Creative Bible Study Blog

May 17, Perfect Bedtime Stories and Prayers

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:13 -0400

Little Blessings: Bedtime Stories and Prayers
By Kathleen Long Bostrom / Tyndale House

Snuggle up with your little ones and help them drift off to sleep with this collection of four Little Blessings stories. Each page is filled with full color art and paired with a sweet text, making this padded hardcover book a great choice for young children age 0-5. Stories include:

Bedtime Blessings
Thank You, God
Blessings Everywhere
God Loves You

With four Little Blessings books combined into one collection, Bedtime Stories and Prayers will become one of your child’s favorites before bedtime! The first story, "Bedtime Blessings", has such a sing-song rhyming pattern, the flow of the words have a calming effect that is like rocking a child to sleep with words. It begins with fun thoughts of friends and getting ready for bed routines, and then winds down to thanking God for all. Children will enjoy being able to chime in with the continued repetitive line, “God makes nighttime too.” The other three books included in this collection are “Thank You, God!”, “Blessings Everywhere”, and my favorite – “God Loves You”. This final story focuses on God’s unconditional love. He loves us when we’re grumpy or glad; He loves us if we’re fast or slow; He loves us whatever color we are! I think my favorite thing about these charming little stories though is the illustrations by Elena Kucharik who is also the illustrator of the original Care Bears! There are four children pictured from various ethnicity groups and ages ranging from about two to six. Each is adorable and their expressions capture the joys and concerns of little children. There are also adorable animals that reoccur throughout the stories sometimes as pets and other times as special stuffed animals. Your child will enjoy watching for them and may even want to name them! Each illustration is an art piece in itself; they make me want to frame them and hang them on the wall to enjoy outside the pages of a book! All in all, this Little Blessings book is a treasure to add to any collection or to be the first given to a newborn baby as the beginning of sweet read alouds that will point them to the love of God - Jesus!

May 16, Leaving a Legacy - Ministry to Younger Generations

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:51:50 -0400

What kind of legacy are we leaving to future generations? Whether we are raising our own children or impacting others, let's not lose our focus on pouring into their lives!

Checkout out an article on our Facebook Page called "What is God Up to with You?" He wants to use each of us right now with who He has created us to be, right where He has placed us! Be encouraged! I was! :) (We'd love for you to "like" our Facebook page while you're there and let others know about what we offer here at Creative Bible Study! Thanks for your support in spreading His Word!)

May 15, Free eBook - Creative Bible Study Methods

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:13:14 -0400

It's also important to teach teens how to study the Bible for themselves. Grahame Knox has provided several creative Bible study methods for youth leaders to use to teach teens how to enjoy studying God's Word through a variety of techniques included in this free ebook -

Find this and other free youth Bible study lessons and youth leader helps on our Youth Page!

May 13, Vacation Bible School Lessons & Ideas

Mon, 13 May 2013 17:17:52 -0400

Why is VBS important? It is here that many children come to know Christ. Unchurched families may not attend our churches, but they may send their children to Bible school. According to the Barna Group , "Nearly half (43%) of all Americans who accept Jesus Christ as their savior do so before reaching the age of 13 (2004)."

May 9, Contolling Temper - Nails & a Fence

Thu, 9 May 2013 12:23:08 -0400

A story of a father teaching his son how to control his temper by nailing holes in a fence. Great tool to use with a Bible lesson on anger!

May 8, Grace and Peace - Our Daily Need

Wed, 8 May 2013 09:14:40 -0400

As I was reading in 1 Peter today, the last part of 1:2 really captured my attention. "May God give you more and more grace and peace." Not only did Peter mention grace and peace in the greeting of both books of the Bible he wrote, but Paul does the same in each of his letters to the churches. Grace and peace...why these two? Grace is not only a gift of God which God uses to save us (Eph 2:20), it is also His daily gift to sustain us as we continue to walk through this life.(John 1:16) Peace also is two-fold. There is the peace with God we receive when our relationship with God is restored through receiving Christ as our Lord and Savior, and there is also the peace of God that goes beyond comprehension (Phil 4:6-7) and is part of the fruit of the Spirit. (Gal. 5:22) When we receive daily grace and peace from God, our lives look different to the world, to other believers, and to ourselves! Walking in His grace gives us hope beyond the hardships of life and peace guards our hearts and minds(Phil 4:6-7) against the worries that creep in when we take our eyes off Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. (Heb. 12:2) And now that Jesus sits at the right hand of the throne of God always making intercession for us (Rom. 8:34), I'm sure He makes requests for both grace and peace as well in our life. Today let us walk in His Spirit (Gal. 5:16) with His grace and His peace. The world will take note of the difference; it will affect our witness! And as we lift Jesus up, He will draw others to Himself through grace and peace.(John 12:32) There are so many other verses that talk about His grace and His peace. We can do a word study of these by using a concordance. Let's dig deeper into God's Word and embrace all He has for us!

May 7, Invisible Mom - Monologue

Tue, 7 May 2013 16:49:29 -0400

Have you ever felt like an invisible mom? Be encouraged by this uplifting story that can be used as a women's ministry monologue or skit.

May 3, Heart-based Parenting

Fri, 3 May 2013 12:44:02 -0400

The Christian Parenting Handbook: 50 Heart-Based Strategies for All the Stages of Your Child's Life
By Dr. Scott Turansky & Joanne Miller, R.N., B.S.N. / Thomas Nelson

The Christian Parenting Handbook offers more than a list of 50 dos and don’ts for parenting; it offers a philosophy of parenting that goes beyond the outward actions of a child and gets to the “heart” of the matter. “Heart-based” parenting is a Biblical philosophy of parenting. The authors, Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, refer to it as “a way of thinking, a framework of ideas and theories.” It covers a wide selection of parenting topics including discipline, instilling godly character, working together as parents, learning the uniqueness of each child, and others. As an example of “heart-based” parenting in addressing discipline techniques, the authors distinguish between the well-known “time out” method and what they call “taking a break”. They point out two main differences. In “taking a break”, the child knows the first objective is a change of heart and then they are also included on the decision of how much time they may need to calm down and allow this change to take place. This slight twist changes the role of the parent from police enforcer to the loving parent waiting for reunification. This picture brings to mind the image of God the Father welcoming back the prodigal son. Throughout each topic though, this Christian parenting handbook also instructs us to keep the main thing, the main thing – pointing our kids to a relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ and then helping them abide in Him! Written in short two to three page segments, this book could double as a devotional. Scriptures are included throughout as each area is discussed, and each points to specific areas in which we can pray for our children. It also is an excellent reference tool to quickly get counsel on certain areas that may be occurring in the lives of our children and family. The index in the back includes both Scripture references along with a topical reference list. I would recommend this book to parents of children of any age as well as those that work with children in other areas such as school or church settings. Not only will you find sound practical suggestions, but also Biblically-based answers to fifty different parenting questions.

May 1, Dress Ups & Cover Ups

Wed, 1 May 2013 14:20:36 -0400

One of our ministers shared a great visual Bible lesson one Sunday. He was dressed in a nice double-breasted suit, but when he took off his jacket, his shirt was torn, dirty and had writing on it. He was speaking on how God looks at our heart, not our outward appearance. 1 Samuel 16:7 - "But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God {sees} not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." No matter how much we may "dress" to cover up our hurts, failures, or sins, God sees what's underneath - our hearts. His desire is to dress us in new clothing - His righteousness and His love. On the other hand, do we take the time to see other people's hearts? Do we judge them by their outward appearance? Activate: Let's take time this week as we get dressed each morning to remember God sees our hearts, not our outward appearance. Also, let's take time to see others as God sees them; let's take time to see their hearts. Let this be a part of your daily Christian devotions.

Apr 30, Open Doors to Witnessing

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 12:04:29 -0400

I will be the first to admit, witnessing to others can be difficult; I never know where to start! Praise God He’s not finished with me yet; I’m a work in progress! (Phil. 1:6) Right now He’s teaching me about open doors to sharing Christ with others in my everyday life. I’ve known that meeting needs, serving others opens doors to conversations about Jesus. We see this in missions work, helping homeless, service projects, etc. What about that clerk at the store or our local postal worker or our child’s teacher though? These aren’t really strangers, and maybe we don’t really see physical needs in their lives. Where do we begin? I’m learning to begin with a couple of needs everyone has – appreciation and encouragement! Deep within us each of us need to know we matter, that what we are doing has purpose. Yesterday when I went to a local business, God impressed on me to share a verbal witness with two workers there. I’d like to say I immediately obeyed, but nonetheless, I had a discussion with God before obeying…something like “Really, God? They will think I’m nuts! I don’t even know where to begin!” That’s when God told me to begin with a genuine word of appreciation for their service and encourage them. (Think about how often Paul gave thanks to others in his letters. Phil. 1:3) I began by sharing with them that I appreciate how they are always so helpful to me and encouraged them. Then I said I wanted to also share with them something special to me – my relationship with Jesus and what a difference He has made in my life. You could tell by their faces they weren’t used to customers coming back to say thank you and mean it. It opened the door for me to share from my heart. One was a Christian and said they really needed that word of encouragement! He got so excited! The other quietly, but openly listened. I know I fall way short in this area, but seeds were planted, and God is the One who will give the growth. (1 Cor. 3:6) So I’m off to the Post Office now! ☺

Apr 24, How to Pray

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:46:09 -0400

Have you ever wondered how to pray, where to begin, what to say? Talking to God is exciting & essential! Creative Christian prayer ideas will help you keep your prayer life fresh like breathing!

Apr 23, Encouragement for Moms

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:02:39 -0400

Such a sweet message of encouragement for young moms; you matter! :)

Apr 22, Preschool Bible Lessons

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 22:04:30 -0400

Are you tired of searching through hundreds of pages to find quality, FREE ideas to teach preschool Bible lessons? Make us your one stop for all your Bible study needs!

Apr 22, Epiphanies from God

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:33:20 -0400

I am finding Ecclesiastes 1:9 to be so true when it comes to having an original idea! Ecclesiastes 1:9 - "What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun." When I think I'm having an epiphany...and then I Google and find that others have come to the same conclusion, had the same thought or idea, I become discouraged. It's like the air has been let out of my spiritual tires! But then it also occurred to me that shouldn't it be that way...originality that is...especially for we as Christians? Everything comes from God...He is the only original thinker! So really it only confirms His creative closeness when I find that another believer has had the same idea or realization! God spoke the same thought to both of us...or many of us as the case may be! So let's not become discouraged when we find out we haven't had that ultimate original idea; instead let's rejoice that we get to serve the Only Original One who loves us and chooses to work in and through us as His original works! Psalm 150:6 "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord."

Apr 15, Fun Family Mealtime Devotional!

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:11:17 -0400

Whit's End Mealtime Devotions: 90 Faith-Building Ideas Your Kids Will Eat Up!
By John Avery Whittaker / Tyndale House

Having family meals together is almost a lost treasure! Bring back meaningful family time meals using Whit's End Mealtime Devotions! It will not only spark conversations and fun, it will bring your family closer by using mealtime or any time to bring you closer to each other and closer to God! There are over 90 different "five-course" devotions including special ones for holidays and other occasions. Each includes a short opening prayer or prayer suggestion, an appetizer of something to think about, a main course which may include a Bible story or other thematic topic along with Scripture, and then table talk discussions questions. Each ends with a Scripture called “vitamins & minerals” and would be perfect to inspire family members to begin memorizing God’s Word! Each devotion is easy to follow and will direct your family mealtime into meaningful discussion as well as a lot of fun! A variety of fun methods include Bible book challenges, thinking games, object talks, riddles, etc. They will add life to your time together! This innovative family devotional doesn't have to be used during mealtimes; each is short enough that they can bring meaningful discussions to any time - car rides, bedtime, snack time, etc. Conversations about God and our relationship with him are vital to raising our family so that each grows in their love and admonition for Him! Add fun to it and these lessons will not only be enjoyed but also remembered!

Apr 10, Bible Object Lesson Using a Sponge

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 17:34:11 -0400

How should Christians respond when "squeezed" by the world? Use this Bible object lesson and a sponge to remind students of any age how we can handle times of tribulation.

Apr 3, Christian Childrens Books

Wed, 3 Apr 2013 16:10:36 -0400

Teach creative Bible lessons & Christian values using Christian childrens books as well as other popular children's books. See how to combine Scripture with fun read alouds to impart Bible truths.

Apr 2, Object Lessons Index

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 13:21:09 -0400

Teaching children using everyday objects will carry your Bible lesson beyond the classroom into real life.

Every time they see that object again it will be a reminder of the Bible truth that was taught. It will also teach them to look and listen for God speaking wherever they go! What better lesson is there than that they learn they can know Him personally and He can be with them anywhere...always!

Mar 27, Jelly Bean Prayer & Other Christian Easter Activities

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:53:24 -0400

Mar 23, Easter Evangelism

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 14:05:24 -0400

Many people attend our churches twice a year - at Christmas and on Easter Sunday.

Although both these holidays have been so commercialized by our society, they also still seem to help people be more open to talking about Jesus. So let's not miss any opportunities! Yes, invite people to your home church for Easter Sunday, but also get creative in sharing the message that because "Jesus is alive!", we can have hope and life in Him! We have found several ideas that can be used with neighbors, friends, relatives, or even strangers, but also with your Sunday School class or youth group!

Mar 23, The Easter Story

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 13:54:20 -0400

Take time to read the Easter Story - Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection! Find Easter Bible verses and how it goes along with the Resurrection Eggs and other Christian Easter activities!

Mar 23, Christian Easter Games

Sat, 23 Mar 2013 13:52:41 -0400

Celebrate the true meaning of Easter while having fun with these Christian Easter games! They can be used for Children's Bible lessons or a fun review of the Easter Story!

Mar 19, Easter Garden Object Lesson Activity

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:29:52 -0400

The Full Circle Gardener has blogged a great idea of using empty egg shells, soil, and wheat grass to create an Easter Garden as you tell the wonderful story of Easter! Find details on our Christian Easter page!

Mar 18, 12 Keys to Successful Living

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 22:17:50 -0400

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant: Twelve Keys to Successful Living
By Terry Felber / Thomas Nelson

What could be better than a wonderful story from which one can also take away powerful life truths? The Legend of the Merchant and the Monk is just that! Terry Faber weaves twelve principles of living a successful life into a story told by a grandfather to his grandson. Such principles include: Be meek before God but bold before men; Live debt free and below your means; See challenges as stepping stones, not obstacles. They include sound advice for finances as well as wise living. A study guide in the back includes discussion along with easy access to Scriptures used throughout the book. While many would not pick up nonfiction Christian living titles to read, they may read a story. Being in story form also helps one remember the principles being taught. This story is valuable to any age! I enjoyed it as a middle-aged adult, but it would also be extremely valuable and enjoyed by older children, young adults, and college/career ages. Faber points out that we are all ministers and called to Kingdom work; some are called to be monks (priests/pastors) while others are called to be merchants (business/other professions). Together we build His Kingdom supporting each other in different ways.

Mar 12, How to Make Your Own Resurrection Eggs

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:26:31 -0400

You've probably seen Resurrection Eggs in the stores, but you can also make your own. I've seen many options and different ways of making these. The following is what I used with my second grade class at a Christian school. There are also options to print pictures if you don't want to gather up the small objects and other great ideas on using these eggs to point children to the real focus of Easter - Jesus!

Mar 2, Christian Easter Ideas & Lessons

Sat, 2 Mar 2013 12:18:52 -0500

Easter is the ideal time to share the love of Christ with others! I love this family fun idea that I’ve seen going around called “You’ve Been Egged!” Secretly hide a dozen plastic eggs in someone’s yard. Before you do, fill eleven with treats and leave one empty. Make a sign that says –

“YOU”VE BEEN EGGED!
There are twelve eggs hidden in your yard!
Enjoy the hunt, but don’t be discouraged
when you find one empty…
that’s a reminder of Jesus’ empty tomb…
HE IS RISEN!

Or use this free printable from FabNFree that can be found on our Christian Easter Page!

Feb 26, How to Study the Bible

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:17:27 -0500

Simple and quick tutorial and suggestions to help you learn how to study the Bible. Includes links to online Bible versions & study helps!

Feb 21, Salvation Object Lesson

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 12:55:16 -0500

This simple paper tear object lesson is great to go along with sharing the Gospel with kids! It will capture their attention and help them remember what they learn! But it will also give them a tool they can use to share their faith with others! Could be a lot of fun for youth and adults too!

Feb 20, Random Acts of Kindness in a Counter-Culture

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 15:18:45 -0500

Recently I have seen so many ideas for Random Acts of Kindness pinned to Pinterest. And while that is an incredible thing, many of them are of only momentary purpose & value. When I typed in Random Acts of Kindness into Google, many of them said “these will restore your faith in humanity.” Well I don’t care about restoring faith in humanity; it’s faith in Almighty God that needs restoring! But then just this morning a friend of mine posted this on Facebook: ****** “Our family went to Counter Culture the other day. When my husband ordered a HUMPHREY'S, our server hands him an envelope with Scripture and reminders of the love of Christ all over it. Inside was a receipt where a stranger had paid the price for his sweet treat that day. Someone we didn’t even know had blessed us with a gift. We were full of smiles and excitement. But as I reflect on that day, I am reminded Jesus paid a HUGE price for us. I can't even explain how it makes me feel. We couldn't wait to share and bless someone else with the gift the stranger in Counter Culture had blessed us with. It also reminds me our time is short. Jesus is coming back for his people. We cannot let our friends and family miss this gift. We have to share the gift our sweet Jesus has for them. So friends, today is the day. Please share Jesus today.” ****** That’s more like it! That’s a Random Act of Kindness with eternal value! ☺ And the fact that it occurred at Counter Culture is just an extra bonus because Wikapedia describes a Counterculture as: “A counterculture (also written counter-culture) is a subculture whose values and norms of behavior deviate from those of mainstream society, often in opposition to mainstream cultural mores.” God calls us to be different for a bigger purpose than just kindness – we are to share Jesus so that He can change lives for eternity! So let's add our faith to those acts of kindness and watch God work! :) “Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.” 1 Peter 2:11-12

Feb 6, Teaching Our Children

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 10:59:33 -0500

Feb 4, Lesson in Humbleness

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 10:23:18 -0500

How long has it been since we have physically knelt before the LORD? I was recently challenged by one of my youth in Sunday School to once again begin kneeling in prayer during my time alone with my Heavenly Father. What a blessing it has been! Psalm 95:6 "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker;"

Feb 1, Be Still and Be Filled

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 11:50:45 -0500

A cup must be still in order to be filled. "Be still and know that I am God;" Psalm 46:10 How often I need to remember this! Let's try to find time today to be still in His presence and filled with His Spirit! Have a blessed day! ...sorry if I made you hungry for New Orleans' beignets now! :)

Jan 31, Small Things Count Big!

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 11:08:53 -0500

Small things can make a big difference! Think about even the small words we use like articles (a, an, the),prepositions (if, of, for, in), or conjunctions (and, but, or). In and of themselves they're only one to three letters in composition, but when added into the context of a sentence...they become GIANTS that totally change the essence of thought! Okay...no, this is not going to be an English lesson. These small words can teach us a powerful life lesson though as believers in Christ! Let's look at the word "IN" - two small letters put together...that's all. Yet when God uses them to tell us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "give thanks IN all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.", it changes everything! I am so glad He didn't use the preposition, "for"! I would have a hard time giving thanks "for" some things or circumstances! Instead, He uses "IN". When I give thanks "IN" circumstances, I'm no longer looking at the circumstances, but at my Creator, my King, my God who is above all and in control of all and in Whom I can trust! "IN"...only two letters, but it changes everything! Then we also have the word "BUT" which is an incredibly powerful word for only having three letters! Two examples of its power are shown among the chapters of Romans. In chapter 3, verse 20 begins - "Therefore no one will be declared righteous in His sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin." Yikes! I'm sure that sounded just as hopeless to people back then as it does now! ...BUT! It doesn't stop there! The word "BUT" leads us to THE (another incredible 3 letter word!) hope in verses 21-24! "BUT now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Take a look at "BUT" in Romans 5:7-8: "Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. BUT God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." "BUT" moves us from hopelessness & powerlessness to hope & power in Jesus! So next time you're reading God's Word, don't skim over those small ones that count big! Also, know that just as every word is important, no matter how small they are...you are also important in God's family, no matter how insignificant you may think you are. God doesn't make mistakes! He wants to use YOU! ...another great little three letter word! :)

Jan 30, Valentine's Object Lesson

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 17:23:39 -0500

Valentine's Day is right around the corner and is the perfect time to share about God's love! Use this science experiment object lesson to capture kids' attention while also locking Bible truths into their memory!

Jan 22, Seeing God in Unlikely Places

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 14:53:43 -0500

Exercise is NOT my favorite thing; so I try to do other things while walking on our Elliptical. Most of the time I "try" to do something productive like read over my Sunday school lesson or a book....but today I stuck in the video of "Nemo"! (And yes, that was VHS not DVD - a little old-school! Haha!)

As I watched, it crossed my mind that Nemo is a lot like the prodigal son...he's a lot like us! What a great opportunity to use a favorite animated movie to point kids, as well as adults, to thoughts about God! Think about it. Nemo's dad just wanted him to stay safe...with him. Yet Nemo rebelled; he thought there was something better out there his father was keeping from him. Nemo's rebellion took him to many places he didn't desire to go and eventually landed him in the hands of the enemy - Darla! Isn't that what we do? From the garden of Eden, humanity has had the idea that God is keeping something "good" or even "better" from us. In reality, God was trying to keep us with Him...with the BEST of everything! And like Nemo's dad, God loved us so much that He came after us! He left the best of everything to find us and bring us back to Him! Now, it's definitely not a perfect illustration because that's about where the resemblance stops since in the end, Nemo saves everyone...but that's not my point. My point is for us to seek every opportunity to look for God and point others to Him - especially our children! Whether we use an animated kids' movie, a children's book, the beauty of nature, or an ordinary everyday object, God can be found when we seek Him...even in what we believe to be unlikely places! :) Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart."

Jan 9, More Than a Bucket List

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 14:15:25 -0500

More Than a Bucket List: Making Your Dreams, Passions, and Faith a Reality - eBook
By Thomas Nelson

I was so excited when I saw the title for this book - "More than a Bucket List: Making Your Dreams, Passions, and Faith a Reality"! And although its organization seems very random and difficult to navigate, it does contain many creative, unique and meaningful ideas for life. If you're looking for a coffee table type book or quick devotional thought book, this may fit the bill. It does have a wide assortment of short, thoughtful readings, which do challenge. Along with those there are random Bucket list ideas. For instance, a list titled "Live faithfully" contains things like: Write a love letter to God, Live as if heaven really is on earth, and Float on the Dead Sea. Granted, the "Float on the Dead Sea" type phrases may be to just catch our attention, but it just seemed very random to me. Like I said though, if you need a quick devotional thought book that contains some great "Real-Life Challenges" like write your dad an IOU for all his sacrifices, maybe this book is for you. Just realize that along with the devotional writings you'll also be getting random ideas such as since a one-minute kiss burns about the same number of calories as a Hershey's Kiss, give more kisses and eat more Kisses!

More Than A Bucket List: Living a Life That's Bigger Than You
By Thomas Nelson

I do think the hardcover copy would be a great coffee table type book to have lying around at home or at the office. Someone could pick it up and read a random thought of faith that may change their life or at least get them thinking! I'm not sure what type things you may have been thinking about for your Bucket List, or what your dreams, passion and faith may look like. This book certainly has a huge amount of randomness though, so surely something may appeal to you! And really, a good dose of randomness can be a good thing! So although this book wasn’t what I expected, I think it’s certainly one that can be enjoyed and bring splashes of inspiration to our lives!

Jan 9, Bible Reading Plan

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 12:13:20 -0500

Are you unsure where to begin studying the Bible? A Bible reading plan can help you focus and be consistent in your Bible study time. Here you will find several suggetions for where to begin.

Jan 9, Intentional Investment - More than a New Year's Resolution

Wed, 9 Jan 2013 11:58:55 -0500

Well the first week of the New Year 2013 has now come and gone...how quickly time flies! If you're like me this time of year brings a lot of looking back over the past year and then contemplating on how to make the most of this new year. Many times this follows the path of making New Year's resolutions and then a week or a month later already being discouraged because we lost resolve, we broke down already, we caved! How we are so much like the Israelites as God was bringing them into His promised land! They lived in a cycle of trust then disobedience then trust...etc. Even one of our teens in Sunday school recognized this in class last Sunday as he said, "I'm just like those people, I've already broken my New Year's resolution and it's only January 5th!" Maybe instead of looking at this new year with a list of "I'm not going to do this anymore.." or "I am going to start doing this now...", we should ask God to help us determine a theme, a focus for this year that will guide us across all areas of our life. That's what I asked Him for, and what He gave me for this new year is to focus on "intentional investment." Each day I'm trying to look at all He's given me and the opportunities to intentionally invest for His glory. This may involve my money, my time, my talents, etc. Yesterday, He led me to invest some money I was given for Christmas into a friend's mission trip. It also consisted of me carving out some time in the day to have lunch with a friend from church and invest that time into listening and encouraging. The idea of "intentional investment" can guide me in how I treat my husband and kids, what I'm involved in at church, what I eat and how I care for my body, growing closer to Him, etc. It's not just one "do" or "don't"; it's a life guide. Ephesians 5:15-16 tells me, "Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." What "theme" or "focus" is God calling you to this new year? One year it was "seek & find" for me as I tried to focus on seeing Him in everything around me! He may be calling you to contentment where He has you, an attitude of gratitude, finding joy in Him, etc. Whatever the year 2013 holds, it will be an amazing adventure if we spend it with a God-focus! 1 Corinthians 4:20 "For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk: it is living by God's power." James 1:22 "But don't just listen to God's Word. You must do what it says."

Jan 3, The Faith Behind Duck Dynasty

Thu, 3 Jan 2013 16:21:53 -0500

I was so excited to open my Beyond Bible Devotion App on my iPhone this morning and find a devotion about the Robertson family living out their faith for the glory of God! :) This family is the real deal, and I am thrilled Dave Doty included a devotional about them in his iPhone App called "Stand Before Kings" which he has graciously shared for me to share with you!

Dec 11, Free Christmas Bible Lesson of Hope

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 17:40:46 -0500

The holidays can be the hardest for so many people. This Christmas Bible study lesson is meant to bring hope into lives that may be wondering if God has forgotten. It is a reminder to all of us that God is faithful no matter what we may see with our eyes or feel with our hearts. Use the story of The Tale of Three Trees, the Bible stories of Mary, Joseph, Simeon & Anna, along with other wonderful Scriptures that speak of God's faithfulness to bring hope and peace! This Bible lesson can be adapted to any age audience or for family use!

Dec 8, The Christmas Nail

Sat, 8 Dec 2012 22:36:37 -0500

We purchased the Christmas Nail several years ago. Each year it is the first item to hang on the tree - before any other ornament. It hangs close to the center of the tree where no one else can see it.

It is a reminder to each of us as a family member that we celebrate not only the birth of Christ, but also remember that He lived a perfect life and died on a cross made from a tree to pay the price for our sins. Therefore, we can also celebrate the fact that He was resurrected and lives! Because it hangs close to the center, it also reminds us that Jesus is to be the center of our lives as well.

Dec 7, Christmas Bible Lesson - Pieces of the Nativity

Fri, 7 Dec 2012 15:06:37 -0500

If we were to count up how many times in our life we have heard the Nativity Story, it would probably amaze us! It's a wonderful story, but so many times, as it is with other familiar stories, we tend to lose our awe of it and the amazement of God's love. Following is a Christmas Bible lesson for really any age group that hopefully will bring us back to a place of amazement as if hearing it for the very first time!

Dec 5, Christian Christmas Ornament - Salvation Nail

Wed, 5 Dec 2012 11:58:05 -0500

For the last several years our family has had the Christmas tradition of hanging the Christmas nail on our tree first. This year I wanted an ornament for our ladies' group to make, but couldn't find the really large nails...so this is what I came up with to use the 6 inch nails I did find! :) This Salvation Nail comes with a poem that tells the Gospel story and can be used as a simple witnessing tool to give away this Christmas or as a training tool to teach the Gospel message to your children or Sunday School class. I think it may become a new tradition at our house! :) We'd love to hear your ideas too!

Dec 3, M & M Christmas Poem

Mon, 3 Dec 2012 14:11:46 -0500

I LOVE M&Ms and I also love that someone (unknown to me) has used them to tell the Good News of the CHRISTmas story! This makes another great Christmas object lesson!

This is a great evangelism tool for this time of year with a simple bag of M&Ms! Talk about a supernatural treat!

As you hold these candies in your hand,
And turn them you will see
The M becomes a W, and E and then a 3
They tell the Christmas story,
It's one I'm sure you know
It took place in a stable a long, long time ago
The E is for the East, where the star shone so bright
The M is for the manger where Baby Jesus slept that night
The 3 is for the wisemen, bearing gifts they say they came
W is for Worship, Hallelujah, Praise His Name
So as you eat these candies or share them with a friend
Remember the meaning of Christmas it's a Love Story that never ends
Free printables of the poem and more Christmas object lessons available >>>

Dec 1, Christian Christmas Countdown

Sat, 1 Dec 2012 18:02:59 -0500

As December arrives, so does the 25 days of Christmas countdown! We can countdown with movies, photos, books, etc.! We can also countdown with Bible verses, Christian family activities, and more that will help keep our focus on Jesus - the reason for the season!

Nov 27, Family Christian Christmas Traditions

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 17:31:18 -0500

Christmas traditions have played an important part in our family holidays to emphasize the true meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ. Family traditions can bring lasting bonds within a family too. These in turn can be passed along through the generations and give children as well as adults special memories and a sense of roots and belonging.

Following are several Christmas traditions that we have used in our family over the years. We'd love to hear from you about other Christmas traditions that you have in your own families; just send us a note through our Contact Page.

Nov 23, Thanksgiving Opens the Door for CHRISTmas!

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 14:30:40 -0500

When it comes to Thanksgiving & Christmas, it’s hard not to get ahead of ourselves! The world begins displaying Christmas around November 1st – decorations in stores, Hallmark Christmas movies, Christmas music on the radio, families setting up the Christmas tree, etc….and if we’re not careful, we may overlook the importance of true thanksgiving! Our youngest son is a “stickler” when it comes to acknowledging Thanksgiving! He fusses at us for watching Christmas movies, listening to Christmas music, etc. before the day AFTER Thanksgiving, and for that…I am thankful! Too often we rush forth in life towards the celebration and we neglect giving thanks for the sacrifice. We forget to be thankful for all we have before we’re already grabbing for the more that we think we want! This year let’s extend Thanksgiving throughout the holiday season of Christmas! Let’s allow it to become a lifestyle that includes the attitude of gratitude and foreshadows all we do this Christmas season. Think it might make a difference? It may be just the way to actually keep Christ in Christmas! For when our hearts are thankful, we’re focused on God’s blessings. Thankfulness opens the door to giving rather than receiving. Jesus gave us the ultimate example of this – He gave His all…He gave His life! Luke 22:17-20 tells us that as His death approached, He gave thanks: “After taking the cup, He gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me." In the same way, after the supper He took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you." He was not only giving thanks for the actual bread and wine, but for what they represented and all they promised! Let’s allow Thanksgiving to be our open door to Christmas this year – a celebration of the One Who changes lives!

Nov 22, The Knots Prayer

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 19:41:01 -0500

God can give us a heart of thanksgiving that will untie the knots/nots in our lives!

Nov 13, Thanksgiving Games for Family Time or Sunday School

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:32:22 -0500

Our family loves to play games, so this year I wanted to come up with a few games that would revolve around being thankful during the Thanksgiving season! Last year, one of our sons introduced us to a game called “Things”; we made our own with homemade questions, etc. This could easily become a Thanksgiving game of Things! Find how we adapted this game along with others to incorporate a spirit of thankfulness!

Nov 7, Thanksgiving Bible Verses

Wed, 7 Nov 2012 11:09:20 -0500

Everyday is a day to give thanks! Use these thanksgiving Bible verses to guide you in honoring and praising God with an attitude of grattitude!

Nov 5, Christian Thanksgiving Ideas

Mon, 5 Nov 2012 14:52:08 -0500

Thanksgiving is a perfect opportunity to teach children & teens about having an attitude of gratitude! Here are Christian Thanksgiving ideas to help - Bible object lessons, crafts, Bible verses, etc.!

Nov 2, Free Thanksgiving Devotions

Fri, 2 Nov 2012 12:47:22 -0400

With November comes the thought of Thanksgiving! This a great time to begin again developing an attitude of gratitude! I love how Ann Voskamp has the following to say in her book

One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are

"A triplet of stars, a constellation in the black. A threefold cord that might hold a life? Offer a way up into the fullest life? Grace, thanksgiving, joy. Eucharisteo. A Greek word...that might make meaning of everything?" Let's use these 30 days of November as a beginning point of truly living a life of thanksgiving filled with grace and joy everyday!

Free Thanksgiving devotions are available just for this...

Oct 31, The Pumpkin Prayer

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:02:16 -0400

Dear God, As I carve my pumpkin help me say this prayer: Open my mind so I can learn about You;
(Cut the top of the pumpkin) Take away all my sin and forgive me for the wrong things I do.
(Clean out the inside) Open my eyes so Your love I will see;
(Cut the eyes out in heart shapes) I'm so sorry for turning up my nose to all you've given me.
(Cut a nose in the shape of a cross) Open my ears so your word I will hear.
(Cut the ears shaped like the Bible-rectangles) Open my mouth so I can tell others You're near,
(cut the mouth in the shape of a fish) Let Your light shine in all I say and do! Amen.
(Place a candle inside and light it) -Author unknown

Oct 25, The 5 Faith Skills

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 11:20:23 -0400

Discipleship for our teens - making sure they get the basics - is crucial! Elle Campbell from "Stuff You Can Use" shares 5 Faith Skills EVERY believer needs to develop to know Christ and also to live for Him and share His love. They include free downloadable & editable activities to disciple youth in these 5 important areas of faith! Find more ideas & resources on our Youth Page!

Oct 24, Max Lucado's book - GRACE

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 11:43:11 -0400

“Grace goes beyond mercy. Mercy gave Ruth some food. Grace gave her a husband and a home. Mercy gave the prodigal son a second chance. Grace threw him a party…Mercy pardons us. Grace woos and weds us.”

Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine
By Max Lucado / Thomas Nelson

A small excerpt from Max Lucado’s recent book, GRACE, gives a glimpse of a bigger picture of grace than maybe we’ve ever seen before! Even as Christians, it’s hard to wrap our minds around this concept of God’s grace that is offered to us – a grace that should shape our lives because of Christ living within us. Max does an outstanding job of taking us on a journey through the lives of various Biblical characters as well as several modern day contemporaries and how God’s grace goes beyond anything we can imagine. Whether we feel unworthy of it, can’t bring ourselves to quite believe the depths of it, or think there’s a need for us to contribute to it, this book will give us a fresh look at the unlimited and sustaining grace God wants to give us. At the beginning of each chapter there are Bible verses as well as quotes to draw you in, and of course there’s a story…Max always has a story to tell that will capture your attention. It also includes a Reader’s Guide at the end that may be used as an extended Bible study for individuals or groups. With a balance of encouragement and challenge, you won’t want to miss this latest release. You won’t want to miss the message of God’s grace – "This is the gift that God gives. A grace that grants us first power to receive love and then the power to give it... The gift is the Giver."

Oct 19, Thrills & Chills in the Right Places

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 11:41:55 -0400

We have probably all heard the song, or at least the phrase, "Looking for love in all the wrong places..." During this season of the year, it seems so many are looking for "thrills & chills" in all the wrong places. It's a difficult thing to teach teens and kids, as well as adults, how to be "in the world, but not of the world." Group Publishing offers-

Find two of these free Bible lessons on our Youth Page and help students find their "thrills and chills" in the Bible! :) John 17:14-17 "I have given them Your Word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth. As you sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world."

Oct 17, Letting His Light Shine in Darkness

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 15:37:11 -0400

Just recently my husband traveled back from a week in Nicaragua. He went down and joined missionaries there as they trained new pastors that would go back and begin planting churches in their remote villages. He wanted to take some little something with him to have on hand to give to these men if they asked. He decided to take glow-in-the-dark cross bracelets which were a big hit! Over the first few days, one by one, they would come up and ask him for one. By mid-week, they all had one on their arm.

Fear Not Glow-in-the-Dark Silicone Bracelet

The amazing turn of events came one rainy night soon after. A storm caused the electricity to go off, plunging them into pitch darkness. One by one, the men raised their arms with the bracelets. Although each was just a little inexpensive glow-in-the-dark bracelet, together they shone in the darkness! He said it was such a neat sight to see all those men waving their arms as the cross of Christ glowed in the darkness! He came home with such an appreciation for these men! They had so little, but they had given all they had to God! Like each little bracelet didn't shine a lot all by itself, when brought together with many....it was an amazing sight! These men remind me of Jesus' story of the widow's offering when He declared - "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything--all she had to live on." Mark 12:43-44 I guess the question it brought to my mind is - are we giving out of our wealth, our extra...or are we giving Him our all? That's not only about money...it's about our life! :)