BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!

Oh friend, I am so excited! We've had a secret that was supposed to be shared in June, then due to circumstances beyond my control, it was pushed back not once but twice. But here we finally are!

My family are I are beyond excited to bring you Engaging with Faith Family Devotional: 70 Fun Activities For Christian Families to Strengthen Faith!

When my kids were growing up I was always trying to find ways to teach them God's Word and help them grow in a habit of regular Bible reading and prayer. As I searched and searched for resources, I always came up empty handed. Now, you don't have to!

My grandson is excited for Engaging with Faith!

Engaging with Faith Family Devotional is a 70 day devotional for families to do together. Each day has a Scripture verse, a brief devotion that kids will understand, a Let's Reflect section with questions to help engage each person in conversation, and a Let's Do section with an off page activity you and your kids will love.

Engaging with Faith Family Devotional would make a great homeschool companion! As we homeschooled our kids, we always added in some Bible time. This devotional will give you Bible time as well as activities to spice up the school day!

While Engaging with Faith Family Devotional is a 70 day devotional, it is designed to help you, not stress you out! If it works for your family to do each of the 70 devotionals in 70 consecutive days, go for it! If it works better for your family to do it once a week, go for it! All that matters is you are intentionally engaging as a family and teaching your children about God.

Each day that you go through the book, your family will grow closer to God and each other. Engaging with Faith Family Devotional: 70 Fun Activities For Christian Families to Strengthen Faith launches on September 6th, but you can preorder your copy today! Just click the banner below!

Engaging with Faith Family Devotional is my 4th devotional! I feel beyond blessed by God for the opportunity to bring you 4 devotionals. To check out all of my books, click HERE.

THE HOMESCHOOL AWAKENING

When our oldest was old enough for kindergarten, we knew exactly where we wanted her to attend. This public school was exactly what we envisioned and it was a wonderful experience. The following year, when she would enter the first grade, my husband and I were children's pastors at a church that also had a private Christian school. We were blessed that our kids were able to attend this school at no charge to us. The Christian school was, again, a wonderful experience.

Two years later, my husband and I stepped down as church staff and moved to a new church. This meant our children were no longer able to attend the Christian school without a very large chunk of money. Unfortunately, with three now in school, we just could not keep them in financially.

We decided to enroll our children in the public school by our house. It was horrible.

Here are just a few things we experienced:
- Teachers showing up to school to teach in pajamas.
- We were one of only five sets of parents in the entire school to show up for parent/teacher night.
- I tried to meet the principal on five different occasions, she always refused to come out of her office and meet me, nor did she return my phone calls.
- My daughter's third grade teacher had her cigarettes on her desk, in view and reach of the children.
- On one of my visits to the office to speak with the principal, a man who had never been to the school walked in and said he was there to pick up a friend's daughter. They told him to go on down to her classroom and get her. They never verified with the parent, never checked for notes from home, never even asked the child if she knew the man.

After only six weeks, my husband and I knew we could not continue. We pulled our kids to homeschool them. We were met with the office staff laughing at us and telling us how stupid that was and that we would be back. We never went back.

Homeschooling our kids was the best decision we could have made!

Homeschooling wasn't always easy. In fact, there were many days I thought I had lost my mind. There were many days I thought I was underqualified or incapable of teaching my children. But my husband and I always came back to one thing: God qualified us to teach our children when He gave them to us.

All four of my children have all graduated from homeschooling now. As I look back, the days weren't always easy or perfect. But they were always good. Homeschooling them was a blessing, a gift from God.

As I look at the schools now, I would make the same decision, only I would have made it faster! Our children are our gift from God. He calls us to take care of them and to protect them. When I look at all that is happening in our school system today, it breaks my heart.

Kirk Cameron has a brand new movie all about homeschooling. Families across the nation are experiencing the homeschool awakening, taking advantage of the freedom and opportunities for self-discovery -- with the world as their classroom. Kirk dives into the adventures of dynamic American families on a mission to put fun and faith back into learning. The Homeschool Awakening explores the ins, outs, and honest answers to homeschooling’s most frequently asked questions.

The Homeschool Awakening is in theaters today (6/13) and tomorrow (6/14) only. To find a theater in your area, click HERE.

Whether you already homeschool your children, you are considering dipping your toes in to give it a try, or you are completely against homeschooling, this movie is for you! Don't miss The Homeschool Awakening!

BLESSINGS & MAGIC OF MOTHERHOOD {GIVEAWAY}

Continuing to count God's sweet blessings...

2225. The incredible military families God brought to our church. While they are leaving now, we have be blessed and made lifelong friends.

2226. Celebrating the fathers in my life. My dad, my papa, my husband and my brothers. All incredible dads.

2227. Safety from storms ripping across our town.

2228. Dinner and fellowship with dear friends.

2229. The beautiful new Illustrated Faith Bible journaling kit.

Share something you are praising God. I would love to rejoice with you.

Motherhood is one of the most rewarding, beautiful roles a woman will ever play. Yet, it's also one of the hardest, and at times loneliest, roles. We struggle through sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and a battle of the wills while they are young. As they grow into teenagers we struggle through sleepless nights (yes, still), hormones and letting go. We worry about what their future looks like, what our body currently looks like, and if we can handle it all.

In her new book The Magic of Motherhood, Ashlee Gadd reminds us of the joys, blessings and magic we find in motherhood. She teaches us how to find grace in the holy work of raising a family.

Ashlee and her team openly share from their heart. They aren't telling you which brand to use or if you should breast feed or use a bottle. No, instead, they are coming along side you, partnering with you, to encourage you in a precious way. They remind us of things like, "You are more than your worst day. You are more than your biggest mistake" and "I liked the real version of motherhood better than the fairy tale anyway, because the real version was forcing me to be smaller so God could get bigger."

The Magic of Motherhood is a beautiful book that will have you laughing and crying, and will leave you feeling encouraged.

To enter to win The Magic of Motherhood, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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*Disclosure: I received this product for free in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own. Links on this page may be affiliate links. Thank you for supporting this ministry by using the affiliate links.

BIBLE BELLES: RUTH

The Bible Belles are back with book 4 in the Adventures of Rooney Cruz! The new book, Ruth: The Belle of Loyalty, teaches your young girl all about loyalty. Understanding loyalty at a young age is hard. Even adults struggle with being loyal, we see it every day. What better way to help your own little belle understand loyalty than with a story straight from the Word?

With the help of her angel, Mari, Rooney has learned that God has given her three real superpowers: Prayer, Patience, and Bravery. She’s learning how to use these powers as she faces challenges, but how will she handle it when the trouble is coming from a close friend? When she wants to give up, when all she wants to do is leave, can she choose to love instead?

As Rooney watches Ruth face the choice to stay or walk away, she learns what it means to be loyal and put another person’s needs before her own. Soon Rooney becomes the greatest superhero of all, a Bible Belle!

What I love about Bible Belles is the passion. Bible Belles creators, writer and illustrator, Erin and Brent Weidemann want their daughter and girls all over the world to fall in love with women of the Bible even more so than they fall in love with fairy tale princesses. They are setting out to present women in the Bible in a way that has never been done before. They want girls to connect with them and find out what being truly beautiful is all about and they want girls to remember their names, their stories, and how special they are. To read how Bible Belles started, click HERE.

So far, we have 4 Belles: Hannah, the Belle of Prayer; Esther, the Belle of Patience; Abigail, the Belle of Bravery; and now Ruth, the Belle of Loyalty. Along with the books, Bible Belles offers a book club, birthday party options to have a Bible Belle birthday party, kids' devotionals and a podcast.

To pick up a 4 book bundle of all the Bible Belles and save $10, click HERE! To pick up a bundle that includes all 4 books and all 4 matching devotionals and save $20, click HERE! Use coupon code bbaff-10-off to receive 10% off your order or use coupon code freeshipping to receive free shipping on your order over $25.

Leading Your Child to Christ {giveaway}

As a parent and children's pastor one of the most amazing things I see is when a child finally 'gets it.' This past Sunday in children's church we discussed having a true relationship with Jesus and how that is the only way to heaven. As I was teaching, I could see the light go on in the kids' heads. You could see they were actually understanding! You could see them really thinking about it when I talked about going to heaven and God welcoming us with open arms or turning us away saying, "I never knew you, depart from me!" {Matthew 7} I love those moments of understanding.

As parents, it is our job, our responsibility, our privilege to lead our children to Christ.

The absolute biggest way to do this, is to be a living example. If you are serving God and living out a life that shows this, your children are going to want to follow Him too. Here are a few ways to be a living example and lead your children to Christ:

1. Read your Bible daily. Let your children know that you have time with God. This was hard for me at first. The Bible tells us to go into our secret place and I felt I was doing wrong by letting my kids see me pray or read my Bible. However, our children need to see us having this time alone. Whether they are waking up as you are finishing your quiet time, you leave your Bible open on your bed or you talk about what you've read, your kids need to know that you are really reading your Bible.
2. Pray continually. When your kids have a problem, hold their hands and pray with them. When a crisis in your life arises, pray. When you see an accident on the side of the road, pray aloud as you are driving. Even if you just have a headache, let your kids hear you pray for it.
3. Give thanks often and for everything. As you drive away from the grocery store, thank God for providing the money to get the groceries. When it rains, praise God for the rain to make things grow. When God answers a prayer, thank Him. When you are driving to church, thank God for your church and church family. We are a very blessed people and our kids need to see and hear us giving thanks to God for all things.
4. Be careful of what you say and do. If you say you want to live a life holy and righteous before God, then be careful about the tv shows and movies you watch, the music you listen to and the books and magazines you read. Watch the words that come out of your mouth. Would your words and attitude be pleasing to God?
5. Ask forgiveness. It is important that we ask God to forgive us for our sins each day. We are human and sin daily, so we need to ask forgiveness daily. And because we are human, we often need to ask forgiveness of others too, sometimes even our kids. When you mess up, ask God to forgive you. If needed, ask your kids. When you wrong someone, admit it. If your kids are involved or know of the situation, admit to them that you messed up and are seeking forgiveness.
6. Lead them. In addition to you reading the Bible on your own, read with your kids. Whether you read a couple verses each day at breakfast, read a chapter at bedtime or do an entire devotion, lead your kids in reading the Bible. They need to develop the habit of getting with God now.
7. Have conversation. Make sure your kids understand that they need to have their own relationship with God. Talk to them about how to ask the Lord into their hearts and how to develop their relationship. Take a walk with your child and discuss this or sit on their bed at night and talk. Make sure they know that when they are ready you will be there to pray with them to ask Jesus into their heart.

I Believe in Jesus: Leading Your Child to Christ is a new book that walks your child through the gospel of Jesus in a way that is easy to understand and equips parents to share the story of God's love. This book will open doors for conversations that lead to salvation. With beautiful artwork and Scripture support, you will be ready to help lead your child to Jesus.

To enter to win I Believe in Jesus: Leading Your Child to Christ, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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Linking with:
Woman to Woman Ministries Word Filled Wednesday

Bible Belles: Esther

My absolute favorite Bible story is the story of Esther. I love reading about this ordinary girl who God used in a mighty way. Esther was brave and bold and risked her own life just to save the lives of her people. How could you not love Esther!?

Today I am thrilled to share the brand new book in the Bible Belles series, Esther: The Belle of Patience. Bible Belles is a five book series, Esther being book two, about the adventures of Rooney Cruz as she learns about five superhero women of the Bible: Hannah, Esther, Abigail, Ruth and Deborah. In Esther, Rooney learns how to have patience in handling her conflict, just as Esther did in the Bible.

Check out the trailer here:

Not only does Bible Belles offer now two books with three more to soon come, they offer an amazing Bible Belles Party in a Box for your own little Belle to celebrate with her friends. For only $10 per girl, you get:

• Event overview that include supply list, decor ideas, food and drink recipes, music and more!
• Complete program, a step by step guide from party start to finish.
• a Hannah: The Belle of Prayer book for each girl
• Bible Belle bracelets for each girl
• Prayer collage
• Prayer window
• Prayer bells
• Memory verse card
• Coloring pages.

Did I say it was amazing or what!?

Author and founder Erin Weidemann knows that our girls seek heroes. Why not lead them to Biblical heros?

Bible Belles makes a great gift and witnessing tool for your daughter, niece, granddaughter, neighbor, any little belle in your life. Check out Bible Belles today!

Angels Among Us

I love sappy Hallmark movies. Especially sappy Hallmark Christmas movies. Several years ago, I watched one of these movies and in it Santa kept appearing everywhere. They took pictures of him talking to a man and dog, but when the pictures were developed, Santa was not there. When they went looking for him, no one knew what they were talking about. He appeared in a fire and helped the fireman pull a child out but no one else saw him. He led a long lost brother home to his family again. It is not just this movie. All of these Christmas movies have that "miracle" of Christmas. Santa helps in such a mysterious and magical way.  
As I watched this movie, I kept crying. Not because of the magical Santa, though I loved the movie, but because these things do happen. However, it is not Santa, but God. God sends His angels to us all of the time. I firmly believe that. 

I don't know if my grandmother will remember this or not, but when I was younger she told me about a time she was in a store and started to stumble. Suddenly she felt hands holding her up. When she turned around to thank the person, no one was there. She believes, and so do I, it was an angel.  

Do not forget to entertain strangers,

for by doing so some people have entertained

angels without knowing it.

Hebrews 13:2

God may send an angel to stop us from falling, to give us encouragement or to lead our way. An angel may appear as someone in need to see if we will help. We never know when we are entertaining angels.

Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth:

Whenever you did one of these things to someone

overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.

Matthew 25:40  (MSG)

One time, several years back, we were given a financial blessing. While I believe that this particular time God used someone in my church family to bless us, I also believe that there are situations like that where it is simply God. When my daughter heard me crying and praising God over our blessing, she asked me if an angel put that money in my purse. I explained to her it very well could have been an angel or it could have been a friend obeying God. Angels are everywhere.

When you see someone who needs help, help them, it could be an angel. When someone helps you, praise God, He could have sent you an angel.  

*Edited repost. To see the original post, click HERE.


To help your child understand more about angels, best selling author, Allia Zobel, has a new book Angels in the Bible Storybook. This story book answers questions like where were the angles when God created the world? Why did an angel force a donkey off a road? Who did the angels get out of jail twice? And many more. With beautiful illustrations, your child will get a look into how God's powerful behind-the-scenes hepers interacted with the Bible greats from Abraham, Lot, and Gideon to Zechariah, Mary and Jesus Himself, acting as messengers, protectors, warriors and more. Check out Angels in the Bible Storybook.

Teaching Them To Follow Jesus {Giveaway}

If you were to ask your child today what it means to follow Jesus, what would they say?

Would your child think it means going to church? Saying a prayer before eating dinner? Bedtime prayers? Not saying bad words? Listening to Klove?

Our children have different views on what it means to follow Jesus. As parents, it is our job to make sure they understand the truth. Please notice I said it is our job as parents. It is not the job of the Sunday School teacher, the Children's Pastor, or even the Christian School teacher. Those positions are to come along side and help you in teaching your kids about God. But the lead role lies in your hands alone.

We need to teach our children that to follow Jesus means to say the sinner's prayer giving Him our heart. Then to trust in Him, love Him, and live like Him.

How can we teach this to our kids? Be a living example.

The relationship your child has with Jesus is the most important one he will ever have. That relationship will guide all of his other relationships. Mom, Dad, are you ready to teach your child what it means to follow Jesus?


I Will Follow Jesus Bible Storybook will help your children learn about the most important relationship they can ever have. This Bible storybook will show your kids the characteristics of Jesus. This adorable storybook is the perfect addition to your family's Bible time. Read the Bible story and devotion and talk about following Jesus.

To enter to win a copy of I Will Follow Jesus Bible Storybook, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids {giveaway}

The house is quiet and still as everyone tries to sleep...or so I think. In the dark of the night I see the light in my boys' bedroom is on. Upset, thinking they are playing around again, I barge in to firmly tell them to go to bed now! However, instead of seeing them wrestling on the floor, lifting weights, talking, or goofing off, I see them both sitting quietly reading their Bibles, highlighters in hand. I quickly apologize for interrupting and sneak out. My mama's heart soars.

Our kids need to spend time with Jesus. They need to read His Word and pray. They need to learn to have a personal relationship with Him. They learn this by the example you set.

Let your kids see you read the Bible.
Let them see you pray.
Read the Bible with them.
Pray with them.

Your kids need this. They need this example in their life. It is never too early to get your kids into the Word of God. There is never a reason to not read the Bible and pray with your kids. Your kids need to know Jesus and need to know the hope we have in the Father.

Today I want to share a new devotional just for your kids, Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids. From Sarah Young, the author of Jesus Calling, Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids is written as though Jesus is talking directly to our kids and is based on Scripture.

Some kids may think that hoping is just wishful thinking.  But the hope Jesus offers you is something you can hold on to -- knowing it will never let you down.  Because Jesus will never let you down!

To enter to win Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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For I Know The Plans {Giveaway}

"For I know the plans I have for you,"

declares the Lord,

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

plans to give you a hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

The year is quickly coming to a close. This is a great time to talk to your kids and teens about their future. Yes, even kids, need to talk about their future. Whether it's the immediate future, this upcoming year, or far in the future, they need to know and understand that God has plans for them. Plans that are good. Plans that will prosper them and never harm them.

Every choice they make today, will affect their future. One choice they can make that will have a positive affect on the present and on their future, is to spend time with God each and every day. No matter how tired they are. No matter what their friends are doing. No matter what's on tv or what video game is out. Spending time with God is a wise decision that they will never regret.

Sit down with your kids and discuss these things. Make an action plan on how they can have a quiet time. Help them prepare. Let's help our children and teens start the year off the right way.

Today I want to share two great books with you; The Plans I Have For Your Devotional and The Plans I Have For Your Journal. The Plans I Have For Your Devotional is a 90 day devotional divided into 6 sections: I've got big plans for you, I've given you a purpose, I don't do things small, There's nothing you can't do, Find that one thing, and What I created you to do. It is full of wisdom your child will glean and beautiful illustration that will capture their eyes. This devo is geared towards ages 8-12. The Plans I Have For Your Journal goes with the devo and will prompt creative thinking and exploration of the talents and personalities that make us special. It also helps your child explore how God may use our uniqueness to spread love and joy and make the world a better place.

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Linking with:
Woman to Woman's Word Filled Wednesday

Casey's Bright Red Christmas {Giveaway}

I have 2 sons and 7 nephews. Our family is full of boys and we love all things boy. Even tractors! Today I want to share a super cute Christmas book that has a tractor.

Casey's Bright Red Christmas is fun book that helps kids see that on the farm, there is still work to do, even on Christmas. But when everyone pitches in and helps, the work gets done and Christmas can be fun!

Casey & Friends books help kids understand that modern farming involves science, technology and a lot of hard work from many people. Readers follow Casey the farmer, Tillus the worm, Big Red the tractor, and a whole cast of cartoon equipment characters who teach important life lessons gleaned from the farm, like thinking ahead and working as a team.

To win a copy of Casey's Bright Red Christmas, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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Christmas Books

On a typical December night I will find my kids with the lights off lying on blankets underneath the Christmas tree. Yes. Underneath it. Though, they are getting bigger now, so it's mostly just their toes under the tree. What are they doing under there? Using the lights of the tree to read Christmas books. This scene always melts my heart.

Our family loves Christmas and we love reading. So Christmas books are always a must. Today I want to share a few Christmas books that your children will love.

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie is the heartfelt story of a young boy who he misses his daddy. Afraid he won't see his dad for Christmas, his mom tells him the story of the Christmas cookie. This book even includes a delicious cookie recipe for your family to try.

My Christmas Stocking tells the story of Saint Nicolas and how he filled stockings to give to children so long ago. This is the book my 18 month old nephew always goes to because he likes the stocking shape of the books.

The Berenstain Bears The Very First Christmas is a family favorite for us. We love the Bear family and all of their stories. This one is no different. Papa Bear shares the Bible story of Jesus' birth with his cubs. The end of this book gives discussion questions to get your family talking.

The Beginner's Bible A Christmas Celebration is a fun activity and sticker book your child will love. They will learn about the Christmas story while being interactive.

Goodnight, Manger is the precious story of Jesus' birth, noisy animals and all. Sometimes Mary even had to say, "Shh!" Your child will love this story.

Each of these books would make a great stocking stuffer or Christmas gift or even just a great way to build up your family's Christmas library. What is your family's favorite Christmas books?

Praying the Fruits of the Spirit Over Your Kids

For awhile now my son and I have been butting heads. If I'd say the sun was out, he'd say the moon was out. Yes, that bad. Can you relate? I prayed about our relationship pretty regularly, yet it seemed as though it was only getting worse. A couple of months ago I felt God telling me to pray the Fruits of the Spirit over my son. So I did. Once.

Then the enemy crept in and started whispering to me that it wasn't going to work. That our relationship would continue to worsen. That my son hated me. That he didn't need me. That one day he'd move out and I'd lose him for good. That I wouldn't see him as an adult man. That I wouldn't see my grandchildren. That I wouldn't see him serving the Lord because he wouldn't be. Oh that enemy. He's something else, isn't he?

His evil lies gripped my heart and had me in a panic. I tried praying for my son and for our relationship, yet the words wouldn't come. This fear, along with the fear of my daughter's medical test (to read about that, click HERE) had me paralyzed. I could pray for anyone and anything, except these needs. Then finally, finally, the dam was broken and the words rushed from me. I begged God to touch my relationship with my son, to touch my son.

I remembered that He had recently told me to pray the Fruits of the Spirit over my son. Now that fear was gone and the words would come, I did. Every. Single. Day. Did I see immediate results? Mercy no. As a matter of fact, the two days following the breakthrough were the worst ever. But, I wasn't afraid. I knew God had this in His hands.

Our relationship will take time to fully heal. But every day I see something. A glimpse of healing. A glimpse of a teenage boy who still loves his mama. I hold tight to these glimpses and I continue to pray the Fruits of the Spirit over my son, over all of my children.

Praying the Fruits of the Spirit over our children:

• Love. God, let my children experience Your love in a deep way. In turn, let them overflow with Your love and show true love to others around them - family, friends, and strangers. Help them to love, even when it's hard.
• Joy. Father, give my children joy. Joy in knowing that You are God and You are in control. Even when things are hard and life tries to drag them down, and happiness seems far away, let them experience real joy in You.
• Peace. Father, give my children peace. Peace that passes all understanding. Peace when heartache comes, peace when anxiousness creeps in, peace in difficult times. Let them feel Your peace in their heart and spirit.
• Patience. Give my children patience. In this fast paced world that falsely tells us we never have to wait, help them to be patient. Patient in waiting, patient with others around them and patient as they grow up and learning new things.
• Kindness. Help my children to be kind. That they would show kindness to others around them in all circumstances. This world is full of unkind people. Let my children show kindness even to the unkind.
• Goodness. Help my children to be overall good people. That they would obey those in authority over them, follow the law, obey the Word of God and respect others.
• Faithfulness. Help my children to be faithful. Faithful to You Father, faithful to their family, faithful in their prayer and Bible reading, faithful in their school work, faithful in their jobs and house chores, and faithful to their friends.
• Gentleness. Help my children to be gentle. That their touch, attitude, words and tone of voice would be gentle to everyone.
• Self-control. Help my children to have control over their actions, attitudes and words. When they are tempted to do wrong, help them to seek You.
• All fruits. Saturate my children with these 9 fruits. Let them be full and overflowing with Your fruits. The Bible says they will know you by the fruits. Let my children have the fruits of the Spirit evident in their lives. Let them live out the fruits in all they say and do, while out and while at home.

If you are struggling with a difficult child or going through a rough parenting patch, believe me, we have all been there and you are not alone. Begin praying the Fruits of the Spirit over your child. Pray this every single day and watch God work. If you are not currently going through a rough parenting patch and your children are easy to handle, praise God! Yet, pray these prayers anyway. We are our children's prayer warriors. We need to cover them in prayer every day and these 9 fruits are a great way to pray.

What would you add to these prayers? How can I pray for your child?

Linking with:
Woman to Woman's Word Filled Wednesday

God Always Knows

Yesterday I shared of my daughter recently being tested for cancer. To read, click HERE. Today I want to share more about her test and God's goodness.

Last month my daughter had an MRI to test one of her tumors to see if there was cancer there. While having the MRI we made the decision to move forward with having her spinal cord scanned as well. Our doctor had been asking us to do this MRI scan on her spine for about a year now. The bone condition she has, has recently been discovered to have tumors inside the spinal cord that cause great problems. Up to this point, we had let Grace decide if she wanted to do the MRI or wait. She always chose to wait. But since we were doing an MRI anyway, I made the decision to scan the spine at the same time.

Now, to give you a little back story here: I have 4 children. 3 of my children, 2 boys and 1 girl, are super athletic. My boys both play baseball and basketball and regularly ride bikes, run and other athletic things. My oldest daughter plays volleyball and basketball and regularly runs and other athletic things. Grace, however, does not do anything athletic at all. Grace hates sports. I mean hates sports. She doesn't even enjoy bike riding.Not only does she not play any sports, she will not watch any sports. When she goes to her siblings sporting events, she generally reads a book while occasionally looking up to cheer them on. Swimming, for fun not competition, is something she enjoys but that is it.

My husband and I wondered why our other 3 kids can love sports and be so active yet Grace hates sports. We have tried to encourage her countless times to pick one sport she could do. Just one thing so that she is getting some exercise and will be active. Even if it were just for fun and not for competition. She just wasn't the least bit interested. Give her a book or time alone in the kitchen to bake and she's the happiest girl in the world.

The MRI results were now in. No cancer! PRAISE GOD. Now for the spinal cord results. Yes. There is 1 tumor inside her spinal cord. I wasn't necessarily shocked considering she has them all over her body. But I was concerned with what this meant for her.

Our doctor had consulted with a spine doctor -I didn't know those existed- before calling us with the results. They both agreed that if she were careful, she would be okay and this tumor would not cause her problems. Again, PRAISE GOD.

Be careful? Exactly what does that mean?

The doctors, our orthopedic doctor and the spine doctor, said they do not want Grace doing any sports or anything that can put pressure on her spine. If she avoids sports, this tumor should not bother her.

Really?! She doesn't even like sports!

Wait a minute....she doesn't even like sports. God created her to not like sports. God knew. He knew! If this were to have happened to one of my other children and we had to pull them from sports, they would be devastated. I mean we'd still be mopping up tears and consoling the heartbreak. But Grace didn't care at all.

God knew and He created her on purpose.

Now, God could simply have created her without these tumors and with an interest in sports. But for some reason that we do not yet know, He did it this way instead. But He knew. I cannot express how grateful my mama heart is that He made her exactly the way He did. He has a great purpose for her and I cannot wait to see it unfold.

Remember, God made you on purpose and for a purpose. Don't regret it, don't question it. Simply trust that He knows and He has a plan. And guess what? His plan is good.

When Your Child Is Being Tested for Cancer

Two weeks ago I shared at Woman to Woman Ministries about some struggles I was facing. One of those struggles was waiting on a major medical test result for my 14 year old daughter. One that had me crippled with fear.

My daughter has a bone condition that causes tumors all over her body. She currently has more than 100 tumors on her body. 99.9% of these types of tumors are benign -not cancerous. Our doctor has taught us the things to look for and she goes in for regular checkups every 6 months. These tumors do cause pain. It is likened to arthritis in that if she does too much, she can hurt. If she does too little, she can hurt. And sometimes, she hurts for no reason at all. But my brave young lady rarely complains.

When we went to her checkup last month, Grace wanted to talk to the doctor about one of her spots herself. Normally she tells him she is fine and lets me do any talking. This time, she wanted to handle it. Her knee has been hurting her quite a bit lately. And the tumor has gotten very large. These are two of the things we are to look for: rapid growth and severe pain. These two mixed together can be a sign that one of the tumors is cancerous. Doctor xrayed her knee and compared it to the previous xray from a few years ago. It was found that yes, it had grown significantly.

Because of the size and pain, it would be ideal to remove the tumor and biopsy it. However, the tumor is dangerously close to a very important muscle in her leg. We had this surgery scheduled before and once the dangers were explained, we felt it was best to not proceed with the surgery. Knowing how we felt about the surgery, this time the doctor decided to do a detailed MRI of this knee.

The last time my daughter had an MRI, she was only an infant, so they put her to sleep. This time she would be awake. We looked up videos on YouTube so she could see and hear what an MRI machine sounds like,  those massive things can be scary for even an adult. She bravely went to her MRI and for 3 hours had a scan of her knee and her spine -they wanted to check for tumors inside her spinal cord as well.

Now we wait for results.

Every single time I went to pray for my daughter in the time leading up to the MRI and the time waiting for the results afterward, the words would get lodged in my throat. I couldn't do it. I couldn't pray. I became panicked. They were checking my child for cancer. Cancer.

The fear would sink in and cause me to lose my breath. I didn't know what to do or say or think. I knew God knew the situation and knew my heart. But I deeply wanted to pray the words aloud pleading for my child's health and life. Yet, I just couldn't. I am so thankful for family, church family, friends and my sisters in Christ who prayed on our behalf.

In this time of waiting, I attended a women's retreat with the ladies from church. While at the retreat, we sang a song that had me running the the altar.

I'm no longer a slave to fear

I am a child of God

I'm no longer a slave to fear

I am a child of God

-------------

You split the sea so I could walk right through it

My fears are drowned in perfect love

You rescued me and I will stand and sing

I am a child of God

I don't have to be a slave to that fear. I don't have to be crippled by it. God split the sea so I could walk right through it and then He crashed the waters down to drown my fear! I am His child. My daughter is His child. He loves her as much as I do, even more so. Finally, standing at the altar, tears streaming down my face, I was able to pray the words. Asking God to let the report be good. Asking Him to heal her body.

We still didn't have an answer. The tumors were still on her body. But I knew we didn't have to fear anymore.

A week went by. No answer. I finally called and then waited on the doctor to return my call. Then the phone rang. My heart started to race as I saw the number flash across my phone. Immediately the words of the song came back to calm my heart. God drown these fears. I would not let them come back. Our sweet nurse, Angie, told me the two words I begged God for, "no cancer."

I think I said PRAISE GOD about 1000 times that day. I am still praising Him.

Yet, I still know that our answer doesn't always come back the way we want. Sometimes God doesn't answer how we think He should. Far too many people do get results of cancer living inside them. Far too many parents hear the words that their child does in fact have cancer. Far too many people still struggle with finances, health, and relationship troubles. Far too many people still face fears. But the truth is still the same: God drown our fears because we are His children. No matter what results you are waiting on, no matter what circumstance is not going as you want, remember, you are His.

You don't have to be a slave to fear, to health problems, to relationship problems, to financial problems, to any problems. Lean on God. Let Him take the fear away and live fully for Him, even in the midst of trials.

Come back tomorrow as I share more on Grace's results. To read more about Grace's story, click HERE and HERE.

Galaxy Buck {Giveaway}

If you or your kids are Veggie Tales fans like our family, chances are you've heard of Veggie Tales creator Phil Vischer's other project, What's In The Bible With Buck Denver. These adorable puppets share important information about the Bible as they help kids understand God's Word.

In the newest video, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9, Buck has a dream to save the galaxy and he knows God has big plans for him. Throughout his mission, he learns that he needs to be with God, trust God, and rest in God.

While parents will love the humorous nods toward Star Trek and Star Wars, your child will learn to trust God in all things, even our dreams.

Galaxy Buck is available NOW! To enter to win a copy of Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 on DVD, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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Precious Moments {Giveaway}

I have long been a fan of the beautiful Precious Moments. Everything about these adorable figurines draw me in. From the tear drop eyes to the message each one gives. My wedding even included Precious Moments. Yes. It. Did.

Today I am thrilled to bring you the beautifully illustrated Precious Moments 5 Minute Bedtime Treasury.

Your little one will love these stories and pictures as much as you will love snuggling with him for Bible time. Precious Moments 5 Minute Bedtime Treasury even includes a place for you to write your child's family tree and special occasions. This book will become a keepsake to pass down through generations.

To enter to win a copy of Precious Moments 5 Minute Bedtime Treasury, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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Win Or Lose, Do It For Him

3 of my kids play sports. We are a baseball, volleyball and basketball family. And we love it. But our teams don't always win. We have had countless drives home with crying or angry kids because of lost games. We've had kids downcast for feeling as though they didn't play their best.

Losing is hard. But I think we can all agree, winning isn't everything.

The Bible tells us

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,

as working for the Lord, not for human masters.

Colossians 3:23

It doesn't matter if you win or lose, it matters that you play the game for God.

This applies to other areas of life, not just sports.

What about in your household duties? You slave hard in the kitchen to prepare a homecooked meal for your family, not one thank you is presented. You dress up taking extra care with your hair and makeup, your husband doesn't even give you a second look. Yes, thank yous and your husband noticing how you look are great. But are you doing it for their approval? Or are you doing it for God?

Do everything for the glory of the Lord, not for humans. Doing things for God and Him alone is freeing and blessed.

Review & Giveaway:
Lysa TerKeurst has a brand new children's book, Win or Lose, I Love You. Win or Lose, I Love You is a fun story to help parents teach their children how to deal with losing and to know that win or lose, you still love them!

Losing is hard on kids, but it's also hard on the parents. This great tool is there to help you as Lulu and Max help their friend deal with losing. To enter to win a copy of Win or Lose, I Love You, complete each task in the rafflecopter below.

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