Recognizing and Embracing My Influence in the Everyday
A great talk from Anne F. Downs and friends like Elisa Pulliam have shown me I can sow into the lives of teens in the everyday mundane, outside of a structured program. God showed me that I was already doing when my heart longed to do.
I felt called at a young age to work with teens, although I have never actually done it. On and off throughout the years, I tried to get involved in various youth ministries, however, it never worked out. I couldn’t understand why; I thought for sure this was where I was meant to serve.
Then the busyness of life made it easy to let go of what I thought I was called to do. Plus, I thought that investing in the next generation meant I needed to be in ministry or have an official title.
A great talk from Anne F. Downs and friends like Elisa Pulliam have shown me I can sow into the lives of teens in the everyday mundane, outside of a structured program. God showed me that I was already doing when my heart longed to do. Join me over at More to Be where I share my story....
This Month: Learning What the Bible Says About Strength
This month I am focusing on the topic of STRENGTH with my children.
Kids needs strength to stand up to peer pressure, stick with their studies, and make good choices in the classroom and on the playground. They can rest knowing that God gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. They can also be content, despite their circumstances because Christ gives them the strength to do it.
This month I am focusing on the topic of STRENGTH with my children.
Kids needs strength to stand up to peer pressure, stick with their studies, and make good choices in the classroom and on the playground. They can rest knowing that God gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29). They can also be content, despite their circumstances because Christ gives them the strength to do it. (Philippians 4:13)
These scriptures also remind them that be they can be strong and courageous, not because of any innate abilities they may possess, but because God is their refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1) That knowledge brings with it joy and praise for the One who is their strength and shield. (Psalm 28:7-8)
The digital download of these cards is available in my Etsy Shop for only $0.99. If you prefer the convenience of receiving these cards professionally printed, trimmed, and delivered to your mailbox, you can purchase card sets HERE.
How the Bible is Fundamental to Kids’ Spiritual Formation
When kids are young, it is the perfect time to begin the practice of reading the Bible because it is fundamental to their spiritual formation. It will help them establish a personal relationship with God, equip them to make good choices., fill their minds with good, and create a foundation of faith.
I introduced my kids to the stories and characters of the Bible when they were really young. At the time it was important for me to find a story Bible that was appropriate for their age. Now that my little ones aren’t so little, they are ready for their first “real” Bible.
When kids are young, it is the perfect time to begin the practice of reading the Bible because it is fundamental to their spiritual formation. It will help them establish a personal relationship with God, equip them to make good choices., fill their minds with good, and create a foundation of faith.
I am over at Faith Gateway talking about How the Bible is Fundamental Kids’ Spiritual Formation plus I am highlighting the KJV The Beginner's Bible Holy Bible and NIrV The Beginner's Bible Holy Bible, a great resource for your big kids.
How Retelling Bible Stories Lay a Foundation of Faith
I’ve lost track of the number of times I have heard stories form the Bible. I am often tempted to think I couldn’t possibly learn something new. Then I remember how endless the wisdom and insight of God is. So I humble myself and lean in. With that frame of mind, I almost always get a new revelation of His Word.
As a young child, I can remember hearing the stories of my favorite Bible heroes over and over again. Whether at Sunday School or at home, I marveled at the adventures experienced by Moses, Nehemiah, Esther, and John the Baptist.
Now as an adult, I read these same stories to my children.
I’ve lost track of the number of times I have heard these stories. I am often tempted to think I couldn’t possibly learn something new. Then I remember how endless the wisdom and insight of God is. So I humble myself and lean in. With that frame of mind, I almost always get a new revelation of His Word.
I am over at Faith Gateway sharing a lesson I learned from David and Goliath. I did not learn this lesson the first, second, or even twentieth time I heard this triumphant tale. Each time I heard this story as a child it laid a foundation of faith in my life, setting the stage for future lessons.
This Month: Learning what the Bible Says About Success
This month I am focusing on the topic of Success with my children.
As my kids are getting older so they are doing more things on their own. That means I am no longer there to hold their hand or ensure that things go well for them. My hope is that they will put their faith in a very present God, pay attention to His commands, and follows them. Then, He will make them the head and not the tail, above and never beneath (Deuteronomy 28:13).
This month I am focusing on the topic of Success with my children.
As my kids are getting older so they are doing more things on their own. That means I am no longer there to hold their hand or ensure that things go well for them. My hope is that they will put their faith in a very present God, pay attention to His commands, and follows them. Then, He will make them the head and not the tail, above and never beneath (Deuteronomy 28:13).
My children can rest in knowing that God’s divine power has given them everything we need for a godly life that glorifies Him (2 Peter 1:2-3). Success will look different for each of them. Whether it’s academics, sports, or relationships, as they keep the words of God’s covenant, He will cause them to prosper (Deuteronomy 29:9). I continue to pray they would have discernment so they will not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But rather that they would delight in the law of the Lord so their life will be marked by stability, refreshment, and fruitfulness. (Psalm 1:1-3).
The digital download of these cards is available in my Etsy Shop for only $0.99. If you prefer the convenience of receiving these cards professionally printed, trimmed, and delivered to your mailbox, you can purchase card sets HERE.
Transitioning from Summer to School Year Bedtimes
The long days of summer bring endless activities that satisfy my children’s thirst for fun. There is always something to do or somewhere to go. But the later evenings (and more hours of sunlight) make our bedtimes unpredictable and blurred, often pushed back in the chase of a summer high. I am over at Faith Gateway talking about a unique children's book that encourages children to use visualization techniques during the storytelling that stretch and engage their imaginations to help them drift off into a peaceful sleep.
It’s hard to believe summer is almost over.
The long days of summer bring endless activities that satisfy my children’s thirst for fun. There is always something to do or somewhere to go. But the later evenings (and more hours of sunlight) make our bedtimes unpredictable and blurred, often pushed back in the chase of a summer high.
But soon it is time to go back to our old way of doing things, to embrace predictable evenings and stricter bedtimes. Getting ready for the new school year requires us to retrain both our bodies and minds. Instead of running ourselves empty, we are learning all over again how to settle down with a good book and ease into a good night’s sleep.
Head over to Faith Gateway to hear about a unique children's book that encourages children to use visualization techniques during the storytelling that stretch and engage their imaginations to help them drift off into a peaceful sleep.
How to Help Calm Our Kids’ Back-to-School Anxiety
The start of a new school year is an exciting time for many, but it can also stir up apprehension and anxiety even in the most confident child. Over the years, I have seen firsthand how the fear of the unknown can steal the joy of going back to school.
While the Word of God is the most powerful tool we have in combating fear and anxiety, we can do a few things to help our kids prepare for their first few days of school.
The start of a new school year is an exciting time for many, but it can also stir up apprehension and anxiety even in the most confident child. Over the years, I have seen firsthand how the fear of the unknown can steal the joy of going back to school.
While the Word of God is the most powerful tool we have in combating fear and anxiety, we can do a few things to help our kids prepare for their first few days of school. Join me over at Faith Gateway to get six tips to help our kids during the back-to-school season. Take me there...
You Don’t Have to Be a Grown-up to Make a Difference
The Bible tells us that we are to serve others with the gifts we are given. Service to others is one of the primary ways we demonstrate God’s love. It also shows gratitude for the gifts, talents, and resources we have been given. Plus, it prevents entitlement from creeping into our lives. I am over at FaithGateway talking about working with our little ones to help make a difference in the world. Join me there...
The Bible tells us that we are to serve others with the gifts we are given. Service to others is one of the primary ways we demonstrate God’s love. It also shows gratitude for the gifts, talents, and resources we have been given. Plus, it prevents entitlement from creeping into our lives. I am over at FaithGateway talking about working with our little ones to help make a difference in the world. Join me there...
In January I mentioned a book series from award-winning Christian recording artist Natalie Grant. It was created with her twin daughters and their little sister. The first book in the series is London Art Chase. It was followed by A Dolphin Wish and now the recently released Miracle in Music City.
In this latest book the three sisters – Mia, Maddie, and LuLu learn that they aren’t too young to make a difference by getting involved in their mom’s annual benefit and auction. A missing guitar, new friendships, and a desire to help others take the sisters on an unexpected journey. After my daughter read this book she gained a better understanding of the needs many people have. She also grew in confidence that, despite being young, she can serve others; specifically those God puts on her heart. More on this fabulous book for tweens over at FaithGateway too!
Building Skills and Creativity in Your Child
The desire to create, build, and restore is not unique to our family. Throughout the Bible, and even today, God invites His people to co-labor with Him in restoration, both physical and spiritual. My kids may not be rebuilding physical walls but, like Nehemiah, they are learning to plan, persevere, and collaborate as they create their virtual worlds.
The desire to create, build, and restore is not unique to our family. Throughout the Bible, and even today, God invites His people to co-labor with Him in restoration, both physical and spiritual. My kids may not be rebuilding physical walls but, like Nehemiah, they are learning to plan, persevere, and collaborate as they create their virtual worlds. More on this over at Faith Gateway, join me there...
Are your kids virtual builders like mine?
If they are, the Minecrafters Bible from Zonderkidz is bound to pique their interest. You can read more about it in the post.
Encouraging Your Teen To Grow in their Faith
It took years for me to learn that getting to know God isn’t hard or boring at all and spending time with Him doesn’t look the same for everyone. There is no one-way to do it. In fact, the way I spend time with God looks different in every season of my life.
When talking to my daughter about getting to know God, I ask her to consider how she became so close with her BBFs. Then I explained to her that it’s not very different from getting to know God.
Join me over at More to Be as I talk about how to encourage your teen to grow their faith.
It took years for me to learn that getting to know God isn’t hard or boring at all and spending time with Him doesn’t look the same for everyone. There is no one-way to do it. In fact, the way I spend time with God looks different in every season of my life.
When talking to my daughter about getting to know God, I ask her to consider how she became so close with her BBFs. Then I explained to her that it’s not very different from getting to know God.
Join me over at More to Be as I talk about how to encourage your teen to grow their faith.
On Stewarding your Child's Funny Bone
Our family has a clown, my son. He enjoys makings others laugh at home and especially at school, and God has gifted him with a sense of humor. I am over at Faith Gateway today talking about Parenting a funny kid plus resources to help.
“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10
As parents and caregivers, it is our job to teach our children how to steward their gifts well. Even when kids are young, we can ask them if they are you using what they’ve been given for the benefit of others, to make the world a better place? Or are they just using those talents to benefit themselves?
Our family has a clown, my son. He enjoys makings others laugh at home and especially at school, and God has gifted him with a sense of humor. I am over at Faith Gateway today talking about Parenting a funny kid plus resources to help. Join me there...
The Positive Impacts of Long Distance Dating
My husband and I lived in different states when we met. While it was tough not to see each other as frequently as we would have liked, there were many advantages to dating long distance. One of them was how every step of our relationship was intentional. I am over at More to Be talking about it. I would love for you to join me there...
My husband and I lived in different states when we met. While it was tough not to see each other as frequently as we would have liked, there were many advantages to dating long distance. One of them was how every step of our relationship was intentional. I am over at More to Be talking about it. I would love for you to join me there...
This Month: Learning What the Bible Says About Grace
Because of grace, my kids are able to live in and embrace the righteousness that they’ve already received because of their faith in Christ.
God’s grace has saved them. It doesn’t come from anything they do. But it is God’s gift. (Ephesians 2:8) And because of it, they can they approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so they can receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) How sweet is that?
This month I am focusing on the topic of GRACE with my children.
Because of grace, my kids are able to live in and embrace the righteousness that they’ve already received because of their faith in Christ.
God’s grace has saved them. It doesn’t come from anything they do. But it is God’s gift. (Ephesians 2:8) And because of it, they can they approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so they can receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) How sweet is that?
Not only that, God’s grace equips and empowers them with all that they need, in abundance, for every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8) Even in their weakness, His grace is sufficient, In fact in their weakness, God’s power is free to operate. (2 Corinthians 12:9) It makes up for their lack and allows them to use the gifts and talents they have been given, coupled with God’s resources, to serve and impact others for good.
The digital download of these cards is available in my Etsy Shop for only $0.99. If you prefer the convenience of receiving these cards professionally printed, trimmed, and delivered to your mailbox, you can purchase card sets HERE.
On Motherhood and Expectations
Have you ever tried to live up to an expectation of motherhood you weren't meant to meet? I have, it's not fun!
As a young mom, I was constantly on edge. I lacked the kindness and compassion I knew was important in building healthy relationships with my children. I was easily angered and then I’d beat myself up for losing my temper. I set high expectations for myself, yet continually failed to meet them. I woke up each morning hoping this would be the day that things would fall into place and I would get this mothering thing right.
I learned motherhood looks different for all of us and there is no one way to do it. Join me at FaithGateway to read about how I got unstuck and found freedom in the mother God created me to be.
Have you ever tried to live up to an expectation of motherhood you weren't meant to meet? I have, it's not fun!
As a young mom, I was constantly on edge. I lacked the kindness and compassion I knew was important in building healthy relationships with my children. I was easily angered and then I’d beat myself up for losing my temper. I set high expectations for myself, yet continually failed to meet them. I woke up each morning hoping this would be the day that things would fall into place and I would get this mothering thing right.
“God, how do I change? I need Your direction!” I was surprised at what He showed me.
I learned motherhood looks different for all of us and there is no one way to do it. Join me at FaithGateway to read about how I got unstuck and found freedom in the mother God created me to be.
What Does the Bible Say About Laughter?
I love a good laugh, don't you? God knew what He was doing when we created laughter. I am so thankful that when God, in His wisdom, created us, He created laughter too! Humor and joy are mentioned many times throughout Scripture. I am over at FaithGateway talking about... What Does the Bible Say About Laughter? Join me there..