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Self‑Publishing Made Simple: A Step‑by‑Step Guide for Christian Authors

You’ve got the message.

God’s stirred your heart, and now you’re ready to put it into words. But the idea of self‑publishing—formatting, uploading, launching—can feel overwhelming.

Don’t worry. You’re not alone.

This step‑by‑step guide breaks the process into simple, doable steps, with Scripture and encouragement woven throughout. Whether you’re writing a devotional, testimony, children’s book, or Christian non‑fiction—this is for you.

1. Pray First. Always.

Before typing a single word, bring your idea before God.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” — Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Let Scripture guide your direction and protect against distraction.


2. Write Messy, Then Refine

Use Google Docs, Scrivener, or Word. No need for perfect—just obedient.

  • Set small daily goals.
  • Create basic structure (Intro → Chapters → Conclusion).
  • Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway for clarity.

3. Edit with Grace & Grit

Self‑edit first, then invite someone else to review.

Focus on:

  • Message clarity
  • Biblical accuracy
  • Grammar/punctuation

Don’t stress if you can’t afford a pro editor now—peer support is powerful.


4. Format for Kindle & Print

Choose tools that fit your tech comfort level:

  • Free/DIY: Reedsy Book Editor, Canva, Word
  • Pro options: Atticus (Win/Mac), Vellum (Mac only)

Ensure you format separately for eBook (reflowable) and print (fixed layout).


5. Design a Cover That Speaks

Reflect your book’s heart with a standout cover:

  • DIY: Canva Pro, Adobe Express, Creative Market assets
  • Hire out: Fiverr or Christian design services

Use Amazon’s own templates for sizing accuracy.


Choose Your Publishing Path

Options:

  • Amazon KDP – eBook & paperback; free ISBN; global reach
  • IngramSpark – bookstore/library reach; paid setup + your own ISBN
  • Traditional printer – bulk prints for events, church sales, your website

📍Tip: Purchase ISBNs from Nielsen UK (UK) or Bowker (US) to retain full control—even if you also use KDP’s free ISBN.


7. Upload & Publish

Be prepared with:

  • Title & subtitle
  • Blurb
  • Keywords & categories
  • Interior file (PDF/EPUB)
  • Cover files (JPG for eBook, PDF for paperback)

Follow KDP/IngramSpark setup walkthroughs—don’t rush.


8. Launch with Faith, Not Panic

Start small:

  1. Email your list announcing the launch
  2. Ask friends/family for honest reviews
  3. Share your “why” behind the book in gentle, heartfelt ways

9. Plan What Comes Next

After launch, consider:

  • Collecting reviews
  • Building an email list
  • Offering a free devotional or bonus
  • Expanding formats: audiobook (Audible), large print, etc.
  • Selling at events, churches, or your website

You might even turn your book into a workbook, speaking series, or church resource.


Final Encouragement

You don’t need to be perfect. You only need obedience.

Let faith—not fear—guide your journey forward.


Want Guided Support?

Choose your path:

Every option includes exclusive access to our Faith to Published Author Community—because you don’t have to go it alone.

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Dana Onye is a Christian children’s author, resource creator, and mum of four. She’s passionate about helping families grow in faith through books, printables, and tools rooted in truth, identity, and everyday discipleship. Dana also equips aspiring Christian authors with guidance to write and publish biblically sound books that impact the next generation.
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Best-Selling Author & Faith-Based Creator
Through stories, devotionals, and tools for kids, parents and authors, I share Christ-centred resources that spark imagination, strengthen identity, and equip families to live out their faith with joy.