Sarah Geringer's Blog, page 2
August 2, 2025
Lessons from the August Garden
Lessons from the August Garden is a post I wrote for Kingdom Edge magazine in 2020 – I’m republishing it here in August 2025.
Lessons from the August Garden
The dog days of summer are here. I love gardening, but August can be a challenging month for me as a gardener. My veggie garden, flowerbeds, and containers are all desperate for water in hot, humid, and dry August days, often for weeks in a row with no relief.
As soon as I finish my hot tea and One Year Bible reading, I start each day with my watering can. It takes several trips to water all my containers on my porches, as well as the ones in my flowerbeds. Then I turn on the drip hoses in the veggie garden. They deliver water in a slow, steady stream.
I’ve learned the hard way that daily watering is a must. If I skip a day, the leaves look withered. Flowers look droopy. Veggies scream for moisture and are more prone to infections and insect infestations.
August is no time to slow down my watering schedule. It’s important to water as early as possible each day, so roots are equipped to nourish plants while the hot sun beats down.
Watering is also essential for my third gardening season. It’s possible here in Missouri to have a fall garden. It feels ironic to plant squash, peas, spinach, and broccoli during the blazing heat of August. But August is the crucial time to plant these seeds so I can reap a harvest. If I fail to water these new sprouts, there is no chance they will produce before the hard freezes arrive in October and November.
Two Lessons from the August GardenI’ve learned several spiritual lessons from my years of gardening in August.
The first one is that I am more nourished when I drink the living water of God’s Word every day. First thing in the morning works best for me, because the Holy Spirit uses Scripture to speak to me throughout the day.
If I skip a day (and this happens to all of us), I notice signs of wilting in my spiritual life. I tend to complain more, snap at my loved ones, and let my mind travel to tempting places without the guard of God’s Word. By spending 10 minutes reading, meditating upon, and studying God’s Word during the morning, I’m better protected against discouragement, drought, and spiritual attacks.
The second lesson is the importance of planting at just the right time for a future harvest. As a mom of three children, I have ample opportunities to plant seeds of faith in them. It’s tempting to shrug off this responsibility due to the busyness of life. I need to plant them right now, in this current season, and trust that God will reap a harvest later as I continue to water them.
This lesson also applies to my own life. When I seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance daily through prayer, I become more aware of His direction and wisdom for real-time situations. For example, if I pray before I leave my home, I feel more loving toward others and better prepared to build others up rather than tear them down with my words or actions.
When I forget to “water” my words and actions in this current season, I miss opportunities to share Jesus with others. This is a harvest I want to participate in, and I must engage daily in my current season for the maximum amount of spiritual fruit.
You may or may not be a gardener. Yet you can also apply these lessons from the August garden. Water your mind and heart with God’s Word every day, and you’ll see your faith grow. Be intentional in your faith in this current season, and you’ll reap a bountiful harvest with God’s help.
You can also listen to the podcast version here:
Lessons from the August garden - good for both gardeners and non-gardeners. #gardening #spiritualgrowth #christianliving
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July 27, 2025
Sunday Praise – Breakthrough
Sunday Praise - Breakthrough. A poem of hope based on a photo I took this week. #poetry #christianpoet #christianpoetry #naturepoetry
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 75 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
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July 22, 2025
Seeking Contentment in Transition
Are you seeking contentment in transition? That’s what I’m doing now, and I hope my post helps you.
Seeking Contentment in TransitionIn July 2022, I logged many hours picking wild blackberries on my property. I transformed them into lots of good recipes, and unexpectedly, the berries transformed me too.
While searching for blackberries among the red, unripe ones, I began to notice that the ones that ripened first were located at the end of the stems. Usually, only one blackberry would appear every 24 hours. Returning to the berry patch day after day and week after week was necessary to collect the largest harvest.
I had to be patient while the sun ripened the berries one by one. I also had to curb my greed for the perfectly ripe berries beyond my reach, because the last thing you want to do is faceplant into a thicket of thorny blackberry bushes – trust me.
Picking these berries in July’s heat and humidity isn’t easy. It’s hard, hot work. I also had to convert to wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and gloves because the berry bushes scratched my skin open and made it bleed. It wasn’t always convenient for me to spend 30 minutes scouring the bushes, but I had to make haste to beat the birds, deer, raccoons, and other wild animals to the chase.
Berry picking is a great time to let your mind wander, and I’ve used that time to pray and think. The main lesson God impressed on me while picking berries is that contentment is possible even in times of transition.
2022 has been one of the hardest years I’ve ever had. Terrible losses, repeated rejection, unwarranted cruelty, unbearable heartbreak, and shocking spiritual warfare pounded me in tsunami waves for months. Contentment seemed impossible most days. Even hope sometimes seemed out of reach.
But spending time picking berries transformed my thinking. The berry bushes weren’t even supposed to exist. They were supposed to be mowed down to keep the pond levee free from bushy growth, as our agreement with the Department of Conservation stated.
The ex’s lack of upkeep on the levee last year resulted in many second-year canes of wild berries, which are the only ones that can bear fruit. Through these canes that first grew in the spring of 2021, I now have a huge abundance of antioxidant-packed berries in my freezer to feed me and my teens for months.
I have learned to see contentment in this year of transition through these berries. For example, I must wait for them to ripen one at a time, just like I can’t rush my healing process. I must be content with the colander of berries I gather every 24 hours, just like I can choose contentment in the growth I experience one day at a time.
Since I wouldn’t have had these berries this year without the baby plants that started growing last year, I am content that things worked out differently than expected. Even in my grief, I can see reasons to be thankful for being set free from so many trials of the past, and this grows my contentment.
I can be content with the berries within my reach, rather than the ones beyond, which may lead to my physical harm. This lesson has helped me choose contentment on the days when I have felt lonely, frustrated, and angry that I’m not yet in a happier season. I’m learning that God knows best which blessings to put within my reach, and he keeps some out of my reach right now because they may not be good for me just yet.
While I savored blackberry cobbler, blackberry cheesecake, and berry custard pie, I recalled the hot, sweaty hours of work I invested in their collection. I remembered the scratches and pricks the branches made on my skin until I covered up, feeling much hotter with the extra clothing yet more protected. The berry picking taught me to be content while I waited for the delicious results, though I had to go through a lot of struggle and effort to get to that point.
A scripture I’ve been meditating upon while picking berries is 1 Timothy 6:6 NIV: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Seeking contentment in transition isn’t easy. In fact, I don’t recommend it in the very first stages of grief. When you’ve healed enough to start seeking contentment, it will be a great blessing to you.
If we intentionally seek contentment because we long to be more like Jesus and experience more of him in our lives, we gain much. Not just a warm bowl of cobbler with ice cream on top, though that’s a tasty reward. We gain spiritual satisfaction that will last beyond our earthly days and can even be a testimony to others in our present circumstances.
If we pursue contentment while we face tough transitions, our victory in Jesus will be all the sweeter. We can accept that our transitions will change us for the better if we are seeking contentment even in the hard things we are facing. I also recommend eating berries while you ponder these challenging truths, to make them go down a little sweeter.
Originally published for Kingdom Edge Magazine, July 2022
If you are seeking contentment in transitions, here's encouragement for you. #contentment #transitions #spiritualgrowth #christianwriter
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Recommended Read
If you want to learn how to trust God more in times of transition, order a signed copy of my book, Newness of Life, HERE.
Are You Looking for a Book Launch Manager or Virtual Assistant?
If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 75 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
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July 20, 2025
If You Have Sticker Shock from a Hybrid Publisher’s Quote
If you have sticker shock from a hybrid publisher’s quote, I have relief for you today. Keep reading to learn how I can help you bring your book to life at a much lower rate.
If You Have Sticker Shock from a Hybrid Publisher’s Quote
Are you thinking about working with a hybrid publisher, but you are shocked by the price tag of $8K – $15K or even higher?!? 
That is exactly why one year ago, I expanded my services to include book cover design and interior formatting, in addition to editing, author coaching, podcast pitching, and book launch management.
I understand what it’s like to be pinched by inflation as a single mom and full-time freelancer. I also know what it’s like to have a dream burning in your heart, yet you know you can’t bring it to life by yourself.
That’s why I would love to be your highly qualified yet affordable guide on your publishing journey.
If you work with me on your project, you will get finished much faster (like 3 months or less) and save many thousands of dollars.
I would love to speak with you about how I can slash the price you’ve been quoted by up to 70-80 percent.
Just a side note – I always pray for my clients and I tithe on my income. I don’t treat you as a number – I consider you a friend if you honor me with your investment.
Interested? Head HERE to book a free call with me today, and check out my credentials on THIS PAGE.
If you have sticker shock from a hybrid publisher's quote, here's help for you. #selfpublishing #hybridpublishing #christianauthor #christianwriter
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 70 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post If You Have Sticker Shock from a Hybrid Publisher’s Quote appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
July 15, 2025
The Unique Impact John MacArthur’s Teachings Have Had On Me
I am saddened to hear of Pastor John MacArthur’s passing. This is my testimony of his impact on my life.
The Unique Impact John MacArthur’s Teachings Have Had On MeIn my early years as a work-from-home mom, I listened to Christian radio for hours every day. John’s program was one I greatly anticipated.
I admired his unflinching stance on orthodox Christianity. His teachings often challenged me to deeper spiritual growth, but none as much as this one.
On one broadcast, he surprised me when he got tender and said,
“Life is so hard for everyone. It’s really no surprise that many people turn to drinking, drugs, and sex just to cope.”He continued with a story of how he was called to minister to dying patients in the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s in California, the hot spot for the epidemic. John talked about the compassion that overwhelmed him when he saw their faces and spoke words of comfort over them. He encouraged us to do the same with all types of worldly people, even if we don’t agree with their lifestyles.
This teaching still resonates with me many years later. Why? Because I knew how stringently John adhered to an orthodox viewpoint, and I didn’t always agree with him on each fine point. I knew he was incredibly committed to upholding the Truth in the Bible.
Yet he testified about his compassion to a group of people I would have found extremely hard to love at that time in my life, based on difficult past experiences.
I remember thinking after that broadcast, “If he can be kind to people like that, I can too.”Now, every time I feel a judgmental spirit rising up in me against worldly people, I remember John’s words about life being hard. I picture John walking through California hospitals and spreading the love and compassion of Christ to hurting people who turned to the wrong things to fill the ache in their souls – an ache I have too, though I fill it in different ways.
I have listened to many teachers who have impacted my faith and ministry. Yet no one impacted me more than John in this particular area, and I look forward to sharing this story with him in heaven someday.
How did his teachings impact you? Respectful comments only – negative or divisive ones will be removed.
The unique impact John MacArthur's teachings have had on me. #testimony #gracetoyou #johnmacarthur
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 70 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post The Unique Impact John MacArthur’s Teachings Have Had On Me appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
July 8, 2025
10 Beliefs Both Catholics and Protestants Have in Common
Catholics and Protestants have more in common than you may realize.
You might think they are at odds with each other on all types of things.
Though there are some disagreements, several important similarities can bridge any gaps between Catholics and Protestants.
Let’s look at several examples of what Catholics and Protestants believe.
10 Beliefs Both Catholics and Protestants Have in Common
This is a foundational belief of all Catholics and Protestants.
They believe God is three persons in one – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
They believe that each Person of the Trinity is distinct, yet also in perfect relationship with the other two Persons.
No person of the Trinity is greater than the other – all coexist in eternal and equal glory.
To Catholics and Protestants, the word “God” always means Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Not one person of the Trinity is independent of another, but all are in a holy relationship together.
2. Belief in God as CreatorOther religions may debate how the Earth and the universe were created.
However, Catholics and Protestants agree on the Creation account recorded in Genesis 1 and 2.
They believe that God the Father is the Creator and Sustainer of life (Is. 40:28).
Also, they believe that the Holy Spirit was present in creation (Gen. 1:2).
Finally, they believe Jesus is the centerpiece of all creation (Col. 1:15-20).
Both Catholics and Protestants agree in upholding the principles of the Ten Commandments in family and civic life (Ex. 20:1-17).
They know that the Ten Commandments form the bedrock beliefs about how to relate to God and others.
Catholics are just as passionate as Protestants about upholding the ideals in the Ten Commandments.
These ideals include loving, serving, and honoring God and others.
4. Belief in the CreedsThe Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed are still used in many Catholic and Protestant church services.
Both Catholics and Protestants agree with these ancient statements of faith that assert belief in the Trinity and in Jesus’ death and resurrection as our means of salvation.
Some churches include the creeds in church services each week, and others recite them only occasionally.
Both Catholic and Protestant believers accept the teachings of these creeds.
The Lord’s Prayer as recorded in Matthew 6:9-13 is used in many Catholic and Protestant church services every week.
Both Catholics and Protestants use the Lord’s Prayer at home too.
Jesus’ prayer still inspires millions today, and many recite it from memory.
Catholics and Protestants strive to live out Jesus’ guidance to trust God for their needs, forgive others, and focus on Heaven as their ultimate home.
The Lord’s Prayer outlines these dynamics that both Catholics and Protestants pursue.
Remembering Jesus’ last supper regularly is important for both Catholics and Protestants.
Protestants often call it taking communion, while Catholics call it the Eucharist, but they mean the same thing.
They eat bread and drink wine or grape juice to symbolize their participation in what Jesus demonstrated the night before He died, as described in Luke 22:19-20.
Though Catholics and Protestants may differ on particular details about communion or the Eucharist, they practice it regularly and consider it an important part of their faith.
7. Reverence for God’s HolinessBoth Catholics and Protestants believe that God is holy.
Holy means without sin, and God has no darkness of sin in Him (John 12:46).
Catholics and Protestants believe that all humans are born as sinners in need of God’s grace and deliverance (Ps. 14:3).
Because God is without sin, He is worthy of reverence and worship for Catholics and Protestants.
Baptism is a public sign of faith for both Catholics and Protestants.
Some Protestants focus more on what is known as a “believer’s baptism,” or a baptism of a person old enough to understand what baptism means.
Yet many Protestants and the majority of Catholics baptize infants as a sign that parents will raise their children in faith.
Catholics often follow up with a first communion around ages 8-10 for a child.
Many Protestants follow up with a confirmation process in the junior high years.
Baptism is the starting place that shows a commitment to belief for many Catholics and Protestants.
Both Catholics and Protestants place a high honor on family values.
They deeply value marriage, babies, children, and the elderly.
Many Catholics and Protestants are active in their communities to promote and defend family values in culture and even politics.
Family life is important in both Catholic and Protestant church programs.
10. Belief in Faith Demonstrated by WorksJames 1:17 tells us that faith without works is dead.
Catholics and Protestants are deeply committed to demonstrating faith through good works.
They are passionate about helping those who are poor, sick, and troubled through many types of practical help and para-ministries.
In most Catholic and Protestant churches, you will find many options for demonstrating faith through good works.
10 Beliefs Both Catholics and Protestants Have in Common - learn more here. #catholics #protestants #faith
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You may enjoy this book on the unity between different denominations in the church.
Read my related blog post, A Prayer for Unity in the Church.
If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 70 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post 10 Beliefs Both Catholics and Protestants Have in Common appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
June 22, 2025
A Prayer After the U.S. Bombing of Iran
A Prayer After the U.S. Bombing of Iran is what is on my mind this Sunday morning, the day after news broke about this bombing.
A Prayer After the U.S. Bombing of IranIn times of crisis, my soul craves liturgy, because that’s the form of worship with which I engaged as a child.
I remember growing up saying responsive prayers like the one I’m writing today. The pastor led the way with prayer prompts, and the voices of so many around me gave me strength as we responded in the affirmative.
Turning to the Lord first is essential in times when we feel overwhelmed by world politics and threats of war. May this prayer remind you that many Christians around the world are in prayer over this complex matter that affects so many people and stirs much anxiety.
I invite you to quiet your mind and prepare your spirit for this prayer by listening to this song first.
O Lord God Almighty, King of Kings, and Lord of Heaven’s Armies, hear our prayers today.For our president, we ask your protection, wisdom, guidance, and favor. Your word says a king’s heart is like a stream of water that you direct and guide where you please (Prov. 21:1 NLT). May you direct his thoughts, words, and actions according to your will. Bless and protect his family as well.
Lord, hear our prayer.For our congress, we ask your protection and guidance. Attune their hearts and minds to your will, Father. Help them make decisions that are pleasing to you and for the benefit of the American people. May the decisions they make now bring blessing, not harm, to the generations to come.
Lord, hear our prayer.For members of our intelligence community, we pray wisdom and insight. May they intercept messages before destruction results. Grant them special discernment that can come only from you. May their actions of integrity protect and save the lives of many Americans, and may you give them great satisfaction in a job well done.
Lord, hear our prayer.For the members of our military and their families, we pray peace over anxiety, strength over fear, and trust over doubt. We pray physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual protection over them. May they stand on faith and biblical principles as they put their lives on the line for our freedom.
Lord, hear our prayer.For our law enforcement officers, we pray for your protection and strength. If protests across the U.S. are in the future, we pray your sovereign blessing upon them to defend our land. We pray you will empower them to establish order and prevent chaos.
Lord, hear our prayer.Lord, we pray against all evil forces that oppose freedom and democracy. Thwart the evil spirits that roam this earth as they seek to deceive and destroy. We pray against any activation of retaliatory sleeper cells in the U.S. that wish to wreak havoc on our cities and states. Crush the head of Satan before he even raises up in this way. May the true Christians in the U.S. stand firm in their faith and be salt and light in their communities. May we be brave in standing up against evil and threats to our freedom. Equip and strengthen us as we fight spiritual battles through prayer, leading with praise like Jehoshaphat did in ancient Israel (2 Chronicles 20).
Lord, hear our prayer.For the innocent people of Iran, many of whom are severely persecuted Christians in the underground church, we pray hope, blessing, comfort, and peace. We pray their faith which must be hidden in the dark for their protection, would now blaze brightly before their enemies. We pray for a spiritual breakthrough in the nation of Iran, that your name be glorified above every other name. May the innocent people of Iran be surrounded by your heavenly angels.
Lord, hear our prayer.For your chosen people of Israel, we pray for your protection and strength. They are remnants of the twelve tribes of Israel, sons and daughters of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Most of us Christians in the U.S. today are Gentiles who have only been grafted into that chosen tree of life (Rom. 11:17-24). Develop a love in our hearts for the people of Israel, Lord. May we see them as our brothers and sisters rather than distant people with whom we have no relationship. O Jesus, may they know you as the true Messiah who is faithful to his remnant from generation to generation. May you shelter them under your mighty wings as each day moves closer to your return, Jesus.
Lord, hear our prayer.For our churches in the U.S. – the pastors, worship leaders, staff members, and lay personnel, we pray you would empower them to spread peace, comfort, knowledge, and wisdom among people desperately seeking insight and truth. Though our culture is deeply divided, may the church be a safe place for people to encounter the Bread of Life through mature Christians and solid, orthodox teaching. May our hearts, minds, souls, and spirits be lifted by the praise and worship we experience in the church. May your Holy Spirit breathe revival into the American Church at this critical point in our nation’s history.
Lord, hear our prayer.Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord.
In the holy name of Jesus, we pray,
Amen – may it be so.Christian Meditation on Psalm 131I’m meditating on this psalm today and it’s bringing me peace. May it bring you peace as well.
A Prayer After the U.S. Bombing of Iran - Pray with me over this complex matter. #prayer #prayforamerica #prayforisrael #prayforiran
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 70 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
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June 18, 2025
Milestone Day: 1 Million Site Views
Today is a milestone day of 1 million site views here at sarahgeringer.com. I’m celebrating this huge milestone with a story of how I arrived at this place.
Milestone Day: 1 Million Site ViewsI began blogging back in 2010, which was at the height of the glory days of blogging. Until 2016, I was using free sites like WordPress.com for blogging. After investing in a course by Michael Hyatt in 2015 and reading his book, Platform, I realized I needed a self-hosted site to build my email list. That’s when this site began in the summer of 2016.
I was working 35 hours per week as a high school secretary when I started this site. Because I was born to be creative, I needed a creative outlet, and blogging was the perfect fit. I got up at 4:30 a.m. to write before work and often wrote on the weekends before my children got up. This practice led to writing my first three self-published books.
My dream was to get traditionally published. I knew that regular blogging would help me build the platform I needed to get a book contract. That’s why I kept blogging in addition to writing my books. When I signed book contracts for my traditionally published books, the foundation I had built on my blog helped me reach more people with the messages God gave me to share.
The consistent writing over the years has paid off. Last year, I reached the milestone of 1,000 blog posts (some are archived now). Though I don’t write blog posts as often as before, I still get views every day of my older blog posts, and I’ll tell you more about that next.
How I Got 1 Million ViewsIn those early days of this site, I also linked up with many other bloggers. Several of them were experiencing explosive growth through Pinterest. So I decided to jump on that train, and it was one of the best decisions I made. Pinterest is still a top driver of traffic to my site. One of the posts I wrote in 2017 has brought over 30,000 viewers to my site in the past year.
Pinterest has been essential in getting 1 million views. However, learning about SEO made an even bigger difference. SEO stands for search engine optimization. It has helped me rank on the first page of Google for many of my posts. Working on SEO for my posts has helped me get to 1 million views.
Buffer has been an essential tool in helping me share my older posts to get more views. I mainly share my older posts on X, and I couldn’t do that without Buffer. Now, X is the third highest driver of traffic to my site, behind SEO and Pinterest.
In 2020, I began coaching authors and speakers about building their platforms. Five years later, I have had over 200 coaching clients that I’ve helped with all aspects of platform building, SEO, and more. I’m glad the lessons I’ve learned have helped me help others build their platforms. You can learn more about my services for authors HERE.
It’s important to celebrate milestones in our writing careers. Today, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the blessings that helped me get this far:
My English degree from Covenant CollegeThe great gift of the InternetAll my blogging friends in those early days of linking up Conferences where I made priceless connections that are still paying off todayOnline ministries where I served as a devotional writer for years, which drove lots of traffic to my siteBloggers who allowed me to write a guest post on their sites, which helped new people discover meMy publisher, who helped me reach many new people with my three traditionally published books Top 20 Posts of All TimeThis is the list of my top 20 posts of all time, which still get visits every month. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have ministered to tens of thousands of people through these posts. Please read and share them if you find them helpful or encouraging.
How to Meet God in the Night HoursHow to Guard Your Heart in a Difficult MarriageHow to Handle Your Anger in 3 God-Pleasing WaysBe His Private Garden7 Unconventional Prayer Closets5 Ways to Stand Firm During Spiritual AttacksHow to Begin Again After Marriage SeparationToo Much Mary, Not Enough MarthaThe Best New Christian Books to Read This SpringThe Difference Between a Load and a BurdenHow to Set Loving Boundaries in a Difficult MarriageA Prayer for AmericaWhen You Are Deeply Hurt by a FriendHow to Be Free from Past SinHow to Adjust Your Expectations in a Difficult MarriageHow to Set Boundaries on Others’ Bad BehaviorOne Year Post-Divorce: Lessons I’ve LearnedHow to Stand Strong on God’s Word in Marriage TrialsA Prayer for IntegrityHow to Fight Bitterness After Unwanted Changes
Milestone Day: How I reached 1 million site views on my Christian website. #christianblogger #writingcommunity #christianauthor #christianwriter
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 70 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new clients for editing, coaching (over 200 clients since 2020), and virtual assistance/social media management. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!
Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post Milestone Day: 1 Million Site Views appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
8 Reasons All Christians Should Read the Entire Bible
If you’re a Christian, why do you need to read the entire Bible?
I’ve read through the entire Bible almost 20 times, and nothing else has blessed me or changed me more.
There are several reasons you need to read the entire Bible, including the Old and New Testaments.
Let’s look at these reasons that will encourage you to read the entire Bible.
1. It Helps You Understand the Verses in ContextIt’s common for Bible verses to be taken out of context in conversations, online, and even in church.
When you read the entire Bible, you will understand the greater context and how a single verse applies to the entire text.
You can beef up your knowledge of ancient cultures by getting a study Bible that provides insight through commentary.
As you grow in understanding the cultural context, you will be able to have clearer context for verses.
2. It Gives You Greater UnderstandingOne of the most important reasons to read the entire Bible is to understand God’s redemptive plan throughout history.
The redemptive plan is mentioned as early as Genesis 3, when God promised a redeemer for humans (Gen. 3:14-15, NIV).
This plan unfolds chapter by chapter throughout the Old Testament as you follow the bloodline of Jesus.
It also gives you a greater understanding of how Jesus fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies through his life, death, and resurrection.
3. It Offers You Additional WisdomChristians believe that the Bible is the word of God, and therefore the source of wisdom.
The Bible says,
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Prov. 2:6, NIV).
You will gain wisdom as you read the entire Bible from beginning to end.
You’ll learn about the wisdom of God compared to the wisdom of men.
You will also learn why God’s ways are higher than our ways (Is. 55:9, NIV) while you watch His plan unfold in the story of Scripture.
4. It Offers You Extra InsightOne of the Holy Spirit’s jobs is to give us insight when we read Scripture (Jn. 16:13, NIV).
He will bring certain stories and passages to your attention that can help you with your current struggles.
Through your increased insight into Bible passages, you can start to understand God better as well as how He wants you to relate to others.
The Holy Spirit may give you insight into how to apply Old and New Testament principles to your life at home, work, church, and your community.
The Bible has great value for personal application.
You can learn both what to do and what not to do when reading the accounts of people in the Bible.
You can read the Gospels to learn how to follow Jesus’ example in daily living.
6. It Encourages Spiritual GrowthThe Psalms can help you grow your relationship with God through prayer, and Proverbs can help you grow in integrity.
The warnings in the books of the prophets can keep you on track in your spiritual life.
The letters of the New Testament can help you grow in your faith as you apply the directives to your choices.
The entire Bible will help you in your spiritual growth journey.
7. It Offers Additional PerspectiveWhen you read the entire Bible, you can have a greater perspective on what’s going on in the world.
Jesus told us in Matthew 24 what to expect close to the time when He returns to Earth.
When you read Revelation in light of what Jesus said, you can gain a wider perspective.
In addition to reading the entire Bible, commentaries can help you understand complicated teachings and how they relate to today’s world.
8. It Leads to More Evangelistic OpportunitiesWhen you read the entire Bible, you will equip yourself with knowledge to share with others.
The more you read the Bible, the more it becomes part of your thinking and speech.
Bible verses and stories will naturally come to mind and be easier for you to share with others.
You will gain more confidence as you read the entire Bible and learn how others shared their faith in the Bible.
Ways to Read the Entire BibleThere are several ways to read the whole Bible.
If you read just one chapter per day, it could take you three years.
However, you can speed this up by choosing a One Year Bible or a Bible reading plan.
Many choices are available to suit your needs.
You can choose the one that works best for your schedule, and you’ll grow in all the ways mentioned.
Be Sure to Read the Entire BibleSome teachers say you only need to read the New Testament.
They might tell you that the Old Testament is not relevant for today.
However, when you read the entire Bible, you’ll have the most comprehensive understanding of who God is and His plan for the world.
If you only focus on the New Testament, you’ll miss out on the foundation laid in the Old Testament.
Be sure to read the entire Bible to get the full look at what God wants to teach you.
8 Reasons All Christians Should Read the Entire Bible. #bible #christiantity #biblereading
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 68 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new VA clients. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post 8 Reasons All Christians Should Read the Entire Bible appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
June 15, 2025
A Prayer for Unity in the Church
A Prayer for Unity in the Church is a poem I wrote in 10 minutes this Sunday morning. I hope it encourages your spiritual growth today.
A Prayer for Unity in the ChurchFather, Son, Holy Spirit
I praise you as three-in-one:
perfect holiness and righteousness
love and compassion
mystery and wonder.
Each of you plays a role
distinct and beautiful
yet you hold together
in perfect balance and unity.
Perhaps this is what you had in mind
O Jesus
when you prayed for our unity
in the garden.
You saw the Church of today
splintered into pieces
thus less effective
in our mission.
May we strive toward unity
as the traditions that reverence your laws and stand for truth
the ministries that work for justice and show mercy
and the spirit-led gatherings that fuel prayer and ignite revivals
unite as the beautiful bride of Christ
not in exclusion of one another
or in superiority over each other
but in humble need for every one
like the Old Testament
Gospels
and New Testament
all depend on each other
to make sense
and work in union.
May our thoughts
words
and actions
reflect the Father
Son
and Holy Spirit
in this world
that needs truth, love, and inspiration
from your Church.
Amen – may it be so.
Want to read the book that inspired this poem? Here is the link on Amazon.
A Prayer for Unity in the Church - a poem of faith. #poetry #faith #unity #church
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If you’re launching a book in 2025 or beyond, be sure to book a call with me HERE to discuss your book launch. I’ve had over 68 clients since 2022, and I’d love to speak with you soon. I’m also taking on new VA clients. You can learn more and book a call with me on THIS PAGE.
If you liked this post, I would appreciate your shares on social media!Also, if you make a purchase from any of the links on this post, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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I send my weekly newsletter Tea on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. Central time every Tuesday. I write an exclusive devotion for you each week that I share with you first.
To receive the newsletter, please subscribe below. I can’t wait to share personally with you each week!
Want to know more about me before you sign up? You can read my story here and learn more about my books here. By signing up, you are agreeing to the terms of my privacy policy.The post A Prayer for Unity in the Church appeared first on Sarah Geringer.
