Tricia Goyer HomepageTricia Goyer

Living God’s Word One Step at a Time

You are here: Home / Archives for encouragement

encouragement

by Leave a Comment

How to Pray at All Times

Today, I want to share how I’ve learned to pray at all times. It’s taken me a while to feel that I understand prayer and to consider myself a praying person. But now that I do, I’m excited to share what that’s done in my life. I hope this helps you draw closer to God in prayer.

 

 

Pray at All Times

As a child, I had a misconception. For some reason, I believed that prayer was an event. I felt it was something I needed to remember to tack on at the end of my day, just like brushing my teeth before bed. It was a time when I needed to be still and come before Jesus. There are times when I do that. I love quiet mornings on my couch. Sometimes I even get on my knees before him, but I’ve grown to discover prayer is not an event; it’s a continual conversation.

Every year, I pray when I start homeschooling–seven children at one time. (I pray we all learn and get along!) This morning I prayed as I watched my son drive away in the rain. (I prayed for his protection and for a bubble to surround his car from crazy drivers.) Last night I prayed for a friend when she shared a need on Facebook. I didn’t wait until the next morning‘s quiet time to pray. As I sat in front of my computer, I closed my eyes for a moment and I asked Jesus to be with her and to give her peace.

Pray at All Times

We don’t need to wait for a certain time of day to pray; instead, we can go to Jesus anytime. Longer prayer times are important — to listen as well as to make requests to Him – but Jesus’s ear is always attuned to even our smallest request. Susanna Wesley is a good example of someone who would pray at all times. She had many struggles in her life which lead her to pray. Between raising  animals for food and finances, running a household in the days when everything was done by hand, and caring for five small children while teaching two others six hours a day, she had little time to pray (but lots of reasons to!) Even though she couldn’t get away to pray alone, she would tell her children that if they saw her with her apron over her head that meant she was praying and shouldn’t be disturbed.

“Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.” 1 Chronicles 16:11

Each of us can be a praying person, and today is a wonderful day to start. Whenever you hear of prayer needs during the day, pause and lift your request to Jesus. Then set a time to pray for a longer period, taking care to listen for Jesus’s whispers to your heart.

how to pray at all times

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God‘s will for you in Christ Jesus. First Thessalonians five16–18 NIV.

How can I pray for you today friend? Reply to this email and let me know!

Warmly,

Tricia

Prayers That Changed History

For the last 2000 years, men and women who love Jesus have gladly served Him. They have gone out into their neighborhoods, towns, and the world, and Jesus has been with them. He hasn’t physically walked by their side. Instead, His Holy Spirit has been with them, leading and guiding them. We can do the same. Each of us has a special connection with the Holy Spirit when we go before God in prayer. Through prayer, we can make a difference in the world we live in too.

In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn’t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history.

Get your copy here to learn about how ordinary people did extraordinary things through the power of God in prayer: Prayers That Changed History.

by Leave a Comment

5 Keys to Making Space for Life-Giving Relationships

These 5 keys to making space for life-giving relationships can help you find balance when relationships seem off-center. There is a way to retain friendships but support the time constraints we need to foster our own inner peace and nurture those most important to us. This week we welcome Emily Grabatin to the blog to share how to build space for those life-giving relationships in your life and you can enter below for a chance to win a copy of Emily’s book Dare to Decide!

5 tips for making space for life-giving relationships

5 Keys to Making Space for Life-Giving Relationships

I felt worn out.

I had spent most of my life content as an introvert with a couple of close friends and plenty of solitude. Now I felt like Miss Popularity, whose schedule was packed with coffee dates, volunteer commitments, relationship drama, helping friends move, and Friday night invitations, plus wrangling the three-hour time zone difference to call my parents. Interactions that had once made me feel alive and purposeful now stirred an inner war between my needs and others’ expectations.

I knew I had to figure out how to reprioritize my time spent with people, but I felt stuck. The thought of disappointing or offending someone felt exhausting.

One night over dinner with a friend, I blurted, “I have too many people in my life. I don’t know what to do.”

It turned out she had a process for how she managed her relationships. Knowing this gave me permission to design my own framework for being intentional about the people in my life.

Several years later, as I was juggling motherhood, a full-time job, and getting serious about purpose coaching, I came across Tricia Goyer’s book, Balanced. I realized all over again how life-giving it is to create a filter for what gets your yeses or nos.

Here are five principles I have found useful in becoming more intentional about my relationships:

5 Keys to Making Space for Life-Giving Relationships

  1. Believe there’s a different way.

I could slip into a persevering mode, waiting for life to go back to “normal”, or I could use that sense of striving to remind me I need a fresh approach. Talking to my friend and reading the stories in Tricia’s Balanced helped me see other ways to live out the different facets of my calling.

 

  1. Clarify your values.

I made a list of the people in my life, as well as what I received from and gave to that relationship. Considering where I felt conflicted, I identified my values behind these interactions, such as responsibility and servant-heartedness. While identifying my values was helpful, it wasn’t enough. I had to define what living them out looked like to me. For example, for years I agreed to help anyone who asked. Once I had more demands on my time, I planned to stay at the end of events to help clean up, and chose to help certain people in ways that freed them up to do what they were called to do.

 

  1. Recognize the types of relationships you need.

Living a purpose-filled life means ebbs and flows of giving and receiving, nurturing and learning, solitude and interacting. When I felt overburdened, I made a second list to understand why—a list of the kinds of life-giving relationships I needed. Starting with my relationship with God and myself, I added others such as come-as-you-are friends, family, collaborators, new connections, mentors, and those I mentored. Making this list helped me realize I was giving more than receiving, and clarified the dynamics I needed.

 

  1. Create a framework.

To help instill these boundaries in my life, I created an ideal schedule of time-blocks designated for each relationship type.  When peers would ask to invite me to coffee their product party, I now had the language to decline or defer without feeling guilty or rude. This framework also gave me a way to check how “balanced” I was each week.

 

  1. Invite God to lead.

While a framework is a helpful tool, it’s meaningless without aligning it to God’s purposes. To avoid falling into people-pleasing or rule-following ruts, I continually have to ask Him, is this someone You want me to make room for? Or is this someone You want to guide elsewhere? It would also be easy to use it as an excuse to exclude the people who annoyed or drained me. Living a purpose-filled life means welcoming opportunities to strengthen my character or show God’s hope and love — and asking him God to help mature me.

 

5 Keys to Making Space for Life-Giving Relationships

People are the treasure of heaven. When circumstances shift, it’s time to get intentional about who we give our time and attention and to explore fresh approaches to doing so. Thankfully, we have a God who guides us beyond our understandingbeco. He becomes our strength even when we have little to give.

5 Keys to Making Space for Life-Giving Relationships

If you’re ready to move forward in your calling join Emily as she shares stories of when she needed peace, clarity and courage at life’s crossroads. If you have felt paralyzed from the fear of the unknown, being misunderstood and making the wrong decisions, you’ll find gentle grace and encouragement within the pages of this book. Through thought-provoking questions and practical strategies, you can design your meaningful life one small dare at a time.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

Emily Grabatin infuses hope into dormant and God-called dreams. Through coaching, writing and leadership development, she helps individuals recognize who they are, uncover what makes them feel alive, and streamline their focus so they can flourish.

The greatest gifts Emily has received have been from individuals who saw her potential even through seasons of restlessness, burnout and wandering.  She appreciates people holding a space for her to discover her own answers and step out into her calling. Now she’s passionate about offering that gift to others.

 

For more information on Emily, visit the Dare to Decide website where you can receive a free chapter.

 

by Leave a Comment

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Ready to learn how to homeschool successfully? On Tuesday, April 6th, I’ll share how to save time, money, and have confidence and peace in your homeschool. Let me teach you how to choose a curriculum you’ll love, homeschool multiple ages at once, and inspire children to love learning and not just “get work done.” Hope to see you there!

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Ready to spend 90 minutes preparing or transforming your homeschool? I’ve homeschooled three children nearly to adulthood, and then, I started all over again! After John and I adopted seven more children I became a full-time homeschool teacher again. I’m currently homeschooling four children ages 10-16 so I know the challenges of teaching multiple ages, finding the right curriculum, and teaching children with learning disabilities.

‍If you can join me on April 6th, I’ll be sharing my best tips, including:

 

  • Organizing a schedule
  • Saving time
  • Saving money
  • Homeschooling multiple ages
  • Helping kids to love learning
  • Keeping a transcript
  • And more!

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Have you struggled to get your classroom organized? Do you feel out of your element when teaching your kids? Homeschooling is more than textbooks and lessons–it’s a lifestyle of learning. And it can be mastered by anyone willing to learn. You know your kids better than anyone else and you’re the best person for the job. Let me guide you into making your family life-long learners.

If you’re ready to nail down all the specifics of a successful homeschool then this is the place for you. In this interactive, LIVE event, I’ll spend the first 60 minutes teaching, and then I’ll open it up to your questions.

Prepare to be encouraged, educated, uplifted, and inspired!

Register here–Limited to 100 participants:

How to Homeschool Successfully: Tips From a Veteran Homeschool Parent

Tue, Apr 6

5pm PT / 8pm ET

90 min

by Leave a Comment

The Real History of St. Patrick

Do you know the Real History of St. Patrick?  St. Patrick’s Day is one of my favorite holidays, and no, I’m not Irish. (Well, maybe just a wee little bit.) I’m also not hoping for a bit of luck or to find a leprechaun or a pot of gold. Instead, my love for this holiday comes from the true history behind it. That’s what I’m sharing today.

The Real History of St. Patrick

 

The Real History of St. Patrick

St. Patrick was an amazing missionary for God, but his life didn’t start off easy. Kidnapped at 15-years-old, around 400 A.D., Patrick was taken to Ireland as a slave. Even though his family loved God and served him, Patrick had hardened his heart against God. During his slavery, Patrick started to think about all he’d been taught as a child. In Ireland, Patrick witnessed a country ruled by warlords and druids. Seeing the darkness reminded him of the light of God’s truth he had known. While in Ireland, Patrick turned to God. And, years later, a dream—given by God—guided him to escape.

Yet when Patrick was back home he could not get the Irish people, and their need for God, off his mind. The warlords and druids followed many evil practices, and they needed faith in Christ. Then one night Patrick had a dream. There was a man who’d come from Ireland with a whole bunch of letters. Patrick opened up one of the letters and it said ‘The Voice of the Irish.’ And then he heard a voice coming out of this letter that said, ‘Holy boy, please return to us. We need you.’” Was this God’s way of speaking, asking him to return to a place of slavery? Patrick believed so.

The Real History of St. Patrick

From Harper’s magazine – 1872

The Real History of St. Patrick

Patrick returned to Ireland and shared a message of freedom through Christ Jesus.

Many people believed and turned from their wicked ways! Patrick’s ministry lasted 29 years. He baptized over 120,000 Irishmen and planted 300 churches. Later he wrote this poem: The Breastplate

“Christ be within me, Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me, Christ to comfort and restore me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ inquired, Christ in danger, Christ in hearts of all that love me, Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.”

With all he’d experience Patrick truly understood that all he’d accomplished was only possible with Christ alone.

So remember, the real history of St. Patrick is not about wearing green, going to parades or eating green food. Instead, it’s a reminder that each of us needs to be willing to go into hard places to share Jesus with those who need hope, truth, and eternal salvation! The best part is we don’t go alone. Christ is within, behind, and before us wherever we go!

This year, take some time to celebrate the legacy of a man God is still using to draw others to Himself and His Son.

{Prayers that Changed History}

The Real History of St. Patrick

The Real History of St. Patrick

For more information on St. Patrick and other important historical figures, check out Prayers that Changed History! 

One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History.

Click To Tweet

Martin Luther.

Sojourner Truth.

Helen Keller.

St. Patrick.

We read their stories, and of other people like them, in history books and hear about the amazing things they did to change the world. But one part of the story is often left out: Each one of them wouldn’t have accomplished what they did without prayer.

In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn’t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history.

This is a great book to go through during devotional time, with a Sunday School, or with your homeschool co-op!

Order Prayers That Changed History HERE  and learn more about The Real History of St. Patrick.

Want to know 7 Prayers to Say for Your Children? These 7 prayers to say for your children can help be a springboard for your prayer life. Do you need new words to guide your heart as you seek God for your family? Let these prayers guide you: 7 Prayer to Say for your Children

by Leave a Comment

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

In honor of Read Across America I’m sharing my favorite 50 Books for Families. These books have been enjoyed by our family for decades and I hope your family enjoys them as well. Happy reading friends!

 

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

One of my favorite times of the day is when I get the kids settled in a night and it’s time to read. Bedtime reading has been a tradition that we’ve done for the last 20+ years. We make sure all electronics are turned off, the kids get ready for bed, and we sit down as a family to read. It’s amazing how many wonderful books we get to share as a family!

In honor of Read Across America, here’s a list of 50 picture and chapter books to go through as a family!

Picture Books

1) I’ll Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

2) Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman

3) Night Night, Sleepytown by Amy Parker

4) The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes and Louis Slobodkin

5) The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden and Garth Williams

6) Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger

7) Miss Suzy by Miriam Young and Arnold Lobel

51gbhsui1jl

 

8) The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer

9) If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff and Felicia Bond

10) The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak

11) The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski and P.J. Lynch

12) The Monster at the end of this Book by Jon Stone and Michael Smollin

13) The Big Picture Story Bible by David R. Helm and Gail Schoonmaker

14) Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

51ubqnzganl

15) Silly Sally by Audrey Wood

16) Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

17) You Are Special by Max Lucado and Sergio Martinez

18) Barnyard Dance by Sandra Boynton

19) Bombus the Bumblebee by Elsie Larson, David & Helen Haidle

20) The Giant Jam Sandwich by John Vernon Lord

Read Across America 50 Books for Families

51bv-c2hql

21) Tikki Tikki Tembo by Ariene Mosel and Blair Lent

22) Could Be Worse by James Stevenson

23) When We Were Very Young by A.A. Milne

24) The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White and Fred Marcellino

25) Was it a Good Trade? by Beatrice Schenk de Regniers and Irene Haas

26) Louise the Big Cheese and the Back-To-School Smarty-Pants by Elise Primevera and Diane Goode

27) Jeremy: The Tale of an Honest Bunny by Jan Karon and Teri Weidner

5157tsyg0l

28) A Porcupine Named Fluffy by Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger

29) Let Papa Sleep by Emily Reed

 

Chapter Books

30) Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder

31) The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom and Elizabeth Sherrill

32) Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham

33) Johnny Tremain by Esther Hoskins Forbes

34) Black Beauty by Anna Sewell51sf-qyial

 

35) The BFG by Roald Dahl

36) Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

37) The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

38) Prayers that Changed the World by Tricia Goyer

39) The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare

40) The Golden Goblet by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

41) Savvy by Ingrid Law

61bkqz4dyal

42) Heidi by Johanna Spyri

43) Watership Down by Richard Adams

44) Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

45) The Giver by Lois Lowry

46) Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright and Joe & Beth Krush

47) Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

61fbxzt3cbl

48) Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

49) The Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks

50) The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

What are your favorite books to read aloud as a family? Share in the comment section below!

Reading For Homeschool Success

Reading is a part of educational success and Homeschool Success can be yours with my Homeschool Success Course!

Before, homeschooling was about choosing a better educational choice for your children. But now, there’s so much more at stake, including the HEALTH of your family.

Public and private schools are doing their very best balancing teaching kids at school during a world-wide health crisis, while also figuring out virtual learning. It’s a big challenge. During this time in history, everyone is just trying to figure out what’s best. I’m here to help you figure out homeschooling quickly and start meeting the educational needs of your kids immediately!

The truth is–YOU ARE YOUR KIDS BEST OPTION! 

Do you want to give your kids a private education but without the endless screen time, complications, and lack of individuality that comes with a public school e-learning alternative?

You’re invited to join a growing movement of parents who want to give their children something better and something deeper.

–A deep love for learning.

–A deeper, more comprehensive education.

–Depper family relationships.

Together we can build the homeschool life you dream of! Get the Homeschool Success Course here : Homeschool Success

by 1 Comment

Travel the World on Your Staycation

Believe it or not, it’s possible to travel the world on your staycation. In the last month, I’ve visited Venice, Paris, Madrid, and many other bucket list locales all from the comfort of my living room. Today, I’m sharing how you can take virtual tours all over the planet without updating your passport and for less than to cost of an Uber to the airport. Enjoy the ride!

Travel the World on Your Staycation

Right now the world is covered in white and it’s hard to imagine that Spring is just around the corner, but it’s true. Even though we might all get to see green grass and warmer temperatures in the near future, one thing we might not see is world travel–at least not for a bit. But there is one way we can still see the world from the comfort of our own home. I’ve found that virtual tours are a fun and informative way to see places I’ve longed to visit all for less than a latte. And you can too.

Travel the World on Your Staycation

Budapest is quickly becoming one of my favorite cities, and that is due to these wonderful virtual tours by Adam. I’m learning so much and it’s a beautiful place to visit virtually. I feel bad though that he’s in the cold while I am able to sit in the warmth of my home. But that’s the beauty of a “staycation.” I’m saving money, staying healthy, and seeing amazing sights, and helping keep tour guides worldwide employed.
As an author, I was fascinated with the Jewish district of Budapest, which was a ghetto during World War 2. The plates on the ground are “stumbling stones” that give information about Jewish men and women who lost their lives in the Holocaust. I also saw these on the virtual tour of Rome. And I saw them in person when I was visiting my daughter in Olomouc, Czech Republic. May we never forget about those whose lives were harshly cut short.

Travel the World on Your Staycation

One morning last week I visited Luxor, Egypt, with my daughter Lesley. We learned about agriculture, canal systems, and how sugar cane is transported. I even saw the mountains protecting the Valley of the Kings and amazing statues!

When In Rome Make Pizza

Our family really enjoyed touring Venice. We had no idea that most of the canals and passageways were so narrow. We also saw the spot where modern typography was invented. Another interesting fact we learned is that the water in the canals is replaced every six hours, with fresh water from the sea. One of the best parts of traveling is trying the food. So in Rome, we took a class through Virtual Tours and learned how to make authentic Italian pizza from Micky and Adry. The crust was AMAZING. I made four pizzas and they disappeared before I could get photos. I did manage to snap a shot of my last pizza.

A Flea in Paris

Everyone thinks of the Eiffel Tower when they think of Paris, but we had a great time visiting the Paris Flea Market with LeParisde Patrick. He planned the trip so well and showed us so many interesting things. From posters to jewelry to a tiny home that looked like a spaceship, we loved seeing all the unique and interesting finds available in Paris. Many of the shop owners were happy to comment and share stories about their goods. It wasn’t just fun but it was also informative.
travel the world on your staycation
Paris is full of colors and textures and the feel of the city of love inspired me to paint these beautiful ceramic pitchers we saw during the tour. What will inspire you?

Travel the World on Your Staycation

No matter what your plans for the coming months include, you can’t go wrong with a virtual trip around the world. One of the best parts is that these tours are free–that’s right–there’s no cost to join and enjoy these live tours of some of the most scenic and amazing places in the world. As a courtesy, the tour guides do ask if you can tip ($3-$5 is suggested) and if not, just help spread the word by sharing the link and information about the tours. How wonderful is that?

Are you ready to travel now? You can sign up to go on a tour here:

 

 

by 3 Comments

Bible Journaling for Future Generations

Several years ago I began Bible Journaling for Future Generations of my family. Today, I want to share with you how I created these keepsake Bible’s. God’s Word is the foundation for my parenting and my life. I want to make sure I take every opportunity to share His wisdom with those He has entrusted to me. You can do the same! Let me help you with these tips for creating your own Bible Journal for Future Generations.

Bible Journaling for future generations

Bible Journaling for Future Generations

I am the mother of ten children and two grandchildren. As a mom and grandmother, I want to pass on a heritage of faith, but for so long I didn’t know how I could do that. I didn’t have time to sit down with each person and have a one-on-one Bible Study. Instead, I decided to share my faith through written notes and prayers within my Bible.

Each year I buy a blank Bible, and through the year I write notes and prayers for one member of my family. Last year I filled a Bible for my 27-year-old son. This year I’m doing the same for my 24-year-old daughter. Each day that I sit down to read and pray, I write the date, and I highlight a specific Scripture passage. Then, in the margins, I write a personal note or story. Some days I share about my faith walk. Other days I write about moments when I’ve seen God work in my child’s life. I don’t worry about trying to sound wise or eloquent. Instead, I write plainly, as if I was sitting across from my son or daughter and sharing what was on my heart.

Bible Journaling for Future Generations

On the journalized pages, I also include a prayer. I pray the Scriptures, and I also pray about whatever my child is facing during that time in his/her life. I don’t always have the time to write a thought or prayer every day, but I commit to be faithful and do so as much as possible.

This year, I gave my son his Bible on his birthday, and he’s told me numerous times how much it means to him. My hope is that my words and prayers are something that my son can turn to throughout his life and even become a keepsake to pass on.

I’ve found the best Bibles to use are journaling Bibles. I plan to buy a new one every year until every family member has one. It may seem strange to pass on a “used Bible,” but I know these Bibles will be forever cherished because they were written in, prayed over, and adorned with my tears.

10 Tips for Bible Journaling for Future Generations

These 10 tips will help you in starting your own Bible Journaling.

  1. Pray about who would be blessed to receive a Bible with your notes and prayers. Bible Journaling for future generations

  2. Buy a Bible designed for note-taking, or if you prefer not to write in your Bible, select a journaling notebook.
  3. Gather pens, highlighters, and colored pencils that won’t smudge.

  4. Keep the supplies in a convenient location where you have your Bible study.

  5. Decide when you want to present the gift. Then determine if you have the time to read through the Bible, read selected books of the Bible, or focus on favorite verses to share.
  6. Each day, write the date in the margin of the selected passage or in the journal notebook.
  7. Spend time in prayer, asking God to show you verses that will be meaningful to your child or grandchild.
  8. As you read, highlight specific verses or write them in your notebook.

  9. If you have an artistic flair, sketch a design to emphasize a keyword or meaningful phrase, or use colored pencils to add your personal touch to your handwriting. Bible Journaling for future generations

  10. Remember, the most important part of journaling is letting your family hear you speak God’s Word into their life, so simply notes and prayers that come from your heart.

Originally published in Mature Living, January 2017

 

by Leave a Comment

14 Ways You Can Help Teen Moms

There are certainly more than 14 Ways to Help Teen Moms, but this a great start. Young moms have a lot of needs. They’re still teenagers, yet they also have to balance school, a boyfriend, friends, parents, and sometimes work. Some of the ways to help teen moms may seem small, but to a teen mom, they could make all the difference. I know–I was that teen mom.

14 ways to help teen moms

 

14 Ways You Can Help Teen Moms

As a teen mom, I faced depression when I lost my boyfriend and most of my friends during my pregnancy. I dropped out of school and slept until noon. With each day that passed I put another brick in the wall I was building around my heart. Those bricks started tumbling when older women reached out to me with love and compassion. Because they loved me, I dared to believe God loved me too. Sometimes I wonder where I’d be today without those women.

If you’d like to help teen moms, here are some valuable ways to do it. You may never know the impact, but I guarantee it’ll be huge!

1. Offer a prepaid phone.

“I offered a young mom a prepaid phone so she can always call for help when needed. I also paid/ordered cab rides for her to go to the doctor or ER when necessary. Apps such as Uber or Lyftt make it possible to help long-distance. I wasn’t even in the same state, but we were able to help in this manner.” —Angela

2. Take her shopping.

“I had the pleasure years ago to take a young mom maternity clothes shopping. This trip experience was the first for us both but such a precious memory.” —Sherry

3. Help with homework.

Offer to help with college applications. Search for scholarships, too.

14 ways to help teen moms

4. Share your life–be a true friend.

“I welcomed her into my home with hugs, stood by her choice to have her baby, was her friend, prayed for her, and held a shower for her.” —Mary Elizabeth

5. Offer to babysit for a season.

“I babysat for a young girl so she could go back to college. She was valedictorian at her high school graduation and got a full-ride scholarship to our state university. She found out she was pregnant just before graduation. It was the middle of her second semester and first year of college when she gave birth. She had nobody to help, so I babysat so she could go back to class literally one week after she had him.” —Trisha

6. Host a baby shower for her or collect almost-new items from your friends.

Many young moms are unable to purchase items themselves. “I encouraged my local Republican Woman’s Club members to put on a shower for her. They went all out, and it was very nice!” —Heidi

7. Take her to lunch and talk about her baby.

Even if a pregnancy is unexpected and unplanned, there is still a child to celebrate. Ask her if she has any questions about pregnancy or parenting you can answer.

8. Talk to her about relationships.

Let her know you won’t be shocked by her questions. Many young women find themselves in unhealthy relationships and don’t have anyone to talk to them about it. Give her supportive, loving advice.

9. Offer to do a Bible study with her, or invite her to a Bible study with your friends.

14 ways to help teen moms

Many young moms have questions about the Bible, but they’ve never had anyone to ask. “I bought her a Bible to read during her lonely hours.” —Martha

Because many teens have smartphones (and spend lots of time on them) show her how to download the YouVersion Bible app. It’s free and means she will always have the Word of God available to her no matter where she is–in doctor’s appointments, school, or late nights with a new baby. It even has several free Bible studies she can do alone or with a group.

10. Host a birthday party.

“I gave her a gift at her daughter’s first birthday party (including a fantastic book for teen moms). The gift also had ‘pampering’ stuff for her—bubble bath, that kind of thing.” —Jodi

11. Gather the troops to help teen moms.

“I found thirty people to give $100 to a teen mom at church so she could get a car. A guy from church who was a mechanic tuned it up and got it in tip-top shape.” —Carmen

12. Buy her some inspiring books.

I wrote Praying for Your  Future Husband and Teen Mom: You are Stronger Than You Think with teen moms in mind. Read through them with her and give her a chance to share her thoughts and feelings.

14 Ways to Help Teen Moms

13. Be there for support.

“I watched her son, drove her to and from work, fed her (both with our family and sent food home), purchased formula and diapers, took photos of her and her son to send to family, and invited her to church.” —Kimberly

14. Be a friend.

“I was her friend when no one else was.” —Nicole

14 ways to help teen moms

14 Ways You Can Help Teen Moms

These fourteen ways are just a start. Consider how God can use you to help a young mom in your life. The value for her and her child is immeasurable.

Download this free resource as a reminder of how you can make a difference to a teen mom!

I hope this encourages you to help a teen mom in your city, church, or family.  They need us!

Warmly, Tricia

Other Blog Posts I’ve Written About Teen Moms

Teen Mom, You Are Not Alone

Gaining Wisdom by Working with Teen Moms

A Letter to Teen Moms | You Are Important

Broken Things Made Beautiful

Word Identity | Your Words Change Everything!

Share “Teen Mom” with Someone Today!

5 Practical Ways to Run a Teen MOPS Group

Somebody Needs to Hear

17 Ways to Reach out to Single Moms

Why Does Mentoring Matter? A Lesson From Mary

Just Be Available to God

God Is Not Punishing You For Your Past Sins

An Unexpected Life

How to Start a Teen MOPS Group

How to Help Teen Moms

 

by Leave a Comment

Honoring Black History Month

In February we’re honoring Black History Month and I believe the best place to start is by educating ourselves. I’m sharing these resources with you in hopes that they foster the hope and reconciliation our culture so desperately needs. Learning is a great place to connect and these resources are a great place to start.

In Peace~ Tricia.

honoring black history

Honoring Black History Month

As a white person growing up in California I had black friends, and I thought I understood black history, just from things I’d learned in school. Then, in 2010, my family moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, I started a support group for inner-city teen moms, and we started attending a multi-ethnic church, and I realized I knew nothing at all.

So, what did I do? I began to read and study. I asked questions tough questions and sought out honest answers. Instead of standing by idly, I pushed in to learn the hard facts.

What grew in me then was a deep respect and appreciation for the battle our brothers and sisters have fought. I pray that the following resources help you find the answers too. But, moreover, I hope they lead us to a better understanding and build a bond of unity among us all.

Honoring Black History Month

honoring Black History month

We live near Central High School, and I take everyone who visits to experience the museum, commemorating the Little Rock Nine, and discover a part of history they don’t know. Recently I hosted an online virtual tour sharing this location with the world. While the capital city of Arkansas looks idyllic now, this city is a site of many of history’s heartaches.  During the tour I shared about the Civil Rights battle that took place here when a group of nine black students were blocked from entering the formerly all-white Central High School by the Arkansas National Guard, drawing national attention to the civil rights movement.

One resource I recommend to help you learn from a first-hand account is Warriors Don’t Cry: An innocent teenager. An unexpected hero by Melba Pattiollo Beals.

In 1957, Melba Pattillo turned sixteen. That was also the year she became a warrior on the front lines of a civil rights firestorm. Following the landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling, Brown v. Board of Education, Melba was one of nine teenagers chosen to integrate Little Rock’s Central High School.

(From Amazon)

“In this essential autobiographical account by one of the Civil Rights Movement’s most powerful figures, Melba Pattillo Beals of the Little Rock Nine explores not only the oppressive force of racism, but the ability of young people to change ideas of race and identity.

In 1957, well before Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, Melba Pattillo Beals and eight other teenagers became iconic symbols for the Civil Rights Movement and the dismantling of Jim Crow in the American South as they integrated Little Rock’s Central High School in the wake of the landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling, Brown v. Board of Education.

Throughout her harrowing ordeal, Melba was taunted by her schoolmates and their parents, threatened by a lynch mob’s rope, attacked with lighted sticks of dynamite, and injured by acid sprayed in her eyes. But through it all, she acted with dignity and courage, and refused to back down.

Warriors Don’t Cry is, at times, a difficult but necessary reminder of the valuable lessons we can learn from our nation’s past. It is a story of courage and the bravery of a handful of young, black students who used their voices to influence change during a turbulent time.

Honoring Black History Month

Want to learn more and see the site of this historical landmark? Join me on a LIVE tour of Little Rock on Wednesday, February 10th at 2:00 pm or Friday, February 12th at 2:00 pm with www.virtualtrips.io
The tour shows Little Rock as being on the pathway for the Trail of Tears. On this trail, the Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek, Chickasaw, and Seminole tribes traveled through the state in the 1830s to new lands in the Indian Territory in modern-day Oklahoma. Visitors will also see a Civil War river crossing location. This tour will take place in Riverside Park, visiting local landmarks and markers. These include an Indian head carving, a Civil War marker, and a historical sculpture garden. We’ll also see the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge, and the tour will end in Downtown Little Rock for a glimpse of the city.
The tour is free and but accepts tips. I hope you’ll join me for this fun and informative tour of Little Rock.

 

by 1 Comment

22 Scriptures to Pray for Your Children in 2022

These 22 Scriptures to pray for your children in 2022 can make all the difference. And while we have high hopes that 2022 will have less conflict and trials than last year, we can’t guarantee it. There are many things we can do for our children to help them during hard times, but the best thing we can do is pray. Lift your children to God this year through the power of His word.

Scriptures to Pray for Your Children
Scriptures to Pray for Your Children

 

22 Scriptures to Pray for Your Children in 2022

  1. Truth. With so many people trying to convince kids that “anything goes,” pray that your children will understand that truth comes from God. We need to follow what God says. “Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you,” Psalm 25:5.
  2. Peace. Everyone is facing challenges in our world right now. Instead of being worried, pray that your children’s focus will stay on God so they can have peace. “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!” Isaiah 26:3.
  3. Patience and Kindness. Most children are missing out on normal activities with their friends. Pray that your children can grow in patience and kindness with each other during this time. “Love is patient and kind,” 1 Corinthians 13:4.
  4. Obedience. It may seem strange to pray that your children will obey you, but when children learn obedience parents, they also learn to obey God. “People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray,” Proverbs 10:17.
  5. Purity. Pray for your children’s purity through obeying God’s Word. There are many things that can corrupt the mind, heart and body. “How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word,” Psalm 119:9.
  6. Trust. Pray for your children to trust in the Lord instead of their own ideas. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding,” Proverbs 3:5.

Scriptures to Pray for Your Children

22 Scriptures to Pray for Your Children in 2022

7. Submission. Pray your children will be submissive to the Holy Spirit’s work in their lives. “But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Galatians 5:22-23.

8. Transformation. Pray your children will allow God to transform their minds so they may actively seek God’s will. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect,” Romans 12:2

9. A Seeking Heart. Pray your children will seek God’s kingdom above all else. “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need,” Matthew 6:33.

 

10. The armor of God. Pray for your children to understand that God has given us armor to fight against the evil of the world. “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places,” Ephesians 6:11-12.

11. Action. Pray that your children will understand God’s word and be quick to act. “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says,” James 1:22

12. Love. Pray your children will love others well. And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows. 1 Thessalonians 3:12

13. Faith. Pray your children will have faith in God’s good plans. “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns,” Philippians 1:6

14. Steadfastness. Pray your children don’t listen to bad advice from others. “Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers,” Philippians 2:6.

15. Being a Peacemaker. Pray your children will be peacemakers, solving problems instead of causing problems. “And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness,” James 3:18

2022

16. Encouragement. Pray your children will always lift their heads to look to the Lord, and when they’re too hurt or discouraged, pray they’ll allow God to lift their heads. “But you, O LORD, are a shield around me; you are my glory, the one who holds my head high,” Psalm 3:3.

17. Surrender. Pray your children will learn to let God carry their burdens. “Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall,” Psalm 55:22.

18. Humility. Pay your children will get on their knees before God often, knowing He can help them. “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you,” James 4:7

19. Accountability. Pray your kids will be connected to a community of believers who will keep them on their toes. “Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God,” Hebrews 3:12.

20. Hope. Pray your kids will hope in God for a good future. “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the LORD. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope,” Jeremiah 29:11.

21. Wisdom. Pray your children will turn to God when they need wisdom or knowledge. “For the LORD grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding,” Proverbs 2:6.

22. Joy. Pray that your children will find joy in their relationship with the Lord and that it will strengthen them as they walk through these difficult days. “The Joy of the Lord is your strength,” Nehemiah 8:10.

Choose a few things to pray for your child each day. I know God will use your prayers for good in your child’s life!

Walking it Out,
Tricia Goyer

by Leave a Comment

2020 is Just a Chapter of Our Stories | Bonnie Clark

Enter to win a copy of Taste Your Words!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
2020 is Just a Chapter of Our Stories. But with perseverance, we can lean into what God has for us in this season and not survive–but thrive. Today our guest Bonnie Clark shares how God is moving in her through the challenges of this year.

2020 is Just a Chapter of Our Stories

 

2020 has been a strange chapter in history for sure. The changes—some possibly permanent, the missed opportunities, our uncertain future. We’re all struggling in different ways. It seems unreal what is happening in our communities, and country and in our small world.

It’s like we’re living in a movie.

But even in the middle of this crazy year, I know deep in my heart that this is all part of our story. It’s part of my story because I am on this earth “for such a time as this” and recently, although I feel like they have missed out on so much, I’ve realized that 2020 is also a part of my children’s story too.

The writer in me has always loved a good story, and one that has always fascinated me is the story of the Titanic: The tale seems unreal. The ship was “unsinkable” and yet it went down in just a few short hours after hitting an iceberg in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean taking many lives with it to the bottom of the sea. The whole thing was like a bad dream that had come true.

But for me, what draws me in and still fascinates me to this day, are the incredible true stories within the story, of the people who were on the ship.

There were men who courageously and chivalrously ushered “women and children first” to safety.

There were men who cowardly dressed as women to get access to the lifeboats.

Wives chose to die with their husbands rather than be separated from them.

Musicians played to calm the crowd and then the music faded with their lives.

And there was a captain who valiantly went down with his ship.

Each person, through their individual choices, became a character in the story that we still tell today. There were victims and villains and victors.

AND HERE WE ARE.

The reality of Covid-19 on the world will one day be a story that we tell.

I’m not suggesting that this ship is going to sink. I’m quite hopeful that Covid-19 will go away, but the stories we tell about it will live on forever. What part are you playing in the story? What character and role have you assumed without even realizing it? Are you modeling courage and perseverance for your children?

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”- Shakespeare

2020 is just a chapter of our stories and the mission for a Jesus follower has not changed. It’s only become amplified. We are called to be a part of the story and to point people to the Storyteller.

Character is revealed in times of trial. So, who do you want to be? Who are you becoming during the Covid-19 pandemic of 2020? What will be your story?

I want to be the Unsinkable Molly Brown. Who according to many accounts urged the rowers in her lifeboat to go back and rescue more people who were drowning in the dark sea. I want to be fearless with my words and actions. I want to try to help others from going under.

Buildings may be closed, but now we get to be the real church. We can show the world that “we are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair.”

We can live with a spirit of peace and not fear.

Schools look different for our kids, but THIS is real school. We can teach our children to love and be kind to EVERYONE especially those who think, act, or look different from you. We can learn to taste our words and bring life and encouragement to those who are really struggling. Let’s allow kind words to be nourishment and compassion be our teachers in this shared human experience.

Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. – Proverbs 16:24

 

2020 is Just a Chapter of Our Stories

We won’t all come out of this unscathed, but we can move forward with a deeper sense of awareness, gratitude, and faith. Heroic. That is the story I want to tell. I will not be pulled under by fear. I will create a story with my children that is worth telling. One of trust and truth and unsinkable faith.

The Storyteller invites us into the unfolding story of history. Let’s choose our part well, for ourselves and our children.

“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life so that you and your descendants might live!” – Deuteronomy 30:19

 

Bonnie Clark loves books that make her laugh, cry, or think for a long time. She has always enjoyed words and writing, but she has a special affection for picture books. Weekly trips to the library with her kids is one of her favorite things to do, and even though her older two are on to chapter books, they still enjoy listening to mom read a picture book.

When Clark isn’t writing and raising her kids, she does yoga, reads books, and drinks lots of coffee. Her favorite place in the world is ANY beach. She lives in Canton, Georgia, with her husband and their three children.

Learn more at bonnieclarkbooks.com or follow her on Facebook (Bonnie Clark Author), Twitter (@bonclark), Instagram (@bonnieclarkbooks), and YouTube (Bonnie Clark Books). 

More about Taste Your Words:

Teach kids about the power of words and the importance of kindness with this charming picture book that cleverly illustrates why we should think before we speak.

Amera’s having a bad day. Her best friend ruined her cupcake and they both said mean things. When Amera brings her bad mood home with her, her mom tells her to “taste her words.” Amera’s mean words taste like rotten eggs, spoiled milk, and lemons! As Amera realizes that her mean words make her feel bad and others feel worse, she starts saying the kindest, sweetest words she can find.

This picture book is an excellent resource for parents who want to teach their kids to think before they speak. With humorous text and lively illustrations, Clark and Bright make it easy for even the youngest children to understand the power of their words.

Purchase a copy of Taste Your Words here!

Verified by MonsterInsights