I absolutely love the story of Lydia in the Bible! The way God directed Paul, taking him somewhere he hadn’t even considered going, in order to reach Lydia, seller of purple, the God-fearing woman who had resources, and a generous spirit. Through her, the church at Philippi was given a home, and her life was never the same again! Let’s explore Paul and Lydia’s story together: The Story of Lydia in the Bible: Acts 16:6-15 NIV First, the setup: Paul’s mission was to serve God and spread the Gospel to the Gentiles*. He had to be able to listen when … Read More
How to Study the Bible: Best Bible Study Tools
If you haven’t already done it a few times, knowing how to study the Bible can be overwhelming. But studying the Bible does not have to be a big deal. God paved the way for us and is looking forward to spending time with you. There is no reason to be intimidated. Here are a few Bible study tools and tips that will help you relax and understand what you are reading. Unwrap mysteries and treasures of the scriptures. Know that it doesn’t have to look the same every day, and it doesn’t have to look like you’re studying for seminar … Read More
How To Have a Book Date: Watch These 16 Fictional Couples
I know there are 2 different kinds of book dates, the kind you get when everyone leaves you alone with your new book (wonderful!) and the kind where you recreate a scene from a book. Sometimes, I have a hard time coming up with an idea other than dinner and a movie (at home or out). But I got to thinking about some of the books I’ve read in the last year or two, and there’s a ton of ideas here, and most will work whether you’re dating or married. And of course, as a Libraryan, I couldn’t keep them … Read More
161 Of the Best Missionary Stories for Christian Families
Missionary stories, full of testimony of partnering with God, joining him right where he is already at work, are so cool! And the really good ones show the failures, flaws, and fears too. Just like the Bible does. It’s time to dive into some truly great missions stories, so we can learn and grow together. With these missionary stories for kids and adults, we can all be inspired. Reminded of what’s really important. Deepen our faith and confidence in God’s power and love and faithfulness. And maybe be willing to get involved ourselves. Missionary Stories for the Whole Family Teaching … Read More
When The Pilot Falls
Welcome to the 1920s. Things are hard. Economically, relationally, racially… But there’s also a lot of beauty and kindness and compassion and…much like the 2020s. Today’s story is one of the best I’ve read in this time period. I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading it, even when I wanted to throttle a character or two. About the Book Book: When the Pilot Falls Author: April Hayman Genre: Christian Historical Mystery, Fairytale Release date: September 7, 2021 In 1923, there aren’t many pilots, but Willie Labeau didn’t let that stop… her. A bear of a man, Hugh Taylor, needs a stunt plane pilot, and despite their rocky introduction, … Read More
The Cryptographer’s Dilemma: A Historical Puzzle
The Cryptographer’s Dilemma is actually a collection of dilemmas, I would say. She’s got the actual decryption dilemma on the case she’s been assigned, then there’s her Philip dilemma, and a family dilemma as well. And the way they all fit together is a tribute to the author’s skills. About the Book Book: The Cryptographer’s Dilemma Author: Johnnie Alexander Genre: Historical Christian Fiction Release date: August, 2021 A Code Developer Uncovers a Japanese Spy Ring Full of intrigue, adventure, and romance, this new series celebrates the unsung heroes—the heroines of WWII. FBI cryptographer Eloise Marshall is grieving the death of her brother, who died … Read More
The Prayer Warrior: Inspiration for Real Life
If you’ve ever wondered how to become a prayer warrior, or exactly what the characteristics of a prayer warrior is, then you’ve come to the right place. Because I’ve wondered all of that and more. So I started paying extra close attention to the prayers in the books I’ve been reading, and looking for more books with a prayer focus. I’ve found some interesting things, and very helpful ideas, that I’d love to share with you all. But first, do you want to see a real prayer warrior in action? Because Ms V is a good one to watch! About … Read More
Stealing the First Mate: Hey, No One Is Perfect!
Today, I get to share with you a book called “Stealing the First Mate” by Tabitha Bouldin. But first I want to talk a little bit about something that struck me several times throughout the story. No one is perfect. It’s true. No one is perfect. Not me, not my husband, my parents, my kids, my friends… Not you. No one is good but God. And because he is good, we can trust him in all things, even when we can’t see any possibility of things working out. No One Is Perfect No one is perfect. As hard as we … Read More
How to Live Royal: Book of Esther Bible Study for Teen Girls
We get to revisit the book of Esther today! Twice in one year, but totally different, too. Remember when I reviewed Hadassah: Queen Esther of Persia over the summer? I explained then that I had the unique privilege of doing both a sermon series at church And preview a book of Esther Bible study for teen girls just before reading that fun novel? Well, this is it! I am so happy to introduce you to Aminata and the first Bible study in the Girls of Excellence series. Royal: Life Lessons from the Book of Esther Bible Study for Teen Girl … Read More
17+ Best Christian Romance Novels, And Should You Read Them?
An interesting topic, contemporary Christian romance novels. There are pros and cons, and I think it’s time we discussed them. Some people love them, and lose themselves easily between the pages. Others find it both invasive and unrealistic. This debate has a lot of truth on both sides, and I want to do it justice. So please, read the whole post before you decide if Christian romance books are worth reading. 2 Reasons to Beware of Christian Romance Novels When you read any genre, there are things to pay attention to, caution lights, to … Read More