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Is it cheating to use templates for takeaways? No. Like following the standard 3-part format for writing devotionals, it’s smart. Templates offer patterns that have proven to work over time.
Takeaways are framed with verbs: “a conflict to resolve” … “a promise to claim.” There is a good reason for that: verbs are action words. Your takeaway challenges the reader to action. When writing your takeaway, use action words — verbs.
As you write your takeaway, do so by using open-ended questions or statements.
The takeaway is usually short — about 25-50 words at most. If you’ve done a good job in the illustration section, then you won’t need more space than that to challenge the reader to action because you’ll have already made your point. All that is left is to personalize it.
However, you are responsible for offering a challenge through your devotional in the best way you possibly can.
Don’t let any extras undermine the 3-part devotional structure. If your questions or related scripture are more substantial than the devotional message, then you’re writing a Bible study (not a devotional). If your focus for your 8-year-old reader is the craft, then you’re writing a set of craft instructions (not a devotional.)
If you add extra elements to your devotional, make sure they reinforce the single point you make. Don’t give into the temptation to sneak in another spiritual insight.
Do what he did: keep talking to God. Keep listening to how He answers. And in the end, keep praising Him.
