Book review: Navigate Life Like a Pro

About the book:

Level up and handle life like a pro with 100 devotions to encourage faith, build resilience against tough challenges, and learn practical tips for daily life. Navigate Life Like A Pro provides faith-based guidance for issues like anxiety, self confidence, bullying, faith conversations, and more all packed into 100 daily devotionals that tween and middle grade boy will connect with.

Imagine your life armed with confidence and clarity, ready to take on life's challenges. Growing up is like navigating through a maze full of surprises, challenges, and decisions that can be difficult, thankfully God’s right there alongside you. Filled with captivating stories, meaningful reflections, and practical advice, in this 100-day devotional you’ll find:

• Themes of empowerment that become your go-to guide for transforming challenges into opportunities and making confident moves.
• Real-life wisdom for issues such as dealing with bullying to self-esteem to making tough decisions in life, including sex, drugs and other social anxieties
• Faith-based guidance providing insight and advice rooted in solid biblical wisdom to help you grow stronger in your walk with God
• Ways to surround yourself with friends who share your values and support your goals. Whether it's through church youth groups, school clubs, or sports teams, find places where you can meet like-minded people.

Build confidence, strengthen your faith, and develop personal growth with action-oriented devotionals that feature practical steps you can take to apply in your everyday life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ed Strauss lives in British Columbia, Canada, with his wife and three tween-aged children. Ed is a freelance writer with a passion for Biblical apologetics and fantasy fiction. Apart from writing, Ed enjoys biking and exploring nature.

My thoughts:

I have an 11 year old boy so I thought this would be a good devotional book to try!  He has read some of the devotionals.  He said he thought it was good. He said "it was good it was for all ranges of kids like those that are shy or those that feel like they are good at everything.  It helps them see how to be a better person."

What I like is the format.  These are not overly long readings.  They are concise and will hold the attention of a young boy.  Each day has a verse as well as a question at the end with a little space to write an answer.  I like that it takes a truth or character from the Bible and relates it to a young boy's life. There is such a variety of topics in these devotionals....attitude, how to treat the elderly, prayer, our speech.  

I think it would be a good book for him to use daily during the summer.  

The book may be purchased here.

I received a copy of this from FrontGate Media and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#boys #middlegradebooks #middlegradereads #boymom #ChristianMom #homeschoolmomlife #homeschooling #homeschoollife #zonderkidz

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

NLT Wide Margin Filament Bible review

Today I am sharing with you the NLT Wide Margin Filament-enabled Bible. I was not at all familiar with this and am happy to share with you.  Maybe you will be able to find something new to try in your Bible study time!  

About the Bible:

Discover more ways to interact with God’s Word with the Filament Bible Collection

·         What is a Filament-enabled Bible? Filament-enabled Bibles offer a seamless fusion of traditional reading and cutting-edge technology. The Filament Bible app is your gateway to a deeper, more enriching Bible-study experience. Seamlessly connect every page of your Bible to a treasure trove of resources, including:

o   25,000+ study notes for understanding

o   350+ videos for insight

o   40+ maps and infographics for context

o   400+ profiles and articles for enrichment

o   1,500+ devotions for daily inspiration 

o   audio Bibles for immersion

o   a library of worship music for personal reflection

·         Why you’ll love it

o   Deepen Your Understanding: The Study window contains everything you would expect to find in an excellent study Bible: book introductions, study notes, in-depth articles on key topics, and profiles of key people from the Bible.

o   Reflect on God’s Word: The Reflect window is less about in-depth study and more about connecting the ideas of the Bible to your everyday life. Here you’ll find devotional articles and thoughts that are curated from some of Tyndale’s favorite resources

o   Interactive experience: The See window is where you’ll find all things visual. Interactive maps and visuals allow you to zoom in or out and tap key locations to learn more and see photos of the sites. Videos that are relevant to the page you are reading are provided by The Bible Project

o   Convenient and Easy to Use: You get a stunning Bible that is easy to read and carry equipped with the Filament Bible app to bring you study notes, articles, reflections, videos, interactive maps, and even worship music—all curated for the page you’re reading—when you scan the page number with your phone or tablet.

My thoughts:

I have used and reviewed a variety of Bibles for women and children.  This one is different in that it is Filament-enabled.  What does that mean?  You get an app using the QR code at the front of the Bible.  Then whatever page you are on you can scan the page number, and the app will take you to numerous resources related to that page or passage.  

This is a screen shot of what that looks like.  

You can click on the maps or infographics for more information. 

Also there is a section of songs which is a nice addition in my opinion.  You click to listen to the music.  

Besides the study notes and helpful additional information, you can also click at the bottom to listen to a reading of the Scriptures. 

I appreciate the size of this Bible.  It isn't too big or bulky.  It is a plus for me that it lays flat.  I tested this out while reading before bed.  

There are multiple cover choices.  I really like this one.  There is a verse on the back as well.

I wasn't sure if the font would be too small for me.  I recently got a Bible with larger print.  This one seems to be okay.  It's not large print but the spacing and wide margins help I believe.  The wide margins are super nice if you are a note taker.  

Watch the trailer about this Bible!

 

You can go here to purchase your own copy. I hope you will consider this beautiful Bible.  It would make a nice gift or to keep for yourself.

I received a copy of this from FrontGate Media and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#studybible #biblejournaling

 Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Saddleback Leather

I love purses and bags!  I was excited to have the opportunity to review something from Saddleback Leather.  

As I took the bag out of the box, it smelled so wonderful.  I love the smell of leather! 

This is a very nice bag and looks to be well made.  It is a great size that is big enough to hold your important items but not overly bulky.  It's even a good size to carry a book along with you while you are waiting at appointments.  

Also it has a nice pouch on the inside plus notice there is one outside as well.  This bag has an adjustable strap too.  You can choose the color you want.  

Saddleback Leather has products for both men and women.  My husband was looking at the briefcases.  

Visit the website and find a nice gift for yourself or someone you love.  There is a range of prices for your budget.  They have backpacks, briefcases, totes, purses, travel accessories, notebooks, and more.  The sheepskin slippers look so soft and comfortable! 

About Saddleback: 

Saddleback Leather is not simply a brand. It is the realization of one man’s vision to build leather goods so durable and purposeful that they become part of your story. Founded in Texas, the company has made its mark by committing to full-grain leather, rugged construction, and no breakable parts. Their promise is bold: “They’ll fight over it when you’re dead.” That reflects the confidence in what they make and the legacy each piece is meant to carry. 

From backpacks and briefcases to wallets, belts, boots and accessories, every Saddleback Leather item is built to age beautifully and perform reliably. The brand stands behind its craftsmanship with a 100-year warranty, a rare guarantee that speaks to the quality of design and materials. 

Beyond material excellence, Saddleback Leather holds a deeper purpose. They integrate faith, service, and community into the business model, connecting each purchase with living out values that matter. Their Love 41 initiative partners with people caring for the vulnerable and marginalized.

Go here to purchase.  

#ChristmasGift #SaddlebackLeather #LeatherBag

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Slugs & Bugs

About the music:

After 5 years, Slugs & Bugs is releasing new music! Sunday Songs is a brand-new collection of songs filled with both classic Sunday songs of yesteryear and never-before-heard Sunday songs in the superfun, Slugs & Bugs style that folks have grown to love and trust. 

Classic songs include:

·         Father Abraham,

·         This Little Light of Mine,

·         The Wise Man Built His House Upon a Rock,

·         I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy,

·         He's Got the Whole World In His Hands, and more!

Plus, we're hoping to add to the pantheon of Sunday School classics with a few original songs of our own. After 2,000 years, Lydia, the seller of purple cloth finally gets her own song. And we retell the story of Joseph, son of Israel, through his Egyptian name, "Zaphenath' paneah." There's a gentle little "round" called "Believe, Follow, Believe," and a brand new worship song straight from the words of Psalm 95:6-7.

Long time fans will be happy to hear that ROBORT, Mr. Randall's robot intern, is back to his old shenanigans, and other surprise songs and guests add to the mix. (We can't spoil everything on the album - listen to find out!)

My thoughts:

I've listened to a variety of children's music through the years.  I was not familiar with Slugs & Bugs.  They have new music coming out!  On this CD you will hear some old favorites from your childhood Sunday School days.  My favorite of these was probably The Wise Man Built His House Upon a Rock. But how fun that there are NEW songs too!  The tunes are catchy, and young children will enjoy singing along.  

Have you ever heard a song about Lydia from the Bible? Well you can now on this CD!  When this song started playing, I thought "wait, what! Is the whole song about Lydia?"  I appreciate that children can learn about new Bible stories through the songs on this CD.  You should check it out.  It will be a fun addition to your music library to enjoy with your children!

You can go to this website to buy the CD or learn more!

 Would you like to hear a sample of one of the songs?  Here is one for you! 

#slugs&bugs #slugsandbugs #sundaysongs

I received a copy of this from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Children's book: The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep

Are you looking for items for Easter baskets?  I'm excited to share this wonderful book with you today.  It's called The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep and the author is Hannah E. Harrison.

About the book:

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is a humorous and heartwarming picture book about God's unconditional love. This story beautifully captures the essence of Psalm 23, showing the importance of trusting God, our Good Shepherd, with our lives.

Meet George, a silly and sometimes stubborn sheep living happily under the care of a Good Shepherd. But when shearing time comes, George decides it’s time to make a run for it, and soon finds himself on a journey full of unexpected disappointment, discomfort, and danger. Ultimately, he finds rescue and learns why he really does need a shepherd.

The Bible is full of references to sheep and shepherds, but what does it mean to be a good shepherd? And how are we like sheep? The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep uses an unforgettable character and riveting story to bring biblical truth to life for kids and illustrate the many comforting and loving attributes of God.

The Good Shepherd and the Stubborn Sheep is perfect for:

• Children ages 4 and up

• Family devotions and bedtime reading

• Discussions about the meaning of Psalm 23, the parable of the lost sheep, and how God is always with us

• Sunday school lessons and church libraries

• Easter baskets, baptism or First Communion gifts, birthday gifts, and other gift-giving opportunities

About the author:

Hannah E. Harrison is the author and illustrator of six award-winning picture books, including Extraordinary Jane, My Friend Maggie, and Poopsie Gets Lost. Her books have received numerous starred reviews, been chosen as Kirkus Books of the Year and Editors’ Picks on Amazon, and have been selected for book clubs. Hannah is originally from New Hampshire, but now lives in Oklahoma with her big-hearted husband, two delightful daughters, a crabby cat, and a playful pup.

My thoughts:

Oh I just love this book!  I was excited to share it with you.  

Psalm 23 is so familiar and yet I can always learn something new from it.  A book like this is perfect to share this Psalm with a child and have a discussion about sheep and shepherds and then discuss how we are all like sheep and Who we have as our Shepherd.  You could also tie it into the parable of the lost sheep in the Bible.  You can talk about what characteristics we've had like George the sheep.  

I love the beautiful illustrations and the cute sheep. 

We read a lot of children's books and this is definitely a new favorite for me.  The text and illustrations are fabulous!  I hope you will check it out for your family library or for a gift for a little one in your life.  Sometimes I give away my books away but this is one I will be keepig for my library shelf! It definitely gets 5 stars from me! (That doesn't happen too often.)

Watch this little preview about this sweet book.

This book can be purchased at this link.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#goodshepherd #zonderkidz #christianbookreview #ad

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Book + Bible Study

I have a new book and Bible study to share with you today by Lysa Terkeurst.

       

About the book:

New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst shows you what to do with your skepticism and distrust so you can heal from past betrayals and move forward with strength and resilience.

Trust is the oxygen of all human relationships. But it's also what trips you up after you've been burned. Maybe a friend constantly lets you down. A leader or organization you respect turns out to be different than they portray themselves to be. A spouse cheats on you. A family member betrays you. You're exhausted by other people's choices and starting to question your own discernment. And you're wondering, If God let this happen, can he even be trusted?

How can you live well and step into the future when you keep stumbling over trust issues? Lysa TerKeurst says it's not simply about finding better people to walk with. It's about developing the stability you long for within yourself and with God, so you don't become cynical and carry a broken belief system into every new relationship. In I Want to Trust You, But I Don't, Lysa shows you how to

• identify which of the eleven relational red flags are stirring up distrust, so you can pinpoint why you're feeling uneasy;
• stop having more faith in your fears coming true than God coming through for you by asking crucial "what if" questions to better process your doubts;
• recognize when a fractured relationship can be repaired by considering a reasonable list of characteristics necessary for rebuilding trust; and
• understand the physical, emotional, and neurological impact of the betrayals you've experienced and start healing from the inside out.

In a world where so many things feel alarming, this book will give you a peace that isn't dependent on unpredictable people, circumstances, and experiences. Instead, it offers practical and biblical ways to make real progress toward healthier perspectives, relationships, and a future you can authentically look forward to.

About the study:

Building upon and further unpacking the scriptural concepts in her book I Want to Trust You, but I Don’t, this six-session Bible study (video access included) will equip you to:

• Identify which of the 11 relational red flags are stirring up distrust, so you're able to better pinpoint why you're feeling uneasy.
• Recognize when it's possible to repair a fractured relationship and how to do it with a five-step framework you can start using today.
• Understand what the Bible says about trusting God and others so you're equipped to make decisions that are in line with Scripture.
• Learn how to know the difference between a feeling you're having and true discernment from the Holy Spirit so you can move on from the past with more wisdom and assurance.

This study guide includes:

• Individual access to six streaming video sessions
• A guide to best practices for leading a group
• Video notes and a comprehensive structure for group discussion time
• Personal study for deeper reflection between sessions

My thoughts:

I felt there was a lot in this book that I couldn't relate to in regards to losing trust in marriage; however, she does give examples of other situations where a person can lose trust.  I appreciate that she shares some of her personal experiences and the process of trusting again when trust was broken.  She makes it clear this is not an overnight thing and will take time.  

Each chapter ends with "One More Thing I Want You to Know" followed by Remember, Receive, Reflect, and Pray.  I like this feature as it is helpful to review when you read nonfiction.   Here is an example from one chapter.  

There are single quotes on individual pages throughout the book.  Here is one.  

This is the type of book you may need to read more than once to glean information from it.  

About the Bible Study:

I have done many Bible studies through the years by a variety of authors.  I like the set up of this one with a schedule for you to follow for each chapter/session.  

The personal study days are similar to other studies I've done with questions, passages to read, and fill in the blanks to answer.  

For the video sessions notes are included as well with space to take your own notes.

Click on this link to learn more about this author and these books and to purchase.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#iwanttotrustyoubook

Have a day of blessings!

 Bethany

Book: Indescribable Atlas Adventures

About the book:

With more than 50 infographic maps, this illustrated world atlas for kids from bestselling author Louie Giglio will stretch your children's understanding of the world as they discover more about God, science, and His amazing world!

Indescribable Atlas Adventures offers a self-guided tour for your favorite explorer throughout the seven continents and over 50 countries. Easy-to-read maps, more than 1,500 facts, and a world map that helps kids identify each continent and country will help your child to think globally and discover new insights into God's incredible creation. Each map includes

• an overview of each country's population, languages, and prominent features;
• key facts about the country's capital cities; neighboring countries; and the national bird, tree, and dish;
• notable people and their amazing achievements;
• the country's terrain, climate, wildlife, contributions to space exploration, cultural hallmarks, and Christian faith traditions; and
• biblical and inspirational pieces, like devotional thoughts, prayers, and Bible verses that highlight how amazing God and His world are.
• 
  

Indescribable Atlas Adventures is for ages 6 to 10 and spotlights several fascinating ecosystems, like the Sahara, Amazon, and Great Barrier Reef. This book has a large trim size to help kids explore fun details on each page and is a perfect "my first atlas of the world" gift for curious kids.

My thoughts:
We've enjoyed several books by Louie Giglio like the devotional set I previously reviewed here.

This atlas is such a fun book full of beautiful illustrations and facts that will interest kids and parents alike.  Children will enjoy exploring this book on their own or sharing it with an adult.  

There is a lot of information in this book but it is presented in such a way as not to be overwhelming.  You can read little snippets of facts about the country.  The flags are also included plus a map of the continent so you can see where that particular country is located.  The maps are not detailed in his atlas but more of an overview of the country.  

I appreciate that it isn't just huge long paragraphs of texts.  You can learn about the language, animals, food, and people to name a few things included in the pages of this book.  

There are also little boxes throughout the book like this one:  

This would make a great addition to your home or homeschool library.  

You can buy the book here.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

#atlasadventures #indescribablekids

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany

Devotional book: Immeasurably More

About the book:

In Ephesians 3:20, Paul tells us that God can do ”immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (NIV). Deb Burma beautifully reveals what this means in her relational, conversational, richly scriptural devotional created for you.

Across 100 devotions with journaling and prayer prompts, you—individually or with your sisters in Christ—will discover God‘s immeasurable...

• Grace

• Love

• Power

• Provision

• Purpose

• Peace

• Joy

• Gifts

• Rest

• Life

My thoughts:

I love finding new devotional books.  I am pleased to share Immeasurably More  today by Deb Burma which is a brand new release! 

  
I like the set up of this book.  There is a verse, reading, and a space to answer a journal prompt and write a prayer.  This is an example of a journal prompt.  

There are 100 devotions that will encourage your heart.  Notice above the 10 different topics that are covered.  This is a good way to spend some time focusing on God's Word and truth during your day.

I have enjoyed reading these devotions and the questions posed at the end.  This will be a nice addition to your quiet time.  It would make a nice gift as well.  Please consider buying this book.     

Here is a trailer to hear the author talk about this devotions.

Buy the devotional at this link.

#immeasurablymore #cphreads

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to provide a positive review.

Have a day of blessings! 

 Bethany