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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

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:

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The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Today, I’m excited to share about The Next-level Journey for Storytellers–The Winter Creativity Summit for writers offered by Realm Makers. I attended the Realm Maker’s Conference in 2021 and I was amazed to find such an encouraging, tight-knit community of writers and mentors in the fantasy writing genre. As an author of over 80 books, I know that going the distance is hard. It takes the support of a team and the encouragement of a community to help you make it to the finish line. Let’s talk about how you can grow in community with the Winter Creativity Summit for writers.
Winter Creativity Summit for writers--The Next-level Journey for Storytellers
Winter Creativity Summit for writers–The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Getting started as a writer is one thing. Going the distance… something else entirely. Why do so few authors taste success? And of those who do, why do even less manage to stay creative over time?

This advanced gathering is crafted for the dedicated novelist who has done well… but knows that far more awaits. It’s also a chance for the not-yet-published writer to discover the best foundation for shaping stories and pursuing dreams of becoming a published author.

Allen Arnold created this brand new advanced course to propel serious authors and their stories to the next level. In this fast-paced, interactive summit, you’ll discover ways to:

  • step deeper into your creativity with the Creator
  • restore your heart and release your stress
  • experience exponential growth that keeps your creativity—and readers—buzzing
  • spot and defeat the blind spots that bog down your success
  • see your brand and approach to writing with new eyes
  • embrace your truer calling and maximize its potential

This unique event offers equal parts creative breakthrough and storyteller soul-care. It’s dedicated time to re-chart your future and renew your intimacy with God in the very things that make you come alive. 

Winter Creativity Summit for writers--The Next-level Journey for Storytellers
Winter Creativity Summit for writers–The Next-level Journey for Storytellers

Visit retreat.realmmakers.com for complete details!

Check out this free webinar, from Realm Makers
Storyteller Soul Care, with Allen Arnold

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Expert Advice Featuring Rachel Dodge + A Giveaway!

Welcome to our new feature: Expert Advice, where we feature the amazing experts from the Write That Book Club with Tricia Goyer! If you’ve ever wondered about the expert advice our leaders provide, now’s your chance to learn more about the group experts you can connect with as a member of Write That Book Club.
In this episode, we’re featuring Rachel Dodge. Rachel is the bestselling, award-winning author of The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-By-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen.
Her newest book, The Little Women Devotional: A Chapter-by-Chapter Companion to Louisa May Alcott’s Beloved Classic, released December 1, 2021. Learn more about what Rachel brings to the table and be sure to stay tuned to the end of this post for a chance to enter to win a signed copy of The Anne of Green Gables Devotional: A Chapter-By-Chapter Companion for Kindred Spirits plus a bookmark and sticker!

[Read more…] about Expert Advice Featuring Rachel Dodge + A Giveaway!

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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

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Merry Bells Bring Families Together

Holidays bring families together. But that doesn’t always mean everyone is interacting. With all the technology at our fingertips, it’s often easier to “veg” out on our phones than pursue meaningful activities together. But that’s exactly what makes memories and why we should find more ways to connect–with Merry Bells!

 

Merry Bells Bring Families Together

I’m always looking for fun things to bring our family–and yours!–closer together. There’s are just so many things competing for our time. We really have to make the most of the special moments we have together. 

Merry Bells was created to bring family and friends together through handbell music in a fun and positive way and our family loves them! Their beautiful, custom handbell set includes a popular 30 Christmas Song play-along set. The 8-note diatonic handbell set comes in a sturdy box with an easy carry handle and foam inner lining that will keep your bells in great condition for years of fun. 

Merry Bells Bring Families Together

Imagine your family enjoying the melodies of the season played on these wonderful bells and laughter and smiles as everyone connects and plays the songs you love together. What great holiday memories you’ll have for years to come! And right now you can get an amazing discount and CYBER MONDAY DEAL!

Due to popular demand, their Black Friday Special extends through Cyber Monday, Nov 29th and you can get 10% OFF with the code GOYERDISCOUNT

For each Bell Set you buy, you may claim a free DVD, Digital Download Set, or a Bell Chart Set of your choice!

The more Bell Sets you buy the more free items you get!

Don’t forget to use the code GOYERDISCOUNT to get your special discount!

 

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My Favorite Novels of the Year

 

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

 

 

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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

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20 Tips to Enjoy the Last Days of Summer

Do you want to enjoy the last days of summer with your family? Before long, the mornings will be cooler and work and school will fill our days. Make the most of the remaining time with the people who mean the most in your life. Here are 20 tips to enjoy the last days of summer!

Last days of summer

 

20 Tips to Enjoy the Last Days of Summer

Let’s make the most of the dog days of summer with these 20 fun ideas for family bonding in the hottest time of year.

  1. Make your own popsicles from fruit juice or lemonade.
  2. Host a neighborhood “dog wash” and have all the local dogs clean and smelling sweet.
  3. Have a backyard campout and lay under stars and identify constellations.

  4. Have a watermelon feed and seed spitting competition. kids eating watermelon

  5. Make homemade ice cream.
  6. Take one last trip to the local pool or beach.
  7. Have a 24-hour read-a-thon in your living room.
  8. Shop a local farmer’s market for end-of-season fruits and veggies.
  9. Recycle old tee-shirts by tie-dying or batiking them with Elmer’s glue.
  10. Get ready for Fall by cleaning out old toys and clothes and donating to a local charity.
  11. Make your own paper.
  12. Have a hotdog and marshmallow roast and tell stories about your favorite family memories.

  13. Have a squirt gun fight. Last Days of Summer

  14. Make a bookmobile from a garage sale or thrifted books. Donate to a local library or public school for decoration.
  15. Take a Sunday drive through the country to see wildflowers.
  16. Host a karaoke contest in your backyard.
  17. Go to a concert or play in the park.
  18. Go out to lunch or dinner at a local diner and sit at the counter.

  19. Volunteer as a family to walk local shelter dogs.

  20. Make a family movie and share it with grandparents or long-distance relatives.

Want more great tips for keeping kids engaged? You might also like this post:

I hope these ideas help you finish out the summer with a bang and move you into Fall with happy memories.

What other ideas do you have for enjoying the last days of summer? Share with me in the comments!

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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.

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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.

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4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory | Kristen Tiber

These 4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory from Kristen Tiber will help you focus on making an impact for the Kingdom where you are today. Your message matters and you can bring His hope to a hurting world. Let Kristen’s words encourage you in this guest post.

4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory

Have you ever thought about the great heroes of our faith only to be left feeling a little insignificant? After all, did you care for the poor by the thousands, preach on the world’s stage or stir revival in the hearts of a nation? When we compare ourselves to some of those great men and women throughout history, it can be tempting to think that we have to accomplish huge feats and be at the center of attention in order to bring God any glory. But that couldn’t be further from the truth! God’s eyes are on you and His heart is for you. No life is too small to make an impact for the Kingdom and bring glory to the Father!

But how do we do it? What are some ways we can live our lives in order to bring Him glory? Believe it or not, it can be pretty simple. Not necessarily easy, but simple.

4 Ways YOU Can Bring God Glory

 

1. Be obedient.

Our culture doesn’t like the idea of obedience and coming under someone’s authority. However, a life lived under the authority of God not only brings blessing to the follower, but it also brings glory to God. When we abide in His ways, when we walk according to His laws, we are showing the effect of what He has done in our lives. As followers of Christ, we need to pursue what His Word says and not what our feelings try to dictate. He and His Word are the standard, and our obedience becomes a witness to those around us.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they may accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2:12

2. Be patient.

Patience has become an abnormal practice for the world in which we live. With the incredible advances in technology, we don’t really have to wait for much. Whether it is our Amazon delivery, our quick Google searches, or our Instant Pot dinners, we have grown accustomed to the instantaneous and immediate. However, Scripture tells us that patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and as we bear fruit, we show ourselves to be His disciples, bringing glory to the Father (John 15:8-11).

3. Examine and align the desires of our hearts.

What are the desires of our hearts? What is the motivation behind those desires? As believers, it would be good to take time to reflect on what it is we want and what it is that God may want for us. And on those occasions when our desires don’t line up with His, we would be wise to yield to God’s desires and plans for us. After all, the One who died for us, certainly has our best interests at heart. When we are walking in the path He has for us, we will give Him praise and glory!

4. Believe and trust God through times of suffering.

Throughout the New Testament, glory often appears alongside suffering. Paul connects the two ideas in his letters, and Peter often reminds his readers of coming glory in the midst of their suffering. And we also know Jesus experienced great suffering on the cross to be followed by His glorious resurrection. When we go through a season of suffering, we can find hope that not only will God infuse it with purpose, but also that we have a future glory to look forward to. (See Romans 8:16-18.)

When we can put the name of Jesus and His renown above our own wants and desires, above our own inclinations – when we can get through seasons of suffering with an expectation of how God will use it – we will see that the life of one person can indeed bring much glory to God, no matter how big or small.

Enter to win a copy of Greater Glory: Living Your Life to the Glory of God *Open International* Physical copies to be shipped to US addresses only*

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Kristen Tiber is an author, speaker, and women’s Bible study teacher. Currently, she and her husband, Dan, teach the high school Sunday school class at their church have enjoyed doing so for the last eight years. Kristen is a homeschooling mom to her two kids, Peter and Anna. A forever student of the Word of God, Kristen desires to see Jesus’ name and renown lifted up. She is passionate to see others grow in their love for Jesus and His Word. Her books include Teach Me To Serve, At The Well and Greater Glory. Kristen can be found at KristenTiber.com, where she encourages others to live with purpose in all seasons of life.

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More about Greater Glory: Living Your Life to the Glory of God

What does it mean to live for God’s glory?

Let’s find out together!  

Many people today will tell you that purpose is found in following your heart. Your career, relationship status, goals, and hobbies all center around discovering what you want and what makes you happy. But the Bible tells us that our purpose isn’t found inside ourselves. True purpose that will give us the greatest delight and satisfaction, that has the power to change the trajectory of our lives, is found in bringing God glory.

Join Kristen Tiber as she takes a fascinating look at the glory of God. As Kristen traces God’s glory chronologically through the Scriptures, you will look at: What is glory? How was it manifested? And what does it matter to us? You’ll discover meaningful purpose in your experiences and learn how YOU can bring God greater glory through your obedience, your patience, the desires of your heart, and your suffering.

This five-week women’s Bible study includes:

  • Individual daily assignments in the Greater Glory workbook
  • Free access to online, weekly Bible study videos streamed through www.KristenTiber.com
  • An optional Leader’s Guide for group study

This study can be used as an individual Bible study for women or for small groups.

Most women’s Bible study material today is geared for small groups in the church setting.  And while small groups wonderfully encourage fellowship, growth with others, and accountability, the price of the accompanying Bible study videos makes it near impossible for an individual to participate in the study alone.  Greater Glory is a 5-week Bible study workbook for small groups or the individual studying on her own.  Videos are free and accessed through www.KristenTiber.com.

Purchase a copy here.

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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.

 

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