How to Write Letters That People Want to Read

There's the smell of freshly brewed coffee (or tea) in the air, a sweet treat on your plate, original songs playing in the background. You've got your pretty paper, your favorite pen that writes in a way that just feels like "YES", and scriptures and references that you want to include in your letter.

You're just about to bring your pen to paper (or maybe got as far as writing "Dear") and your mind goes "...now what?".

Does this sound like a familiar scenario?

Let's just start with saying that you're not alone in this (if you are), because yours truly here has definitely been there. The number of crumpled sheets of paper piled up from starting a letter and then feeling a bit lost is enough to make me think, "where do I go from here?" 

So how can you write a letter that your recipient will want to read? These are just some tips that I've found helpful. They're not rules, nor the standard, but perhaps some ideas that you might also find helpful. 

8 Tips to Write Effective Letters

1. Start with Prayer

Since "we are God’s fellow workers" (1 Cor. 3:9), there's no better help than what we will receive from Jehovah.

• Ask Jehovah for guidance so your words are warm and sincere.

• Remember, it’s Jehovah who draws people. Your words are simply planting a seed (1 Cor. 3:6)

2. Begin with Empathy 

When people feel you truly care, they’re more drawn to the hope you share.(yay that rhymed!)

• Acknowledge common concerns, like war, peace, or uncertainty.

• Use a “hook” sentence that invites reflection:
  “So many are wondering if war will ever end. Maybe you’ve thought about that too.”

3. Keep it Conversational, Warm and Hopeful

• Write the way you’d talk to a kind neighbor or a thoughtful friend.
  This makes the letter feel natural and personal, not like a lecture.

4. Focus on the Reader, Not the Writer

• Use “you” more than “I.” Example:
  Instead of: “I want to share something encouraging.”
  Say: “You might find comfort in this Bible promise.”

5. Show, Don't Just Tell

• Instead of just saying, “The Bible promises peace,” add an image:
  “Picture yourself in a world where every family lives in true peace, free from the suffering caused by war and violence. That is what God will accomplish."

6. Structure With Flow

• Professional letters follow a clear rhythm:

  1. Warm opening / shared concern

  2. Encouraging thought or scripture

  3. Invitation to learn more

  4. Kind close

• This flow keeps the reader engaged instead of overwhelmed.

7. Edit Ruthlessly (for clarity)

• Keep it short (one page or less).

• Read it aloud: if it sounds stiff or heavy, simplify.

• Remove extra words so the message stays warm and easy to follow.

8. End With Warmth and an Invitation

• Leave them with a thought that lingers:
  “I hope this promise of lasting peace brings you comfort.”

• Encourage the reader to take a next step, but gently:
  “If you’d like, you can find the full article ‘An End to War - How?’ on jw.org. It explains how the Bible promises of peace will soon be a reality.”

Thoughtful Paper for Thoughtful Letters

It's more than just paper. Letter writing is such a simple yet powerful way to share comfort and hope. With just a few thoughtful words, you can reach someone’s heart in a way that feels deeply personal. My hope is that these tips help you feel more confident as you write. And if you’d like some stationery that adds a little warmth to your letters, I’ve designed some letter writing paper that you can find here. It’s something I use myself, and I’d love for it to make your letter writing just as enjoyable. :)

With lots of love, til next time :)

What do you like to include in your letters? Share in the comments, I’d love to learn from you too.