Sarah Geringer's Blog, page 93

Peace in My Heart: Days 1 & 2 OBS

Welcome to the first day of the online Bible study for Christmas Peace for Busy Moms!  I have prayed over you and this day for months, and I’m so excited to meet with you here.

Our theme verse for this week:

Find the printable Bedside Reminder Card of this verse here.

Without a doubt you’ve already seen plenty of Christmas advertisements already.  You know busy December will be here so soon.  If your heart is at peace before the season begins, your body will have the strength, energy, and peace to move forward through the chaos.  That’s why I want to study peace with you here in November, before the full swing of the holiday season begins.  If we work to find peace now, we will be more prepared to share it with others who need it so desperately.  Let’s open the virtual pages of Christmas Peace for Busy Moms together and begin our search for peace in our hearts.

Please refer to Day 1 of the book as we discuss peace with God, the starting place in our search for peace this Christmas.

How have you found peace with God because of who he is?  Consider the names of God in scripture,

The name I find most meaningful is Yahweh Shammah, “The Lord is There.”  Throughout my life I have struggled with loneliness and fears of abandonment. Knowing God is always there brings me great comfort and peace.  I especially need this peace in busy December, when I sometimes feel alone and abandoned in the surrounding chaos.

Question for you: Which name on this list brings you the most comfort and peace?  Please share in the comments section below.

On Day 2 of the book, I wrote about finding peace with myself by studying Psalm 139.

Today, this verse brings peace to my heart:

All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.                     (Ps. 139:16)

This day ahead of me holds no surprise for God.  He wrote it before I was born.  He is waiting for me on the other side of the busyness, the joys, the fatigue, the temptations, and the blessings.  Yahweh Shammah is already there, holding my story in his hands.  I don’t have to fret today knowing he’s there in my day, on my side, leading me along the master plan for my life.

Question for you: When you read this psalm, which portion brings you peace about yourself?  Please share your thoughts in the comments section.

 

Your comments this week enter you to win a copy of Cynthia Heald’s I Have Loved You, a book that helps you find peace with your Heavenly Father.  The giveaway will be held Friday, Dec. 2.

On Friday we will share kid-friendly holiday drink recipes.  Please pull out your favorite recipe and be ready to share with the group!

 

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Book Review: 365 Devotions for Finding Rest

Rest…that’s what I’m searching for in my weekly rhythm of fast-paced days.  That’s why I chose this book from a list of wonderful books to review.  And, happily, I found rest just from reading just a few first pages.

I enjoy the blue-tinged pages, because the color blue is comforting and relaxing.  I turned to the October 28 reading, which was the day I received the book on my front porch, and was wowed by the peaceful title, “Faith Over Fear.” I loved the way God used it to speak to my heart, the fears and my faith stirring together inside.  Here’s a quote that brought me comfort: “Let go of your fears today.  Lay them at the feet of God.  Breathe in His promises of provision and exhale any doubt.”  This helps me in my current struggle of fearing what the future holds for my budding writing career.

I enjoy the short, readable format each day, perfect for a busy mom like me.  The day begins with a Bible verse, then a brief devotion, then a one or two-sentence long prayer.  Ideal for my mornings, lunch breaks, or evening prayer time.  This book will be a treasure for building my faith walk.

I thumbed through other sections and I appreciate how the content is seasonal, such as Christmas themes in December.  I also like relevant titles for today’s culture, such as March 2nd’s “Turn Off Technology, Tune Into Dinnertime.”  This book also contains a helpful Scripture Index at the back, so you can quickly find devotions based on specific Bible passages.  What a great resource this promises to be for me!

I recommend this book to anyone wanting a convenient, encouraging, peaceful devotional that fits in a busy schedule.  Holding this plum-colored treasure with peaceful blue accents will surely help you find rest in God’s presence.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

New Online Bible Study for Busy Moms

You are invited to join the online Bible study for my new e-book, Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.  It will be held here on the blog Nov.1 – Dec. 2.

This is how it works:

Get my book in the version you prefer:  the Kindle version, the Nook version or others, or the printable version.
Download the free printables, including the online Bible study guide.
Visit the blog Tuesday through Friday and join in a community of other readers to share ideas, prayer requests, and encouragement.  Every person who comments each week will be entered to win the Friday prize drawing, and will also be entered to win the grand prize Mom’s Pampering Set on December 2.
BONUS ENTRY TODAY ONLY:  Comment on this post that you’re joining the online Bible study, and you’ll receive an additional prize entry!

Here’s an outline of the first week:

Tues., Nov. 1  Days 1 & 2 in the book
Wed., Nov. 2  Day 3, video teaching and discussion
Thurs., Nov. 3 Days 4 & 5, interview with Micah Maddox
Fri., Nov. 4  Peace success stories, kid-friendly drink recipe exchange, and giveaway of “I Have Loved You” by Cynthia Heald

Mondays will be recap days and posts to book reviews.

Any questions?  Comment below or visit my Contact page and send me a message.

I am praying that each person who joins this study will be blessed with extra peace this Christmas, so they can share peace with others.  Will you join in?

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Sneak Peek: Giveaways for New OBS

I’m very excited to host my first online Bible study for my new book, Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.  Everyone who comments on blog posts Tuesdays through Thursdays will be entered to win weekly Friday book giveaways.  All comments during the study will be entered to win a Mom’s Pampering Set as the grand prize giveaway, to be announced December 2.

Here’s a preview of the books for weekly giveaways:

Sparkly Green Earrings by Melanie Shankle

5 Habits of a Woman Who Doesn’t Quit by Nicki Koziarz

I Have Loved You by Cynthia Heald

Your Life Still Counts by Tracie Miles

Longing for Paris by Sarah Mae

The grand prize Mom’s Pampering Set will be shown next week when the study begins.  I hope you will join in on the fun and fellowship of the online Bible study!

Please purchase Christmas Peace for Busy Moms on Amazon or Smashwords.  Then plan to join me for the online Bible study Nov. 1 – Dec. 2, 2016.  Many moms will share ideas and encouragement for Christmas peace in the discussion, and each comment enters you for weekly giveaways.  I look forward to getting to know you here!

Blessings to you today,

Sarah

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5 Ways to be a Peace Warrior this Christmas

I have fought battles for peace in Christmas past.  When forces within and without conspired to seize peace from my busy Decembers, I put on the armor of God to bring peace back to my family’s Christmas celebrations.  It seems ironic to fight for peace, but I have learned from experience that peace always comes at a price, even in the very first Christmas (see Matthew 2).

In my past, broken families, conflict, and grief threatened to destroy the Prince of Peace’s birthday celebration.  But I have learned ways to fight for peace, and I’ve shared them in my new book, Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.

Here are five ways I will be a peace warrior this Christmas:

I will conquer the enemy of condemnation by speaking God’s truth to my heart, using my Peace Scripture Memorization Page.
I will stand up against selfishness by beginning, spending, and ending my day with God, pursuing his peace in the busy Christmas season.
I will cast aside grudges and hurts and work hard for peace in my relationships.
I will drive a stake of God’s peace into the heart of materialism.
I will set my eyes on the summit of peace on Christmas morning, found only through the price Jesus paid to be our Prince of Peace.

If I’m not intentional about seeking peace, even fighting for it when necessary, the enemy will drag me back down into discouragement.  I want this year to be different.  That’s why I wrote Christmas Peace for Busy Moms, not just for others, but for my own quest for perfect peace.

I want peace in my heart this Christmas.  I want to bring peace to my husband and my children.  I want to serve as an ambassador for peace in my extended family, workplace, church, parties, and even in the public square.  I want to glorify God as a peacemaker.  This Christmas, I want my story to be all about peace.

Questions for Reflection:

 

What battles in Christmas past still haunt you?  How can you let go and receive God’s peace?

 

Where do you need peace most this Christmas?  In your heart, day, relationships, surroundings, or holiday?

 

How do you struggle most in your busy December?  In your procrastination, your quest for perfection, or your denial?

 

How do you need to fight for peace this Christmas?  What parts of God’s armor (see Ephesians 6:10-18) will help you in your battles?

 

Want more help finding Christmas peace?  Please purchase Christmas Peace for Busy Moms on Amazon or Smashwords.  Then plan to join me for the online Bible study Nov. 1 – Dec. 2, 2016.  Many moms will share ideas and encouragement for Christmas peace in the discussion, and each comment enters you for weekly giveaways.  I look forward to getting to know you here!

Blessings to you today,

Sarah

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Sneak Peek: Quote Cards for New OBS

I loved designing these quote cards for the upcoming online Bible study, Christmas Peace for Busy Moms, held here on my blog Nov. 1 – Dec. 2.  Here’s a sneak peek at a few of the quote cards:

Day 8:  Peaceful Afternoon

Day 13:  Peace with my Extended Family

Day 16:  Peace at Home

If you like these pins, please share them on your favorite social media platforms!

Want more Christmas peace?   Please purchase Christmas Peace for Busy Moms on Amazon or Smashwords.  Then plan to join me for the online Bible study Nov. 1 – Dec. 2, 2016.  Many moms will share ideas and encouragement for Christmas peace in the discussion, and each comment enters you for weekly giveaways.  I look forward to getting to know you here!

Blessings to you today,

Sarah

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Sneak Peek: Printables for New Online Bible Study

Next week, I will host the online Bible study for Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.  Here’s a sneak peek at the printables which will help you find more peace.  All of them are available for download here.

Online Bible Study Reading Plan—A lowdown of how the online Bible study will work.

 

Peace Scripture Memorization Page—A handy list to help you hide scriptures of peace in your heart.

 

Bedside Reminder Cards—To help you begin and end your days in perfect peace.

 

Cook Once, Eat Twice Ideas—Plans to help you maximize time in the kitchen for peaceful meals in busy December.

 

Want more Christmas peace?  Please purchase Christmas Peace for Busy Moms on Amazon or Smashwords.  Then plan to join me for the online Bible study Nov. 1 – Dec. 2, 2016.  Many moms will share ideas and encouragement for Christmas peace in the discussion, and each comment enters you for weekly giveaways.  I look forward to getting to know you here!

Blessings to you today,

Sarah

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Book Review: Berenstain Bears Christmas Fun

 

The Berenstain Bears Christmas Fun Sticker & Activity Book, by Jan & Mike Berenstain

This book is a delightful way to keep children occupied with fun activities and colorful pictures, while teaching them the true meaning of Christmas at the same time.  Intended for children ages 4-8, this book has mazes, word puzzles, coloring pages with stickers, and other activities for fun engagement.

The illustrations are colorful, playful, and dynamic.  The activities are age-appropriate and learning-based.  A spiritual thread runs throughout the book.  For example, Brother Bear sets up a manger scene, the Christmas angel presents a coded message, and the bears pose as the wise men.

I recommend this book to anyone with children ages 4-8 who is interested in spiritually-based coloring and activity books.  My daughter is 8 years old, and I plan to take this book with us to keep her busy at restaurants and waiting rooms.  She will especially love filling in the pages with the included stickers.

 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Creating Christmas Memories with your Children

My three Christmas sweeties, 2011

Are you looking for ideas to create Christmas memories with your children? I have ideas to share in my new book, Christmas Peace for Busy Moms. Here’s an adaptation from Day 12 of the book, which will soon be featured in the online Bible study here on my blog. Enjoy this excerpt…

Dear friend, I encourage you to purpose in your heart to create peaceful moments with your children this Christmas. Not perfect moments, but peaceful moments. Moments when you intentionally introduce your children to the Prince of Peace.

So many methods and tools exist. I encourage you to choose ones that fit your needs. Here are the ones which have helped me most.

When our children were small, we bought a toy nativity set for them. With this set they acted out the Christmas story in their own imagination, and they delighted in setting animals around the scene and placing baby Jesus in the manger. Times of free play with those toys planted seeds of the true Christmas story in their hearts.

I bought many Christmas picture books for their enjoyment. So many books feature the fun, light, playful aspects of the season, but I made sure to introduce them to stories about the Prince of Peace. (A list of our favorite books is available in Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.)

This year since my children are old enough to enjoy longer stories, we will use Ann Voskamp’s gorgeously written and illustrated “Unwrapping the Greatest Gift” in family devotions. I have found that even my 12-year-old son still enjoys read-aloud family time, and your older children may also. Which books from your family collection serve as tools for teaching your children the Christmas story?

My children love Advent calendars. I use this one: “The Story of Christmas Story Book Set and Advent Calendar” written by Mary Packard and illustrated by Carolyn Croll. This is an imaginative retelling of the Christmas story in 24 little books ready to hang on a tree.

Over breakfast, we read the short daily story and they take turns decorating a small tree in our kitchen meant just for these little books. I like this resource because it keeps all of us in touch with the true Christmas story on a daily basis.

We often use the story of the day as a springboard for discussion on our drive to school and work. It’s an easy way for us to start the day together in God’s Word in busy December.

This year we are also using “All the Colors of Christmas,” a brand-new Advent activity calendar and coloring book from Focus on the Family. I am looking forward to coloring these special pages with my children and creating a unique 3-D paper tree. Visit this link to order while supplies last.

If you liked this post, please purchase Christmas Peace for Busy Moms on Amazon or Smashwords. Then plan to join me for the online Bible study Nov. 1 – Dec. 2, 2016. Many moms will share ideas and encouragement for Christmas peace in the discussion, and each comment enters you for weekly giveaways. I look forward to getting to know you here!

Blessings to you today,

Sarah

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Finding Peace in Christmas Future

When I wrote Christmas Peace for Busy Moms this summer, I wrote what I needed to hear myself.  This Christmas, I need peace in my heart, day, relationships, surroundings, and holiday, as the book outlines.  Here are five ways I’m planning to incorporate ideas from the book in December 2016:

In my heart, I will meditate on God’s peace before I go to sleep each night, using these bedside reminder cards.
In my day, I will prep more in the evening to ensure a more peaceful morning.
In my relationships, I will reach out to friends on a more intentional schedule.
In my surroundings, I will look for ways to share peace every time I’m shopping.
In my holiday, I will prepare meals in advance using my cook once, eat twice ideas so the busy weeks before Christmas are more peaceful times of connection.

Beginning November 1,  join me and other busy moms here on my blog for the online Bible study on Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.  We will share practical ideas for incorporating peace into busy December.  I can’t wait to hear your feedback!

Blessings to you, Sarah

More reader reviews for Christmas Peace for Busy Moms:

Christmas Peace for Busy Moms will be a blessing to whoever reads it! Sarah Geringer discusses real struggles that every busy mom deals with. As a wife and mother of three, I looked forward to each day’s message and how it related to my current situation. Sarah’s suggestions on how to find peace in all aspects of your daily routine were not just helpful and realistic, but also biblically based. If you want to experience PEACE during this hectic Christmas Season, then do yourself a favor and read this book!!!

Sherry F. – Missouri

 

I believe Sarah must have been secretly watching me over the years.  Raising children is a bigger responsibility than any of us can handle alone.  Each day Sarah begins with her own personal story as she tried to live up to the expectations we all put into play at some point.  Her choice of scripture leads to thoughtful reflection for an understanding of where we may be and how God is right there along the way. Christmas Peace for Busy Moms is a unique devotional that dives into topics easily brushed off as important enough to stop and be addressed for peace in all circumstances.  For the first time I look forward to Christmas with my family without feeling guilty.

Kathy B., Missouri

 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Sarah Geringer’s Christmas Peace for Busy Moms.  I am a new empty-nester mom of two college-age boys.  Even though this study is written for moms of younger children still at home, I feel that Sarah’s biblical insight and wisdom are timeless and appropriate for any mom at any stage of life.  The reading for each day taught me something new in my quest for inner peace during the busy season of Christmas when the world focuses on the outward trimmings and activities of the season rather than the peace the Christchild came to bring into our hearts.  Her focus on what God teaches us in the Bible about peace and relationships with our families and friends was encouraging.  Her references to Scripture passages on various topics was most helpful and something I will refer back to time and time again.  Sarah also gives some very practical examples of how to express Christ’s peace not only to our families but anyone we come in contact with throughout our daily lives.  I would encourage anyone in any walk of life to work through this Bible study.  You will be blessed.

Magdalene V., Missouri

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