Ok, I admit it: I’ve been in blog world for only six months, which undoubtedly puts me in the minority within the Campus Ministry. But even though I’m a newbie, I think I’ve learned a few lessons along the way that may help the remaining four of us tip-toe into the unfamiliar.

I am committed to growing in all areas of my life. I have never wanted the fear of the unknown to rule my world and eventually close it down. Learning helps my character, as well as my trust in the Lord, to grow. I sensed God wanted to expand my footprint to encompass ministry to believers and non-believers alike. So last spring I took that scary first step and started the process of actually getting my own blog site.

I had a new book coming out in June ’09, Grace and Guts: What It Takes to Forgive, and the marketing strategy included a blog piece. I contacted two friends who were far ahead of me and asked for their help: Mike Foster of PlainJoe Studios and Brian Barela, MTL at Chico State. Both of these guys were invaluable to me, lending insight and very practical suggestions on how to proceed.

Now, I’m going to be honest here: At first I felt way over my head. I was afraid of failure, I entertained thoughts that it was all too hard for me, and I even slammed my computer shut one morning when I couldn’t import an image into my post! But I am growing and learning—and expanding my ministry. I’m glad I’m hanging in there, and I celebrate even the smallest of victories.

Maybe a few of you have been hesitant about claiming new ground in blog world, too. My advice? Grab a few friends who are further down the road than you and just jump in. You might fall and skin a knee or two, but you won’t crash and burn, I promise. Before long, you’ll be smoothly marching into blog world. Practice makes perfect. I’d love to hear about your successes, too. Just post them as comments on my blog site at http://graceandguts.net/

This is a guest post by Barbara Francis. Subscribe to her blog here | Add her on Facebook