you soon. (3 John 13-14, NLT)

A Word For Writers

The shortest book of the Bible is 3 John. In the original Greek, it’s got just 219 words.

Short form content: a #devotional for #writers based on 3 John 13 with Word Wise at Nonprofit Copywriter #FreelanceWriting #ChristianWriting

Yet this short letter is a powerful example of quality short form content – that is, content that’s generally 600 words or less and that can be read and digested in two minutes or less.

Third John is a personal letter from the Apostle John to Gaius, a leader in the early church. Its main point is the importance of hospitality. John wanted to ensure that traveling teachers received a warm welcome from newly-planted congregations.

Everything John says in this letter speaks to this one issue.

He commended Gaius for his faithfulness as reported by traveling teachers
He explained the value of missionaries
He requested hospitality on their behalf
He warned Gaius about Diotrephes, an exclusionary leader who was unwelcoming
He recommended Demetrius as one who would embrace visitors
He indicated further messages to come and extended greetings to others in Gaius’ circle

John shared all those details with a singular focus: would Gaius be sure to welcome traveling partners warmly.

Short-form content – such as devotionals, emails, short blog posts, and social media posts – makes a clear point that can be digested in two minutes or less.

A Wise Word

Short-form content lets the reader digest a point in two minutes or less.

A Word To Pray

Gracious Father,

I confess my tendency to be wordy. I want readers to enjoy my prose. Forgive me for that tendency towards pride. Show me how to have a singular focus in my short form content so that readers can easily digest the key point.

In Jesus’s name, Amen.

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