Starting a Christian blog is an exciting journey! You've already learned how to register a domain, set up WordPress, and create great content. Now, it's time to explore how to monetize your Christian blog.
This part is going to be a blast! Whether you're just getting started or you’ve been blogging for a while, I'll share some awesome ways to turn your hobby into a full-time venture.
Let’s dive into these monetization strategies one by one. You’re going to love it!
Why You Can Trust Our Christian Blog Monetization Guide
Lasso is installed on over 8,000 websites, including many christian blogs.
Our team has built multiple 7-figure blogs in a wide range of niches.
We have hands-on experience working with founders to grow and monetize their christian blogs.
1. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is the best monetization method for christian bloggers because it hits the sweet spot between time investment and earning potential.
Affiliate marketing is a form of advertising where a publisher (the site owner) links to a product in their content and earns a commission from the advertiser (the affiliate program) if readers click on that link and make a purchase.
TIP: With all monetization methods, the rule of thumb is the easier it is to accomplish, the less money you can make, and vice versa.
Also, since you can add links to your existing content, it’s the perfect method for beginners. You’ve already written content, so you’ve already done the hard part.
How to Start Affiliate Marketing for Christian Bloggers
When you're diving into the Christian blogging niche, there are plenty of affiliate products you can recommend. Here’s a quick list to get you started:
Bibles: There are so many translations and study bibles available. You can find ones tailored for different age groups, interests, and denominations.
Christian books: These can range from devotionals to inspirational novels. Readers love finding new authors to dive into!
Bible studies and curriculum: Great for personal or group study. They help readers engage with scripture at a deeper level.
Christian merchandise: Items like T-shirts, mugs, and wall art with inspirational quotes or scripture. They add a touch of faith to everyday life.
Courses and workshops: These can focus on spiritual growth, leadership, or even church management. Perfect for readers eager to learn.
Faith-based subscription boxes: Monthly deliveries with worship materials, books, or even snacks. Always a fun surprise for subscribers!
Christian music and podcasts: Endless options for uplifting tunes or enriching discussions. Ideal for readers wanting to deepen their faith through media.
Now, here are some reasons why recommending these products can be powerful:
- Engagement: Helps readers engage with their faith on multiple levels.
- Trust: Recommending quality products builds your authority and trust with your audience.
- Diversity: Offers a range of products for various interests and needs.
- Connection: Creates a sense of community among your readers as they explore faith together.
- Support: Many affiliate programs support charitable causes, making each purchase impactful.
Once you’ve identified which products will solve problems for your readers, you need to sign up for their affiliate programs.
You should start by joining the Amazon Associates affiliate program.
Most physical products in the christian niche will be available on Amazon, and the conversion rate on Amazon is insane.
Yes, Amazon’s commission rates are rough, and they only offer a 24-hour cookie duration, but the conversion rate makes up for it. Plus, you’re nearly guaranteed to get accepted into their program.
For products that aren’t available on Amazon, just Google “[Product] affiliate program,” and you’ll find their program’s signup page.
To save you some time, here are a few of the best affiliate networks for christian bloggers:
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Commission Rate: $15 Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 45 Days
PureFlix is a video streaming service featuring family-friendly and Christian-focused content. It's a Christian equivalent of Netflix.
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Commission Rate: 20% - 50% Per Lead
Cookie Duration: 45 Days
eharmony is an online dating website that aims to help people find long-term relationships. Its famed 29 dimensions of compatibility are used for matching.
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Commission Rate: 13% Per Sale
Cookie Duration: 30 Days
DaySpring is the largest publisher and distributor of Christian greeting cards and also sells Christian gifts, home decor, jewelry, and more.
TIP: We maintain a database of the best affiliate programs. Click here to see the best christian affiliate programs.
Once you’ve been approved for the product’s affiliate program, the program will give you your affiliate link, and you can start inserting it into your content.
How To Monetize A Christian Blog With Affiliate Marketing
To add your link to your content, go to your post editor, highlight the relevant text, and insert the link.
Here are a few best practices for adding affiliate links to your WordPress blog:
- Add links where it’s helpful. Adding too many links to your blog posts is just like adding too many ads; it’s annoying. Add links to product titles, images, CTA buttons, and the first time you mention a product. That’s plenty.
- Disclose your links. Every blog post with affiliate links should have a disclaimer at the beginning, and every CTA or product image should also.
- Use direct sales language. When you are writing your call to action, be direct. It’s not rude to say, “Check the price” or “Buy this product today.” Being too passive makes you look unconfident.
Or, take it a step further by creating product displays.
You Can Double Your Affiliate Sales With Lasso Displays
You can create displays manually using the post editor to add links to images and buttons.
However, it can be time-consuming to create these displays and keep them updated if you’re doing it all by hand.
Luckily, monetizing your blog with affiliate links is simplified when you’re using a tool like Lasso.
Lasso makes it super easy to add links and product displays to your posts. You can add product displays to posts right from the post editor; no coding is required. It’s as simple as clicking your mouse three times.
You can also automatically import product info from retailers like Amazon. Just paste the link into the Lasso dashboard, and Lasso will populate the display with the product title, image, and price.
With all of this, remember to follow the guidelines in the affiliate program’s terms and conditions. Amazon, in particular, is pretty stringent.
But everything Lasso does is compliant with Amazon Associates’ TOS, so you never have to worry about being booted from the program.
That’s just scratching the surface of what Lasso can do to help you monetize your christian blog. If you’re ready to start making a serious affiliate income from your christian site, sign up for Lasso today.
A WordPress plugin that lets you add, manage, and display your affiliate links from any program, including Amazon. Increase conversions. Find new affiliate link opportunities. Earn more revenue! Less than 5 minutes to set up.
Affiliate Marketing Pros and Cons for Christian Bloggers
Affiliate marketing can be a great way for Christian bloggers to monetize their platform. It allows you to share products and services that align with your values. When chosen wisely, affiliate products can complement your mission and help your audience without compromising your message.
On the flip side, one downside is the potential perception of insincerity. If your audience feels you’re promoting products for profit alone, it might damage your credibility. It’s crucial to maintain transparency and clearly disclose affiliate links to keep trust intact.
Another con is the time investment. Finding the right affiliate programs and creating quality content can be challenging. It takes time to build an audience that values your recommendations. But once you get the hang of it, the payoff can be worthwhile.
2. Display Ads
The second best way to monetize your christian blog is with display ads. Ads are the internet's favorite monetization method, but they have severe drawbacks.
How to Monetize a Christian Blog With Display Ads
Monetizing a christian blog with display ads couldn’t be easier.
First, choose an ad network to join. Networks have traffic requirements, so here are the best ad networks to join based on your site’s page views:
- 100,000+ Visitors per month - Raptive
- 50,000+ Sessions per month - Mediavine
- < 50,000+ Visitors per month - Ezoic
NOTE: WordPress is an open-source software found on WordPress.org. WordPress.com is a premium blogging platform, but you never need to pay to install WordPress on your website, even if it’s self-hosted.
Once you’re accepted to an ad network, follow their instructions to integrate their ads into your site. They will have documentation for every type of content management service (WordPress, Joomla, Ghost, etc.).
If your chosen ad network has a dedicated accounts manager, they will guide you through getting their ads on your site.
And… that’s it. Let the ads run and wait for your deposits to hit your account.
TIP: Optimize your display ads for user experience by using your chosen network’s software settings or talking to your account manager. Keep the ads in the sidebar and footer whenever possible.
You’ll make a lot of money in the long run if you put your readers ahead of quick profit.
Display Ad Pros And Cons For Christian Bloggers
Display ads can be a great way for Christian bloggers to monetize their sites. They provide an easy and passive income stream. Once set up, you can earn money without constant effort. Plus, they can be targeted to your audience, increasing the chances of clicks.
However, there are some downsides. Ads can clutter your blog and take away from your message. Some readers might find them distracting or even off-putting. If they don’t align with Christian values, they might clash with your content.
Another consideration is revenue variability. Earnings can fluctuate based on traffic and ad performance. If you're aiming for steady income, this can be frustrating. You may need to balance ads with engaging content to keep your audience interested.
In summary, display ads come with their perks and pitfalls. It’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential downsides. Finding the right balance can significantly impact your blogging experience.
3. Digital Products
Selling your own digital products is a great way to increase your earnings per visitor in the christian niche.
A digital product is anything you can sell on your christian blog that the customer will receive via download.
Digital Products to Sell on a Christian Blog:
- Devotional E-books: Short, themed e-books focusing on prayer, faith growth, or Biblical teachings.
- Printable Prayer Journals: Beautifully designed journals for tracking prayers, blessings, and reflections.
- Bible Study Guides: Step-by-step guides to help readers understand Scripture more deeply.
- Christian Artwork: Digital prints of inspirational quotes or scripture for home decor.
- Online Courses: Courses on topics like faith-based living, discipleship, or spiritual growth.
A lot of people search for simple checklists and guides related to different topics. They’d happily pay you for them.
Pros and Cons of Selling Digital Products for Christian Bloggers
Selling digital products can be a game-changer for Christian bloggers. One major pro is the potential for passive income. Once you've created a digital product, like an eBook or a course, it can continue to sell without much extra effort. This can free you up to focus on other content or projects.
Another advantage is the convenience of delivery. Digital products can be instantaneously delivered to your audience after purchase. This creates a seamless buying experience. Plus, you can reach a global audience without the shipping hassles associated with physical products.
However, there are some cons to consider. The initial investment in time to create quality products can be daunting. You need to ensure that your products provide real value to your audience, which can require significant research and planning. Additionally, marketing your products effectively can be a challenge, especially in a crowded online space.
Lastly, pricing can be tricky. If your prices are too high, you might scare off potential customers. If they’re too low, you might devalue your expertise. Finding the right balance takes time and testing, which might be frustrating for new bloggers.
How To Monetize a Christian Blog By Selling Digital Products
The first thing to do is create your digital product.
Look at which content your audience interacts with the most, and brainstorm digital products to help serve their search intent.
That’s what I did when I created our Ultimate Blogging Guide:
Get Your FREE 20-Page Guide To Making $1000/Day From Your Niche Blog
Then, create the product using whatever tools are at your disposal. For example, use Microsoft Word to create an ebook PDF, or Google Sheets to create interactive spreadsheets and checklists.
Next, you have to figure out how to distribute your product. The easiest way to distribute PDFs is by uploading them to your WordPress media library. Then you can give customers the link, and they can download the PDF from there.
Lastly, you’ll have to set up payment processing and order fulfillment. A plugin like Woocommerce can automate most of this, but you’ll have to tie it to a processor like Stripe or PayPal.
Woocommerce can even connect to an email tool like ConvertKit, so as soon as your customer finishes their checkout, they’ll get an email with a link to their download.
TIP: You can still use Lasso to get more clicks to your digital products. Just create a Lasso display with the link pointing to your product’s sales page.
Barring any issues, you won’t have to do anything but watch your bank account grow.
4. Email Newsletter
One effective way to monetize a christian blog is by creating an email newsletter. This method allows you to build a loyal audience and engage with your readers on a more personal level. Let's explore how to monetize a christian blog with an email newsletter and the pros and cons of email marketing for christian bloggers.
How to Monetize a Christian Blog with an Email Newsletter
Email newsletters are a fantastic way for Christian bloggers to build a dedicated audience and monetize their content. By sending regular updates and devotionals directly to your subscribers’ inboxes, you offer them value and foster a strong community. Additionally, email newsletters allow bloggers to promote services, products, or events directly to individuals who have shown interest in their content. This makes it easier to convert readers into loyal supporters and customers.
To effectively monetize your Christian blog using an email newsletter, start by offering compelling content that reflects your audience's values and interests. Think devotionals, prayers, and inspirational stories that resonate deeply with your community. By providing unique value, you can encourage subscribers to share your newsletter, expanding your reach. Include links to your blog posts that delve deeper into the topics you cover in your newsletters. This drives traffic back to your site, increasing ad impressions and affiliate link clicks.
Another way to monetize is by creating exclusive content for paying subscribers. You might offer premium Bible study guides, worksheets, or downloadable resources. Using email marketing platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit, you can segment your list, tailoring exclusive offers only to specific groups who may value such resources. These segments can include those particularly engaged with specific topics like parenting, devotion, or charitable work.
Lastly, embrace sponsorships and partnerships through your email newsletter. Reach out to brands or churches whose missions align with your own. Promote their products in your emails while ensuring that they resonate well with your audience. Being selective with partnerships will maintain the integrity of your connection with your readers and ensure successful monetization.
Pros and Cons of Email Marketing for Christian Bloggers
- Pros:
- Direct Communication: Your audience receives messages straight to their inbox, making it a personal and immediate channel to connect.
- High Engagement: People who subscribe are likely to be interested and engaged, leading to higher open and click rates.
- Monetization Opportunities: Email newsletters can include affiliate links, sponsored content, or exclusive offers that can generate revenue.
- Community Building: An email list fosters a sense of belonging and keeps your audience updated and involved in your mission.
- Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Creating valuable content regularly can take a lot of time and effort to maintain.
- Privacy Concerns: You’ll need to handle subscribers' email addresses responsibly and comply with regulations like GDPR.
- Potential for Spam Filters: Your emails could end up in spam folders if not done correctly, losing access to your audience.
- Building a List Takes Time: Growing your subscriber list initially can be slow, requiring patience and consistency.
5. Consulting and Coaching Services
Consulting or coaching is exchanging your expertise and time for a fee. Your customers need an expert, and you’ve proven yourself to be that expert.
As you become an authority in the industry, people will reach out to you with questions about topics they consider you an expert in.
Now, you don’t have to charge for being helpful, but you should place a dollar value on your time.
As a christian blogger, you extensive knowledge of the industry. If a reader reaches out to you asking for help, you should get paid for that effort.
How To Monetize A Christian Blog With Consulting Services
Monetizing a christian blog with consulting services is similar to selling sponsored posts.
Put a “Coaching” option in your nav bar that goes to a landing page outlining your consulting services and your hourly rate. This will help head off some of the people looking for free advice.
TIP: Again, you can use Lasso to drive more clicks to your coaching pages. Just create a Display with a link to your sales page, and insert it into blog posts.
Then, wait for requests to come in, evaluate them, and propose your offer. If the customer accepts, send them an invoice using PayPal or another payment processor, and schedule the call.
Pros and Cons of Selling Consulting Services for Christian Bloggers
When it comes to selling consulting services, there are clear pros and cons for Christian bloggers to consider. On the positive side, consulting allows bloggers to monetize their expertise. This creates a sustainable income stream while helping others in their faith journey. Plus, it builds authority in the niche, reinforcing the blogger’s credibility.
However, there are downsides. For one, not all readers may be willing to pay for services, especially if they're used to free content. This can lead to disappointment or a drop in follower engagement. Additionally, balancing the business side with genuine faith-based content can be tricky. It’s essential to maintain authenticity to avoid alienating your audience.
Another aspect is the competition. The market for consulting is growing, so differentiating yourself is crucial. This requires a strong personal brand and a well-defined niche. Many bloggers may find this challenging, especially in such a crowded space.
Ultimately, selling consulting services can be rewarding but demands careful consideration. It's essential to weigh potential income against the risks of shifting audience expectations. Knowing your audience and keeping true to your mission is key to successful consulting.
Supercharge your earnings with Lasso. Create no-code product Displays and Tables that convert, find and fix broken links, and gain valuable business insights with revenue analytics.
Learn MoreChristian Blog Monetization FAQs
What Is The Best Way To Make Money From Christian Blogging?
If you want to build a successful christian blog, then affiliate marketing is the best way to monetize it. It’s the least intrusive way to make a lot of money from your site without much extra effort.
Can I Make A Full-Time Income From Christian Blogging?
Absolutely! Some christian blogs, like Christianity Today and iBelieve get hundreds of thousands of monthly visitors. That’s enough for a full-time income for a small team of people.
How Do I Start a Christian Blog?
Learning how to start a christian blog is the first best way to use your expertise to start an online business.
You need to register a domain, install WordPress, and publish great content. It's a lot of work, but totally worth it!
How Do Christian Bloggers Get Paid?
Most christian bloggers make money through affiliate commissions and advertising fees. Both of these monetization methods pay out one or two months after the fees have been generated.
Some christian bloggers also sell sponsored posts, consulting services, or their own products. In these cases, a payment processor like PayPal or Stripe is necessary.
Is Christian Blogging Easy?
Nothing worth doing is truly easy, but that doesn’t mean christian blogging isn’t fun.
As a christian blogger, you’ll get to go places, try new things, and meet new people. And it will be part of your business! What could be cooler than that?
Is It Worth Starting A Christian Blog?
It’s absolutely worth it to start a christian blog. Not only can you make a living from it, but you can also build a community and control the conversation.
Once you’re an established authority, people in christian-related industries will take you seriously.
Final Thoughts on Monetizing a Christian Blog
Congratulations! You now have a good grasp of how to monetize your Christian blog.
Before you dive in, here’s one last bonus tip:
Use multiple monetization methods!
Diversifying your income streams is key to securing your blog’s future.
If you work with affiliate offers, display ads, and sell your own products, you’re covered. This way, if Amazon decides to cut commissions, your business won’t suffer.
By following this multi-tiered approach, staying dedicated, and planning well, you’ll soon see your online business thriving.
Why You Should Trust Our Christian Blogging Content
You may be thinking, "that's all great, but what does Lasso know about christian blogging?"
Quite a lot, actually.
Here's why you can trust our process for building a successful christian blog:
We've Built Wildly Successful Blogs
Lasso is built for affiliate marketers, by affiliate marketers. We're not gurus; we've walked the walk.
Our team members have built multiple blogs from the ground up, some of them earning over seven figures in revenue.
We put that experience into every guide we write, so you can trust we're giving you a process that works.
We Talk To Christian Bloggers Every Day
Lasso's WordPress plugin is installed on over 8,000 websites, including a lot of christian blogs.
Our team supports those bloggers every day as they create awesome content and earn lots of money.
These communications give us a bird's-eye view of what's new in the christian industry. We take that information and use it to keep these guides as up-to-date and accurate as possible.
We're Super Nerds
We've put a lot of company focus into learning everything we can about blogging, affiliate marketing, SEO, and anything to do with online entrepreneurship.
We attend conferences, collect high-level contacts, read tons of books, and distill all of that information into our content. We pass information onto you that was previously only available to industry insiders.
