To Market, to Market... or Not?



When I posted on Facebook recently how I’d unfollowed someone on Twitter because I was tired of her constant bragging on herself, I got a huge response. 

Seems I hit a nerve.

As a Christian writer, I believe in marketing my gift. I would never have written a book if I didn’t believe I had something worthwhile to say, and could say it in a unique way that people will want to read.

So I talk about Two Scoops of Grace with Chuckles on Top in many different places. And often. I don’t apologize for that.

What I take issue with is someone who is in my face every five minutes, saying, “Look at my book; look at all the rave reviews on my book; buy my book or you’ll be sorry.”

I find that obnoxious and self-serving.

Yes, Jesus marketed Himself by shouting in the marketplace and telling people to come to Him. But He didn’t do that ALL the time. He ministered to people most of the time.

There was balance in His life.

Besides, He was God. I’m not. 

Unlike some, who think we need to put our name out there every second so people will see us and buy from us, I never want someone to block me from their lives because I was in their face too much.

I want to strike a balance between ministry and marketing. Like my Master, Jesus.

How do you feel about Christians marketing their books, music, art, etc? What do you think is a good balance between marketing the gift God has given you, and becoming overbearing?