Tricia Goyer HomepageTricia Goyer

Living God’s Word One Step at a Time

You are here: Home / Archives for Motherhood

Motherhood

by Leave a Comment

The Perfect Gift for Mom: Appreciation and Love

The Perfect Gift for Mom: Appreciation and Love

If we were to stop and chat in the grocery store, I’d most likely tell you about my kids. Yet, maybe I should change that. Maybe I should tell you about my mom.

My mom, Linda, was a single mom when I was born, at a time when it wasn’t very common. She was a devoted mom, too. She took me to church and was a chaperone at youth camp. She helped me make cheerleading posters and volunteered at every fundraiser. My mom worked full time, yet she took my friends and me to the lake on hot summer days. My mom’s example growing up is undoubtedly why I’m a hands-on mom today.

I’ve found the perfect gift for you to give your mom. This sweet collection of sentiments from mother-daughter duo Helen McIntosh and Blythe Daniel is a sincere tribute to moms everywhere.

Whether they are still on the parenting journey or enjoying the grandmothering phase of life, moms of all ages will be blessed and encouraged by these inspirational thoughts and special affirmations of love.

I Love You, Mom, looks at the character traits that make up moms everywhere. The authors highlight traits that point to moms and their influences on our lives. Any mom who receives this as a gift will be encouraged with thoughtful devotions centered around legacy, confidence, attentiveness, and being a servant.

The best part is—and I’m sure your mom will agree—you get to add your own words. What mom doesn’t want words of affirmation and love from one of her kids?

If you’re googling “a good gift to get for my mom,” look no further.

And if you want to be inspired as to why words of affirmation and love are important, I know you’ll enjoy this podcast.

If you are enjoying the show, I have a quick favor to ask! If you haven’t yet hit the subscribe button and left a rating and a review on iTunes, please take a moment and do so! I love reading your reviews and it keeps the algorithms happy so new listeners can find the podcast as well!

Thanks to this month’s sponsor

Mentioned in This Episode

I love You Mom: Cherished Word Gifts from My Heart to Yours | Blythe Daniel & Helen McIntosh
Mended: Restoring the Hearts of Mothers and Daughters | Blythe Daniel & Helen McIntosh
Isaiah 59:21 – 60:2
Numbers 6:22-27
Isaiah 58:12

Connect with Blythe Daniel & Helen McIntosh

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

See Tricia’s Favorites here!

Pin + Share

 

by 1 Comment

Mothering by the Book

Mothering by the Book

Click here to watch this interview.

More about Mothering by the Book:

“Wit and wisdom for every mother, everywhere.”–ERIN LOECHNER, author of Chasing Slow

Becoming a better, happier mom starts with the stories you tell your kids

As a mom, you want to nurture a strong family, but fear steals your joy. Sometimes you wonder if you’re failing your children or whether you’re cut out for this.

Beloved writer and mom of seven Jennifer Pepito understands. She was intent on loving her children well, but fear and worry pushed her around. Ultimately, she found her joy in a most surprising place: the pages of classic literature she was reading aloud to her children every day. These stories helped her reclaim the wonder of childhood for herself and her children.

In Mothering by the Book, Jennifer takes you on a fascinating, whimsical journey that will bring freedom and fun to your parenting–one great book at a time.

Purchase a copy of Mothering by the Book here.

If you are enjoying the show, I have a quick favor to ask! If you haven’t yet hit the subscribe button and left a rating and a review on iTunes, please take a moment and do so! I love reading your reviews and it keeps the algorithms happy so new listeners can find the podcast as well!

Mentioned in This Episode

by 2 Comments

Writer’s Desk with Jennifer Pepito

The Writer’s Desk with Jennifer Pepito

Jennifer Pepito is the founder of The Peaceful Press, a company committed to providing learning resources that promote connection between parents and children. Jennifer’s wisdom has also been featured on Wild + Free, The MOB Society, the Washington Post, and Home Educating Family. She unlocked the power of a well-told story and wants you to do the same thing.

Connect with Jennifer on her website, Instagram (or this one), and on Facebook.

More about Mothering by the Book:

Becoming a better, happier mom starts with the stories you tell your kids

As a mom, you want to nurture a strong family, but fear steals your joy. Sometimes you wonder if you’re failing your children or whether you’re cut out for this.

Beloved writer and mom of seven Jennifer Pepito understands. She was intent on loving her children well, but fear and worry pushed her around. Ultimately, she found joy in the most surprising place: the pages of classic literature she read aloud to her children daily. These stories helped her reclaim the wonder of childhood for herself and her children.

In Mothering by the Book, Jennifer takes you on a fascinating, whimsical journey that will bring freedom and fun to your parenting—one great book at a time.

Purchase a copy of Mothering by the Book.

Q&A with Jennifer Pepito

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

JP: One boring fact about me is that I love being at home. Reading aloud to my children, sitting on my front porch with friends, and generally living a quiet life are so precious to me.

TG: Why did you write Mothering by the Book?

JP: I wrote Mothering by the Book because it’s so important for our children to feel like we enjoy them and aren’t just crushed by the worry of caring for them. It’s natural for us to worry about our children, but when our countenance is constantly characterized by worry it causes anxiety in our children as well.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

JP: It was so easy to get in a writing flow and that surprised me! I had heard horror stories of writers who struggled to finish (and who knows what the next one will be like) so it was a pleasant surprise that writing this was so easy.

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

JP: I hope they realize how important joy is for their children’s well-being and theirs as well. When we let go of fear and choose joy, it changes the whole atmosphere of our home.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

JP: I love writing first thing in the morning after I’ve read my Bible. It’s so helpful to give the freshest hours of the day to deep work like writing encouraging words for mothers.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

JP: I think that passion and perseverance are the keys to accomplishing big goals so it’s important to create a daily habit of writing if you want to grow in that skill.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

JP: I always have my morning coffee and a glass of water beside me when I start to write, and if I’m still working later in the day I love munching on dark chocolate, and macadamia nuts while sipping sparkling water.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

JP: I didn’t really get blocked with this book, I just set a daily writing goal that was manageable and the story flowed, but when I’ve been stumped on other projects I try to at least get a minimum of words on paper and then edit them the following day.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

JP: I do some editing as I go, re-reading my words before I start writing the next section in a chapter, and then edit again when I finish. Editing is not my favorite and one thing I love about having a traditional publisher is the many rounds of edits that a book goes through so I know it will be really clean.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

JP: I think failing to create a writing habit is the biggest mistake for new writers, which is why consistently sharing on social media can be a help to aspiring writers. As we make a habit of sharing on our platforms, it can help us develop the skills needed to write a full manuscript.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received?

JP: I read a book about great artists that talked about their consistency with fitting in daily practice and that was helpful for understanding what it takes to be creative. It was important to realize that it’s not magic, it’s just consistency.

Enter to win one of three copies of Mothering By the Book*:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Due to shipping costs, paperbacks can be shipped to US mailing addresses only.

Don’t miss my conversation with Jennifer! Click the graphic to watch!

Sharable Graphics! Just click, save, and share!

by Leave a Comment

When is the Homeschool Day Over?

When is the Homeschool Day Over? Out of all the questions that people have about homeschooling, this one tops the list. While the answer varies with each family, here are a few things to consider when it comes to setting a homeschool schedule, keeping on track, and knowing when the homeschool day is over.

Out of all the questions that people have about homeschooling, “What is a typical homeschool day?” tops the list. While the answer varies with each family, here are a few things to consider when it comes to setting a homeschool schedule, keeping on track, and knowing when is the homeschool day over?

When is the Homeschool Day Over?

As a new homeschooling mom, I wondered this myself. With all the wonderful plans we have for giving our kids the best education ever, we can sometimes lose track of time. Don’t let the day go on too long and face burnout. Learn from my veteran advice.

1. Homeschooling doesn’t take as long as you think.

Unlike public schools, homeschool subjects take less time to teach. Instead of a teacher teaching and overseeing twenty-five or more students, you have far less. Even if you’re teaching multiple grades at once, you won’t spend time controlling a crowd, making sure everyone understands, and moving from room to room. For early elementary grades, homeschool lessons can be completed in 2-3 hours. Older kids take more time, but an added benefit is that when the homework is done, it’s done. Since schoolwork is done during the day, you don’t have to spend time on added homework in the evenings.

2. When setting your homeschool schedule, remember you can shorten your homeschool day by teaching kids together.

Homeschool would take more time if you were teaching complete sets of curriculum for all of the first grade, third grade, fifth grade (or whatever ages your kids are). I’m currently homeschooling ages 9, 10, 12, 15, and 17-year-old twins. We do Bible Study together, and I read aloud missionary stories and historical novels to all my kids. This not only builds family bonds and saves money … it saves time too. I’ve learned to teach toward the older kids and then add in fun activities for the younger kids to help them understand the concepts at their level.

3. Start with the difficult and demanding subjects when setting your homeschool schedule.

If you do the fun subjects first, then the day can drag after you finally get to the hard stuff. Yet if you start with the hard stuff, then the day seems to go quickly once that’s done.

4. Don’t forget breaks!

Breaks are important, both for you and your children! Give your kids time to play outside, do crafts, or read on their own. So while officially you haven’t called the homeschool day over yet, you can schedule in time for yourself.

5. Don’t fill your day with so much that your schedule doesn’t end.

The curriculum is your guide, not your boss. The purpose of the curriculum is to provide structure and direction. Teacher lesson plans are lists of ideas. No one is expected to do it all! Not even private or public school teachers finish every lesson. (It’s true, they’ve told me!)

6. Know that even if your homeschooling day is officially over, every part of life can be considered “schooling.”

when is the homeschool day over

The way you shop, spend time with friends, and work, will change because you’re giving a large part of your day to your kids. That being said, there are so many aspects of everyday life that you can choose to be teaching times if you’re creative. Grocery shopping and running to the bank can be great lessons. You simply have to be imaginative and realize your lifestyle won’t look like those of most folks around you.

7. Capture the teachable moments.

I was leaving the doctor’s office with my three, young kids when a homeless man approached us. He was in a wheelchair, and he was missing a leg. I’d just gotten the kids buckled into their car seats when he approached asking for food. I “just so happened” to have a packed lunch that my Bible Study leader gave to us. I also had recently been to the bakery, and I’d picked up some donuts for my grandma for a treat.

I gave the man lunch and offered him the biggest donut. His eyes grew wide. “Is this cream-filled?” It turned out it was and the man’s face filled with joy. He ate it with pleasure.

It was only as I backed away that I realized my kids had been watching the exchange. Even though I never intended it to be, that was a teachable moment.

On the drive home, we talked about homelessness. We talked about caring for those who God brings in our path. We talked about sharing what we had. We talked about kindness. And that night—as the kids shared our experience with their dad—we talked about it again. And the next day we decided to pack up care packages with water bottles, snacks, and spare change to keep in the car. We also started reading a book for homeschool, Tales of the Not Forgotten by Beth Guckenberger.

Offering what we had to a homeless man, talking about homelessness as we drove home and later at dinner, creating care packages was schooling. Reading a book about needs around the world and those who are helping them helped us understand it even better, too.

7. Your kids learn just as much from real-life conversations as anything else.

I talk about real-life stuff during fun times, like when we’re enjoying popcorn or picking flowers outside. It’s then that kids are more likely to listen.

Ron Rose, author of Seven Things Kids Never Forget says, “Learn the art of meandering conversation. When you’re working a puzzle with your kids or riding in the car together, talk about worries or other crisis times. As a way to get started, use something you heard about, something you saw on TV, or something that happened to you as a child.” I especially love the idea of sharing stories from my own childhood. There are lessons each of us have learned that can be passed on to our kids.

8. And even when the official schooling day is over, be present.

Any time of the day, when my children ask me a question, I either answer it or let them know when I can answer it. Eye contact with my children makes a big difference. When I take time to focus on their faces and make an effort to smile, a connection is made. My children know I’m available and I care.

While a school-at-home day is done when the basic subjects are covered, schooling together also creates times for more connections and interactions during the day. Your daily school schedule will be different than anyone else’s, and that’s okay. Focus on helping your kids love to learn and enjoy time together, and you’ll go a long way!

 

When is the Homeschool Day Over?

Have you checked out my homeschool success course yet?

Let me share all the practical tips and tricks I’ve learned to:

—Homeschool multiple levels in four hours a day.

—Understand the basics of homeschool laws and what your kids need to graduate and go to college.

—Discover your gifts as a homeschool teacher.

—Finding extra help for special needs kids.

…and so much more!

Here is my welcome module to give you a glimpse of this course!

 

YOU can give the gift of a homeschool education to your family by joining me here: www.homeschoolsuccesscourse.com 

 

 

by Leave a Comment

How to Walk Out Your Healing

The way you walk out your healing can affect not just your own life, but also the lives of your children. Facing our past mistakes and finding forgiveness and healing in Christ is so important. Today, I share I found healing through walking out my faith and how that affected our family.

 

Walk Out Your Healing

When my daughter was 13, I called her “mini-me.” When she answered the phone, people often thought it was me. Leslie has the same tone as me, and her voice carries the same inflections. Even though she had her own collection of CDs, she would often rifle through mine because she liked that music, too. She learned to put on makeup by watching me, and when she would see me engrossed in a good book, she would naturally want to read it. Even now, Leslie walks like me, talks like me, and acts like me. She has many of my same convictions… And also some of my hangups.

When our kids are toddlers, we think it’s so sweet when they pick up a block and place it to their ear like a cell phone. But the older they get, the more they’re mimicking matters, and if they aren’t dealt with, the rock-solid bad habits in your life will most likely be their‘s, too.

 

Walk Out Your Healing

In those days when you were slaves of sin, you weren’t concerned with doing what was right. And what was the result? It was not good, since now you’re ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life.

Romans 6:20-22 NLT

What I love about that scripture is the fact that Paul isn’t trying to play down the past. Instead, he reminds fellow believers that what matters is what we are now free from the power of sin and slaves of God.

The word free here means “to liberate,” and this word has special meaning to me personally. Several years ago I wrote my first novel, From Dust and Ashes. It’s about liberation from a Nazi concentration camp from the points of view of both an American G.I. who opens the camp gates and a prisoner inside. To write the book, I interviewed both veterans and survivors alike. I also attended a ceremony in Austria organized by the survivors to celebrate their liberation 60 years after the fact!

Author Tricia Goyer shares the captivating story behind her book From Dust and Ashes

Walking In Freedom

These men and women — prisoners of the Nazis – had been near death, oppressed, and hopeless. Yet their victors came to open the gates and offered them not only hope but a future too. Once they walked from those gates, they were prisoners no more. They were liberated. They might revisit those times of bondage in their mind, but they no longer had to live behind the barbed wire. They did, however, have to realize their freedom and live in it, no longer behaving as if they were still in bondage. Likewise, if we don’t know the joy of true freedom in our hearts, how do we expect to lead our kids in the same freedom?

Kids go where we take them, they have no choice. How sad it would be if our own inner struggles pulled our kids back to our own past issues… Merely because we ourselves have not yet fully realized our freedom in Christ.

Walk Out Your Healing

It’s taken me years to deal with some of the issues from my past. I’ve attended Bible studies for women who’ve had abortions. I helped start a crisis pregnancy center in our community. I’ve spoken at purity retreats for young women. And I’ve mentored teen moms. For me, healing from my past involves helping others who face the same struggles. My heart is renewed when I help others find hope.

The additional benefit is that my children now have a mother who has wholeness in Christ. They’ve heard about my mistakes, and they’ve seen me reaching out. They’ve also gained conviction in these areas, following what I say . . . and what I do.

Now, it’s your turn. How have you walked out healing in your life? What has God done to liberate you from your past? Share your testimony with me in the coments!

Walk It Out

Tricia Goyer Walk it OutYou’ve heard the phrase Trust God. It’s easy to say but can be hard to do. But what if you did it. What if you did the things that God asked you to do and solely relied on Him? Women often pack their lives with family, friends, and faithful service, yet still feel empty and unfilled. Bestselling author Tricia Goyer has been where you are. She gets it and knows that the only way to live a fulfilling life is to walk it out with God.

Walk It Out: The Radical Result of Living God’s Word One Step at a Time is a resource that teaches women how walking out the mandates of Scripture will allow God to spark passion and mission within them. Goyer teaches women, of all ages, how to:

  1. use your healed heart to love and serve
  2. create space and craft purpose
  3. give generously without question
  4. be vulnerable
  5. truly love your family
  6. do the work that God intended you to do

 

 

 

 

 

This book is for women:

  • struggling with anxiety or depression
  • feeling like they lost their way and are living by comparison
  • who feel like they’re never enough and always too much
  • searching for ways to develop a closer relationship with God
  • raising families while facing crossroads

Sometimes the steps we take in our faith are easy, but many times they require a move outside of what feels safe or secure. When women stop focusing on their own dreams and purposes, and instead focus on God’s dreams and purposes, everything changes. Get your copy of Walk It Out today!

 

by 1 Comment

What Mom Really Wants This Mother’s Day

Do you know what Mom really wants for Mother’s Day? As a mom of ten (yes, ten!) I can tell you that–aside from a day to relax and refresh my spirit with those I hold dear–I’d love any of these great gifts. But don’t just take my word for it, see what some of these happy customers have to say!

What Mom Really Wants This Mother’s Day

My super comfy, retail fit, unisex-sized tees are prewashed for a perfect fit, and they’re exactly what Mom wants. Great over jeans, leggings, or even a skirt, they feature short sleeves and come in a crew neck style. Designed with superior combed and ring-spun cotton, cover stitched collar and sleeves, shoulder-to-shoulder taping, side seams, a tear-away label–and words to inspire everyone Mom meets! She’ll think of you every time she snuggles into her new favorite tee.

 

Does Mom have a never-ending To-Do list?

Maybe all she really needs to do is have more fun. Let her know you’re giving her the OK to enjoy the day with this great insulated mug. Constructed from lightweight stainless steel, with a vacuum-sealed lid, it’s super durable and spill-resistant for any bumps in the road, so to speak.

The mug is double-walled and ideal for hot and cold drinks—hand wash only. Featuring wraparound artwork from our curated collection of designs, this travel mug is sure to be an everyday staple.

And the best part? Every purchase pays the artist who designed it—supporting creativity worldwide. (20oz capacity)

 

 

What’s Mom’s Love Language?

Cater to the book lover with this cute shirt and double-wall insulated mug in her favorite color!

Help keep a smile on her face (and her drink hot or cold!) all day as she dreams about reading her favorite book!

 

What Mom Really Wants This Mother’s Day

On front: Glory + grace

On back: Turn your eyes upon Jesus Look full in His wonderful face And the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of his glory and grace

On Mom– our Cozy Grey Comfort Colors Pullover Unisex sweatshirt!! With a true-to-size fit, and 80/20 ring spun cotton/polyester Soft-washed garment-dyed fabric, Mom will be comfy and warm on those chilly mornings.

Remind Mom how much you –and Jesus!– love her with our You Are So Loved or Your Story Matters tee.

 

 

 

 

 

Jesus IS The Best!

I find myself saying this daily. Whether I’m having a bad day or a good day.

2 Samuel 22:20 says, “He rescued me because He delighted in me.” There is no one like Jesus. Even a glimpse of His love for us is overwhelming. He paid the ultimate price for our redemption, because to Him, we are worth it. We simply have to believe in Him, receive the work He completed on our behalf, and follow Him.

According to Hebrews 12:2, “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” Keep your eyes fixed on the perfecter of your faith, the One who redeemed you because He delighted in you.

This 60% cotton / 40% polyester, beach fleece fabrication Crew neckline with rib trim Raw edge hemline with double-needle stitch will make Mom smile whenever she wears it!

 

                                                                                        Maybe, Mom needs Heart Happy:

Heart Happy: Staying Centered in God’s Love Through Chaotic Circumstances takes readers on a journey to discover where their true strength, peace, and joy come from—the Lord—no matter what life offers up. Tricia Goyer—author, podcast host, volunteer, homeschooling mom of ten children, and caregiver to her grandma—understands what it’s like to be pulled in different directions with the longing and intention to do all things well. In the midst of chaotic circumstances (which all of us face), she’s found uncomplicated but effective practices for nourishing the soul—because everything stems from the heart.

This hope-filled guide will inspire you to stay tethered to the Lover of your soul. By taking time to make your heart happy in the Lord, you’ll grow closer to the Heavenly Father, fostering true transformation from the inside out. Heart Happy will help you discover the beautiful life you’ve always hoped for through a connection with God that never seemed possible … until now.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms. Remember, you are SO loved!

Joyfully,

Tricia

by Leave a Comment

7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word

These 7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word can help you find peace as you pursue God’s purpose in your life. I’ve learned that when I follow His ways I can rest knowing He holds my life in His hands. He is faithful, friend. He will give you the life you desire if you trust Him with the details. Let’s look at how we can do that.

 

7 Truths about Walking Out God’s Word

What God has accomplished through me always amazes people, as an author of 70 books, conference speaker, and mom of ten kids, they want to know how I do it all. Truthfully, I don’t do it all. There is a lot I say no to. But I’ve ended up where I am due to one determination. I’ve just committed to reading God’s Word and walking it out. When I take these steps to walk out God’s Word, He provides me with all I need to fulfill His call.

Twenty-eight years ago, I was a 17-year-old teen mom who committed her life to Jesus and dared to believe God could make something out of her life. Seeing the destructive path I was on, I dared to read God’s Word and do what it says. I talk about my journey in my newly released book Walk It Out: The Radical Result of Living God’s Word One Step At A Time, and here are a few things I’ve learned in the process:

1. God’s mandates are given for a reason.

Whether you realize it or not, God intended for us to do what the Bible says: take the gospel into all the world, care for the vulnerable, help the needy, tend to our most important relationships. These are guideposts that point us down the path of true living and eternal life.

For many years I assumed God’s will for my life was all about me. But as I actually did what the Bible said, I discovered there was a large world out there who needed Jesus, and God had a part for me to play. Yes, I found true living and eternal life for myself, but as I follow God’s mandates I was able to share God’s Good News with others who found true living and eternal life, too.

As we choose to walk out God’s desires for this world, we model for our children a better way to live. When we prayed and ask God what matters to Him, He will open our eyes to those around us who needed help and hope. And as we extend love to others, God’s love flows through us. When we allow Scripture’s mandates to direct our lives, we’ll discover a God-designed mission that will excite and delight us. Isn’t this the type of life we want to model for our kids?

As a young mom, I was asked to help start a crisis pregnancy center. I didn’t think I had time, but God reminded me of those who reached out to me when I was a teen mom, giving me hope. I started a weekly support group in 2000, and I’m still leading one today. My heart is full and I find great joy telling young women that they matter to God and that their children matter. Watching my passionate service, each of my adult children have discovered their own passions in varied and unique ministries. They reach out to others as they were shown.

3. Walking out God’s Word takes action.

It’s important to know God’s Word, but the time comes when God’s Spirit whispers, “Are you done learning about Me, and are you ready to connect with Me?” After we fill our minds with head knowledge, God wants us to place our feet on the ground and act. He wanted me to have a living faith that was undeniable to me and to all those He brought into my life. But the walking part is important. As James 1:22 says, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves,” (NLT).

4. To walk out what God’s Word we need to depend on Him.

“I used to ask God to help me,” said Hudson Taylor, humble missionary and founder of the China Inland Mission. “Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up by asking Him to do His work through me.”

These words resonate with me because God took me on the same journey from independence to dependence. I’ve never needed God so greatly as I do when I walk out His mandates. When I’ve cried to Him in desperation; I’ve turned to Him in prayer more than ever. And that’s exactly where He wants me—wants each of us—to be.

We want to walk out God’s directive to share with those in need, but we often don’t know what that looks like. Seeing all the needs can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to ask, “God what is the one thing You need me to do today?” Then, do that, knowing God will tell the next step as needed.

6. Our calling is to become more like Jesus.

What is God calling us to do? How is He asking us to help and love the poor or to care for lost sinners? We can see how God wants us to act by seeing how Jesus loved and cared for people. Our calling isn’t to a specific job or ministry. Our calling is to walk as Jesus did.

7. Know your steps of faith define your future.

Dare I say it? Sometimes we step out of God’s will for us today because we’re trying to figure out what He has planned for us tomorrow—for our future. But when we walk out God’s directives and take steps of self-sacrifice, love, service, and compassion, we will discover God’s purpose for our future, and our family’s future, because our faithful steps will lead us to it.

“Who we choose to become and how we choose to live every day creates a trajectory for everything else,” said author Jerry Sittser. “Perhaps that is why the Bible says so little about God’s will for tomorrow and so much about what we should do to fulfill his will today.”

For years I tried to figure out God’s will for my life, but as I followed God’s Word—one step after another—I found myself in the center of God’s will. All I’ve accomplished has resulted from faithful steps of doing what the Bible says. Of course, the greatest success isn’t what I’ve done, but who’ve I’ve become on this journey with God. And who my children have become as they’ve followed me.

 

This post originally appeared here: https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/7-truths-about-walking-out-god-s-word.html

by Leave a Comment

How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids

How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids

Wondering How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids? It’s possible! After three decades of marriage, John and I have made our relationship a priority. There are no shortcuts to marital intimacy. But if you make the effort and take the time to keep connecting, you can stay close to your spouse–even with 10 kids and grandma in the house. Let me share what’s worked for us in this post.

 

How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids

 

 

 

How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids

Marriage is a challenge. Having time for intimacy with your spouse can be too. John and I have been married thirty-one years, and the priorities we’ve created to “keep love alive” have benefitted our marriage.

The closeness we’ve established has provided us with a habit of drawing close, even during challenging times in our lives. It hasn’t been easy to take time for each other, but it’s been worth it. Here are ways you can also keep love alive with a house full of kids.

1. Set boundaries.

I was an eighteen-year-old teen mom when John and I started dating. Our newlywed years included a toddler! Since I was a single mom at first, Cory was used to sleeping in bed with me, but things had to change once I got married. John and I set up boundaries right from the beginning.

  • No kids in our bed.

  • When our son was old enough to try to open the bedroom door, we locked it.

For me—and many women—feeling the freedom to be intimate with your spouse is important. We can’t relax if we worry a child is going to walk in at any moment! A few years in, John and I even started sleeping naked. Without that layer of clothes, a sense of closeness is fostered, even on nights when we go straight to sleep.

2. Keep distractions at bay.

Within three years of marriage, John and I had two additional kids. More kids mean more distractions and work, which also could have meant less time together. So we developed positive habits to ensure our evenings provided space and time for togetherness.

  • We always go to bed at the same time. And we try to make that not too late.

  • We never put a television in our bedroom. I insist on this. I’m not a TV person, and I know it can be a bad habit to have it on and miss moments of connection and intimacy. . .

Read the rest of this article at The Better Mom How to Keep Love Alive with a House Full of Kids

by Leave a Comment

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space can change your life–and that of your family. Years ago, I sat down with my husband John and, with his help, cleared away the calendar clutter that was robbing me of peace and purpose. Today, we live very busy–yet structured–purpose-filled lives that give our family the time and space they need to feed their souls and feed into others as well. Let me share what helped us craft purpose through creating white space.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Whenever one of our children is involved in an activity, we show up as a family to support them. This has included attending football games to watch our daughter in the marching band or going to statewide basketball games for our son. We want our children to know they are uniquely special and that their whole family is cheering them on. These priorities lead to habits that fostered a more focused and settled spirit as a family.

Even though we have a large family, we established patterns to our days and weeks. The time we spend together makes us closer. Our priorities guide us when it comes to knowing what to say yes to and what to say no to. They help us determine what’s best for all of us, not just for one person in the family. Our choices have directed us to a quieter life, even as we’ve continued to add to our family through adoption.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Not long after John and I were married, we sat down and went through the calendar together. I was in tears. I felt scattered. There never seemed to be enough time to do the things that were important to me. As we went through the calendar clearing exercises, I came across a verse that confirmed we were on the right track. Ecclesiastes 4:6 says, “Better is a handful of quietness than two handfuls of toil and striving after the wind” (ESV ).

purpose

 

Clearing my calendar and establishing family priorities didn’t just bring calm to my day, it also brought peace to my soul, making room for God to work. As Colossians 3:15 says, “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.”

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space

Whenever I feel tempted to default and add on “just one more thing” I remind myself that adding more is just chasing the wind. As my soul is settled and I stop trying to prove myself, I start asking God to show me his heart, to direct my path, and to guide my steps. I tell him I want his purpose for my life — our lives, not just mine. And I’ve discovered God has been waiting for us to join his work all along.

Once I created white space and had a framework to guide family decisions, my mind became less cluttered, my day is less frantic, and my heart more open to God’s will.

Finding Purpose Through Calendar White Space can change your life–and that of your family.

Click To Tweet

 

If you enjoyed this post, you might like my book Walk It Out:

Walk It Out

Women often pack their lives with family, friends, and faithful service, yet still, end up feeling empty and unfulfilled. In Walk It Out, Tricia Goyer demonstrates to women that walking out the mandates of Scripture allows God to spark passion and mission within them.

Whether believers realize it or not, God intended for them to do what the Bible says: adopt the orphan, take the gospel into all the world, and care for the needy. These are mandates that point believers down the path of true living and eternal life.

Sometimes those steps are easy, but many times they require a move outside of what feels safe or secure. When women stop focusing on their own dreams and purposes and instead focus on God’s dreams and purposes, everything changes.

by Leave a Comment

Mom, Your Life Matters. You Matter.

“Mom, your life matters, you matter,” I told them. The words were barely out of my mouth when I heard the sniffles and saw women quickly wiping away the tears that managed to escape. My words hit a tender part of their hearts—and maybe yours, too. Today I share what God says about Mothering and how you can feel His delight in you.

Mom, Your Life Matters.

Recently, I spoke at a women’s conference, encouraging moms. While I wanted to encourage moms to be all that God created them to be, there was another part of my message that resonated even more. “Mom, your life matters, you matter,” I told them. The words were barely out of my mouth when I heard the sniffles and saw women quickly wiping away the tears that managed to escape. My words hit a tender part of their hearts—and maybe yours, too.

You DO Matter

As moms we’re often so busy comparing ourselves to others we forget that we’re important—that we matter just as we are. Our worth as women goes beyond what we do. We are worthy beyond what we can accomplish. We forget how much we are loved by the Creator of the universe. We forget that deep down to the core Jesus loves us, just as we are and right at this moment.

You matter because you’re designed by God.

God created you and He loves you. He smiles when He sees you. It doesn’t matter to Him how much you’ve accomplished today. His love is not dependent on that what you do or don’t do.

For most of my life, I had a hard time understanding that my worth wasn’t based on works. During my growing up years, I thought I had to be “the good kid” to earn God’s love. It was only as I really messed up (time and time again), that I realize God’s love doesn’t depend on me, but rather on Him. His love is an outpouring of His greatness and not on my goodness, and I’m so glad for that.

Take a moment and picture yourself sitting next to Jesus. Imagine Him looking at you with love in His gaze. He’s not concerned about your to-do list. He’s not worried if you weigh more than you wish or have more debt than you should. He loves you simply for you in this moment. “You matter,” He whispers, hoping it will penetrate to you heart.

You matter because God has good plans for you.

“God gives his children tasks to complete. Even in Eden he assigned the first man and woman the job of tending a garden,” writes Judith Couchman in her book, Designing a Woman’s Life. “But understanding our significance before we attempt accomplishment anchors the soul in an order uncommon to this world. First, we embrace our innate worth, then we pursue our unique purpose. After this, we tackle our work.”

Feel as if you’re not living up to your potential? Jesus can help you become more of the person he designed you to be. With Jesus’s wisdom and guidance, you can become the best version of yourself. You don’t matter because of what you do. Jesus’ love isn’t dependent on your works, but He does long to work alongside you.

Take a moment and imagine the good work God has planned for you. Instead of looking ahead toward the obstacles, glance over to the side. Jesus is there, ready to take every step with you and help you along the way.

You matter today.

Out of all the people on this earth God chose you to parent your children in this time in history. Your children will have a lot of friends, mentors, and teachers but you are their only mom. It’s easy to focus on your flaws, but your child sees something different. Your child loves you because you are you. Believe that you matter today.

Take a moment and imagine all you have to do for the rest of the day. How would all that you do change if you understood that God has given you today with your children … and with Him. Picture Jesus in the rest of your day and into tomorrow. Do you see the message in his gaze? “Today is what matters. You matter today.”

 When I speak with women these messages are often the ones they need to hear. Maybe you needed these words, too. If these truths haven’t penetrated your heart go back and read them again. Sometimes it takes a while for the truth to sink in, but once it does the truth will change everything. It matters.

 

 

This post originally appeared on The Better Mom blog here: Mom, You Matter

by 1 Comment

Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer

These Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer will help you get organized, prioritize, and finally write that book you’ve been dreaming about all your life. As an author of over 80 published books, I have some insight on this subject and now I’m sharing it with you. So let’s get writing!

Want to Improve Your Writing Productivity? These 10 unexpected ways can help you get organized and focus on writing the book of your heart. 

 

 

 

Tips and Tricks for the Productive Writer

Can I be honest with you? After almost three decades as a writer, (and almost 80 books!) I’ve found what works–and what doesn’t–for me to be productive. In fact, some say I’m one of the most prolific writers they know. While that all seems encouraging and uplifting for me, the truth is I’ve learned lots of “tricks” along the way.

And now, I want to help you Improve Your Writing Productivity by doing what you can, when you can, in the best way you can. And I believe that anyone can use these productivity hacks to get going and finish their best work. That’s why I’m sharing this teaching session from The Sister Circle Event Bundle. This online event is now available through The 2020 Sister Circle Online Event Bundles!

During my session, we tackled:

  1. Choose your friends wisely. Surround yourself with encouraging and inspiring people who believe in your dream.

  2. Consider what you read and what you watch. Is it uplifting, inspiring? (Catching the theme?) Do you feel energized after reading/watching or depressed and drained? (I don’t watch the news for the very reason it fills me with worry and fear.)

  3. Read the Psalms and praise God. Fix your thoughts on Him!

  4. Spend time alone with your spouse. Keep that relationship strong.

  5. Get up and MOVE! I wake up before everyone else and ride my exercise bike for one hour. Just sitting without movement in my day drains me and makes me overwhelmed and tired.

  6. Could you Improve Your Writing Productivity by being present with the people you are with? Yes! Take a break from your smartphone. When my family is around me, my phone is tucked away and I’m fully engaged with them. When they know I’m there for them they are much more supportive of me taking time away to write.

  7. Clean out your emotions. Are you worried about something? Are you sad? Let the emotions out. Sometimes I have a good cry because I miss my son, daughter-in-law, and grandson who live 2,000 miles away. If I try to keep these emotions inside they come out in other ways. I’m gray for weeks and weeks . . . and unproductive.

  8. Get a life coach. I’ve been able to talk through my life with someone who knows how to direct me with questions (and is familiar with the writing business). Without fail, there is some time within each session that I have a “light bulb” moment.

  9. It might seem difficult to ask for help.  But it’s one of the ways to Improve Your Writing Productivity that has been a game-changer for me. It’s crazy how often I struggle without even thinking to ask for help. When I ask my husband or kids to make dinner, watch the toddler, or let me run to Panera for a few hours, they are usually happy to oblige. I just need to ask.

  10. Focus on ONE THING. Pray and ask God for the “one thing” that you need to do at that moment. Sometimes it’s writing. Sometimes it’s something completely different, but whatever it is, do it with ALL your heart, serving God as you work! I hope and pray these 10 Unexpected Ways to Improve Your Writing Productivity can help you put in the time and effort needed to finish the book God has called you to write. Your words matter and the world needs to hear them. Don’t let your life pass you by and regret not sharing your message with the world.

 

And SO MUCH MORE!

While this is not the live experience, this bundle is still packed with practical wisdom to help you navigate the rest of your year well. And the added benefit is hearing me share from my heart in ways you won’t hear anywhere else. I can’t wait for you and I to connect on this important issue of producing the great writing God has called you to create!

Join me, friend! Sign up for The Sister Circle Online Event Bundles here: Sister Circle Event Bundles

 

Warmly,

Tricia

 

P.S. In full disclosure, if you purchase a bundle via my link, I’ll receive a commission. That’s one reason why I only recommend events I truly believe in.

 

Verified by MonsterInsights