Inspiration for Moms

Home/Inspiration for Moms

Faithgirlz Christmas Gift Guide for Tween Girls

It’s that time of year again! Kids love getting gifts at Christmas, and as parents we’re blessed to give. Why not fill their boxes and stockings with gifts that will not only entertain, but also encourage their faith? Here are some of Faithgirlz’ hottest books and other gift ideas for the tween girls in your life.

Bibles and Bible Tools

 

Faithgirlz Bible—The Faithgirlz Bible (NIV) contains special features designed specifically to capture the heart of girls 9–12 years old, such as quizzes, relatable commentary, highlighted memory verses and much more. Girls will enjoy the shiny cover design, bright pink and purple text, plus several pages spelling out God’s promises and perspectives in the back of the book. There’s even space for girls to write their own notes!

 

 

 

Faithgirlz Backpack Bible—The NIV Faithgirlz Backpack Bible, Compact, Imitation Leather, is just the right size for girls ages 8 to 12 years to grab and go with its small, portable size that will fit in almost any backpack or bag. This Bible shows tween girls that the Bible is real, relevant, and best of all, that the story of God and His people is also their story.

 

 

101 Verses That Stick—Tweens love sticky notes. Put that obsession to good use with this pack of 101 Bible verses written on post-it notes, perfect for sticking to a mirror, locker, desk or other favorite spot. Comes with a magnetic pad!

 

Devotionals

 

 

Glimmer & Shine—Written by Natalie Grant, his daily devotional will challenge and inspire girls ages 8 and up to be their very best selves. Includes 365 devotions, prayers, and interactive weekend pages with quizzes, coloring pages and more.

 

 

 

 

Brave Beauty—As girls grow into young women, they’re likely to have questions, anxieties and fears. This special devotional by Proverbs 31 author and speaker Lynn Cowell offers 100 courage-building moments for tweens ages 8 to 12 to reflect on Scripture and find confidence in God above all else.

 

 

 

 

Promises For You—This beautiful coloring devotional features 60 original works of line art for girls to color as they reflect on Bible verses proclaiming God’s promises. Each coloring and journal page is printed on high-quality, thick stock paper that can withstand markers, pencils or pens.

 

 

 

Fiction Books

 

 

Lena in the Spotlight—Co-written by War Room star and tween blogger Alena Pitts, along with her author mom Wynter Pitts, this new Faithgirlz book series reflects Alena’s own experiences as she reaches for the stars while still making her faith the number one priority.

 

 

 

Glimmer Girls—This four-book series by Christian recording artist (and mom) Natalie Grant follows the adventures of Mia
and Maddie, 10-year-old twin sisters who travel the globe with their famous singer mom. What mishaps will they get into next? There’s always a great lesson learned in the end.

 

 

 

The Lucy Series—Lucy is a feisty tomboy with a tragic history. She questions everything, especially God. This series by Nancy Rue helps girls work through their big questions as Lucy’s wise housekeeper teaches her about God’s love and perfect plan for her life.

 

 

 

The Good News Shoes—Riley Mae Hart is the spokesgirl for Swiftriver Shoe Company, a job that sends her on some crazy adventures where she learns tough lessons about what it means to be a godly young woman. Written by Jill Osborne, this fun three-book series is sure to please readers who love a good page-turner and a happy ending.

 

Faithgirlz - Off the Record - Samantha Sanderson

 

 

Samantha Sanderson—Meet Samantha, an ordinary girl with extraordinary dreams. In this four-book series by Robin Caroll, Samantha and her friends fight crimes drawn straight from today’s headlines, from bomb threats to bullying, all while navigating the rocky terrain of middle school.


 

 

The Sophie Series—Meet Sophie LaCroix, a creative thinker with big dreams to become a famous film director one day. Her wild imagination often lands her in a pickle—but her faith and her friends always come to the rescue. Written by Nancy Rue, each title in this series offers two books in one!

 

 

How-To Activity Books

 

 

101 Ways to Have Fun—Never hear the words “I’m bored” again. This book is filled with activities tweens can do alone or with friends, anytime!

 

 

 

 

Best Hair Book Ever—Created by the editors of Faithgirlz and Girls Life magazine, this full-color book is filled with pictures and instructions for fun, lovely and funky hairstyles that all tween girls will enjoy.

 

 

 

101 Things Every Girl Should Know—Give the gift of expert advice on a wide range of topics of interest to tween girls, such as changing a bike tire to talking to a teacher about a bad grade. What do you do when you’re at a party and you don’t know anyone? What’s the formal way to set a table (and why does it matter)? This random collection of problem-solving strategies helps with everyday stuff, big and small. With tips, advice, and lots of humor, this is a book every girl needs.

 

 

Redo Your Room

 

 

Re-do Your Room: 50 Bedroom DIYs You Can Do in a Weekend—Empower your daughter to express her style with this wonderful collection of simple bedroom décor ideas that she can do all by herself (or as a fun family project with you)!

 

 

Bible Bags and Carriers

 

 

When your tween receives these wonderful Faithgirlz gifts, she’ll need someplace to keep them. Choose a special book bag from our collection of Faithgirlz carriers and messenger bags. She’ll love them all!

 

 

 

From all of us at Faithgirlz, happy shopping—and thank you for keeping Christ in your family Christmas celebrations!

 

Read More

Summer Reading Recommendations

School is out, but books are definitely still in! At Faithgirlz, we think summer is the perfect time to catch up on some fun and interesting reading. Not sure what to choose? We’ve got a list of great ideas to add to your summer reading stash. From adventure to mystery to classics and more, there’s something for every girl to enjoy. Happy Reading!

 

 

 

Lena in the Stars—Co-written by War Room star and tween blogger Alena Pitts, along with her author mom Wynter Pitts, this new Faithgirlz book series reflects Alena’s own experiences as she reaches for the stars while still making her faith the number one priority.

 

 

 

Glimmer Girls—This four-book series by Christian recording artist (and mom) Natalie Grant follows the adventures of Mia
and Maddie, 10-year-old twin sisters who travel the globe with their famous singer mom. What mishaps will they get into next? There’s always a great lesson learned in the end.

 

 

 

The Lucy Series—Lucy is a feisty tomboy with a tragic history. She questions everything, especially God. This series by Nancy Rue helps girls work through their big questions as Lucy’s wise housekeeper teaches her about God’s love and perfect plan for her life.

 

 

 

The Good News Shoes—Riley Mae Hart is the spokesgirl for Swiftriver Shoe Company, a job that sends her on some crazy adventures where she learns tough lessons about what it means to be a godly young woman. Written by Jill Osborne, this fun three-book series is sure to please readers who love a good page-turner and a happy ending.

 

Faithgirlz - Off the Record - Samantha Sanderson

 

 

Samantha Sanderson—Meet Samantha, an ordinary girl with extraordinary dreams. In this four-book series by Robin Caroll, Samantha and her friends fight crimes drawn straight from today’s headlines, from bomb threats to bullying, all while navigating the rocky terrain of middle school.


 

 

The Sophie Series—Meet Sophie LaCroix, a creative thinker with big dreams to become a famous film director one day. Her wild imagination often lands her in a pickle—but her faith and her friends always come to the rescue. Written by Nancy Rue, each title in this series offers two books in one!

 

 

 

Boarding School Mysteries—If you liked the old Nancy Drew books, you’re going to love Boarding School Mysteries by Kristi Holl. Starring Jeri McKane, a sixth-grader at a private boarding school, each story in this four-book collection offers suspense and intrigue along with valuable lessons of courage and faith as Jeri solves the spooky mysteries surrounding her school.

 

 

 

 

From Sadie’s Sketchbook—Sadie is a sharp 12-year-old girl whose family just moved halfway across the country to Michigan. In her new home, she learns to make sense of the world around her through drawing. In this four-book series by Naomi Kinsman, readers will explore questions of family, community, and faith.

 

 

 

Girls of Harbor View—Join the adventures of Morgan, Amy, Carlie and Emily—four very different girls who unite through the common bonds of friendship. Written by Melody Carson, each of the four books in this series contains two unique stories filled with exciting plots and life lessons based on faith.

 

 

 

Andi Boggs Series—Join Andi, and her best friend Colin as they unveil mystery after mystery. Written by Amanda Flower, these books feature short chapters filled with suspense and anticipation creating a fun, fast-paced, exciting read.

 

 

 

 

The Last Martin—Thirteen-year-old Martin Boyle is cursed. His aunt is about to give birth to a baby boy who, according to family tradition, will be named “Martin”—and his cemetery research reveals that when one Martin is born, another dies! Written by Jonathan Friesen, The Last Martin is a fast-paced and quirky story of growing up, discovering your independence, and learning to truly live.

 

 

 

A Plague of Unicorns—In this story from Jane Yolen, Young James, an earl’s son, is sent to be educated at Cranford Abbey. But Cranford Abbey has its own problems—the Abbey is falling apart. Abbot Aelian believes he can save the abbey with his secret weapon: a recipe for golden apple cider passed down through his family for generations. However one obstacle stands in the way, wild unicorns who love golden apples. James, who might have the solution to the problem must earn the trust of the new Abbot.

 

 

 

 

Chronicles of Narnia—This classic series by C.S. Lewis is still beloved by families today, and the tween years are an ideal age to begin reading. Follow the wisdom, wit and imagination of C.S. Lewis as he invites you into the fictional world of Narnia, a place of good vs. evil, where Christ-like themes are woven into every story.

 

 

 

Anne of Green Gables—This well-loved story of an orphan turned cherished daughter—and all the misadventures in between—is a highlight on every tween girl’s reading list. Be advised that Netflix recently released a new film series adaptation in which Anne’s beloved innocence is twisted by modern interpretations; we highly recommend sticking to the original.

 

 

 

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate—The year is 1899 and Calpurnia Virginia Tate is 11 years old. In this beautifully written story by Jacqueline Kelly, Calpurnia (“Callie”) joins her grandfather, a naturalist, in exploring the world around her. Together they discover greater meaning behind grasshoppers, family relationships, and the adventure of growing into a young lady at the turn of the century.

 

 

Stone Fox—For more than 30 years, young readers have been captivated by John Reynolds Gardiner’s classic story of an legendary dogsled race. Little Willy lives with his grandfather on a Wyoming farm. When his grandfather becomes ill, Willy is determined to win the National Dogsled Race and save the family farm with his prize money. However, he’s not the only one who wants to win—so does a veteran dogsled champion named Stone Fox. Based on a Rocky Mountain legend, this book is filled with action and heartwarming life lessons.

 

 

 

The Penderwicks—A National Book Award winner, this four-book series by Jeanne Birdsall shares the stories of “four sisters, two rabbits, and a very interesting boy” as they explore new adventures filled with treasures, humor, and fascinating companions.

 

 

 

 

School Story—A favorite title by popular children’s author Andrew Clements, School Story is a tale of two middle school friends, Natalie and Zoe, who devise a brilliant plan to get a novel published—using a pen name and a few sneaky tricks. This is just one of many other clever and entertaining Andrew Clements books written for tweens.

 

 

 

The Green Ember Series—A modern tale that reads like a classic, The Green Ember is a two-book series following the misadventures of Heather and Picket, two extraordinary rabbits who discover the future of the world depends on their courage. This sweeping tale is complete with swords, daring quests, humor and beauty—and just may become a favorite in your family for years to come.

 

Read More

Welcome Spring with Scripture

This time of year, we all start longing for a warm breeze and a burst of sunshine. If your mood changes with the weather, it’s important to remember that God never changes. Even after a long winter—either in the climate or in your heart—we can rest assured our Heavenly Father always brings back the spring.

Here are some encouraging verses to focus on this week, to remind us that God is working above us and below us all the time. He makes every seed blossom and every storm cloud pass, even when all we can see is mud and rain.

Obedience brings blessing.

“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (Psalm 1:1–3).

Do you delight in God’s Word?

What are the advantages of following God’s commands and delighting in Him?

God will never let you down; He’s a sure thing.

“Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him. He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring” (Hosea 6:3, NLT).

Do you desire to know God more?

Do you believe He hears you and answers your call?

God is always in control.

“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning” (Daniel 2:21).

Who is in charge of the entire world?

Do you trust God to guide the details of your life?

God is our provider.

“He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth” (Psalm 104:14).

Is worry a problem in your life?

Why can you trust God to provide everything you need?

Seasons change, but God does not.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

Our feelings and circumstances may change, but God never does.

How can this truth bring you comfort?

If possible, spend some time in nature this spring. Keep your eyes open for budding flowers, green leaves, and birds building nests. Let these be a sign of God’s promise to renew us—not just in season, but also someday in heaven. Spring is just a glimpse of what’s waiting for us there!

Read More

Mom-Daughter Dates

In honor of Valentine’s Day we decided to compile a list of five of our favorite Mom-Daughter dates. What are some of your favorite Mom-Daughter dates? As long as you and your daughter are being intentional to create moments that allow you two to grow closer together, then there isn’t a wrong answer. Have fun!

Ice Cream

Taking some time to enjoy each other’s company while you enjoy some delicious ice cream is sure to be a memorable time.

Tea Time

Find a local hotel, tea house or restaurant who has a dedicated afternoon tea time. Get dressed up in very elegant attire and enjoy some afternoon tea and biscuits (or scones). Enjoy!

Cooking Class

Growing up I loved to bake with my mom. There is something about the preparation and expectation of the result that helped our relationship grow. Take that same idea out of your home kitchen and learn a few new recipes together in a class.

Spa Day

Mani. Pedi. Facial. Relaxing during a spa day is such a great way to slow down and connect with each other.

Volunteer

Serving together can leave such a lasting bond. Seek out an opportunity in an area of need that interests your daughter. A few ideas are serving at a food kitchen, doing yard work for an elderly neighbor, or shopping to restock a homeless shelter together.
Read More

Resolutions as a Family

The beginning of another year can only mean one thing…it’s time for a new batch New Year’s resolutions (or in some cases it’s time to start the resolutions that died off last January. With this being posted on January 12, maybe it’s already time to restart this year’s resolutions). Whenever I think about resolutions for the year I tend to think about personal Bible reading, fitness, learning a new skill, etc., and while all of these are great things I began to realize that I wasn’t thinking about the resolutions for my family. I’m sure there are many of you that do a great job of this each year (and I would love your suggestions!), but as a parent of a young family, family resolutions had never really crossed my mind. As I began to brainstorm I came up with a three goals for my family in 2017:

1.) DELIGHT IN GOD’S WORD

Wow. I read this verse and began to think about it from the perspective of my family. Each night we read with our kids a passage of scripture and discuss it, but I began to question if I am showing my kids how to delight in God’s Word. Do they see me taking joy from reading scripture? I want my kids to experience the same sweetness that the psalmist finds in God’s Word.

2.) GIVING AS A FAMILY

We are blessed, so we should bless others. Seems like a simple concept. That is, until we have that purchase to make or it takes away our free time. In 2017, I want my family to joyfully give of our time, talents, and money. Our kids will only do the same if they see the example that we set. Let’s stop talking about it and do it!

3.) PRESENCE

At this time of year we hear a lot about presents because I think we all love to give and receive those presents. However, in 2017 I don’t want to just give presents, I want to be present. I want my family to know that I am interested and engaged with what they are doing. Let’s put our phones down, turn off the TV, sign out of Facebook, and spend quality family time, engaging with one another out of love.

What family resolutions do you have this year? I’m eager to learn, so please share in the comments below.

Happy New Year!
Read More

Breaking Out of the Material Mold

I used to spend money like a deranged Rockefeller every time the holidays rolled by. The only way to go, in my opinion was all out, so I did. Anything less seemed like not keeping up with the season.

Indeed, one did not skimp at Christmas. If it had a designer label, was (about) the right size, and could be returned, I’d snap it up. The important thing was that come December 25th there were elaborate presents for everyone I knew under my tree. Going into hock this time of the year was expected, and all my friends reciprocated. I’m not quite sure how and when the custom started. (Was I the ring leader?) It was just something we all did.

Worse still, this all-consuming-shop-until-you-drop tradition clashed with the slow-down-and-savor-the-sights-and-wonder of the season…and won. So sharing the spirit of Christmas was totally out of the question. There was too much buying and wrapping to do.

Then, a couple of years ago, I decided to leave my job and go out on my own just as a shakeup hit the publishing world. As publishers pulled in their belts, my work slowed. And while I waited to hear about this book or that, my rainy day funds trickled down and evaporated. When Christmas was upon us, I had pretty much drained all my reserves. I thought this would be the worst Christmas of my life. But as it turned out, it was not only the best, but also made every holiday since (including this one) more meaningful.

See, because I had no money, I had to call friends and, with a face redder than Santa’s suit, announce there would be no presents. It was one of the hardest things I ever had to do.       To my surprise, though, collective sighs of relief greeted me. What’s more, I actually turned out a hero. Seems everyone’s pocketbooks had moths in them that year. So nobody really had money to burn. Yet no one wanted to be the first to come out and say so. That made me wonder how many times before I had inadvertently put pressure on friends to buy presents they couldn’t afford.

Lesson Number One: Being a good friend has nothing to do with buying expensive gifts.

It was then our group decided to break out of the material mold for good. We made a pact to stop the shopping frenzy, forgo the hoopla, and instead, spend some quality time together. We had a pot luck gab fest at my house instead. We drank mulled cider, and ate the tidbits everyone brought. And you know what? We each still got a pretty nice Christmas gift in the bargain. Only this time, it didn’t strap us financially …since the gift we gave was the gift of ourselves.

Lesson Number Two: Giving the gift of yourself is better than any you can buy in the store.

Canceling the Christmas gift-off proved better than I had imagined in other ways as well. It left me free to enjoy holiday happenings like Christmas tree lightings and the singing of the Messiah at the neighborhood high school.

Then, too, without all the pressures of gift-buying, I was able to concentrate more on what this holiday is intended to commemorate: the birth of Christ. I thought about how awesome it was that the King of Kings would even consider leaving his throne in heaven to come into a world like ours. I thought of Him being born a helpless baby, in a cold stable, without even a crib for His bed. I thought of the love He must have for us, and how that love shines far and away brighter than any bauble I could own or give. I thought about how His love will be the one present that’s as new tomorrow and every day after as it is on Christmas Day.

Lesson number three: God’s love is the best gift of all. It doesn’t break and it won’t wear out.

Indeed, stepping out of the material mold has taught me a lot. And as my friends and I get ready for our Annual No-Gifts-Allowed Get-together, I hope this new custom will be the norm for years to come. What’s more, last night, when I sat down to breathe in the scent of pine, and enjoy the twinkling lights, I thanked God that there was nothing but a tiny stable under my Christmas tree.

– Allia Zobel Nolan

Be sure to check out Allia’s newest Faithgirlz release, Whatever Is Lovely: a 90-Day Devotional!

This article is used by permission. copyright © 2016 Allia Zobel Nolan

Read More

9 Strengthening Scriptures you NEED today!

For you… the Mom who needs God’s strength today… 9 Passages of Strength:

 

1. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29

2. The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11

3. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

4. You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely. Psalm 59:17

5. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

6. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Proverbs 31:25

7. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2

8. This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength…” Isaiah 30:15a

9. The Lord is the everlasting God,
    the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
    and his understanding no one can fathom.
He gives strength to the weary
    and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
    and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:28b-31

Lord Jesus, you are our Rock, our Fortress, our Help, our Deliverer. We look to you today for strength. We praise you because your strength never fails.

 

by Jennifer Ebenhack

 

Read More

4 basics to build your family up this fall

It might seem elementary…

But hey, as we’re all adjusting to back-to-school life, we find ourselves reviewing the basics.

All families have some basic relational courtesies that bear revisiting. It’s funny how busyness and weariness lead us to forget a few things that end up being great “glue” for our husbands, kids, and us as moms.

Ready to review a few of these basics?

1. Greetings

As you see your family members first thing in the morning, upon their arrival home after school, or in the evening after a day full of activities, stop what you’re doing, look them in the eye, and greet them. Say “good morning,” “hi,” or “welcome back” with a smile.

It might sound ridiculously simple, but it means so much to have a warm welcome back into the family after a difficult day, stressful activities, or even an all-too-short night of sleep.

2. Gooodbyes

As your husband and kids take off for the day or evening, acknowledge their departure. Yep, you probably have 17 irons in the fire as your door opens and closes, but if possible, let them know that you realize they’re leaving.

And when you’re headed out, tell them goodbye, let them know you care, and when appropriate, assure them you’ll be praying for them.

3. Caring Touch

Life is so fast-paced. Your husband, kids, and you all have a zillion things to worry about today. Stress and adrenaline are coursing through everyone’s bodies. One great way to stop the negative chemicals and release some endorphins is to give a hug or a kiss. Hold a hand. Give a shoulder rub.

You know your family. Meet each person where they are with whatever little gesture will mean the most to them.

4. Prayer

As your family members share their frustrations, fears, or burdens, take a minute and pray for them. Pray together with them if you can. As you do, you save yourself the pain of bearing the stress yourself, and you’ll point yourself and your loved one back to the God who can truly help them.

And for the numerous burdens that you may not even speak about with them, lift them up to the Lord throughout the day. “Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares for you” 1 Peter 5:7.

Basic? Yep.

Simple? Yep.

Effective? Yes!

Do yourself and your family a favor by building each other up this fall!

 

by Jennifer Ebenhack

Read More

We Don’t Know What to Do

We don't know what to do

When you’re overwhelmed, you don’t feel much like praising the Lord.

That’s natural.

Your head aches, your bills are mounting, at least one appliance or vehicle needs replacing, and your kids need a thousand things from you.

As a mom, as an adult, you feel the weight of it all. This is your battle after all. Your life. Your mess. Your responsibility.

Some days you shoulder through. Other days the magnitude of it all paralyzes you.

King Jehoshaphat was at that point in 2 Chronicles 20. Three armies joined forces against him. This “great multitude” was poised to attack, and when Jehoshaphat received word, there was never even a glimmer of hope that he could protect his people, the Israelites. They didn’t stand a chance.

Just like you don’t. Because there is an actual enemy fighting against you.

Yes, some things are part of life on a fallen planet… cars break down, kids get sick, moms feel tired.

But that’s not all there is. Satan hates you and the work you’re doing to glorify Christ in your home. Any chance he gets to discourage you, he’ll take.

And on your own, you don’t stand a chance.

Jehoshaphat instantly realized his own inability. He cried out to God,

“O our God, will you not execute judgment on them? For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” (v. 12)
In his admission of weakness, and with the turn of his gaze to the Lord, everything changed.

The Spirit of the Lord spoke.

“Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God’s… You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the Lord on your behalf.” (v. 15b, 17)

And Jehoshaphat and the people worshipped God.

The next morning, Jehoshaphat addressed the people as they prepared to follow the Lord’s instructions,

“Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be established…” (v. 20a).

Then he appointed singers to praise God in front of the army. They sang,

“Give thanks to the Lord, for his steadfast love endures forever.” (v. 21b)

And the Lord caused the enemies to destroy one another. Israel’s job was to stand firm, believe His Word, praise Him, and then collect the spoils of the armies.

It’s not natural to praise God when you’re overwhelmed.

It’s not natural to relinquish all control to the Lord.

It’s supernatural. And it’s your answer.

The thing is, this isn’t your battle, your mess, your responsibility. Hand it all over to the Lord.

You don’t know what to do. But He does. So turn your eyes on Him.

Surrender all that overwhelms you to Him.

Praise Him.

Don’t be dismayed.

Believe His promises.

Stand firm and watch Him fight for you.

Echo Jehoshaphat’s prayer, and trust in the Lord.

“We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”

by Jennifer Ebenhack

Read More

5 Back-to-School Verses to Encourage Your Daughter

5 back to school verses

As your daughter starts school this fall, you can be sure her mind is swirling.

She may have doubts about her ability to carry this year’s academic load. She may be concerned about her peers, the demands of extra-curricular activities, how to relate to guys, how to live out her faith.

There are many ways to encourage your girl, and you probably know what is most effective in her life. But no matter what your daughter’s personality, no matter if she’s schooled at home, in a public school, or a private school, she needs God’s Word.

Here are 5 verses to share with your daughter as she launches into school. Use them Monday through Friday, or all at once.

1) Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

2) Romans 1:16a

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.

3) James 2:1

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 

4) Ephesians 2:10

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

5) Philippians 2:3-4

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. 

A few ideas for using these verses:

  • Write (or have your daughter write) these verses out on index cards.
  • Post them on your her mirror.
  • Stick them in her lunch box.
  • Talk about them together, discussing how this applies to what she’s going through at school.
  • Memorize them together.
  • Pray together each morning, committing her concerns to the Lord.

And trust in the Lord, knowing that He will walk your daughter through every step of the year ahead!

by Jennifer Ebenhack

Read More

Title

Go to Top