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10 Fun & Easy Fall Adventures for Homeschool Kids of All Ages

10 Fun & Easy Fall Adventures for Homeschool Kids of All Ages Tricia Goyer

Fall is the perfect season for homeschool families to lace up their boots, breathe in crisp air, and welcome hands-on learning in cozy, meaningful ways. With leaves blazing gold and amber, God’s world is putting on a show—and it’s your invitation to spark curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Whether you have toddlers eager to crunch leaves, middle-graders itching for a science project, or teens looking for deeper exploration, these 10 easy, low-budget, high-fun FALL activities will bring learning to life—hot-cider style! We’ll also highlight Wonders of the Ocean Realm by Tricia Goyer, a book that beautifully weaves faith and science. Even while pumpkins glow on the porch, we can still dive beneath the waves and stand in awe of God’s underwater world.

Fall Adventures for Young Kids (Ages 3 – 7)

1. Grow an “Indoors-in-a-Jar” Harvest Garden 

Plant fast-sprouting wheat grass in a Mason jar, add a miniature fence or scarecrow, and talk about God’s promise to provide every season (Genesis 8:22).

2. Pumpkin-Spice Bubble Science
Whip up homemade bubbles (4 c water, ½ c dish soap, ¼ c corn syrup) and add a dash of pumpkin-pie spice. While bubbles float and pop, read Psalm 39:5—life is “a breadth of a hand,” precious and brief.

3. Leaf-Pile Nature Scavenger Hunt
List autumn treasures—red maple leaf, acorn cap, squirrel sighting—and head outside. Tie your discoveries to Psalm 104:24: “How many are Your works, Lord!”

Fall Adventures for Middle-Grade Kids (Ages 8 – 12)

4. Rain-Cloud-in-a-Jar Experiment
Fall often brings rain. Fill a clear jar with water, top with shaving-cream “clouds,” and drop blue food coloring to watch the “storm” begin. Discuss Job 37:6—God “says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth.’” (Rain counts, too!)

5. DIY Pine-Cone Bird Feeder & Backyard Bird Log
Spread peanut butter on a pine cone, roll it in birdseed, and hang it on a branch. Keep a log of visitors and read Matthew 6:26: God cares for the sparrows—and for us.

6. Wonders of the Ocean Realm & “Seafloor” Density Jar
After reading about deep-sea creatures, layer a tall jar with corn syrup (deep ocean), dish soap (twilight zone), colored water (sunlit zone), and oil (surface). Watch the layers settle while celebrating God’s layered creativity—above and below sea level!

Fall Adventures for Teens (Ages 13 – 18)

7. Gratitude & Prayer Journal Walk
Invite teens to design a journal, then take weekly walks, pressing colorful leaves inside and recording prayers of thanks (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

8. Campfire Storytelling & S’mores Theology
Cool evenings beg for a fire pit. Roast s’mores while discussing John 8:12—Jesus, Light of the World. (No solar oven required when flames crackle under a harvest moon!)

9. Autumn Photography Challenge
Capture ten images of God’s handiwork—frost-tipped grass, migrating geese, family moments—pair each photo with a verse, and create a digital collage or slideshow.

All-Ages Adventure: Family Harvest Picnic & Bible Charades

Pack warm blankets, thermoses of soup, and a basket of apples. Write Bible characters on slips of paper, play charades under a crimson-leaf canopy, then sing worship songs in the glow of sunset. Close with a prayer of gratitude for God’s abundant fall goodness.

Bonus Learning with Wonders of the Ocean Realm

Fall may be leaf-focused, but curiosity can still plunge beneath the surface! Tricia Goyer’s Wonders of the Ocean Realm merges Scripture and science to captivate every age.
Grab your copy and explore creation—from pumpkin patches to coral reefs! Wonders of the Ocean Realm

Fall is a season of harvest—outside and inside our hearts. Whether you’re raking leaves, layering density jars, or savoring campfire s’mores, pause to thank God for family learning and crisp-air memories.

What’s your favorite fall homeschool tradition? Share below—let’s inspire one another!

Printable InstructionsAdditional ResourcesHope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners. Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

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When What-If Worries Crowd Your Heart—Listen for God’s I AM

When What-If Worries Crowd Your Heart—Listen for God’s I AM Tricia Goyer

I can still taste the salt of those 1995 tears. John eased our U-Haul north on I-5 while I stared at the side-view mirror, desperate to keep California in sight. What if something happens to Papa or Grandma Lita while we’re gone? Fear climbed into the passenger seat and fastened its belt.

Then—like a hand on my shoulder—Isaiah 41:10 rose in my memory:

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with My victorious right hand.”

Right there, in the rumble of eighteen-wheelers, I whispered a shaky surrender:
“God, I trade my what-ifs for Your I AM.” The tears didn’t evaporate, but peace slid behind the wheel.

When the Worst-Case Scenario Calls Your Name

Three years later, the phone rang: “Papa has cancer.” Every fear I thought I’d laid down jolted back to life. We drove sixteen hours south, sat at his bedside, and prayed for a miracle. And then—without my prompting—Papa turned to Grandma and said, “Let’s move to Montana. I want you to be with Tricia.”

They arrived over Christmas break. Papa stepped into heaven that March—with my hand in his. Fear didn’t win. Faith did. Grandma Lita unpacked her Bible, her favorite earrings, and her never-empty jar of instant cappuccino. Twenty-five years later, on July 31, 2025, she slipped away the same way she lived—humming a hymn, her hand wrapped in mine, utterly convinced that the next face she’d see was Jesus.’ Despite my fears, God gave me over twenty-five years with Grandma.

A Grandmother’s Beautiful Quilt-Piece Life

Dolores Frances “Lita” Coulter was born in a boxcar on September 17, 1929—tin plates for china, a metal tub for Saturday baths, an outhouse dressed up with the school’s cast-off Christmas tree. Her daddy died when she was eight, so Lita traded childhood for waitress aprons and long shifts at thirteen.

Yet the girl who scrubbed tin dishes could still twirl joy out of thin air. Weed High crowned her “Best Dancer.” Four years later, a World War II veteran named Fred Coulter sat in her diner section and confessed, “I keep sitting here because of your hair.” She noticed his green eyes, and the love story began.

Marriage ushered in daughters, homemade enchiladas, and late-night dancing in the living room glow. Lupus threatened to steal her life, but God whispered, “Not yet”. Half-deaf but wholly determined, she kept working, cooking, and loving.

Everything changed when her daughter Vickie brought home a Bible. Grandma Lita cracked open pages she’d been told were only for priests and met the kind Savior who turned her fear of distant judgment into the freedom of personal grace. She prayed Scripture over her family—every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild by name—until heaven’s gates opened.

In 1998, cancer tried to script the final chapter. Papa responded with a quiet miracle of his own: “Dear, we’re moving to Montana.” Grandma left everything familiar because love follows people, not zip codes. She became the praying heartbeat of our home: morning devotions, afternoon cowboy shows, midnight hymns.

She lived almost ninety-six years—and squeezed every drop of joy: wheelchair-fast passes at Disney World, cruise-ship sunsets in Jamaica, clandestine desserts after curfew, teasing my husband John about her “cowboy boyfriends,” and cheering at each grandchild’s milestone like it was an Olympic finish line.

Papa once glanced out a Montana window days before his passing and whispered, “I wish you could see what I see—the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.” That vision carried Grandma through widowhood, through aches and losses, and finally across her own finish line. I imagine Papa wrapped her in his arms and teased, “Jeepers, what took you so long, Dear?” Then she started dancing again—barefoot, joyful band, and all.

Truths Her Life Still Teaches My Fearful Heart

1. Name the bully. Fear loses power when it’s dragged into daylight. Grandma named poverty, lupus, and widowhood—then spoke a bigger name: Jesus.
“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” (Psalm 56:3)

2. Stand on promises, not possibilities. She wrote verses in her journal like armor.
“Be strong and courageous… the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

3. Move anyway. Courage isn’t the absence of trembles; it’s refusing to let them steer.
“God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

4. Let perfect love cast out fear. Morning hymns and Scripture lullabies drove out the dark.
“Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear.” (1 John 4:18)

For the Heart Still Pacing the Hallway

Which what-if is loudest today? Write it down. Draw a bold line through it. Above the line, in bigger letters, pen “I AM.” Then whisper this prayer—ours, yours, heaven’s:

Lord, You see the tremble hiding beneath my brave face. You know the what-ifs that wake me at 2 a.m. and steal the peace from ordinary afternoons. Thank You that Your I AM swallows every question mark. Trade my panic for Your presence, my dread for Your delight. The same hand that steadied me on I-5, that held Papa, that carried Grandma Lita across the finish line, now holds me.
Lord, I choose to trust—again, and again, and again.  And when the enemy of my soul tries to recycle old fears, remind me that fear cannot rewrite a story already signed by the Author of Life.  In Jesus’ steadfast name,  Amen.

Reflection Question

When you trace the quilt-pieces of your own story, where can you see a patch of fear that God has already stitched into a testimony of His I AM faithfulness?

Fear may shout the loudest, but it never holds the pen. The Great I AM is still writing your story—one promise-soaked, peace-anchored sentence at a time. Trust the Author.

Additional ResourcesDaily Bible Podcast

We’re Tricia and Michelle, two friends inviting you to join us in reading through the Bible chronologically this year. Reading the Bible every day can be a challenge. We’re here to summarize each day’s passage and provide action steps … in under 15 minutes. Grab a buddy and join our community. Take the plunge, and let’s read through the Bible together. We’ll be cheering you on all the way!

You can join us using your own One Year Bible© (if you’d like to purchase one, you can grab your preferred version using the links below). Or you can print up the One Year Chronological Reading Plan. If you don’t have a copy of the One Year Bible©, we will have the exact passages for the next day in the show notes. You can also subscribe to the One Year Chronological Bible Reading plan on the YouVersion Bible App.

Join us here.

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How to Start Homeschooling Your Preschooler

How to Start Homeschooling Your Preschooler Tricia Goyer

I first started homeschooling because my husband and I had met homeschooling kids and we saw a difference in them. We liked what we saw, but we had no idea where to start.

After graduating three kids from homeschooling high school, John and I started again with three more kids, ages five, three, and two. I’ve spent so much time, money, and worries in the past, trying to figure out the “right” curriculum, I’m here to help you skip those burdensome steps!

Seven Ways to StartKnow there is not one perfect curriculum. Find something that matches your interest, can be incorporated into your lifestyle, and looks fun to you. One of my favorite curricula is Sonlight . I love Sonlight because it’s based on reading lots of books, which I love to do. The teacher’s guide gives you a general idea of what activities to do with the books, and my kids love the hands-on approach to learning. Yet, that is what works for me.

Tip: Google “preschool curriculum” and look through the options, but do not let yourself get stressed or worried over finding the perfect one. Your number-one goal as a homeschool teacher is to guide your children to love learning. If you succeed in that . . . you succeed!
Don’t compare your children with other children. I had one child who learned to read at three years old and another child who learned to read at six years old. Each child will learn at a different pace. Girls will usually learn faster than boys. If you’re feeling stressed over your child’s abilities, you’ll no doubt put stress on him or her, too, which will do no one any good!
Pay attention to your child’s interests. Study “themes.” Does your son love cars? Then study everything you can about them. Does your daughter love to bake? Figure out how you can spend time in the kitchen while also learning. (Read books about baking, teach measurements, experiment with recipes.) I love Five in a Row for this very reason.
Forget “socialization.” Focus on quality friendships. I spent years signing up my kids for community teams and activities so that they could get “socialized.” These were often activities my kids didn’t care about, and they produced no lasting relationships. Instead, pick a few like-minded families, with children of similar ages, and choose to connect with them purposefully. Do things together. Share life together. A few life-long friendships with like-minded families will go a long way.
Check out free online printables. This may make me sound old, but the Internet was just starting to put down its roots when I first started homeschooling. Today there are TONS of free online printables. It’s never been easier to come up with something fun and creative to do every day. Just Google “free preschooler homeschool printables” and have fun! I also like to search on Pinterest.
Don’t make your children sit at desks (or at the table). Throughout life, we learn as we live and explore. For every five minutes you spend learning at the table, spend five away from the table bringing learning to life.
Keep a memory box of your child’s activities. Keep track of what you do. Not only will you always be able to look back on these homeschooling years with fondness, but it’s good practice for when you need to start keeping school records, too.

I hope these ideas helped! Feel free to ask additional questions in my comments field. I’d love to help as I’m able. I can say that I’ve NEVER regretted homeschooling.

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live.

Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer.

Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

The post How to Start Homeschooling Your Preschooler appeared first on Tricia Goyer.

Hope During Seasons of Loss, Waiting, and Questions

Hope During Seasons of Loss, Waiting, and Questions Tricia Goyer

The last few weeks have felt like wave after wave crashing against the shore of my heart. In less than a month’s time, my grandmother—who lived with me for two decades and was so much a part of my daily life—was hospitalized, moved to hospice, and then passed away. My father-in-law has struggled with a serious leg injury. My mother-in-law had a stroke. The house we were buying fell through. And then, in a moment of clumsy irony, I broke my foot by opening a door too hard and catching it on my toes. Ouch.

On top of that, our house was filled with people for the memorial service. Our homeschool co-op began (I’m teaching four classes this year). Half-packed boxes are stacked in every room as we prepare to buy a house and move my in-laws in with us. My inbox is overflowing, and I’ve missed multiple book deadlines.

Everything in me wants to jump to overwhelm. But even here, in this swirl of grief, waiting, and exhaustion, my heart remembers: God is with me. He has good plans for me. I am not alone.

I had twenty years of my grandmother’s presence in my home. I have friends and family who have stepped in with love. Most of all, I have the sweet peace of Jesus that steadies me when everything else feels fragile.

When Waiting Feels Too Long

In seasons like this, I’m reminded of Exodus 30–32. While Moses was on the mountain meeting with God, the people down below grew impatient. God had just delivered them from slavery. Craftsmen were building a tabernacle so they could worship the very God who rescued them. Yet, it wasn’t enough. Their hearts were unsettled.

So they asked Aaron to make them a god they could see. Out came the golden calf. They feasted. They danced. They declared, “These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt!”

Wait, What?

They had just agreed to God’s covenant. They had just said, “We will do all the Lord commands.” And in such a short time, they traded the glory of God for something they could shape with their own hands. It’s easy to judge them. But don’t we do the same?

We get tired of waiting for things to improve. We crave something tangible, something we can control. So we pour ourselves into lesser things—success, comfort, approval, even good ministry—hoping it will satisfy. Yet no golden calf, no false idol, can carry us through the wilderness. Only God can.

“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence” (2 Peter 1:3, NLT)The Danger of Misplaced Hope

“When you face a crisis, you don’t need new revelations from God as much as you need to obey what you already know.”

Richard Blackaby

That lands deeply with me right now. In the swirl of grief and uncertainty, my temptation is to look for something immediate—something visible.

But I already know the truth: God is faithful. God is near. God is enough.

“Faith is trusting God even when the answer is no, or not yet, or wait.”

Mark Batterson

Faith is not about instant outcomes. It’s about steady trust.

Choosing Worship in the Wilderness

Just as He did in Exodus, God gives us clear direction for worship and daily life. But He never promises we won’t face times of loss or waiting. The choice before us is this: will we look for quick fixes, or will we trust Him in the silence?

True worship is trusting God when nothing makes sense. It’s choosing to believe that He is still good when life feels anything but.

Friend, if you are in a season of loss, waiting, or endless questions—take heart. God has not abandoned you. He is with you in the mess, in the half-packed boxes, in the grief-filled mornings, and in the long nights of waiting. And when you choose to place your trust in Him, even when you don’t understand, that’s worship.

Let’s Pray

Lord, help me wait well. When I don’t see You moving, remind me that You are still working. Forgive me for the times I’ve turned to other things for comfort or control. You alone are worthy of my worship. Help me to honor You not just with my words, but with my trust. Let my heart remain set apart for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! LISTEN & WATCH

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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and MichelleAugust 25
Ezekiel 26:15-21, Ezekiel 27, 28:1-26, 2 Kings 25:3-7, Jeremiah 52:6-11, Jeremiah 39:2-10 Destruction as a Turning Point

In today’s readings from Ezekiel 26-28 and 2 Kings 25, we explore the theme of destruction and its profound impact. The fall of Tyre and Jerusalem serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and disobedience. However, even in destruction, there is hope and an opportunity for renewal with God.

Ezekiel 26:15-21 and Ezekiel 27: The Fall of Tyre

Ezekiel 26-27 describes the destruction of Tyre, a once-magnificent and thriving city. Known for its wealth, commerce, and beauty, Tyre became prideful and complacent, ultimately leading to its downfall.

Recognizing the Perils of Pride

Pride can blind us to our vulnerabilities, leading to destruction. Let’s remain humble and grounded, acknowledging our dependence on God to avoid the pitfalls of self-reliance and arrogance.

Ezekiel 28: The Judgment of Tyre’s King

Ezekiel 28 continues the prophecy against Tyre, focusing on its king, who exalted himself as a god due to his wisdom and wealth. This arrogance led to his demise, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God’s judgment.

Embracing Humility

The story of Tyre’s king reminds us that true wisdom comes from recognizing our place before God. Embrace humility, knowing that God’s sovereignty transcends all human power and understanding.

The Fall of Jerusalem: 2 Kings 25:3-7 and Jeremiah 52:6-11

These passages recount the tragic fall of Jerusalem, where famine, destruction, and exile mark the end of the Davidic line of kings. King Zedekiah’s capture and the city’s destruction symbolize the severe consequences of disobedience.

Finding Hope in Brokenness

Even in destruction, God’s presence offers hope and renewal. The fall of Jerusalem teaches us that our brokenness can be a turning point, leading us back to God and His promises.

Word of the Day: Destruction

Definition: The process of causing so much damage that something ceases to exist or cannot be repaired.

This word evokes strong emotions of loss and devastation, yet it also holds the potential for transformation and new beginnings.

Embracing New Beginnings

The word “destruction” evokes strong emotions of loss and devastation, yet it also holds the potential for transformation and new beginnings. Whether personal or collective, destruction in our own lives strips away the superficial and opens us to deeper connections with God. It humbles us, making us aware of our need for His grace and guidance.

Ezekiel 28:26: God promises restoration and peace for His people, emphasizing His faithfulness despite their failures.Building Anew with God

In the face of destruction, let us turn to God, trusting in His ability to rebuild and restore. No situation is too broken for His loving touch. As we navigate the ruins of our lives, may we find hope and strength in His promises.

LISTEN HERE WATCH HERE

August 26
Jeremiah 39:11-18, Jeremiah 40:1-6, 2 Kings 25:8-21, Jeremiah 52:12-27, 2 Chronicles 36:15-21, Lamentations 1:1-22 From Captivity to Freedom The Fall of Jerusalem and Jeremiah’s Unyielding Faith

Jerusalem has fallen. We’ve been reading about the prophecies foretelling this tragic event for months. Jeremiah, the prophet, not only had the burden of delivering these warnings, but actually lived through the devastation. Yet, even in overwhelming despair, God’s care for His people shines through in surprising ways.

God’s Unexpected Care: Jeremiah and Ebed-Melech

Even as Jerusalem fell, God showed that He had not abandoned His people. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, ordered his captain of the guard, Nebuzaradan, to look after Jeremiah. Jeremiah, who had been warning his people for years, was cared for by their very enemies. But God’s care was evident even earlier, in His promise of safety to Ebed-Melech, the Ethiopian who saved Jeremiah from the cistern. God’s words to him were clear:

“Because you trusted me, I will give you your life as a reward. I will rescue you and keep you safe” (Jeremiah 39:18)Ramah: A Place of Mourning and Release

Jeremiah’s release at Ramah is deeply symbolic. Ramah, the place associated with Samuel, is also the setting of a prophecy of deep mourning: “A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping…” (Jeremiah 31:15). It is here, among the captives, that Jeremiah was freed, while the rest of Jerusalem’s exiles were led away to Babylon.

Word of the Day: Captivity

Definition: Confinement, bondage, or a loss of freedom.

The Hope for Freedom in Captivity

Captivity is a powerful metaphor. In Jeremiah’s time, the people of Judah found themselves in physical captivity under Babylonian rule. However, this physical bondage was preceded by spiritual captivity—their stubborn resistance to God’s Word. Yet, even in their rebellion and sin, God did not abandon them. He cared for His prophet, He mourned with His people, and He was with them in their suffering.

Today, we might find ourselves in other forms of captivity—trapped by fears, sins, or circumstances. But just as God was with Jeremiah, He is with us. Our true freedom comes not from escaping our circumstances, but from surrendering to God’s will. In this surrender, we find the freedom that only He can give.

A God Who Turns Captivity into Freedom

Jerusalem’s fall was tragic, but it also marked the beginning of a journey toward freedom—a journey that began with recognizing their captivity and turning back to God. The same God who cared for Jeremiah and His people then is the same God who reaches out to us now. Let us lean into Him, trust in His care, and allow Him to turn our captivity into a beautiful journey toward freedom.

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August 27
Lamentation 2-4 Rejected, Yet Not ForsakenJerusalem’s Fall and the Pain of Rejection

Lamentations paints a heartbreaking picture of Jerusalem’s fall—a time when God’s chosen city lay in ruins, the temple destroyed, and its people scattered. The once vibrant city, cherished by God, now rejected due to the people’s disobedience. Lamentations 2:19 calls the people to cry out to the Lord, to pour out their hearts like water. Yet, amid this mourning, Jeremiah reminds us that even in the darkest times, God’s mercy is ever-present.

Word of the Day: Rejected

Definition: Not given approval or acceptance; to refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.); to discard as useless or unsatisfactory.

The word “rejected” echoes through the lament of Jerusalem’s fall. The city, once a symbol of God’s presence and favor, was now rejected because the people had turned away from God. This rejection wasn’t arbitrary—it was the result of a broken covenant, of a people who had forsaken the ways of their Creator.

The Purpose Behind Rejection: A Call to Return

Rejection, as painful as it is, often serves a purpose. For Jerusalem, it was a call to return to God, to self-examine and repent. Rejection can be an invitation—a painful but necessary pathway back to the heart of God. It forces us to confront our own shortcomings and to rebuild our relationship with God on a foundation of trust, obedience, and love.

Rejection as an Invitation to Restoration

We’ve all experienced rejection in one form or another—whether from people or from a perceived distance from God. But rejection doesn’t have to define us. Instead, it can be a stepping stone toward deeper faith and renewal. God’s rejection of Jerusalem wasn’t the end of the story. It was an invitation to return, to be restored, and to rebuild.

The same is true for us. If you’re feeling the sting of rejection today, let it be an opportunity to turn back to God, to seek His compassion and mercy. His love is unwavering, and His compassions never fail.

As Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us:

“Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”Rejection as the Start of a New Chapter

Jerusalem’s rejection led to mourning, but it also paved the way for restoration. In our own lives, rejection can feel like the end, but with God, it can be the beginning of something new. Let “rejected” not be the label that defines you, but a stepping stone toward a deeper relationship with God. Remember, He is the One who never truly rejects you. In His eyes, you are cherished, loved, and His forever.

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August 28
Lamentations 5:1-22, Obadiah 1:1-21, 2 Kings 25:22-26, Jeremiah 40:7-41:18 Desolation Doesn’t Have the Final Say Embracing the Unresolved

Have you ever felt like the story just… ends? No resolution, no neat conclusion, just lingering pain? Today, we reached the final chapter of Lamentations, and it’s clear—Israel is in deep sorrow. Their joy has turned to mourning, their strength to weakness, and they cry out to God, questioning if He has utterly rejected them. Lamentations 5 leaves us hanging, unresolved. Yet, this unresolved anguish was never meant to be the final word. It’s a poignant reminder that sometimes, our stories feel incomplete, filled with lament, grief, and suffering. But is that the end?

Obadiah: A Prophecy of Destruction

As we turn the page to the book of Obadiah, we’re met with a prophecy against Edom, Israel’s bitter enemy. God declares that He will cut Edom down to size, exposing their pride and bringing them to desolation. Edom rejoiced over Israel’s suffering, but now their judgment is at hand. Their fate is sealed—complete destruction, with no survivors. Yet, even in this harsh judgment, there’s a contrast: while Edom faces utter desolation, God promises to restore Israel.

The Drama Continues: 2 Kings and Jeremiah

In 2 Kings 25 and Jeremiah 40-41, we witness more chaos and treachery. Gedaliah, appointed governor after Jerusalem’s fall, is assassinated despite warnings. Fear and uncertainty grip the people, leading many to flee to Egypt. Desolation seems to rule the day, but is this really the end of the story?

Word of the Day: Desolation

Definition: The state of complete emptiness or destruction.

This is a word that resonates deeply with today’s readings. The pain of Lamentations, the judgment in Obadiah, the betrayal and chaos in 2 Kings and Jeremiah—they all point to a time of profound desolation. But here’s the truth: Desolation might describe a season, but it does not define our destiny.

Hope After Desolation

As we reflect on the word “desolation,” it’s natural to want to look ahead to a brighter day. Yet, God often meets us in our desolate places. The Bible teaches us that desolation is never the final word. God is a Redeemer and Restorer. Even in the most barren times, He’s working behind the scenes, shaping and molding us for what’s to come.

When you find yourself in a desolate place, remember that it’s not your final destination. Desolation may mark a difficult season, but God’s plan for you is one of restoration, hope, and renewal. Cry out to Him in your pain; He hears you and is near to the brokenhearted. Trust that He’s writing a beautiful story with your life, one that will turn desolation into something thriving and beautiful.

From Desolation to Declaration

Desolation does not have the final say—God does. And His declaration over your life is one of unfailing love and faithfulness. Your desolation is not your destination; it’s a stepping stone to God’s glorious purpose for you. Trust Him, and watch as He turns the broken places into something beautiful.

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August 29
Jeremiah 42-44, Ezekiel 33:21-33 A Canopy of Protection A Remnant’s Fear and Disobedience

In today’s readings from Jeremiah 42 and 43, we see the remnant of Israelites in Jerusalem, a group broken and afraid. They ask Jeremiah to seek God’s guidance, promising to obey whatever He commands. After ten days, Jeremiah returns with God’s instructions:

“Stay here in this land. I will build you up and plant you; do not fear, for I am with you.”

But the remnant, consumed by fear and doubt, chooses disobedience. Despite God’s clear command, they decide to flee to Egypt, dragging Jeremiah along with them. This decision marks a significant moment of defiance, highlighting their lack of trust in God’s protection.

God’s Hidden Plan

As the remnant heads to Egypt, God speaks to Jeremiah again, instructing him to bury large stones at the entrance of Pharaoh’s house. These stones symbolize the foundation upon which Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon, will set his throne—an assertion of his conquest over Egypt. Jeremiah 43:11 reveals a powerful image:

“He will spread his royal canopy over them.”

This canopy, a symbol of authority and shelter, signifies God’s control over the events that will unfold. Though the remnant defies God, He remains sovereign, orchestrating His plans under this symbolic covering.

Continued Defiance: Worshiping the Queen of Heaven

Jeremiah 44 brings a strong message from God to the Judeans in Egypt. Despite witnessing the destruction of Jerusalem due to idolatry, they boldly continue to worship the “Queen of Heaven.” Their defiance is astonishing, as they openly declare their intent to continue their idolatry, believing it brought them prosperity. God, through Jeremiah, warns them of impending judgment, but their hearts remain hardened. This chapter underscores the dangers of idolatry and the importance of obedience to God.

Ezekiel’s Warning: A Call to Genuine Obedience

In Ezekiel 33, we see a similar theme. God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for Israel, but the people listen to his words without acting on them. They treat his prophecies like beautiful songs—pleasant to hear but not worth obeying. This passage emphasizes personal responsibility in our relationship with God. It’s not enough to hear the word; we must respond in obedience.

Word of the Day: Canopy

Definition: A sheltering cover that signifies protection.

In Jeremiah 43:11, the canopy represents God’s sovereignty and His ability to shelter His people, even in their disobedience. It also symbolizes the hidden plans of God, which He carefully covers and reveals in His time. Just as Nebuchadnezzar’s throne was set over the hidden stones, our lives are often guided by God’s hidden hand, working in ways we cannot always see or understand.

God’s Canopy Over Our Lives

As we reflect on the word “canopy,” we see how God’s protection and sovereignty extend even into our moments of disobedience. The Israelites chose to defy God’s command, yet His plans remained intact. This should be a powerful reminder that while our choices have consequences, God’s overarching plan is never thwarted. He is our shelter, our canopy, even when we stray from His will.

In your life, there may be times when you feel tempted to flee from God’s guidance, thinking that your way is better or safer. But remember, God’s canopy of protection covers you wherever He leads you. Trust in His shelter, His timing, and His plans. Even when things seem hidden or unclear, God’s canopy is a sign of His ever-present care and sovereignty.

Under God’s Canopy

Today’s readings challenge us to trust in God’s covering, even when we are afraid or tempted to go our own way. His canopy is not just a symbol of authority, but of shelter and protection. Whether you are standing firm in faith or struggling with doubt, remember that God’s canopy is over you, guiding and sheltering you in every season of life.

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August 30
Ezekiel 34-36 Eden Restored: Finding Delight in God’s PromiseA Shepherd’s Love for His Flock

In Ezekiel 34, God delivers a powerful message to the leaders of Israel, likening them to negligent shepherds who have failed their flock. These leaders have sought their own gain, leaving the people neglected, weak, and scattered. But God, in His compassion, promises to take on the role of the Good Shepherd Himself. He declares that He will search for His lost sheep, heal their wounds, and bring them back to safety. This imagery not only reflects God’s care for His people in the present but also points forward to the coming of the Messiah, the “Davidic Shepherd,” who will rule with justice and mercy.

Ezekiel 35: Judgment on Edom

As we move to Ezekiel 35, God’s judgment against Edom, a nation that has harbored animosity against Israel for generations, becomes clear. Edom’s pride and hostility have led to its downfall. God’s judgment is a reminder that no nation or people can oppose His will and escape the consequences. Edom, once filled with hatred and aggression, will become a desolate land, a stark contrast to the restoration that God promises to Israel.

The Hope of Restoration: Ezekiel 36

Ezekiel 36 brings a message of hope and restoration. After addressing the failures of the past and the consequences that Israel faced, God promises to renew the land and the hearts of His people. The desolate places will once again flourish, and the land of Israel will be like the Garden of Eden—full of life, beauty, and delight. But this restoration is not just about physical renewal; it’s about spiritual transformation. God promises to cleanse His people, give them new hearts, and place a new spirit within them. This echoes the promise of Eden—a place of pleasure and delight—pointing us to the ultimate fulfillment in heaven.

Word of the Day: Eden

Definition: A place of pleasure and delight.

In Ezekiel 36:35, God compares the restored land of Israel to the Garden of Eden. The Hebrew root of the word ‘Eden’ is linked to the concept of pleasure, as seen in other scriptural references. This connection to Eden not only recalls the beauty and abundance of the original garden but also points us forward to the eternal Eden—heaven. While Eden was touched by sin, heaven will be untouched by it, making it a place of eternal delight.

The Restoration of Our Hearts

As I read Ezekiel 36:25-26, my heart soared:

"Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart."

This passage is not just about the physical restoration of Israel, but about the spiritual renewal of our hearts. It’s a reminder that God is in the business of transforming lives, taking what was once hard and unyielding and making it tender and responsive to Him.

Eternal Eden: A Promise for Us All

The restoration of Israel is a foreshadowing of the eternal Eden that God promises to those who follow Him. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of the renewal of all things, where those who have followed Him will inherit eternal life. This eternal Eden is not just a place; it’s a state of being—one where we live in perfect harmony with God, in a place untouched by sin and filled with eternal delight.

For the Sake of His Name

God’s restoration of Israel was not just for their sake but for the sake of His holy name. As we look forward to the eternal Eden, let’s remember that it is by God’s grace that we are invited into this place of delight. It’s not about what we have done, but about what God has done for us. As we turn our hearts to Him, we can trust that He will lead us to that eternal Eden, where we will dwell with Him forever.

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August 31
Ezekiel 37-39, Ezekiel 32:1-16 Breathe Life in the Valley of Dry Bones The Power of God’s Breath

Remember that old Sunday School song about the dry bones? The one that goes, “Toe bone connected to the foot bone, foot bone connected to the heel bone…” It’s a catchy tune, but the story behind it, found in Ezekiel 37, is far more powerful than a simple children’s song. It’s a story of hopelessness turned to hope, of death transformed into life, all through the breath of God. Today, as we dive into Ezekiel 37 and 38, we’ll explore how God’s breath can bring life to the most desolate places in our lives.

Ezekiel 37: The Valley of Dry Bones

In Ezekiel 37, the prophet is given a vision of a valley filled with dry bones—an image of utter desolation and death. But God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to these bones, and as he does, something miraculous happens. The bones begin to rattle and come together, forming skeletons. Then, sinews, flesh, and skin cover them, but they are still lifeless. It’s only when God commands Ezekiel to call upon the breath—His breath—that the bodies come to life. The breath of God transforms these dry bones into a living, breathing army.

This powerful imagery is not just about a physical resurrection but symbolizes the spiritual revival that God promises to His people. They were like those dry bones—scattered, lifeless, without hope. But with His breath, God restores them, giving them life, hope, and a future. As Charles Spurgeon noted, we must be attentive to every movement of God’s Spirit, recognizing that even the smallest signs of life are part of His restorative work.

Ezekiel 38: The Battle Against Gog

As we move to Ezekiel 38, we encounter another dramatic scene—a prophecy against Gog, the leader of a mysterious and powerful nation. Gog’s armies rise against Israel, threatening to overwhelm God’s people. But just as quickly as they rise, God declares their defeat. He promises to bring confusion among Gog’s forces, causing them to turn on each other, and He will send torrential rain, hailstones, fire, and sulfur to destroy them. This display of God’s power serves as a reminder that no enemy, no matter how great, can stand against Him.

The defeat of Gog is symbolic of all the forces that rise against God’s people throughout history. It’s a reminder that God’s protective hand is always over us, and His breath—His life-giving Spirit—will sustain us in the face of any adversity.

Word of the Day: Breathe

Definition: To take air, oxygen, etc., into the lungs and expel it; inhale and exhale; to inject as if by breathing; to infuse.

In the story of the dry bones, it’s God’s breath that brings life to what was once dead. The Hebrew word for “breath” is also the word for “spirit” or “wind,” and it represents the life-giving power of God. In Genesis 2, we read that God breathed into Adam’s nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living being. This breath of life is what sustains us, not just physically, but spiritually.

Inviting God’s Breath Into Our Lives

We all go through seasons where our spirits feel dry and lifeless, where hope seems distant, and dreams feel shattered. It’s in these moments that we need God’s breath to revive us, to infuse us with new life, passion, and purpose. Just as God breathed life into the valley of dry bones, He wants to breathe life into us. His breath can restore what is broken, heal what is wounded, and revive what seems dead.

But there’s another lesson in these chapters. The story of Gog reminds us that while we may face battles and adversities, we are not alone. God’s breath strengthens us, and His power protects us. When we try to do things on our own, like the Egyptians, we distance ourselves from the true source of life and strength. Instead, we should invite God into our struggles, asking Him to breathe life into our darkest moments.

Breathe on Us, Lord

As you reflect on today’s readings, ask yourself: Do you need God’s breath to revive a particular area of your life? Are there ‘Gogs’—fears, doubts, or challenges—that are intimidating you? Or is there a place where pride has taken root, causing you to rely on your strength instead of God’s? Let’s invite God’s presence into these areas. Breathe on us, Lord. Revive, protect, and humble us so that we may walk in alignment with Your perfect will.

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Writer’s Desk: Kurt Mahler

Writer’s Desk: Kurt Mahler Tricia Goyer

Kurt helps those who built someone else’s dream finally build their own.

As a speaker, advisor, and award-winning poet, he draws from twenty years of lived experience in forty nations.

He is a sought-after voice on five continents, advising expats in places as challenging as Cuba, Persia, and North Korea. He has published multiple books , hundreds of articles, and well-respected poetry.

Kurt and his wife Karen have been married since 1993 and raised their family in Afghanistan, where they founded a community development agency. They are Americans living in the Emirates with ties to the Gulf Coast, the Rio Grande Valley, Central Texas, Louisiana, and New England.

He writes in the poetic tradition, inspired by the wonder of creation, the mysteries of the Ancient Faith, and the drama of the nations. Guiding sources for his work include the Hebrew prophets, the Desert Fathers, Dante, Milton, George MacDonald, C.S. Lewis, and Tolkien.

Why? Because thought leaders go back to the beginning to find the way forward.

The key to the future begins with a memory. Our calling comes from the original self the Creator had in mind when He said, “Let there be you.”

To initiate your own return to what matters most, receive Kurt’s free discovery tool, Recollect Watermark Moments—a reflective guide to help you begin again after a success, a setback, or the stirrings of a new season—subscribe at kurtmahler.com, where you will find his writings on the Ancient Faith, original poetry, and a portal to invite him as a keynote speaker.

For those ready to invest in the deep work of personal transformation, Kurt accepts a small number of coaching clients at a time—leaders and creators prepared to ask themselves, “What one brave thing will I do today?”

Connect with Kurt Mahler on his website, book page, Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads, Bookbub, LinkedIn, and don’t forget to subscribe to his newsletter.

More about The Jaguar Oracle Series

Immerse yourself in a rich, mythopoetic world where the animal kingdom and human lives intertwine in a captivating modern Texas epic. The Jaguar Oracle series blends poetry, prophecy, and parables to uncover the forgotten wisdom of the natural world.

At the heart of this mystical saga is Oracle, a legendary jaguar who remembers the naming of the animals in the Garden of Eden.

When Oracle enters the Rio Grande Valley, his presence awakens parallel dramas in both the animal and human realms, as hearts that are hungry—and hardened—respond to the mysterious great cat.

As Oracle picks up the trail of the last jaguar, he gathers an unlikely circle of animal friends—a clever raccoon, a steadfast horse, a precocious Cajun toad—who join him in guiding a vulnerable child abandoned on the beach. Meanwhile, an eclectic group of humans, each pursuing their own path back to Eden, becomes entangled in the unfolding drama.

This series explores the interconnectedness of all living things, as each “tribe”—whether animal or human—wrestles with their role in the awakened Rio Grande Valley. From javelinas to alligators, prize bulls to rogue tigers, the natural world communicates in profound and surprising ways, while the tribes of man confront their own fears and find the courage to reclaim their forgotten roots.

Blending elements of magical realism, mythology, and environmental advocacy, The Jaguar Oracle series invites readers into a world where creation groans with hope, where all things sigh with sorrow but drink in joy, and where the breath of Eden is rediscovered. Lose yourself in this captivating odyssey and remember the true name that has been spoken over you.

Learn more about The Jaguar Oracle Series and purchase here.

Enter to Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card + Books 1 – 3 of the Jaguar Oracle Series

Q&A with Kurt Mahler

ARCF: Can you tell us a little about the Jaguar Oracle series and what your inspiration?

KM: The book is about finding courage for your calling, written in the tradition of the poets and the prophets. (“Calling” = Who the Creator thought of when He said, “Let there be you.”)

It is two parallel tales.

One tale is of the realm of creation, both visible and invisible. Parallel to this tale is the human one, with its all-too-real real tragedies and dramas. The links between them center around the jaguar named Oracle, who remembers Adam’s naming of the animals in the Garden of Eden.

The other tale is a mystical, majestic, at times whimsical epic where all things have a voice. Enriching this tale are poems, proverbs, parables, prayers, and prophecies that put courage in the reader.

Origin of the Tale

The idea for the Jaguar Oracle series came from a black-and-white photo and a question.

The photo, dated January 1946, is of farmers and ranchers displaying what they believed at the time to be the last jaguar in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, which they had hunted down and killed. I saw it in a book at my in-laws house called El Valle: The Rio Grande River Delta by Seth Patterson.

A few hours later during a time of prayer about some troublesome matter I no longer remember, a thought caused me to pause. The question dropped into me: “What if a jaguar returned to the Rio Grande Valley?”

In The Way Back to Eden, in the chapter called “The Photo,” a leading human character named Tripp  sees the photo in that book, and, as a result, is inspired in a dream about Oracle the  jaguar  that night.

ARCF: Are there any real-life landmarks or cities that helped shape the settings in the series?

KM: Since this is a magical realism tale, it is filled with actual landmarks. One glance at the imaginary map of the tale, and you will see that the story takes place in South Texas, where every real-life landmark the characters encounter is described accurately alongside the imagined story and scenes that take place therein.

Any reader familiar with Texas will find themselves smiling as certain places, landmarks, streets, and even restaurants become scenes for the tale. Brownsville, Waco, the Brazos River, the Rio Grande, West Texas—the list is rich and long!

(For example: when the raccoon mentions Coffee Port road, or when the character Papá Eli declares how tasty the tamales at Delia’s are, or when law enforcement officers meet at the Oyster Bar, the reader from the Rio Grande Valley who knows these places may chuckle! Also, there is a group of birds called the Colony of the lost who live on Green Island. Everyone on the South Texas coast knows  of that Audubon  bird sanctuary. There’s a chase seen at the university campus on the Rio Grande River. I could create a whole index of place names, it’s that comprehensive.)

Every single reference to an animal species, plant species, and astronomical phenomena is the fruit of more than a decade of research. I  have made great effort to track factual information back to original sources and firsthand accounts so that the “realism” side of this magical realism tale is real indeed.

ARCF: Which character in Jaguar Oracle do you relate to the most?

KM: Patch the raccoon. He is the first friend Oracle the jaguar makes when he arrives in South Texas from the Yucatán of Mexico after a ten-month journey. Patch is cautious and unpretentious, but he is also clever and inspired to acts of self-giving love for the band of new friends he and the jaguar become the core of, which includes a wise old horse named Plod and a poetically inclined Gulf Coast toad named Bog.

In the audiobook version, Nashville actor Zach Haufman renders his voice after his favorite actor, Tom Hanks.

I expect that many readers will identify with his longing for close friends and a supreme purpose that pairs with his struggle to be courageous.

ARCF: Did any of your characters evolve in unexpected ways while you were writing?

KM: The lead human female character has turned out to be central to the tale. Her name is Chasing Eagle (“Chase”), a zoologist and zoo director of Northern Cheyenne origin. Because she understands that Creation has a voice, she becomes aware of the special nature of the jaguar before the others do.

Tripp, a reckless entrepreneur with a huge high-tech ranch, enlists Chase’s environmental expertise to help him prosper the wildlife and imported African animals on his operation. But Tripp and Chase fall into conflict—and maybe for each other—as Tripp builds ahead of the balance she is trying to fight for. By Book 4, The Path in the Darkness, Chase is searching out the origins of the jaguar’s mysterious power by visiting ancient caves in West Texas, where the early native peoples painted the story of the jaguar on the walls.

ARCF: Who would you cast in a movie adaptation of Jaguar Oracle?

KM: In an animated film adaptation of the tale, Liam Neeson would be the voice of Oracle and Tom Hanks the voice of Patch the raccoon. These are in fact the voices that actor Zach Hoffman uses for these characters when he narrates. Tom Hanks is Zach’s role model for acting. There is a cartel kingpin trying to retire; he becomes involved in trying to protect an abandoned child from falling into the hands of malicious enemies. If he were living, I would cast Cesar Romero for that role.

ARCF: What’s the most fun scene you’ve written in the series so far?

KM: Two scenes comes to mind:

When Patch the raccoon defends an abandoned child from ferocious pitbulls, he employs the tricks of his tribe to outfox the dogs, such as pouring barbecue sauce on the ground as an irresistible force pulling the pitbulls away from attacking and toward feasting on morsels.

Oracle dreams he is in the Garden of Eden, where he meets “the gardener”! This is one of the best scenes I have written, I believe.

ARCF: Do you write with a particular reader in mind—or just for yourself?

KM: I serve the person who is starting over after a setback, a success, or the start of a new life season. I write to the one who has spent their life building someone else’s dream, but now they are mustering their courage to build their own. In short, I write to those seeking courage for their calling.

As for age range, the plot of The Jaguar Oracle Series is clear enough that an elementary-school-age reader could follow it but deep enough that the adult reading the tale to their child may find tears in their eyes. This is in the tradition of the Christian fantasies of Lewis, Tolkien, and Geroge MacDonald.

ARCF: Have you ever had a dream or nightmare that inspired part of the story?

KM: Yes, in 2019. After several years of being involved in full-time, frenetic service on a church staff, I had become so busy with it that I had not touched the Jaguar Oracle tale. Then, one night I dreamed I was walking along the shore in Ireland. I turned at a bend, and there, at the foot of a great cliff, were all my animal characters, dozens of creatures of all sorts, with the main animal characters in the center of the gathering. They were all looking out at the sea. Then, they all turned their heads toward me at the same time. And I saw in their radiant and expectant faces a singular, solemn message: “We are waiting for you to give us a voice.” Not long after that, the elders of my church sent me out to serve the nations, with one of my specific commissions being to serve the nations through writing.

See the covers of the first four of the seven books here at my website.

ARCF: What’s one secret about the Jaguar Oracle universe that no one’s discovered yet?

KM: Every single astronomical description is exactly accurate to a specific date and time. No one has yet discovered the dates. I labored long in research to make it so, especially employing the astronomy app Starry Night Enthusiast 8, which I learned of while reading The Great Christ Comet by Colin Nicholl. Every single description of the moon’s phase and position in the sky is accurate.

In Book 2, The Way Back to Eden, there is a hermit based on a long lost close relative of mine who lives on land just like that described.

Travis Menefee III (Tripp), a leading human character in my animal tale, is named after a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. I learned of this name from a friend of mine who bears it as his middle name.

The main character in the Jaguar Oracle is a jaguar who, apparently, has spent time with a lion a lot like Aslan.

In the audiobook, narrator Zach Lazar Hoffman bases the voice of the jaguar on that of Liam Neeson, and he bases the voice Patch raccoon on that of Tom Hanks.

ARCF: And finally, can you share what you have coming up next?

KM: The Search for the Shadow Cat: Book 3 of the Jaguar Oracle Series just launched in print and digital formats on all major platforms! The audio version by Nashville Audio Productions is soon to follow.

I have launched a keynote speaking service and would love to connect with listeners about speaking in a webinar format on Two Keys to Growing in Courage, Two Clues to Knowing Your Calling, and Overcoming Disappointment. This way they can see if I’m a fit to speak at their group event.

People can learn about my books and my speaking services at my website kurtmahler.com , where they receive a free discovery tool called Recollect Watermark Moments,—a reflective guide to help you begin again after a success, a setback, or the stirrings of a new season— when they subscribe to my newsletter. Here is the book page for avid reaches of Christian fiction, and here is my media kit for meeting planners and podcast interviewers.

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Faith Driven Moments with Dana Roefer

Faith Driven Moments with Dana Roefer Tricia Goyer

Listen to the episode with Dana Roefer here.

About Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens

God calls us all to build a better future. With Him. For others. We’re not made to sit on the sidelines. We’re driven to move forward. Under His power and for His glory. Let’s go.

Our mission has been and continues to be God. Above all, we want to partner with Him in His redemptive work leading more people to know Him and discover the joy and hope in Him alone.

For a movement to ignite or society to shift, missiologists talk about being focused on high-leveraged areas. In many Christian movements, this has meant reaching the “leaders of leaders.” That focus is beginning to shift. Today, small business owners are 9x more trusted than politicians and 2x more trusted than the Church.

Fewer people are coming inside the walls of the Church for answers. Instead of being a problem, we see this as a time for recalibration. We envision a vibrant community of high-capacity business leaders solving the world’s greatest problems and faithfully caring for those around them—under God’s power and for His glory.

While opportunity abounds, today’s entrepreneurs and investors are susceptible to the toxic aspects of secular culture—worshiping mammon, idolizing individualism, and perpetuating existential relativism. The need to guide, prepare, and support these influential shapers of culture and the next generation is vital.

Learn more about Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens here.

Connect with Dana Roefer
website | Facebook | Instagram

Dana Roefer serves as the Vice President of Faith Driven Entrepreneur for Teens.

Entrepreneurship has been at the heart of Dana’s career—both in launching her own ventures and supporting others in building theirs. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs gain clarity, navigate challenges, and bring their ideas to life.

Alongside her husband, Matt, Dana founded the Grand Rapids Children’s Business Fair and Journey Academy, creating opportunities for young people to explore innovation and entrepreneurship.

Dana holds a BA in Communication from Michigan State University. She and Matt have been married since 2008 and have two boys, Simon and Lucas. They enjoy all four seasons in Grand Rapids, MI.

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Real Life, Real Kids, Real Homeschool

Real Life, Real Kids, Real Homeschool Tricia Goyer

Some things change—and some things stay wonderfully the same.

Nearly two decades ago, I posted this photo of my son Cory and his friends at a Young Life Camp. He was tall, charming, and so full of life. That same son who once climbed every tree in sight and left sticky peanut butter fingerprints on the fridge is now grown and married with kids of his own. And you know what? I still remember how many times a day he’d pause to give me a hug or kiss on the cheek.

Back then, I was a homeschooling mom of three. Today, I can say I’ve been a homeschooling mom of ten. Yes, ten. With seven more adopted children, I’ve been blessed with an even bigger crew to love, teach, pray over, and yes—occasionally wrangle! I’m also teaching, coaching, and caring for my aging parents and grandparents. Life is full. Sometimes overflowing.

But that doesn’t mean it’s bad. It just means it’s real.

The Messy Beauty of Real Life Homeschooling

Let’s be honest: homeschooling doesn’t look like what we see on Instagram. It’s not always nature walks, color-coded planners, and smiling kids with freshly combed hair. It’s cereal bowls still on the table at 10 a.m. and chasing toddlers while explaining fractions. It’s reading aloud while folding laundry and realizing someone hasn’t done math in three days.

But you know what? That’s not failure. That’s faithfulness.

God didn’t call us to homeschool to prove a point or paint a Pinterest-perfect picture. He called us to disciple the children He entrusted to us. To know them deeply. To raise them in the knowledge and love of Him. And sometimes, that sacred calling looks a lot like spaghetti on the wall and curriculum unfinished.

5 Ways to Pause and Simply Be Present

But structure isn’t everything. God didn’t call us to raise robots. He called us to love our children—and sometimes that means pausing the plan.

Say yes to spontaneous snuggles – Let the math wait if a child wants to talk or read with you.Take “nothing” days – Set aside a full day where the only goal is to rest, enjoy each other, and have fun.Go outside and breathe – Nature has a way of healing anxious hearts. Take a walk or sit on the porch together.Have one-on-one time – A quick trip to the grocery store can turn into quality time with a single child.Celebrate little wins – Make a big deal out of progress, not perfection. Honor their efforts and remind them they are more than their performance.God’s Word on the Messy Middle

Scripture reminds us of what matters most:

“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
— Proverbs 15:17“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
— Psalm 90:12“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…”
— Colossians 3:23

Real life homeschooling is never going to look perfect—but it can be powerful. Because in the mess and interruptions, God is working. He’s shaping your children. He’s shaping you. The conversations in the minivan, the correction at the kitchen table, the tears, the laughter—they all matter deeply.

A Prayer for the Homeschool Parent

Dear Jesus,
Thank You for this sacred work You’ve called me to. Help me to see these interruptions not as inconveniences, but as invitations—to pause, to love, to listen, and to disciple. Give me the wisdom to lead my children with grace and the humility to let You lead me first. Let our home be filled with joy, even when it’s loud. Let our days be full of connection, even when the checklist doesn’t get done. Remind me that what the world calls a mess, You often call ministry. Amen.

Remember: The real homeschool life isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. And that’s exactly where God shows up.

Additional ResourcesHope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer. Get Homeschool Basics on Amazon Now!

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20 Things I’ve Learned About Getting a Book Publisher

20 Things I’ve Learned About Getting a Book Publisher Tricia Goyer

When people ask how I’ve published over 90 books, I tell them—it wasn’t overnight. It was years of persistence, prayer, and learning from both mistakes and divine appointments. If you’re dreaming of seeing your book in print, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.

Called to the Work Only You Can Do

Somewhere between In the beginning and Amen, God wrote your story. He placed in you a unique mix of experiences, insights, and words. Not a single other soul on earth can tell the story the way you can.

Paul reminds us:

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

Did you catch that? Prepared in advance. Before you held a pen, He knew what you’d write. Before you tapped a single key, He knew the readers who’d need your words.

But here’s the hard truth: many of us tuck that calling into a desk drawer. We tell ourselves we’ll write when we have more time. Or we let fear hush our voices before they can be heard. Some have manuscripts gathering dust, not because God hasn’t called, but because we’ve hesitated to answer.

Friend, what if your words are the very thing someone else is praying for today? What if your story, your testimony, your imagination—wrapped in sentences—becomes the lifeline God uses to pull them closer to Him?

Writing is not a hobby when it’s a calling. It’s a stewardship. It’s the parable of the talents in ink and paper. And I believe the Master smiles when we take what He’s entrusted to us and multiply it for His glory.

That’s why I want to share with you the lessons I’ve learned in over thirty years of writing—twenty things every author should know about getting a book publisher. Because the sooner you step forward in faith, the sooner your God-given words can go to work in the world.

1. Attend Writer’s Conferences

When I first stepped into a conference in California, I was terrified. My proposal shook in my hands. But that day, I met the editor who would open my first publishing door.

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

Tricia’s Quick Tip: Conferences aren’t just about learning—they’re about connecting. Smile, be approachable, and introduce yourself.

2. Submit Work While You’re There

I once slid a devotional across the table to an editor during a break. That submission led to my first published piece.

“Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

Faith Reminder: Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s trusting God in the middle of it.

3. Build Long-Term Relationships

Some editors I met 20 years ago are still friends today. Nurture those connections—a “no” can turn into a “yes” later.

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." (Proverbs 17:17)

Tricia’s Quick Tip: Keep a spreadsheet of contacts—follow up with encouragement, not just pitches.

4. Find Your Writing Community

After a few rejections, I joined a prayer group of writers. Their encouragement kept me from quitting.

“Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)

Faith Reminder: God didn’t design you to do this alone.

5. Get an Agent

My first agent not only found opportunities but also protected me from bad contracts.

“Listen now to me and I will give you counsel, and God will be with you.” (Exodus 18:19)

Tricia’s Quick Tip: Don’t query every agent—find the ones who represent your genre.

6. Research Your Dream Publishers

I once pitched a novel to a devotional-only house—oops! Know their catalog first.

“The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge.” (Proverbs 18:15)

Faith Reminder: Preparation honors God’s call.

7. Build Your Platform

When I pitched Walk It Out, I already had a blog, social media, and speaking events. Publishers want to see your audience.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” (1 Peter 4:10)

Tricia’s Quick Tip: Focus on quality followers, not just numbers.

8. Keep Learning

Even after decades, I still take classes. Publishing changes—so should you.

“Let the wise listen and add to their learning.” (Proverbs 1:5)

9. Understand “Finished” Doesn’t Mean “Done”

My first “finished” novel doubled in size after edits.

“These trials will show that your faith is genuine.” (1 Peter 1:7)

Tricia’s Quick Tip: Embrace the editing process—it’s where good books become great.

10. Be the Writer Publishers Want to Work With

I’ve gotten contracts because I was easy to work with, not just because of my writing.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition… but in humility consider others better than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)

11. Accept That Writing Is Hard

I’ve cried over rejection letters. Keep going anyway.

“Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.” (Hebrews 12:1)

Faith Reminder: The calling is worth the struggle.

12. Start Small

I began with Guideposts and Focus on the Family articles.

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Luke 16:10)

13. Set Daily Word Count Goals

When I’m on deadline, I write 2,500–3,000 words before touching email.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart.” (Colossians 3:23)

14. Batch Your Tasks

I research multiple chapters at once or cook double meals to save writing time.

“Teach us to number our days.” (Psalm 90:12)

15. Don’t Edit While Writing

I leave bracketed notes like [research here] so I don’t break my flow.

“By faith Abraham… went out, not knowing where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8)

16. Match Tasks to Your Energy

I write in the morning, save admin for later.

Faith Reflection: Offer your best hours to God.

17. Read Your Work Before Bed

I often wake up with solutions to plot problems.

“I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me.” (Psalm 16:7)

18. Raise the Stakes for Your Characters

In From Dust and Ashes, I pushed my characters harder—it made the story better.

“Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials.” (James 1:2–4)

19. Brainstorm with Others

Co-author calls have sparked some of my best ideas.

“Plans fail for lack of counsel.” (Proverbs 15:22)

20. Commit Daily—Even in Small Steps

Even Hemingway wrote only 700 words a day.

“Let us not become weary in doing good.” (Galatians 6:9)

Publishing is talent, persistence, and relationships—but most of all, obedience to God’s call. Every step—every article, every connection—is a seed He can grow. Keep showing up, keep trusting, and keep writing.

The Pages Yet to Be Written

When the last conference badge is packed away, when the edits are done and the contract is signed, the truth still stands: it was never just about publishing a book. It was—and will always be—about obedience.

You’ve been entrusted with words. Not the world’s words. Not borrowed words. But your words—shaped by the Spirit, pressed through the filter of your story. And somewhere, someone is waiting to hear them.

Remember what Paul told the church in Corinth:

“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

That means every chapter, every email to an editor, every midnight writing session is sacred work.

So, take the next step. Send the proposal. Join the conference. Open the document you’ve ignored for months. Put your talent back into the Master’s hands, and watch Him multiply it in ways you could never orchestrate on your own.

The Author of Life has already written the ending. Now it’s time to write your pages.

Additional ResourcesJournal Through the Bible in 2025

Have you ever wanted to read through the Bible but found yourself giving up? Or even worse, you read the chapters and at the end question how they apply to your life. Tricia Goyer understands. For years she felt frustrated that she couldn’t stick to her commitment to read God’s Word all the way through. Things changed when she found a doable plan and wrote out a daily prayer. Tricia’s heart changed. Her life did, too.

God can bring real transformation into your heart and life when you daily commit to reading your Bible and praying through God’s Word. Praying through the Bible in One Year offers a guided reading plan and a daily prayer starter to help you make God’s Word applicable to your life. Discover the inspiration for real-life transformation.

Purchase a copy of Praying Through the Bible in One Year HERE. 

The post 20 Things I’ve Learned About Getting a Book Publisher appeared first on Tricia Goyer.

Rebuilding Connection and Restoring Joy in Learning When Life Gets Hard

Rebuilding Connection and Restoring Joy in Learning When Life Gets Hard Tricia Goyer

By Tricia Goyer

I’ve been in those hard seasons—the kind where your plans get turned upside down, where life feels like survival mode, and the idea of keeping up with homeschooling feels overwhelming. Maybe it’s a health crisis, a move, the end of a relationship, or simply a year that has knocked you flat.

I want you to hear me on this: this season doesn’t have to be about “catching up” in the world’s eyes. It can be about rebuilding connection, restoring joy in learning, and helping everyone’s hearts heal.

As Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” You’re not walking this road alone—God is with you every step.

Here are some practical, grace-filled steps that have worked for me and my family during difficult times.

1. Begin with Connection Before Curriculum

In hard seasons, the heart work comes before the book work.

Spend the first couple of weeks just reading aloud together—pick stories that make you laugh, spark curiosity, or remind you of God’s goodness.Go for walks, bake bread, snuggle on the couch, or simply talk about your day.

These aren’t “wasted days.” They’re the bridge that rebuilds trust and helps your children feel safe. Proverbs 24:3 says, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established.” This kind of connection is the wisdom that will hold your homeschool together.

2. Follow Their Interests

Kids lean in when learning feels personal.

If they love animals, let science be about habitats and God’s intricate design in creation.If they love trucks, use hauling and building to teach math and problem-solving.Let them ask questions, and chase those rabbit trails together.

I’ve learned over the years that when curiosity is the spark, learning becomes something they run toward—not something you have to push them into.

3. Start Small with Core Skills

Some days, less really is more.

Aim for 20–30 minutes a day for reading/writing and the same for math.Use free resources like Khan Academy, ReadWorks, or your local library’s reading programs.

When I first started homeschooling in a hard season, I had to let go of the picture-perfect plan in my head. God reminded me of Zechariah 4:10, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” Little steps add up to big progress.

4. Keep It Simple and Consistent

Your homeschool doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
Try a loose daily rhythm like this:

Morning read-aloud timeShort math lesson or practice sheetInterest-based activity (art, science, cooking, building)

Even 2–3 hours of intentional learning is plenty—especially in a “reset” year. Consistency over time matters more than long, exhausting days.

5. Make It a Season of Healing for You, Too

You’re the heart of your home. If you’re running on empty, everything else feels harder.

Give yourself permission to rest and recover.Ask for help—from other homeschool moms, your church family, or local support groups.Remember, God never called you to do this in your own strength. “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” - Isaiah 40:29

Lean into Him—He will give you the strength you need for each day.

Healing Season Read-Aloud List

Here are some of my favorite read-alouds for families in a rebuilding season. These books not only entertain, but also encourage faith, spark conversation, and remind us that beauty can grow from hard places.

Little Pilgrim’s Progress by Helen L. Taylor – A child-friendly version of a Christian classic that encourages perseverance and trust in God.The Winged Watchman by Hilda van Stockum – A WWII story of faith, courage, and hope, even in dark times.Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo – A warm, healing story about unexpected friendships and finding joy after loss.The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser – A charming family story about working together to overcome challenges.Treasures of the Snow by Patricia St. John – A redemptive story of forgiveness and God’s power to heal broken relationships.Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan – Gentle storytelling about love, trust, and the building of a family.Missionary Stories with the Millers by Mildred A. Martin – Inspiring true stories of God’s faithfulness around the world.The Year of Miss Agnes by Kirkpatrick Hill – A teacher’s love transforms a rural community and shows the beauty of learning together.The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes – A short but powerful story about kindness, empathy, and speaking up for others.Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren – Lighthearted fun to remind kids (and us!) that joy and laughter are powerful healers.Encouragement for the Moms: Connection and Joy

Friend, you’ve already done the hardest thing—you’ve chosen to keep moving forward. Start small, keep your eyes on Jesus, and celebrate progress over perfection.

Homeschooling after a hard year isn’t just about catching up academically—it’s about creating a safe, joyful, Christ-centered space where your children can grow in knowledge, faith, and resilience.

Let this be the year your home becomes a place of healing, laughter, and learning—together.

Additional ResourcesBalanced: Finding Center as a Work-at-Home Mom

How can a work-at-home mom raise kids, juggle a career and take care of family responsibilities with only 24-hour days? Working at home while raising kids and juggling a career and family responsibilities is no easy feat.

Balanced helps work-at-home moms learn:

—how to create focus themes for your family
—how to prioritize your schedule
—how to utilize your job so it also benefits your kids
—how to keep yourself out of the comparison game
—how to make working at home work for you
—and much more!

Get your copy here!

The post Rebuilding Connection and Restoring Joy in Learning When Life Gets Hard appeared first on Tricia Goyer.

It’s Time to Actually Pray

It’s Time to Actually Pray Tricia GoyerHow to move from saying “I’ll pray for you” to living a life of intentional, modeled prayer

I grew up with praying grandparents. Anytime we stayed at my grandparents’ house, I’d wake up to find my grandfather at the dining room table with his Bible open in front of him. When he wasn’t reading, his hand rested gently over the pages, his eyes closed in prayer.

I’m not sure if he knew when I walked into the kitchen—though I’m guessing Papa did—but he never flinched. He just kept praying, calling each of his children and grandchildren by name. In those quiet moments, I felt deeply loved. Papa cared enough to ask for God’s protection and blessing over my life and the lives of my brother and cousins. Papa knew God, and days before he passed away, he told us about glimpses of heaven. In those final moments, I saw him worship Jesus with a joy and surrender I’d never seen before.

Up until July 31, I had a praying Grandma in the bedroom next to mine. I can’t count the number of times I heard her praying for her children and grandchildren by name. 

Sometimes, her voice would wake me in the night. I’ll admit, I was occasionally annoyed when I couldn’t fall back asleep. But then I’d think, “Someday, I’m going to miss this.”

It’s been two weeks, and I can tell you—that day has come. I miss it.

There are many things my grandparents taught me, but this is the greatest: It’s not enough to just say, “I’ll pray for you.” That phrase has become so easy to say, yet so hard to actually do.

And while praying for people is essential, modeling prayer is just as important. When our children, grandchildren, and friends see us pray—and hear us pray—it shapes them. It shows them how to speak with God in their own words. Our prayer habits become part of the legacy we leave.

Even today, I pray for my children and grandchildren by name. And I hope someday they’ll remember not just that I prayed for them, but how I prayed for them.

The Call to Pray

Jennifer Kennedy Dean once wrote:

“We tend to believe that prayer is something we do to enlist God to move in our direction, when in fact, prayer is God’s way of enlisting us to move in His direction.”

– Jennifer Kennedy Dean

C.S. Lewis put it this way:

“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time—waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God—it changes me.”

– C.S. Lewis

And another beautifully-put quote from Catherine Marshall:

“God is the only one who can make the valley of trouble a door of hope.”

– Catherine Marshall

Prayer is not an optional side activity in the Christian life—it is the lifeline. It’s where God shapes our hearts, changes our attitudes, and strengthens us for the work ahead.

How to Build a Real Prayer Habit

If you want to move from promising to pray to actually praying, try these simple steps:

Start with a list of names
Write down the names of people you want to pray for daily. Keep it in your Bible, journal, or phone.
Pick a prayer trigger
Tie prayer to something you already do—pouring your morning coffee, starting your car, or washing dishes.
Pray out loud when you can
This doesn’t have to be formal. Let your kids, spouse, or friends hear you thank God for them and bring needs before Him.
Pray immediately 
If someone says, “Will you pray for me?”—pray with them right then, if possible.
Set prayer reminders
Use alarms on your phone or sticky notes in places you’ll see them often.
Use Scripture as your guide
Turn Bible verses into prayers by inserting names into them. For example, “Lord, I pray that [child’s name] will trust in You with all their heart” (Proverbs 3:5).
Keep it short but consistent
A 2-minute heartfelt prayer every day will do more than a once-a-month marathon session.
End your day with gratitude
Thank God by name for the people you love before you go to sleep.
Journal your prayers
Not only does this help you remember what you prayed for, but it also lets you look back and see how God answered.
Pray until you pray
As Leonard Ravenhill said, sometimes we start distracted—but if we press through, our hearts and minds align with God’s presence.

Find a printable chart here to use in your own prayers.

Friend, today might be the perfect day to put your Bible on the table, lay your hand over it, and start whispering the names of the people you love. Don’t just tell them you’re praying—let them catch you in the act.

Because one day, when you’re gone, the sound of your prayers might be the memory they hold most dear.

A Prayer for You

Father, I thank You for the one reading these words right now.
You know their heart, their needs, their burdens, and their hopes.
Lord, I ask that You would surround them with Your peace—the kind that goes deeper than circumstances.
Give them courage to not just say they will pray, but to live a life of prayer.

Remind them that You are near and that You hear every whisper, every groan, and every word spoken in faith.
Draw them close to You in both the quiet moments and the busy ones.
Help them to pray for those they love by name and to trust that every prayer sown will bear fruit in Your perfect timing.

May their home, their relationships, and their days be marked by Your presence.
And Lord, as they pray for others, would You bless them in ways they could never have imagined.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! LISTEN & WATCH

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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and MichelleAugust 18
Ezekiel 10-13 The Departure of God’s Glory The Glory of God in the Temple

In Ezekiel 10, we witness a dramatic vision of God’s glory departing from the temple. Ezekiel sees a throne of blue lapis lazuli above the cherubim, symbolizing the divine presence. The coals of fire from the throne signify the judgment that will come upon Jerusalem.

The departure of God’s glory marks the end of a significant relationship, as the divine presence leaves the temple that had been its home for centuries. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.

God’s Judgment and the Cherubim

The cherubim, with their unwavering mission, signify the unstoppable nature of God’s plans. As they carry God’s glory away, they demonstrate the seriousness of Jerusalem’s spiritual corruption and the inevitability of divine judgment.

The vision challenges us to consider the state of our own spiritual lives. Are we nurturing God’s presence within us, or are we allowing other things to take precedence?

Promises of RestorationA New Heart and Spirit

In Ezekiel 11, God promises to gather the exiles and give them a new heart and spirit. He will replace their stony hearts with tender, responsive ones, drawing them back into a relationship with Him.

Even as God’s glory departs, there is hope for restoration. God’s desire is for His people to return to Him with wholehearted obedience and trust.

This promise reminds us that no matter how far we stray, God’s glory awaits us if we are willing to turn back to Him with a responsive heart.

Ezekiel’s Symbolic Actions and the Fall of False ProphetsSymbolic Acts of Judgment

In Ezekiel 12, God instructs Ezekiel to perform symbolic actions, such as digging through a wall, to represent the coming judgment and exile. These acts serve as vivid warnings to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their rebellion.

The actions of Ezekiel highlight the urgency and seriousness of God’s messages. They challenge us to heed God’s warnings and align our lives with His will.

Condemnation of False Prophets

Ezekiel 13 condemns false prophets who mislead the people with lies and false visions. Their teachings are likened to whitewashing, covering up the truth but offering no real protection.

The condemnation of false prophets serves as a reminder to seek God’s truth and reject teachings that do not align with His Word. We are called to be discerning and faithful in our pursuit of His glory.

The Word of the Day: Glory

Definition: Adoring praise or worshipful thanksgiving; something that is a source of honor, fame, or admiration; a distinguished ornament or an object of pride.

This concept encapsulates the magnificence and beauty of God’s presence. Ezekiel’s visions highlight the profound implications of God’s glory departing from the temple and the promises of restoration for those who remain faithful.

Seeking God’s Glory in Our Lives

God’s glory is an indicator of His worth and value, deserving of our praise and honor. It is seen in miracles and the divine presence throughout the Bible.

Reflect on Your Heart: Are you nurturing God’s glory within you, or are you distracted by worldly promises?

Despite our shortcomings, God offers the promise of restoration and a new heart. He desires a tender, responsive heart that obeys and trusts in Him.

Seek God’s Presence: Make God’s glory your ultimate destination, aligning your life with His will and allowing His presence to guide you.

In a world filled with false teachings and distractions, we are called to be faithful in our pursuit of God’s truth and glory.

Live for His Glory: Be vigilant in discerning God’s truth and living out His messages with integrity and grace.

LISTEN HERE WATCH HERE

August 19
Ezekiel 14-16 Understanding the Detestable

In today’s study of Ezekiel chapters 14-16, we encounter a powerful message about the things God finds detestable. These chapters remind us of the seriousness of sin and God’s call for personal integrity and faithfulness. Let’s delve into these passages and discover what they mean for us today.

Ezekiel 14: Idolatry and Individual Responsibility

In Ezekiel 14, the leaders of Israel are called out for setting up idols in their hearts. These idols, though not physical, are just as real and dangerous. God warns that even if a righteous person like Noah, Daniel, or Job were present, they could only save themselves through their righteousness, not others around them.

Examining Our Hearts

We must ask ourselves what idols we may have set up in our hearts. Are there things we prioritize over God? It’s essential to recognize these and turn back to Him, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.

Ezekiel 15: The Useless Vine

Chapter 15 uses the metaphor of a vine to describe the people of Jerusalem. A vine is only valuable if it bears fruit; otherwise, it is useless and destined to be burned.

Bearing Spiritual Fruit

Are we bearing spiritual fruit in our lives? Let’s strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and righteousness, producing good works that glorify Him.

Ezekiel 16: The Faithfulness of God

Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God promises restoration. Even though their sins are detestable, God remains faithful and will forgive those who return to Him.

Rejoicing in God’s Faithfulness

God’s faithfulness is a constant, even when we are not. As we confront our sins and shortcomings, let’s celebrate His unending love and mercy. When we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9).

Word of the Day: Detestable

Definition: Actions and attitudes deserving intense dislike and loathing.

In Ezekiel 16:2, God tells Ezekiel to “confront Jerusalem with her detestable sins.” This strong language emphasizes how seriously God views idolatry and unfaithfulness. As we reflect on this word, let’s examine our own lives for anything that might be detestable to God.

Turning Away from the Detestable

The challenge for us is not just to recognize what is detestable but to actively turn away from it. Whether it’s negative thoughts, unhealthy habits, or wasted time, we must reject what is contrary to God’s will and pursue what is pure and good.

Spiritual Integrity

Commitment to spiritual integrity may be difficult, but it leads to a deeper relationship with God and a fulfilling life. Let’s celebrate God’s faithfulness as we strive to align our hearts with His truth.

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August 20
Ezekiel 17-19 Planted in Faith

Today, we’re diving into Ezekiel chapters 17-19, which contain vivid allegories and laments that reveal deep truths about God’s justice, mercy, and the power of being “planted” in faith. These chapters remind us of the importance of personal responsibility and the lasting impact of God’s promises.

Ezekiel 17: The Allegory of Eagles and Vines

Ezekiel 17 presents an allegory involving two eagles and a vine, symbolizing the political alliances and betrayals of Judah’s kings. The first eagle represents Babylon, taking Judah’s king captive, while the second eagle symbolizes Egypt, whose promised support will ultimately fail.

Trusting God’s Plan

In our lives, we may be tempted to rely on worldly solutions rather than trusting in God’s plan. This chapter reminds us that true security comes from being “planted” in God’s promises, not in earthly alliances.

Ezekiel 18: Personal Responsibility

Ezekiel 18 emphasizes personal responsibility, countering the belief that children are punished for their parents’ sins. God declares that each individual is accountable for their actions and offers hope that the wicked can turn from their sins and live.

Owning Our Faith Journey

We cannot blame our circumstances or heritage for our spiritual state. Instead, we are called to own our journey of faith, turning from sin and embracing the new heart and spirit God offers.

Lament for the Princes of Israel

In Ezekiel 19, we find a lament over Israel’s leaders, depicted as a lioness and her cubs, and a vine that has been uprooted. These images reflect the downfall of Judah’s kings due to their disobedience.

Learning from the Past

As we reflect on these laments, let’s learn from the mistakes of the past. Leadership without God leads to destruction, but by staying planted in His truth, we can grow and flourish.

Word of the Day: Planted

Definition: To put or set in the ground for growth, as seeds, young trees, etc.; to establish or implant (ideas, principles, doctrines, etc.).

The word “planted” evokes images of growth, potential, and new beginnings. In Ezekiel 17:22, God speaks of planting a branch that will grow into something magnificent, symbolizing the restoration of David’s throne through the Messiah. Similarly, Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven as a mustard seed that, once planted, grows into a mighty tree (Matthew 13:31-32).

Planting Seeds of the Kingdom

Consider the seeds planted in your life—through family, friends, or mentors—and how they have shaped your faith. As those seeds blossom, God invites us to be seed planters in the lives of others.

Embracing Our Role as Planters

Whether you are nurturing seeds in your own heart or planting seeds of faith in others, remember that even the smallest act can lead to great growth in God’s Kingdom. Embrace your role as a faithful sower, trusting that God will bring about the increase.

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August 21
Ezekiel 20-22 Confronting Spiritual Pollution

In today’s readings from Ezekiel chapters 20-22, we explore a powerful narrative about Israel’s repeated rebellion and God’s relentless mercy. The theme of pollution is central as we examine how sin taints our relationship with God and the world around us.

Ezekiel 20: A History of Rebellion

Ezekiel 20 recounts Israel’s history of rebellion against God, despite His mercy and deliverance. God describes how the people polluted themselves with idolatry, choosing to follow the corrupt practices of other nations.

Recognizing Our Pollutants

Just as pollution harms the environment, sin contaminates our hearts and lives. Reflect on what might be polluting your spirit. Are there idols or influences drawing you away from God? It’s time to seek His cleansing and restoration.

Ezekiel 21: The Sword of Judgment

In Ezekiel 21, God speaks of a sharpened sword symbolizing impending judgment on Israel. This imagery highlights the severity of the people’s sins and the certainty of God’s righteous justice.

The Cost of Pollution

Pollution has consequences. In our spiritual lives, unchecked sin leads to separation from God. Acknowledge the areas needing repentance, and trust in His grace to renew and purify your heart.

Ezekiel 22: The Abominations of Jerusalem

Ezekiel 22 exposes the abominations committed by Jerusalem, from idolatry to social injustice and sexual immorality. God promises to scatter and judge the people, making their impurity known to the nations.

Purifying Our Influence

Our actions and words can either uplift or pollute those around us. Consider how you can be a positive influence, reflecting God’s love and truth instead of contributing to the world’s spiritual contamination.

Word of the Day: Pollute

Definition: To contaminate something with harmful substances, degrading its purity and value.

In Ezekiel 20:30-31, God questions Israel:

"Do you plan to pollute yourselves just as your ancestors did?... you continue to pollute yourselves with idols to this day."

This word encapsulates the spiritual contamination caused by idolatry, injustice, and immorality, leading to God’s judgment.

Cleansing Our Hearts and Minds

In these chapters, we see a call to address the pollution in our lives. Whether it’s idolatry, negative influences, or unwholesome speech, God invites us to turn away from sin and seek His purity.

Embracing God’s Mercy

God’s judgment serves as a warning but also as an opportunity for redemption. Let’s embrace His mercy, committing to live in a way that honors Him and cleanses the pollution from our hearts.

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August 22
Ezekiel 24:15-27, Ezekiel 25, Jeremiah 34, 21, Ezekiel 29:1-16, Ezekiel 30:20-26, Ezekiel 31 The Arm of the Lord

Today’s readings from Ezekiel 22-24 immerse us in vivid imagery and parables, illustrating the severe trials and judgments God places upon His people. The concept of the “crucible” captures the essence of these passages, representing both the intense trials faced by Israel and the purification process God desires for His people.

Ezekiel 22: The Worthless Slag

God likens Israel to worthless slag—a mixture of metals such as copper, tin, iron, and lead—that needs to be purified in the furnace of His judgment. This imagery emphasizes how the people’s sins have rendered them impure and in need of refinement.

Embracing the Refining Process

Reflect on the crucibles in your own life. Are there trials or challenges that God might be using to refine your character? Trust in His purpose, knowing that these experiences can purify and strengthen your faith.

Ezekiel 23: The Adulterous Sisters

Ezekiel 23 uses the allegory of two adulterous sisters, representing Samaria and Jerusalem, to illustrate Israel’s spiritual infidelity. Their pursuit of foreign gods and immoral practices leads to devastating consequences.

Learning from Past Mistakes

The story of the two sisters reminds us of the dangers of turning away from God. Let’s learn from their mistakes, choosing faithfulness and obedience over spiritual adultery.

Ezekiel 24: The Boiling Pot Parable

In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel to use a parable of a boiling pot, symbolizing Jerusalem’s impending destruction. The rust in the pot represents the people’s sins, which have tainted and defiled them.

Acknowledging Our Sins

Are there areas in your life where sin has taken hold? Confess and seek God’s forgiveness, allowing His refining fire to cleanse and renew your spirit.

Word of the Day: Crucible

Definition: A vessel used for melting substances at high temperatures.

Metaphorically, it represents a severe test or trial where intense forces interact, leading to transformation and development. In Ezekiel 22:20-22, God declares that He will bring Israel into His crucible, melting them in the heat of His fury.

Trials as Crucibles of Growth

The rebellion of Zedekiah and the subsequent siege of Jerusalem serve as a crucible of human pride and defiance against God. These events remind us that trials, whether self-inflicted or beyond our control, can be transformative. They expose our weaknesses, test our faith, and refine our character.

Pray Through Trials with Faith

As believers, we are called to approach life’s crucibles with faith, trusting that God will use them to reveal Jesus in us. Let’s draw inspiration from Jesus’ experience in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He faced immense pressure yet chose submission to God’s will.

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August 23
Ezekiel 24:15-27, Ezekiel 25, Jeremiah 34, 21, Ezekiel 29:1-16, Ezekiel 30:20-26, Ezekiel 31 The Arm of the Lord

In today’s readings from Ezekiel 24-25 and Jeremiah 34, we witness the power and influence of God’s arm, a symbol of His might and authority. As we explore these chapters, we’ll discover how God’s arm can be both a source of judgment and a beacon of hope.

Ezekiel 24:15-27: Ezekiel’s Personal Crucible

In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel that his beloved wife will die, yet he must not mourn openly. This symbolizes how the Israelites will not mourn the destruction of the Temple, despite its significance. Ezekiel’s obedience serves as a stark reminder of the people’s impending judgment.

Trusting in God’s Sovereignty

Even in personal trials, we can trust in God’s sovereign plan. Ezekiel’s obedience teaches us to rely on God’s strength, knowing that His arm is mighty and His purposes are just.

Ezekiel 25: Judgment on the Nations

Ezekiel 25 delivers prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel—Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia. These nations rejoiced in Israel’s downfall, prompting God’s judgment against them.

Guarding Against Pride

Rejoicing in others’ misfortune invites God’s judgment. Instead, let’s seek humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s arm lifts the humble and opposes the proud.

Jeremiah 34: Zedekiah’s Disobedience

In Jeremiah 34, God warns King Zedekiah of Babylon’s impending victory over Jerusalem. The chapter also condemns Judah for reneging on their promise to free Hebrew slaves, highlighting their disobedience and inviting God’s wrath.

The Cost of Disobedience

Disobedience to God’s commands leads to consequences. Let’s commit to following His will, trusting in the protection of His mighty arm.

Word of the Day: Arm

Definition: Denotes influence, power, and means of support or conquest.

Throughout the Bible, God’s arm is depicted as a symbol of strength and justice, wielding authority over nations and individuals alike.

The Dual Nature of God’s Arm

In these chapters, we see the dual nature of God’s arm as both a source of strength for His followers and a tool of judgment against His enemies.

Jeremiah 21:5: God fights against His people with a “strong hand and powerful arm” because of their disobedience.Ezekiel 30:22-24: God breaks Pharaoh’s arms but strengthens the arms of Babylon, demonstrating His control over nations.Isaiah 33:20: God’s arm offers mercy and strength to those who seek Him.Psalm 98:1: God’s right hand and holy arm achieve victory and bring hope.Choosing the Embrace of God’s Arm

For believers, God’s arm is a source of peace, strength, and protection. Let’s choose to seek His embrace, finding comfort and assurance in His promises, while understanding the seriousness of opposing His mighty power.

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August 24
Jeremiah 32-33, Ezekiel 26:1-14 Replanting with Purpose

In today’s readings from Jeremiah 32-33 and Ezekiel 26, we encounter profound messages of hope and renewal amidst impending judgment and destruction. God’s promise to replant His people serves as a powerful reminder of His unfailing love and sovereignty.

Jeremiah 32: A Symbol of Hope

While imprisoned, Jeremiah receives a message from God to buy a field from his cousin, symbolizing the eventual restoration of the land. Despite the impending destruction, this act of faith reflects God’s promise of renewal and His plan to bring His people back from exile.

Trusting God’s Promises

Like Jeremiah, we are called to trust in God’s promises even when circumstances seem bleak. Remember that God’s plan for replanting us involves hope, growth, and a future filled with His blessings.

Jeremiah 33: A Covenant of Restoration

In Jeremiah 33, God reassures His people that He will fulfill His promises to them. He will restore prosperity, bring peace, and raise a righteous descendant from David’s line, ultimately pointing to the coming of the Messiah.

Finding Strength in God’s Faithfulness

God’s commitment to His people is unwavering. We can find strength and encouragement in His faithfulness, knowing that He will always work for our good, even in the hardest times.

Ezekiel 26: The Downfall of Tyre

Ezekiel 26 prophesies the destruction of Tyre, a city that rejoiced in Jerusalem’s downfall. This judgment serves as a warning against pride and celebrating others’ misfortunes.

Embracing Humility

Let’s strive to embrace humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s justice is righteous and that we should seek to build others up rather than delight in their struggles.

Word of the Day: Replant

Definition: To plant something again, often with greater care and intention, ensuring it thrives in a new environment.

In Jeremiah 32:41, God promises to “replant” His people in their land, emphasizing His commitment to restoring and nurturing them after a time of exile.

The Beauty of Replanting

Replanting is a process that requires care and intention. Just as God promises to replant His people, He invites us to experience renewal in our own lives.

Jeremiah 32:37-40: God will bring His people back and give them one heart and purpose—to worship Him forever.Jeremiah 32:27: God reminds us that nothing is too hard for Him, encouraging us to trust in His power and plan.Flourishing in God’s Care

In the hands of our loving God, we can flourish even after being uprooted. Trust in His promise to replant you with purpose, knowing that He will never stop doing good for you.

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