God as an allegory?

For those of us that want to grow closer to God as we write, and for our readers to grow closer to Him as they read our writing; a certain question arises: how should we talk about Jesus in our books? If we mention Jesus; will it seem like we're preaching? If we don’t mention Him; are we selling out?

When I personally write a story set on earth without any fantasy or dystopian elements; I enjoy including God on my pages. I never mean to preach, but I honestly enjoy integrating my faith into my writing.

But in fantasy or any alternative reality; I have been uptight about including God by name. I fear that I’m misrepresenting Him in my characterization or I feel that I’m selling out if I  don't include Him by name. There is no doubt that I have been inspired and helped by movies and stories that don't include God by name. Lord of the Rings and Star Wars come to mind, and even the book of Esther. And Narnia and Quest for Celestia are 2 examples of stories I've enjoyed that include God as a character.

What’s your take on this? Do you enjoy having God as a character on your pages? Or do you prefer to have Him interwoven through the story in a more subtle way? I feel like everyone is different on this one, and that’s great. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. 

Thanks for reading. God bless you!

Extra reading:

This is the best article I’ve found addressing this question.

Story is our Native Language

I feel like story is our native tongue. We all have a story. We’re living our story everyday. We’re revealing our story in our conversations. And when we dream; we’re thinking of the story to be.

There’s some sort of connection that I feel when I’m engaged in a story. It makes me come alive.

Stories can be used by God to connect with us personally. Stories can be like parables from God straight to you.

The other day I was in need of being reminded about some important truths; and I felt led to watch Spider-Man 2. That movie connects with me in many ways and inspires me. I can honestly watch it and grow closer to God as I do. It feels like a parable He’s created for me to watch and be reminded of some of His truths.

Going from inspiration to application might be another post of itself, but don’t underestimate how God can connect with you in story.

Am I on my own on this one? Please talk to me those of you that love stories and are motivated by them.

I can truly say I love stories and am so motivated in watching, reading, and listening to them. Writing them too. But I also want to live my story. God has a story written for each of us. Let's walk with Him in it.

Please leave a comment below mentioning some of the stories that have really connected with you.

Thanks for reading. God bless you.