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January 31, 2022 by Tricia Goyer 7 Comments

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

Today I’m sharing my review of the movie Redeeming Love. Like many others, I’ve been anxiously awaiting the transition from book to movie. With such an important message it’s no wonder the movie is drawing lots of commentary. Let’s talk about the movie and how it might be a great retelling of a timely message from God to His people.

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

I saw Redeeming Love last night. I’ve previously read the novel by Francine Rivers. And, reading through the Bible 7-8 times, I’ve read the book Hosea numerous times, too.

For those who aren’t familiar with the biblical narrative, Hosea is a prophet of God who is asked to physically portray a message of repentance to a woman named Gomer. The name Hosea means “salvation,” and his life was a prophecy to the nation of Israel. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute who continued to return to her sin. Yet even then, Hosea would go to her and “redeem” her, repurchasing her from the darkness she had surrendered herself to.

Hosea’s life was a prophecy to the people of Israel, a statement that although God will bring judgment to sin, He will also always bring His people back to Himself through His love. The cycle of repentance, redemption, and restoration is evident in this story.

In 1991, my friend Francine Rivers published a book that follows this storyline. Although I started it many times, I only finished it last year because it’s a brutal story. In it, Angel is sold into prostitution as a child, and as an adult, she’s tried to escape, but she finds herself right back where she started: in prostitution.

Through the pain, Angel has lost her soul. There is no hope for a future until a man named Michael Hosea comes and tells her that God told him to take Angel as his wife.

I will not go into all the details, but this story is HARD and heartbreaking. With the tenderness of Christ, Michael loves Angel, yet she rejects him again and again.

Seeing Michael’s heartbreak is difficult. I wanted to shout, “Just accept his love! Why won’t you accept his love?” And that is when it hit me. This is Christ and me. So many times, I’ve tried to do things my way, yet Jesus is right there just wanting me to accept the love He has for me. THIS is what made me cry when I watched Redeeming Love. I saw Christ’s love displayed for me so clearly. But I’m getting ahead of myself …

My Review of the Movie Redeeming Love

I want to go back and say that I’ve known about this movie for the last four years or so. (Maybe longer.) You see, Frani is a good friend of mine. Over the previous eighteen years, we’ve both been part of a group of writers who have gotten together every summer to Plot, Pray, and Play. So I’ve prayed for this movie for many years, and I honestly think it turned out amazingly beautiful. Hard, yes, but amazingly beautiful. There isn’t one scene I would change. I know the purpose of every scene and why it’s essential to the story.

More than that, I know Frani is a woman of Scripture and prayer. On days when we were playing and plotting, Frani often sat pouring over Scripture at the dining room table. When she writes about a topic in fiction, Frani wants to know every place God speaks on that topic before writing one word. And you know what? God displayed what He had to say about redemption through the real-life story of Hosea marrying a prostitute.

When it comes to people speaking against this movie, their main concern is the sexual content, and I want to address that. (Let me remind you, this story is about a prostitute!)

First, the sexual scenes that hint at Angel’s abuse are AWFUL. Like my husband John told me, “No one should call those scenes pornography or worry they’ll bring arousal. Instead, what they bring is complete heartbreak.” Enough abuse is shown that Angel’s pain is clear, and it’s not pretty.

Second, there are scenes of married love–these are the hot and passionate ones. And do you know why they are essential to this story? Because as someone who was used and abused, sex was not a gift for Angel to give or receive until she allowed herself to love and be loved. When Michael and Angel, man and wife (finally!) come together, that’s how it’s displayed: as a beautiful gift. As healing. As hope.

Now you may say, “Well, that shouldn’t be shown in a movie.” My response is, “Okay, then close your eyes if you don’t want to see it.”

Actually, I had to go to the bathroom, and I missed the big sex scene. That works, too! (It’s funny how the timing worked out. I just really had to go.)

Yet when I asked my husband John about it later, he had something insightful to say,

“To deny the positive sexual experience is to accept the negative.”

Is that profound or what?

As horrible as sexual abuse is, married love and sex are beautiful. The fact that someone can find healing after such abuse is a true miracle. And that’s the whole point of this story: redemption.

True love, God’s love, can bring healing to the darkest of places.

Now, if you choose not to see Redeeming Love, that’s fine. It’s your choice. But I want you to know the heart behind this movie and this story. So then, if you choose to watch, you’ll see Francine’s heart. But more importantly, you’ll see God’s heart. No matter what you’ve done or how you’ve hurt Him, God’s love is faithful, and He longs to redeem you and make you His own. Now that’s a beautiful story.

-Tricia Goyer

Here is the trailer that might help you decide:

https://youtu.be/6Z-0C02cqFo

November 10, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

My Favorite Novels of the Year

Today, I’m excited to share my favorite novels of the year. As an author, I read dozens of novels every year–some for business, and some for pleasure. I can certainly say that this year especially, it’s been an amazing year in fiction. I’ve been introduced to many great new authors and I’ve jumped headfirst into reading a new genre–fantasy/sci-fi. Many of these authors write with a young adult audience in mind. But let me tell you, these books had me on the edge of my seat and reading into the night. So good! If you’re looking for a new story to fall into or maybe some great gifts for those special people on your “nice” list, these are the books for you!

My Favorite Novels of the Year

The Story Peddler by Lindsay A. Franklin

Selling stories is a deadly business

Tanwen doesn’t just tell stories–she weaves them into crystallized sculptures that sell for more than a few bits. But the only way to escape the control of her cruel mentor and claw her way from poverty is to set her sights on something grander: becoming Royal Storyteller to the king.

During her final story peddling tour, a tale of treason spills from her hands, threatening the king himself. Tanwen goes from peddler to prey as the king’s guard hunts her down…and they’re not known for their mercy. As Tanwen flees for her life, she unearths long-buried secrets and discovers she’s not the only outlaw in the empire. There’s a rebel group of weavers…and they’re after her too.

Amazon | Enclave Publishing | BookShop.org

Get Lindsay’s best writing advice here: The Writer’s Desk with Lindsay A. Franklin

The Way It Should Be by Christina Suzann Nelson

Zara Mahoney was enjoying newlywed bliss until her life is upended by her estranged sister, Eve, and Zara must take custody of her children. Eve’s struggles lead her to Tiff Bradley, who’s determined to help despite the past hurts the relationship triggers. Can these women find the hope they-and those they love-desperately need?

This book moved me. Christina did a fantastic job! I completely related to Zara’s struggles. (Hello, the situation with DHS was completely right-on.) I also loved Tiff, an older woman trying to help those on the street, just as she hoped someone had helped her daughter who fought addiction. Again, I nodded along with Tiff’s story as she vacillated between wanting to help and worrying if she wasn’t helping at all.

Amazon | Baker Book House | BookShop.org

Get Christina’s best writing advice here: The Writer’s Desk with Christina Suzann Nelson

The Rembrandt Stone series by (David James Warren: ie Susan May Warren, David Warren, and James Rubart)

One case haunts him. One chance to fix the past. One mistake could cost him everything.

Ex-Minneapolis Police Detective Rembrandt Stone walked away from a career he loved—just the price of being sure he can come home to the wife and daughter he cherishes. But he can’t shake the deep regret over a case left behind.

When his mentor, the former Chief of Homicide dies and leaves Rembrandt with a box of cold cases and a mysterious watch, he finds himself thrust into a world he recognizes—a world from twenty years ago—the same world he’s woken from in a cold sweat a hundred times. But is it a dream, or some kind of twisted reality?

If he solves the case that plagues him, and justice is finally served, will it destroy the life he loves?

“Cast the First Stone is a mind-bender of the first order. Fast-paced, strong characters, great twists and Rembrandt Stone is a hero I predict will be grabbing readers around the throat for a long time. This is one to pick up because you won’t want to put it down.” Ted Dekker – New York Times bestselling author

Dust and Shadow by Kara Swanson

The truth about Neverland is far more dangerous than a fairy tale.

Claire Kenton believes the world is too dark for magic to be real—since her twin brother was stolen away as a child. Now Claire’s desperate search points to London… and a boy who shouldn’t exist.

Peter Pan is having a beastly time getting back to Neverland. Grounded in London and hunted by his own Lost Boys, Peter searches for the last hope of restoring his crumbling island: a lass with magic in her veins.

The girl who fears her own destiny is on a collision course with the boy who never wanted to grow up. The truth behind this fairy tale is about to unravel everything Claire thought she knew about Peter Pan—and herself.

Amazon | BookShop.org | Enclave Publishing

Peter Pan has crash-landed back on Neverland. But this is not the island he remembers.

Desperate to rescue Claire and the fractured Lost Boys, Peter must unravel what truly tore his dreamland apart. But with each step, he is haunted by more of his own broken memories. Not even Pan himself is what he seems.

Claire Kenton is chained to a pirate ship, watching the wreckage of Neverland rocked by tempests. When she finally finds her brother, Connor is every bit as shattered as the island. Claire may have pixie dust flowing in her veins—but the light of Neverland is flickering dangerously close to going out forever.

Amazon | BookShop.org | Enclave Publishing

Get to know Kara and get her best writing advice here: The Writer;s Desk with Kara Swanson

The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner

April 18, 1906: A massive earthquake rocks San Francisco just before daybreak, igniting a devouring inferno. Lives are lost, lives are shattered, but some rise from the ashes forever changed.

Sophie Whalen is a young Irish immigrant so desperate to get out of a New York tenement that she answers a mail-order bride ad and agrees to marry a man she knows nothing about. San Francisco widower Martin Hocking proves to be as aloof as he is mesmerizingly handsome. Sophie quickly develops deep affection for Kat, Martin’s silent five-year-old daughter, but Martin’s odd behavior leaves her with the uneasy feeling that something about her newfound situation isn’t right.

Then one early-spring evening, a stranger at the door sets in motion a transforming chain of events. Sophie discovers hidden ties to two other women. The first, pretty and pregnant, is standing on her doorstep. The second is hundreds of miles away in the American Southwest, grieving the loss of everything she once loved.

The fates of these three women intertwine on the eve of the devastating earthquake, thrusting them onto a perilous journey that will test their resiliency and resolve and, ultimately, their belief that love can overcome fear.

From the acclaimed author of The Last Year of the War and As Bright as Heaven comes a gripping novel about the bonds of friendship and mother love, and the power of female solidarity.

Buy The Nature of Fragile Things | Susan Meissner

Secrets of a Charmed Life by Susan Meissner

The author of A Bridge Across the Ocean and The Last Year of the War journeys from the present day to World War II England, as two sisters are separated by the chaos of wartime…

Current day, Oxford, England. Young American scholar Kendra Van Zant, eager to pursue her vision of a perfect life, interviews Isabel McFarland just when the elderly woman is ready to give up secrets about the war that she has kept for decades…beginning with who she really is. What Kendra receives from Isabel is both a gift and a burden—one that will test her convictions and her heart.

1940s, England. As Hitler wages an unprecedented war against London’s civilian population, hundreds of thousands of children are evacuated to foster homes in the rural countryside. But even as fifteen-year-old Emmy Downtree and her much younger sister Julia find refuge in a charming Cotswold cottage, Emmy’s burning ambition to return to the city and apprentice with a fashion designer pits her against Julia’s profound need for her sister’s presence. Acting at cross purposes just as the Luftwaffe rains down its terrible destruction, the sisters are cruelly separated, and their lives are transformed…

Buy Secrets of a Charmed Life | Susan Meissner

If you love to hear the “story behind the story,” I know you’ll enjoy this podcast episode with Susan Messiner!

Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee

Sixteen-year-old Lorena Leland’s dreams of a rich and fulfilling life as a writer are dashed when the stock market crashes in 1929. Seven years into the Great Depression, Rena’s banker father has retreated into the bottle, her sister is married to a lazy charlatan and gambler, and Rena is an unemployed newspaper reporter. Eager for any writing job, Rena accepts a position interviewing former slaves for the Federal Writers’ Project. There, she meets Frankie Washington, a 101-year-old woman whose honest yet tragic past captivates Rena.

As Frankie recounts her life as a slave, Rena is horrified to learn of all the older woman has endured—especially because Rena’s ancestors owned slaves. While Frankie’s story challenges Rena’s preconceptions about slavery, it also connects the two women whose lives are otherwise separated by age, race, and circumstances. But will this bond of respect, admiration, and friendship be broken by a revelation neither woman sees coming?

Dust by Eva Marie Everson

Can an ordinary life leave an extraordinary legacy?

In 1977, when nineteen-year-old Allison Middleton receives a proposal of marriage from Westley Houser, she eagerly accepts, having no idea the secret Westley carries—a secret that will change Allison’s life forever. But Allison rises to the challenge of raising Westley’s toddling daughter as though she were her own.

Over the course of their lifetime together, Allison, Westley, and Michelle form the strong bond of family. As Allison struggles with infertility and finding her way during a time of great change for women, others—some she knows and others whom she never meets—brush and weave against the fabric of her life, leaving her with more questions than answers.

From teen bride to grandmother, Allison’s life chronicles the ups and downs of an ordinary woman’s life to examine the value of what we all leave behind.

Amazon | Kindle | BookShop.org

Get all the best tips for writing from Eva here: The Writer’s Desk with Eva Marie Everson

This Fine Life by Eva Maria Everson

It is the summer of 1959 and Mariette Puttnam has just graduated from boarding school. When she returns to her privileged life at home, she isn’t sure where life will take her. More schooling? A job? Marriage? Nothing feels right. How could she know that the answer is waiting for her within the narrow stairwell of her father’s apparel factory, exactly between the third and fourth floors?

In this unique and tender story of an unlikely romance, popular author Eva Marie Everson takes readers on a journey through the heart of a young woman bound for the unknown. Readers will experience the joys of new love, the perseverance of true friendship, and the gift of forgiveness that comes from a truly fine life.

Secrets in the Mist by Morgan L Busse

What’s lurking in the Mist is the least of their worries…

In a world where humanity lives in the sky to escape a deadly mist below, Cass’s only goal is survival. That is, until she finds a job on the airship Daedalus as a diver. Now she explores ruined cities, looking for treasure and people’s lost heirlooms until a young man hires her to find the impossible: a way to eradicate the Mist.

Theodore Winchester is a member of one of the Five Families that rule the skies. Following in his father’s footsteps, he searches for the source of the Mist and hopes to stop the purges used to control overpopulation. But what he finds are horrifying secrets and lethal ambition. If he continues his quest, it could mean his own death.

The Mist is rising and soon the world will be enveloped in its deadly embrace, turning what’s left of humanity into the undead.

Amazon | BookShop.org | Enclave Publishing

Do you have a writing routine? When/Where do you write?

Definitely yes! With a pastor husband and four teens, I need a routine, or I would never write! Here’s my typical day. . .

Read all the amazing writing tips from Morgan Here: Writer’s Desk

My TOP THREE Favorite Novels of the Year

I hope you get a chance to check out these wonderful authors’ work and please let me know what you think.

What are your favorite novels from this year? Share them with me in the comments or just hit reply and give me your reccomendations!

Keep Reading!

Tricia

June 8, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 1 Comment

The Power to Forgive Your Enemies

The Power to Forgive your enemies isn’t something that comes naturally to anyone, even a hero of the faith like Corrie Ten Boom. But, with God’s help, Corrie was able to not only forgive but to extend grace and mercy to those whose actions had devasted so many. With Jesus’ help, we can too. Let the message of forgiveness in this story from Corrie’s life (adapted from my book Prayers That Changed History) lead the way.

The Power to Forgive Your Enemies

Corrie Ten Boom loved God and His people. Along with her family, Corrie helped many Jews escape certain death at the hands of the Nazis during World War II—including six people hiding in their home when the family was arrested. Her father died ten days later, but Corrie and her sister Betsy were imprisoned at the Ravensbruck concentration camp. While there, Corrie provided comfort to those jailed with her. And after the war, she returned to the Netherlands and set up a rehabilitation center for concentration camp survivors. She even set up a shelter for the Dutch people who previously worked with the Germans, and it was a visible sign of loving her enemies.

For 40 years, Corrie traveled the world speaking in churches and conferences. She also went to secret Bible study groups in countries where Christians were persecuted for believing in Christ. After hearing Corrie’s story, many people have learned how to forgive and I have gone on to live more peaceful lives.

Corrie was able to do this because she knew that sometimes the hardest trial we face is forgiving our enemies.

The Power to Forgive Your Enemies

Corrie faced hardship in the war, but one of the hardest trials came two years after the war ended. In 1947, Corrie was teaching in Munich, Germany. Germany had just been defeated in World War II, and Corrie had come to the country to share the message of God‘s forgiveness.

Through the crowd, a man approached her. Even though he wore a brown overcoat and hat, she perfectly pictured the blue uniform and the cap with the skull and crossbones of the Nazi SS guard. She knew him. He’d been one of the guards at Ravensbruck.

Pain shot through Corrie‘s chest. Anger and fear filled her mind, and her whole body trembled at seeing him. He had been one of the cruelest guards. She had spoken to many, telling them of God‘s forgiveness, but now — looking at her enemy — she had only hatred for this man in her heart.

“You mentioned Ravensbruck in your talk,“ the man said. “I was a guard there, but since that time I became a Christian. I know that God has forgiven me for the cruel things I did there, but I would like to hear it from your lips as well. Fräulein… Will you forgive me?“ He extended his hand to her.

With his words, a thousand thoughts went through Corrie‘s mind. She remembered how her sister Betsy died in horrible conditions, how so many women had suffered in the camp. Corrie looked at the man’s hand and struggled to extend her hand to him.

This was one of the most difficult things she’d ever faced.

Yet Corrie knew she had to do it. She had to forgive. She thought of Matthew 6:15, “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.“

Corrie knew that forgiveness wasn’t a feeling. She had to will herself to forgive.

“Jesus, help me!“ She prayed, silently. “I can lift my hand. I can do that much. You supply the feeling.”

Corrie extended her hand to the man before her, and as she did, a miracle happened. A current started in her shoulder, raced down her arm, and sprang into their joined hands. Warmth flooded her whole being.

Tears filled her eyes, “I forgive you, brother. With all my heart.“ God‘s love flowed through Corrie as it never had before, showing that forgiveness is possible even for those who created the greatest offenses against us. Through Corrie’s story, people from all over the world have come to understand the Holocaust better, yet they’ve also come to understand God‘s mercy better, too. And history was forever changed.

The Power to Forgive Your Enemies

The Bible speaks about forgiveness and about loving our enemies. There is no greater example of this than Jesus’ plea for forgiveness for his enemies on the cross:

And when they came to the place that has called the skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.“ And they cast lots to divide his garments… Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands, I commit my spirit!“ And having said that he breathed his last Luke 23:33-34, 46 (ESV)

Jesus is the reason we can be forgiven, and He is the reason we can forgive others. Forgiving others does not mean accepting what they’ve done. It’s not ignoring the hurt. Forgiving others is an extension of what God has done in our lives by forgiving us.

Prayer can help prepare us to forgive others. On the night before He was crucified, Jesus went to the mountain to pray. Prayer strengthens us for what we face and allows God to work through us when we’re willing to seek Him for strength.

Corrie’s family faced horrible pain and loss, yet they stood firm in their faith. They stayed strong because of prayer. For years her family had been praying for the Jewish people, and those prayers prepared them for what was to come. Prayer allowed Corrie’s family to be strong when they were needed to protect others. Prayer also helped Corrie to forgive and to push away the pain and anger and her heart.

The Power to Forgive Your Enemies

Corrie traveled the world, sharing the power of forgiveness. She wrote these words in one of her notebooks. Later these words were published in a book.

“Forgiveness is in the key that unlocks the door of resentment in the handcuffs of hatred. It is the power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.”

Prayers That Changed History

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.

Perfect for use as a homeschool, Sunday school, or youth Bible study curriculum.

Get your copy of Prayers that Changed History here: Prayers That Changed History.

May you be blessed as you pray, forgive, and seek God today, friends.

In Him,

Tricia

March 17, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 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

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.

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

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.

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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

March 2, 2021 by Tricia Goyer 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

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

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

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

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 Sewell

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

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

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

December 2, 2020 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Must Try Recipe: Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe

I love Sherry Gore’s recipes–I mean, they are beyond delicious! So I was so excited to be able to publish some of her recipes in my book Made With Love. Today, I want to share with you a favorite of mine. Enjoy Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe.

Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe PDF

Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe (from Made With Love)

Filling Ingredients:

3 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/3 cup butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped pecans

1 cup pecan halves

For the crust use one 9-inch unbaked pastry pie crust

vanilla ice cream (optional)

To prepare:

Preheat over to 350 degrees. Mix eggs, sugar, butter, alt, corn syrup, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir in chopped pecans. Pour into pie crust. Reserve 1/4 cup of filling. Top with pecan halves. Pour reserved filling over the top of the crust. Bake at 350 degrees for 60-70 minutes.

For the garnish:

Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Want more recipes? Check out 7 Amish Recipes for Your Thanksgiving Table

Get your free printable including Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe over there.

Check out Made with Love:

A Dash of Love, a Pinch of Hope, and a Whole Lot of Good Cooking Lovina Miller should be thrilled. Pinecraft, Florida, has everything a young Amish woman could ask for: sun, sand, volleyball games, and evening singings in the park. But Pinecraft lacks the one thing Lovina desperately wants—a pie shop of her own. She longs for a place to gather with the community and serve the treat she loves. A young carpenter named Noah Yoder strolls into her life and offers a way to make her dream come true. But before Noah and Lovina can build a shop—and a life—together, they must each face heartaches from the past. Is their new love stronger than their regrets? Find inspiration, romance, and authentic Amish recipes for everyone’s favorite food—pie! Includes Sherry’s Best Pecan Pie Recipe. Buy the Book HERE.

October 29, 2020 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

If you want to know How to Ruin Your Writing Day look no further–there’s always something to distract you from the job at hand. Don’t let the things on this list pull you away from writing the book God has called you to write. You can have a great writing day if you avoid these pitfalls and stay focused.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

1. Look at the New York Times bestseller list. Or better yet the top ten Christian books. Consider how happy those authors’ publishers are and how much more effective they are at spreading the good news of Jesus.

2. Compare your daily word count with those folks that write a new book every month.

3. Pick up that Pulitzer prize-winning novel. Read it side by side with your most recent offering.

4. Look through other authors’ websites and compare them to yours. Especially note those that have flash video and cool gadgets.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

5. Start editing the book you just finished. Tell yourself you’re not going to turn it in until everything is perfect.

6. Put together your ideal media/publicity package that you’ll pour money into once your book hits the New York Times Best-seller list.

7. Read Amazon reviews, especially everything under 4-stars.

8. Picture your book as a movie. Pick out who would represent your characters. Imagine how sales numbers will skyrocket when it’s released.

How to Ruin Your Writing Day

9. Do your taxes. Make income goals. Read your royalty statements.

10. Stare at the blank page.

As you can see there are plenty of ways to ruin your writing day. So, how do you keep from destroying the day you’ve set aside to honor God with your work? For starters–don’t stress. Don’t let the enemy take control of your mindset. You are valuable and loved just as you are, where you are. God isn’t asking for perfection. He’s asking for obedience. If you feel the call to write then do just that–write. Don’t look past the page at editing, publishing, numbers, or all the other things that are possible “next steps.”

How Not to Ruin Your Writing Day

1. One of the best ways I know to get focused and functioning as a writer is to focus on God first. Start with prayer. Ask God to bless your writing day and to help you honor Him. Ask Him to give you the words He would have you write. You aren’t responsible for the Inspiration, just the perspiration. Don’t let the weight of the task wear you down. Remember, God is with you and He is faithful to more than we can ask or imagine.

2. Need words? Get in the Word! It doesn’t matter whether I’m writing fiction or non-fiction, scripture has light for my path. All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, preaching, and instruction in the ways of the Lord. Let God speak to you directly through His Word and you can be sure the message you share is His.

3. Be present. As much as is possible, set up your writing time to be free from distractions. Turn off the cell phone or television. If you can write without others in the room then do that. Sometimes that’s not possible as a mom. Can you find another mom to swap out a morning or afternoon with? Could you designate an hour during naptime to sit down quietly with your words? Even allowing the kids to watch a short video or play on the swingset in the yard for thirty minutes is one step closer. Remember, obedience over perfection. Take the small increments of time and use what you can.

There are a million ways to fail, but the best way to succeed is to stay determined and never give up. Of course, there will be good and bad days. We all experience that. Don’t let the shortcomings you see cloud the bigger picture of what God wants to do in and through you. When I feel discouraged here is a scripture I cling to:

“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 NLT

The Write Community

Is it time to find the right community to support your writing dreams and goals? Then the Write That Book Club is just what you’re looking for. You know making your writing dreams become a reality is tough. You have ideas but you wonder if any of them are good and you have no idea how to connect with agents and editors, and what in the world is a book proposal anyway?

I’m here to help. And I’ve invited some of my friends to help you too. They are professional agents, editors, authors, and marketing and publicity team members. They’re the best of the best in the Christian publishing industry. Together we want to help you reach your dreams.

It’s all here in Write That Book. This premier group provides education, inspiration, and connection with other writers and experts. Learn all the tricks of the trade while getting your personal questions answered.

Over thirty experts will be available throughout the month to answer your questions. Their decades of experience will be at your fingertips. They not only want to help you, they also want to get to know you better. After all, your words might just be the ones they’re looking for!

I explain it all in this short video:

October 8, 2020 by Tricia Goyer 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!

April 20, 2020 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

How to be Successful Unexpected Homeschooling Parents

When I started homeschooling 20 plus years ago, I shared the same fears that you might be experiencing today—fear of inadequacy, fear that my kids would fall behind, being unable to keep a good schedule, and losing my patience with my kids. However, after decades as a homeschooling mom, I’ve learned that I CAN manage all those things successfully–and you can too!

Here’s How to be Successful Unexpected Homeschooling Parents

Shift Your Perspective

If you consider school to be pages in workbooks completed, then sure, kids won’t get as many pages done. But if you shift your perspective and think about learning, discovery, and life skills—I believe that, during this time, kids will actually begin to get ahead in the things that really matter.

Develop a Love of Learning

Kids are naturally curious. Look for opportunities to foster that curiosity. If they’re asking you about your job as you work from home, answer their questions as you have time and share as much as you can about what you’re doing and why. The more your kids love learning, the more they will excel in school and life.

Trust God to Fill in the Gaps

On my son Nathan’s first day of college, I had a panic moment. I worried that I hadn’t properly taught him how to write an essay. Embarrassed, I apologized to him and then worried all day. At the end of the day, he came home excited and said, “Mom, don’t worry, in my writing class, our teacher is teaching us how to write essays.” I laughed at myself. I’d forgotten that teachers in college teach too. Nathan is now a writer himself.

School At Home Doesn’t Mirror Traditional School

One of the biggest problems parents are having right now is getting their kids to work from 8am to 3pm. The truth is–they don’t need to! Because you can give them individualized attention, they actually don’t need that many hours to do schoolwork. Each day, help them get ready and work on school but don’t stress about sticking to a perfect plan. Things will get done. Just remember that your child’s character and emotional security during this time also matter. They matter a lot. This is something none of us has had to go through before. We are all learning to adapt as we go and that’s okay.

Put On Your Oxygen Mask First

It’s so easy during times of high emotion to feel overwhelmed. Every morning I wake up before my kids to pray, spend time with God, and have some moments of peace and quiet. Having that hour to myself is my “secret” to being patient with my kids and feeling less overwhelmed—although I still feel that way sometimes, too! Give yourself grace and if you have stressful moments take a break and recenter. Take a walk outside, have a cup of tea, read a short devotional or step into another room and have a short prayer. I find that these small chunks of “me” time can help me get through days when things seem tense.

How to be Successful Unexpected Homeschooling Parents

Three of the most common issues I believe most are experiencing right now are balancing working from home (for their own jobs) with schooling their kids, staying motivated, and dealing with strong-willed children. Here’s some help and hope for those three situations.

Balancing Working From Home With School At Home

Know that it’s possible!

In the almost three decades that I’ve been homeschooling, I’ve also written over 70 books. What’s the key to balancing working from home and helping your kids with school? Intentional windows of time. Schedule windows of time that keep things moving. I wake up before my kids do and have an hour (sometimes more) of uninterrupted work before they get up. When they get up, I help them get ready and give them individualized attention for about three hours. After that, they can usually work independently, and I work on my work as they continue working on their own.

The key is not trying to do your own work, and help your kids with school, at the same time. Most of the time, that won’t go well.

Helping Kids Stay Motivated To Do School Work

Create Incentives

Tell your child that if they can do 45 minutes of work, they can help you bake cookies or some other activity they will look forward to. If kids know something fun is coming, they are more likely to do the work you’re asking them to do.

Approach Work Creatively

For assignments that don’t involve written work that has to be turned in, don’t be afraid to let them do the work differently. For instance, if your daughter has to answer a set of questions but doesn’t have to turn in the written work, sit down with her and ask her the questions out loud, and ask her to just speak her answers back to you. Not everything has to be written down for your child to learn. This is especially helpful for auditory learners.

Take A Break

You, and your child, both need breaks! For younger children, don’t try to work for longer than 25-30 minutes without giving them a break. Even traditional school days are broken up into “chunks” of learning and breaks. The older the child, the longer the chunks of learning can be. No one expects you or your child to sit eight hours a day in strict reading, writing, or arithmetic lessons. That would be mind-numbing.

Teaching the Strong-Willed Child at Home

My daughter Leslie is extremely strong-willed, and getting her to do her schoolwork was a daily fight. Here’s what I’ve found helps when teaching a strong-willed child:

Narrow The Choices

Offer two choices, and make it clear that your child must pick between the two choices. This helps them have some level of control while establishing healthy authority as a parent.

Stand By Your Word

If your child disagrees, don’t give in. Once they realize that bad behavior won’t get them what they want, they will back down.

Focus Their Strong-will On Positive Things

Help her channel her energy into positive activities at home, like exercise, musical instruments, or writing.

Fill Their Love Tank

Even while at home, take steps to speak your child’s love language. Make their favorite breakfast, make a special dessert or coffee drink and
sit with them on the couch, or take a walk just the two of you. As you build that relationship, they will start to open up and trust you more.

How to be Successful Unexpected Homeschooling Parents

One of the main concerns I’m hearing during this time is how to teach multiple children and helping them regulate their emotions during a stressful time. There are so many ways to help your children process their grief and stress and to stay on track with learning in the process. Here are some things that I’ve found have helped me through the years with my own ten children.

Figure Out Who Needs the Most Help

Evaluate your kids and figure out who needs the most help with what assignment. Work with that child on their most challenging assignment, and let the other children do assignments that come more easily to them. Remember, “fair” is not everyone getting the same thing, it’s everyone getting what they need to succeed. Three of my children have Dyslexia and require different teaching strategies than my other children. And that’s okay! Having to wait or share their parent/teacher makes my other children more compassionate to others. Being able to understand and process information and learning quickly is a gift from God that we should all be grateful for. Helping kids understand that can make them kind and gentle-hearted as well.

Assign Older Kids to Help Younger Kids

Older kids often love feeling “needed” and responsible, and this also gives you a break. Help older kids find ways they can teach younger kids, even if it’s just reading aloud to them.

Talk to your child’s teacher

Don’t be afraid/ashamed of asking your child’s teacher for help. If you’re trying to teach six kids at six different grade levels at once—ask the teachers for help. Everyone is new to this arrangement, and everyone is trying to figure things out!

Find things you can do together

Here’s an idea–cooking together. One thing everyone can do together is cooking, and it can be educational. Look up articles about WWII rationing online, and teach your kids to cook simple recipes that only involve a few ingredients. Cooking can become a history lesson (learning about rationing), a science lesson (“Let’s talk about how yeast works”), and a reading lesson (“Read this recipe for us!”) all at once!

Helping Kids Regulate Emotions During the “School Day”

As parents to 7 adopted kids, my husband, John, and I know BIG emotions. We’ve been through some rollercoaster ups and downs as we’ve learned to help our kids navigate their emotions (and our own!)

I remember when we first brought our teen daughters home. In the first week, there was a moment when all four girls had a meltdown. One was trying to climb out of the window, one was yelling, and another was crying. I was shocked, afraid, and heartbroken. That certainly wasn’t what we had expected. But through it all, we learned. We grew. We became a family who loves and helps each other through the hard times with grace and compassion.

Calming Angry/ Upset/ Scared Kid’s Down

Be There For Them

Remember this is a stressful time for everyone. Your priority isn’t your kids’ school, it’s your child’s safety and comfort. Use this as a time to help them learn how to process stressful events, and give them lots of grace. Give yourself lots as well.

Stay Calm Yourself

We learned from a counselor early on that our adopted girls would try to get us to escalate, so that it would become about us, instead of the girls. If we stay calm, we can focus on the girls’ behavior. Keep the main thing the main thing. Don’t follow them off on wild goose trails. Keep focused on the issue at hand and keep yourself in a level set of mind. Remember, you are the parent, you are the adult.

Create a Calming Bag

I created a bag for my kids with things to calm them down like Scripture verses, Play-Doh, and bubbles. Just the act of taking a deep breath and blowing bubbles can help a child calm down. You can also have the child wash their hands or take a warm shower- the warm water will calm them down.

Use this Time to Develop Your Kids Spiritually

Don’t get caught up in obsessing over your children’s schoolwork. Help them out, but trust that
God will fill in the gaps. Pray, find teachable moments, and remember God has a different view
of success than the world does!

Pray

Prayer is the best thing you can do. Pray God will open your eyes to see Him during this time. Pray for patience—and if you’re worried your kids will fall behind academically, pray that they stay diligent and develop a love of learning during this time!

Find Teachable Moments

Look for ways to use the movies you watch, books you read, and situations you encounter during this pandemic to teach your kids about trusting God and serving others. Write letters to neighbors or elderly friends and family who can’t interact with others. Share games with families in your neighborhood. Make masks or treats for nurses and doctors in your local hospital. Make a family prayer list and post it on the wall for everyone to see.

Remember God’s View of Success

If you and your kids learn just one thing during this time of homeschooling, let it be that success in this world is different than success in
God’s eyes. While your kids do need to do the work they are assigned, focus on seeking God first as a parent and as a family—and you will not fail your kids.

Matthew 6:33- Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,
and all these things will be added to you.

No matter what, try to remember this–this too shall pass. This is a tough time but I believe we will get through if we all work together and trust God to guide us.

Here are other posts you might find helpful:

Praying God’s Word For Your Family Today

Over 200 Free Resources and Help for “Schooling at Home”

Kids’ Journals Help Children Focus on Good Things

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

April 16, 2020 by Tricia Goyer Leave a Comment

Praying God’s Word For Your Family Today

I believe in the importance of Praying God’s Word For Your Family Today, and I want to share how you can do this starting now.

Through the years I’ve seen how important it is to pray God’s Word over and for my children. I’ve also watched how God moved in my kid’s hearts and lives when I shared the Scriptures with them. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to read through the Bible each year and journal what God speaks to my heart through His Word.

This is an example of how I read Scripture and then pray for my child:

“I will both lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, Lord, make me live in safety.” Psalm 4:8

Lord, I am so thankful that you always watch over my child, even when she lies down in sleep. May my child always sleep peacefully with knowledge of your care.

So many times I find myself praying for the same things for my children

That they are healthy.

That they are obedient.

The other day I was reading the Bible, and I came upon Philippians 1:9-11:

I pray that your love will overflow more and more,
and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.
For I want you to understand what really matters,
so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.
May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—
the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—
for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (NLT)

As I read it I thought: This is a perfect Scripture to pray for my kids.

How to Pray for Your Child Each Day

Sunday: Pray for love that overflows

Lord, may the love of _______ increase and overflow for those in our family and for everyone else. (1 Thessalonians 3:12)

Monday: Pray for growth in knowledge

Lord, may _______ grow to love your Word. May the heart of _______ trust your commands. May _______ seek good judgment. Fill _______ with the knowledge of your will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. (Psalm 119:66, Colossians 1:9)

Tuesday: Pray for understanding of what really matters

Lord, may _______ know your will and understand what is right because of your law. May _______ not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but be transformed into a new person through changed thoughts and through knowing your perfect and pleasing will. (Romans 2:18, Romans 12:2)

Wednesday: Pray for a pure and blameless life

Lord, may _______ keep firm in their faith, staying pure and blameless, until the end. May the good work you started in _______ carry on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. May _______ hold firmly to the word of life, so life’s labor will not be in vain. (1 Corinthians 1:8, Philippians 1:6, Philippians 2:6)

Thursday: Pray for the fruit of salvation

Lord, may _______ be like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. May _______ delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. And because of your word planted deep, may whatever _______ do prosper. (Psalm 1:2-3)

Friday: Pray for righteous character and for a life in Jesus

Lord, may _____ be a peacemaker who sows in peace and reaps a harvest of righteousness. Lord, may your name be honored because of the life of _______. I know this is only possible because of your grace. May love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control flow of the life of _______ because of your spirit within. (James 3:18 2 Thessalonians 1:12, Galatians 5:22-23)

Saturday: Pray for glory and praise to God

Lord, may _______ produce much fruit so that you may be glorified. May the life of _______ be for your praise and glory, because of hope put in you. (John 15:8, Ephesians 1:14)

As parents, it’s important to pray for our kids, and I’m so thankful that God has given us His Word as a foundation to do just that!

I have created a free PDF for you on How to Pray For Your Child Each Day

Download Here

Now, more than ever, it’s so important to pray for our families and to teach them God’s Word and to apply His will to their lives.

My book Praying Through The Bible in One Year allows you to do both!

Praying Through the Bible in One Year is a Scripture Reading Plan and Guided Journal in one. This book helps you read and apply God’s Word to your life. My desire is for this journal to guide you as you seek God and His truth.

It’s divided into three parts:

1. A Scripture Reading Plan. This plan takes you from Genesis to Revelation. Reading four or five chapters a day, you’ll read through the whole Bible in one year! Each week has five days of reading, leaving the weekends for catch up.

2. A Daily Scripture. Pause on these verses, read them closely, and consider how they can impact your prayers for your kids.

3. A Prayer Prompt. Through these prompts, you’ll focus on ways you can pray for your kids. Blank space is provided for you to continue the prayer or to write down other meaningful Scriptures that you read during the day’s reading.

Leave a Legacy

Second, I created a free course to help you master the skill of journaling through the Bible to create a Legacy Bible for your own children.

Join me as I guide you in sharing God’s Word with your children or grandchildren through the pages of your own journaling Bible. Through this free, 6-week course you’ll discover how to share your own personal reflections through the pages of God’s Word.

It’s such a meaningful way to pass on heartfelt prayers alongside your favorite Scripture passages, leaving a heritage of faith. Each journal entry will be a treasured gift to future generations.

Great Resources for Creating a Legacy Bible:

Blue Leather Touch Legacy Bible

NIV Quest Study Legacy Bible

Bible Highlighters

Worth The Effort

Finally, I want to encourage you not to give up! Praying Through the Bible in a Year isn’t dated because I know how much pressure that can bring. Life happens. If you get off track one week, just pick up again the next week.

God is more concerned with your desire to read His Word and connect with His heart than He is with your ability to complete a weekly task. This is your journal concerning your prayers for your kids. If it takes you two years to read through the Bible, that will be wonderful! Know your efforts, whether over one year or two or more, will be worth it.

Order Praying Through The Bible here!

I pray that with all these resources you can pray God’s Word for your family today!

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March 30, 2020 by Pamela Black Leave a Comment

What Does God Ask of Us?

What Does God Ask of Us? So many times we want God to reveal Himself to us. We question if He is real. And if we do believe in Him, we expect Him to really put Himself on display in big ways.

What Does God Ask of Us?

What I’ve discovered the 30 years since I’ve become a Christian is that I’ve learned more about God by focusing on the priorities—the main things He asks us to do—in the Bible than any other way.

It seems the Bible is made up of a lot of rules, but actually, when we focus on the few most important things, the rest are taken care of.

When we do what God has already asked us to do, He will reveal so much more about Himself and His ways. I learn about Him by turning to Him, depending on Him, thanking Him, and loving others.

What does He reveal? His loving heart. His willingness to provide for us. And His concern for people in this world. As I follow Him in these ways I am changed and the world is impacted for God.

What Does God Ask of Us?

1. Believe in Jesus.

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household,” Acts 16:31.

Understand because of your sin you deserve to be separated from God for eternity, but through the sacrifice of Jesus, you can be saved from punishment and can spend eternity with Him. All you need to pray is, “Jesus, I believe in you. Please take my sin and give me eternity with you instead.” It’s that easy.

2. Put living for Jesus first in your life.

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well,” Matthew 6:33.

This means daily seeking Jesus, reading the Bible, loving others as Jesus did, and trusting He will care for your needs.

3. Read the Bible.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work,” 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

When we read the Bible, we learn more about God and His ways. We learn how to live life more effectively. When you sit down to read the Bible pray, “Lord, help me to understand.” Also, ask someone who has been reading the Bible for a while to help you to understand better.

4. Become involved in a local Bible-believing church and seek friendships with Christ-followers.

“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near,” Hebrews 10:25.

We are not meant to follow Jesus alone, but we gain help and encouragement from other believers. When you join with other Christ-followers regularly, they will be there to help and support you, and you can do the same for them.

5. Forgive others.

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven,” Luke 6:37.

People will hurt us … a lot. Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting. It means turning it over to God and allowing Him to handle the situation. God doesn’t take sin lightly, trust that.

6. Live your life with thankfulness, not complaining.

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation,” Philippians 2:14.

When we spend our day thanking God for all we have, instead of complaining about what we don’t have, everything changes, starting with our attitude and our view on life. We will notice the difference in our attitude during the day and others will, too.

7. Pray at all times.

“Rejoice at all times. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

Pray without ceasing just means when you’re thinking about something over and over, it’s a good sign that it’s something you can pray about. Ask God to help the situation and give you wisdom on how to handle it.

8. Love others.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails,” 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.

When we love others as God asks us they benefit and we do too.

9. Care for the widows and orphans.

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world,” James 1:27.

A symbol of being a Christian is not doing all you can to take care of yourself, but doing all you can to take care of others.

These things don’t sound easy, do they? The truth is that everything God asks us to do is impossible unless we turn to Him and ask Him for help and strength. If you want to obey God in these ways, ask Him to help you. We cannot live as a Christ-follower in our own strength.

The first step is to pray this prayer:

Jesus, I want to follow you in these ways. Please help me, and please bring people in my life to show me Your ways.

Now, I want to pray for you:

Dear Jesus, you see my friend and you see his/her desire to live as you ask. Please help him/her today to draw closer to you and desire to do these things. And as he/she does I pray you will reveal yourself in amazing ways. Amen.

I can’t wait to hear how God is going to reveal Himself to you! Please let me know.