Children's Corner
Our Favorite Non-Fiction Source
National Geographic Kids
This might surprise you, but I am a huge fiction fan. The stories capture me and through such experiences I learn more than, or at least as much, as any science class I've been in (oh and I do have a minor in science...). On the flip side my husband would rather pick up a non-fiction book. So when our oldest was born I took on the job of finding as many colorful story books (fiction) that I could get my hands on. I would spend hours with pictures from these books making up new stories with him...
Then he got older.
On our weekly trips to the library, he noticed the stacks of books that mommy never went to - the non-fiction section of our children's library.
His world has never been the same since he walked down one of those aisles and picked out books on topics that engaged his mind and furthered the world he already knew.
If, like me, you have really only spent time in the world of fiction when it comes to children's books, the idea of stepping into the vast sea of non-fiction children's books could drown you. Let me suggest seeking out the National Geographic Kids books. There are books on so many amazing subjects, not to mention the magazines and online options (if your kids are at all interested in photography, you have to show them the winners of the 2015 competition over here.)
Today let's just look at two of the awesome Little Kids First Big Books - Specifically Space and Dinosaurs.
About the Books
These books are over-sized, which is why I think my kids were drawn to them. The books start with an easy to navigate contents page - showing the main topics, the page it starts on and for most sections a brilliant picture to help fill in the words they might not understand. The pages are colorful and bright full of quick facts.
Little Kids First Big Book of Space includes sections on the solar system, looking up from earth, earth's neighbors, other neighbors, far, far away, exploring space as well as a map, tips for parents, and a glossary and index.
Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs includes sections on small dinosaurs, big dinosaurs, giant dinosaurs, gigantic dinosaurs, a map, parents tips, glossary, and index. There are also phonetic spellings of the names of dinosaurs to help with pronunciation.
Why We Like It
I personally like it because while it has the characteristics of a traditional science book, it reads closer to a story in that each page has easy to understand tidbits of fact. I was appreciative of the tips for parents sections because there are ideas there for fun field trips, more in-depth learning concepts and activities. This could be a great source for homeschooling parents or even parents who are trying to help kids learn through their interests.
My kids really love the amazing pictures. Many of the pictures are actual National Geographic photos, and others are their computerized renditions (clearly there are not actual pictures of dinosaurs). My younger boy really likes the little "pop up" facts - when there is a magnificent picture that fills a page, there are little circles that have snippets of information right there on the picture.
My kids really love the amazing pictures. Many of the pictures are actual National Geographic photos, and others are their computerized renditions (clearly there are not actual pictures of dinosaurs). My younger boy really likes the little "pop up" facts - when there is a magnificent picture that fills a page, there are little circles that have snippets of information right there on the picture.
The ultimate non-fiction resource for kids of all ages. #Reading #NatGeo @Reading_List1
Check out some fun crafts and activities from other wonderful bloggers on both Dinosaurs and Space...
- That Artist Woman has a wonderful tutorial on creating your own dino fossils with salt dough.
- Here's a fun shape review and create your own dinosaur activity from Little Family Fun.
- Crafty Morning has a fun painting activity for making planets.
- MomDot has a super great nebula/galaxy (calming jar) project that kids of all ages can get into.
- Create a fun solar system in your window with Fun-a-Day!'s Planet Sun Catchers.
Are your kiddos into Dinosaurs? Space? How do you inspire your kids to pick up non-fiction books?
**If you are considering purchasing this book, please consider using the affiliate link here and support Reading List in the process.
***If you're interested in writing a book review on Reading List, please message me on the Facebook page! If you're curious about a book, ask me... I love to hear from you!
Welcome to Sneak Peek Saturday on Reading List!
Current book:
A Hope Undaunted
Julie Lessman
Goodreads Summary:
What happens when the boy she loved to hate becomes the man she hates to love?
The 1920s are drawing to a close, and feisty Katie O'Connor is the epitome of the new woman--smart and sassy with goals for her future that include the perfect husband and a challenging career in law. Her boyfriend Jack fits all of her criteria for a husband--good-looking, well-connected, wealthy, and eating out of her hand. But when she is forced to spend the summer of 1929 with Luke McGee, the bane of her childhood existence, Katie comes face-to-face with a choice. Will she follow her well-laid plans to marry Jack? Or will she fall for the man she swore to despise forever?
Sneak Peek:
"'They're not like us, you know, the men that God bring into lives-they're as different as the night is from the day.' The tenderness of her tone seemed to unravel Faith, causing her to list against the counter with a broken heave. Emma wrapped her in a gentle hug, her head resting against Faith's. 'They don't see things they way we do, Faith - the temptations, the dangers.'" p 152
Initial Thoughts
This book follows a very large family in the 1920's and because of that the cast is hard to keep up with. The intro is very long as each character is introduced. Katie and Luke's story is so interesting though because it does not seem like the story that is usually told from this time period. I am very interested to see how their story pans out, I only wish there were so many side stories making this book so long.
Thank you to A Daily Rhythm for inspiring Reading List's Saturday Sneak Peek link up!
Meet the Hosts of Saturday Sneak Peek:
Marissa, writes book reviews from a variety of genres and shares thoughts on motherhood & life on Reading List. She loves to see what others are reading to grow her to-read list. Marissa also enjoys photography and a new journal to fill.
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Alyssa reads a variety of genres and writes about it at Sunrise Avenue. She is always looking for new bookish friends and recs'! Besides reading, Alyssa loves to bake and anything Doctor Who.
Twitter ~~ Google + ~~ Instagram ~~ Pinterest
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Alyssa reads a variety of genres and writes about it at Sunrise Avenue. She is always looking for new bookish friends and recs'! Besides reading, Alyssa loves to bake and anything Doctor Who.
Twitter ~~ Google + ~~ Instagram ~~ Pinterest
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Here are some rules if you decide to join in:
• Pick up whatever book you are reading (non-fiction, fiction, children's... really the sky is the limit)
• Open to any page you have already read
• Share a few “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - make it interesting without flipping to a ton of different pages.
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away -- You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so we can all add your book to our To-Be-Read lists!
This particular link up will be open for a month, so stop by often to share a new sneak peek, and grow your own TBR list!
• Open to any page you have already read
• Share a few “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - make it interesting without flipping to a ton of different pages.
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away -- You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so we can all add your book to our To-Be-Read lists!
This particular link up will be open for a month, so stop by often to share a new sneak peek, and grow your own TBR list!
Linking up with these fun hops, check them out!
A Lovable You
Even Through the Darkness
There is nothing more intimidating than walking into a room full of strangers, well for most of us. Of course, it gets worse if you are the new person walking into a group that is already established. What about if you are returning to a group after some huge secret about your past was uncovered?
Fears of judgment and rejection often keep us from ever walking into such a situation.
Instead, we find ways to bury the parts of us, the parts of our past, deep under layers of personality, friendly smiles, kind eyes, and maybe even bouncy steps. We find aspects of ourselves that align with the popular people of the group and try to magnify them while minimizing the aspects of us that do not appear to fit in.
In some cases, maybe this natural tendency to project parts of us while restraining others is a good thing. I mean you need to make sure at a job interview you are selling the aspects of you that make you the best candidate for the job. But what about when we are "interviewing" for acceptance into a group of peers? A new church group maybe? A new relationship?
Before you know it, the persona you displayed in order to be accepted is who you are in the eyes of these people - or this person. As time goes on you might just start to realize that you are keeping some very important points hidden... why?
Are you keeping parts of your life hidden because you are truly trying to change? Or are you keeping secrets because there is a darkness that is in you that could change the opinion of your new friend?
Let's talk about that inner darkness a little bit...
Let's talk about that inner darkness a little bit... #Demons @Reading_List1
When you are alone - in your car, at home... you know those times when your true thoughts can fill your mind, and you can really discover yourself- how often do you notice a darkness? A bend towards something ugly that you hope no one ever knows about you? Come on be honest, isn't that the joy of the internet... you can be honest about this because you are looking at the screen...
I am pretty sure there are quite a few that are nodding along at this point... why? Well because Imagine Dragon's Demons has been on the top of the charts for 31 weeks (at the time of this writing) and what is the song about? The struggle to keep the darkness, the beast, those aspects of ourselves that we want desperately to hide from others, especially those we love most.
Once we allow someone into our hearts, we fear their rejection more than anything. As a result, we work harder and harder to keep the demons from being apparent. There are some things that this kind of practice can lead to a better personality... but do people really change? Or does this practice just make us into gullible kings and queens of our own kingdoms, kingdoms that are at risk of invasion and overthrow daily?
There has to come a point in time when this effort of keeping someone from getting too close can't be done anymore because your love, your need to be loved, takes over. So what do you do?
Do you push them away? Do you risk hurting them in order to protect yourself?
Do you show them the truth? Do you risk disappointing them? Of their rejection?
What if the answers do not really lie in the relationship with another person at all. What if the answers are calling you right now - a person who knows just how dark your demons are, have been, and still He calls to you. He calls with words of comfort because even knowing how full of greed you are He loves you. He can look in your eyes, see the hidden demons, see deeper into your soul and know that there is also beauty. Could that kind of love change you?
Could it change your willingness to be honest with yourself? To be honest with those around you, the ones you have been hiding from?
While you think about those questions, check out these amazing quotes from my favorite book. And then if you feel like it, leave a comment below with what your heart and your head are thinking...
- But God put His love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatsoever to Him. (Rom 5:8 MSG)
- This is real love - not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. (1 Jn 4:10 NLT)
- "...Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You are mine. When you're in over your head, I'll be there with you. When you're in rough, dark waters, you will not go down. When you are between a rock and a hard place, it won't be a dead end- Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior. I paid a huge price for you, the lives of many. That is how much you mean to me. That is how much I love you. I'd sell off the whole world to get you back, trade all of creation, trade a part of myself, just for you." (paraphrase of Is 43:4 MSG)
When you are alone, how often do you notice a darkness? #Demons @Reading_list1
Playing the Part
Jen Turano
There are times when a friend recommends a book and that is the only reason why we read it. Of course, it gets a little difficult when a friend recommends a book because they love it, but once you read it, you are not really a fan. That is what happened with Jen Turano's book, In Good Company. I read it after hearing from some friends that Jen Turano was such a great writer... but I was not really impressed with the book.Recently I was asked if I would read Jen Turano's third book in the series (of which In Good Company is part of) to review, particularly because I didn't give the last book a stellar review. After some thought, I decided it was worth it. Partly because the summary was intriguing... I mean aren't we all playing a part?
Story Overview
Lucetta Plum, a friend of Harriet and Millie, is an actress who has worked hard to be an independent woman, well as much as is possible in the regency era. While she technically resides with Abigail Hart, she keeps up a steady income and even has received a nice inheritance... which is actually going to cause her some serious problems. As her fame starts to attract attention, that attention comes as both good and bad... Lucetta is soon running from one specific fan who is overly infatuated and demanding. Of course, Abigail is more than happy to assist Lucetta and suggests hiding out at her grandson's castle...
Bram Haverstein, Abigail's grandson, is a complex man who has a compassionate heart for those who are desperate for a second chance in life. He has put together a wonderfully eclectic staff of misfits in his very own castle. While he is from a wealthy family, he has dreams of his own, dreams he isn't ready to share with others. As a result, he is more than comfortable to live fairly secluded in his castle. So when Abigail shows up with the famous Lucetta Plum his somewhat secluded life is subjected to intruders he didn't know he always wanted.
The issues become complicated as Bram's private life starts to cause suspension and Lucetta's stage life leaks into the picture.
Personal Likes
For me, Bram made this story worth reading. He is the exact gentleman one would expect to find in a Regency-era romance, yet there is a side to him that is surprising too. He wants to provide and help those around him, yet he can get sucked into his imaginative thinking entirely and loose track of time... if I say more I'll give away the whole plot twist... Needless to say, when he is in a scene it captured my attention simply because he was a well-developed character.
I also felt like Turano's humor showed through in a much more acceptable light in this story. I had been told she wrote humor well, and while I could get a small taste for it in the previous story, this book lived up to what I had originally hoped for. There are some silly plot twists that will certainly make you smile, if not laugh out loud at the ridiculousness of it.
I also felt like Turano's humor showed through in a much more acceptable light in this story. I had been told she wrote humor well, and while I could get a small taste for it in the previous story, this book lived up to what I had originally hoped for. There are some silly plot twists that will certainly make you smile, if not laugh out loud at the ridiculousness of it.
Personal Dislikes
Maybe it's this genre, but the heroine of the story is just too predictable for me. A woman who wants to be strong and independent in a time when women were barely seen as people, yet in the midst of her attempts to be strong she forgets that she still needs to be loved. The dichotomy of it was a little much. Yes, she is a wonderfully strong female lead who knows what she wants. Then at the same time, she feels like there is a part of her that isn't seen because if she shows it she will be seen as weak.
As far as that goes, while there are small humorous twists, the whole plot is easy to see coming. This book fits exactly in the clean romance genre, especially for regency-era stories. In fact, I would even call this a modern romantic comedy set in the regency era. The issue I always have with these stories is that the main character desperately wants something, and if she/he would only ask, it would be so much easier. Instead, the character stubbornly tries to do everything on their own, flat out refusing the help of others in a way that comes across as childish if not downright ignorant.
As far as that goes, while there are small humorous twists, the whole plot is easy to see coming. This book fits exactly in the clean romance genre, especially for regency-era stories. In fact, I would even call this a modern romantic comedy set in the regency era. The issue I always have with these stories is that the main character desperately wants something, and if she/he would only ask, it would be so much easier. Instead, the character stubbornly tries to do everything on their own, flat out refusing the help of others in a way that comes across as childish if not downright ignorant.
Reading List Rating
I can give this book a three heart rating - it was good, and at times quite enjoyable. As far as actually reading it again, well it's not quite my favorite genre.
My Suggested Audience
I would highly suggest this to fans of the classic romance novel (like Wuthering Heights) and even those who love all romantic comedies (I'm thinking fans of Notting Hill...). This is a completely clean romance and while there are small instances of violence, and threatening behavior, the book is very typically Christian romance. As far as ages... I'm thinking if you are reading classic romance novels, this can fit right in.
Wondering Questions to Consider
Lucetta is struggling mostly with finding who she is off the stage - how she can portray herself honestly to those around her while still being respected. How often in life do we portray ourselves one way in public and yet wish we could be more of ourselves in the process? Bram, while being secure in his behavior, is struggling with sharing the truth about his career dreams with his family for fear he would not live up to their expectations. How often do you hide your dreams from those who love you simply because you fear their reactions?
"It was rare to see genuine kindness in the world, and yet..." #PlayingthePart @Reading_List1
Are you a fan of Christian romance novels? Is the Regency Era your thing? If you've read Jen Turano's books, what did you think?
I'd love to hear from you, please leave me a little note!
**If you are considering purchasing this book, please consider using the affiliate link here and support Reading List in the process.
***If you're interested in writing a book review on Reading List, please message me on the Facebook page! If you're curious about a book, ask me... I love to hear from you! If you would like your book reviewed on Reading List, email me: the link is at the bottom of this page.
Check out these great hops I'm sharing this with!
Children's Corner
Mother's Day Play: Book with Craft Ideas
Books filled my childhood - and not in that loner kind of way either. They were the gifts my grandmother gave me. They were the little extras my dad would give me as a reward. They gave me ideas to expand upon in my imagination. They helped my brain connect the concepts of science, life, and critical thinking. There were probably thousands of books that were checked out on my library card before I even old enough to know how blessed I was to have such a card. All this to say I can remember exactly what book started it all.
The Barenstain Bears Get the Gimmies by Jan & Stan Barenstain
Fairly recently Mike Berenstain continued the Berenstain Bear books full of wonderful morals and truth for a new generation of kids.
Today I am very excited to share this new book from Mike Berenstain, Mother's Day Blessings.
About the Book
The familiar Berenstain Bear family is enjoying early spring when this story starts. Brother, Sister and Honey Bear are trying to find a way to make Mother's Day special for their Mama, so of course they go to Papa and ask for help.
The story follows the family on Mother's Day Sunday as they make their way to church. Mama reminds the kids about all the moms who celebrate the special day differently while the kids are excited about their Mother's Day surprise.
The story follows the family on Mother's Day Sunday as they make their way to church. Mama reminds the kids about all the moms who celebrate the special day differently while the kids are excited about their Mother's Day surprise.
Why We Like It
This is one of those fictional families that lives their life similarly to typical families so that readers can see how behavior and choices can impact those closest to us. This book is fun because the bear kids want to show love and appreciate to their mom so they ask their dad for help. And their decision is a simple one and it impacted mama greatly. A book teaching kids that it is not about gifts but about spending time with your family to show your love.
An extra bonus in this book is at the very end: there are a couple of quick discussion questions for kids to answer about the book. A perfect way to help develop critical thinking.
An extra bonus in this book is at the very end: there are a couple of quick discussion questions for kids to answer about the book. A perfect way to help develop critical thinking.
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Publication Date: March 2016
For ages: 3-8
Type: Childern's Books, Christian
For ages: 3-8
Type: Childern's Books, Christian
"Did you ever stop to think that children everywhere think their own mothers are the most special mothers of all?" #MothersDay @Reading_List1
A few Mother's Day activities
- Paging Fun Mums has a simple tutorial on easy tile art for coasters or any sized tile that could be used for a great background for all those great print art ideas
- Who Arted? has some adorable questionnaires to print and interview your kiddos - these are always fun to see!
- Fun Handprint Art has a wonderful collection of ideas for all kinds of handprint and footprint crafts for your little ones to make for their moms and grandmas.
- I love these adorable flower pots from Edventures with Kids - so easy even for younger kids, and the perfect way to present mom with a pretty flower.
- Scholastic put together three super adorable crafts for your older kids to put together.
- We made a stepping stone footprint a few years back with CRAFT's method, and while it takes some time to set and an extra set of adult hands for set up & clean up - its been one of the best gifts!
How do you celebrate Mother's Day? What is your favorite Mother's Day memory?
***If you're interested in writing a book review on Reading List, please message me on the Facebook page! If you're curious about a book, ask me... I love to hear from you!
Check out where I'm linking up!
Welcome to Sneak Peek Saturday on Reading List!
Current book:
The Conspiracy of Us
Maggie Hall
Goodreads Summary:
A fast-paced international escapade, laced with adrenaline, glamour, and romance--perfect for fans of Ally Carter
Avery West's newfound family can shut down Prada when they want to shop in peace, and can just as easily order a bombing when they want to start a war. Part of a powerful and dangerous secret society called the Circle, they believe Avery is the key to an ancient prophecy. Some want to use her as a pawn. Some want her dead.
To unravel the mystery putting her life in danger, Avery must follow a trail of clues from the monuments of Paris to the back alleys of Istanbul with two boys who work for the Circle—beautiful, volatile Stellan and mysterious, magnetic Jack. But as the clues expose a stunning conspiracy that might plunge the world into World War 3, she discovers that both boys are hiding secrets of their own. Now she will have to choose not only between freedom and family--but between the boy who might help her save the world, and the one she's falling in love with.
Avery West's newfound family can shut down Prada when they want to shop in peace, and can just as easily order a bombing when they want to start a war. Part of a powerful and dangerous secret society called the Circle, they believe Avery is the key to an ancient prophecy. Some want to use her as a pawn. Some want her dead.
To unravel the mystery putting her life in danger, Avery must follow a trail of clues from the monuments of Paris to the back alleys of Istanbul with two boys who work for the Circle—beautiful, volatile Stellan and mysterious, magnetic Jack. But as the clues expose a stunning conspiracy that might plunge the world into World War 3, she discovers that both boys are hiding secrets of their own. Now she will have to choose not only between freedom and family--but between the boy who might help her save the world, and the one she's falling in love with.
Sneak Peek:
"The thing is, being lonely is like walking in the cold without a coat. It's uncomfortable, but eventually you go numb. Once you get used to not being lonely, though, that shock of going back is like having your down comforter yanked off at six o'clock on a Minnesota December morning." p 7
Initial Thoughts
I wish I could say I am loving this book, but I'm on the fence. Avery West is a high school student that is finding herself in the middle of a strange new treasure hunt a la The Da Vinci Code. She, like so many teenagers, is emotional and temperamental which comes across two-fold because she is telling the story. However it's fast paced and the side characters, Jack and Stellan, are intriguing...
Thank you to A Daily Rhythm for inspiring Reading List's Saturday Sneak Peek link up!
Meet the Hosts of Saturday Sneak Peek:
Marissa, writes book reviews from a variety of genres and shares thoughts on motherhood & life on Reading List. She loves to see what others are reading to grow her to-read list. Marissa also enjoys photography and a new journal to fill.
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Alyssa reads a variety of genres and writes about it at Sunrise Avenue. She is always looking for new bookish friends and recs'! Besides reading, Alyssa loves to bake and anything Doctor Who.
Twitter ~~ Google + ~~ Instagram ~~ Pinterest
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Alyssa reads a variety of genres and writes about it at Sunrise Avenue. She is always looking for new bookish friends and recs'! Besides reading, Alyssa loves to bake and anything Doctor Who.
Twitter ~~ Google + ~~ Instagram ~~ Pinterest
Bloglovin' ~~ Subscribe ~~ Goodreads
Here are some rules if you decide to join in:
• Pick up whatever book you are reading (non-fiction, fiction, children's... really the sky is the limit)
• Open to any page you have already read
• Share a few “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - make it interesting without flipping to a ton of different pages.
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away -- You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so we can all add your book to our To-Be-Read lists!
This particular link up will be open for a month, so stop by often to share a new sneak peek, and grow your own TBR list!
• Open to any page you have already read
• Share a few “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page - make it interesting without flipping to a ton of different pages.
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away -- You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so we can all add your book to our To-Be-Read lists!
This particular link up will be open for a month, so stop by often to share a new sneak peek, and grow your own TBR list!
Linking up with these fun hops, check them out!
The Armor of God
Priscilla Shirer
There are sections of the Bible that are well known while very few actually understand just how great the message is. The words have been memorized while the meaning is lost. I am willing to guess that Paul's analogy of a warrior's armor in Ephesians is one such example. Many of us have heard this description of being battle ready, yet do we take its truth to heart?
Do you know the battle you are in?
Do you know how to use the tools that have been given to you?
Do you know how to hear, listen, and follow the battle plan?
Story Overview
Priscilla Shirer has gotten quite the following since War Room was released, especially with the follow up of Fervent - yet this in-depth study of Paul's summary in Ephesians is full of wisdom and truth that fans of Beth Moore and group studies will appreciate.
Over the course six weeks of study and seven well-delivered video messages, you will uncover more than you ever imagined in 10 these fairly often quoted verses of scripture. Each week Priscilla takes one element of the armor and breaks it down - she goes over the historical need for the armor, how Paul would have seen it as an example for the battle believers face, and practical steps on how to familiarize yourself with it so that you will be able to stand firm.
The study is designed for a small group - with discussion questions for leaders in the back - however if you are looking for some self-development, this study could be done on your own as well (you just might want to get a mentor or accountability partner...). Each week has five days worth of study and reflection that will demand you to engage your heart, soul, and mind. By the end of the seven lessons, you will be battle ready, full of courage and conviction to stand firm in the days that are ahead of you, not matter what they might hold.
What the brain is to the body, your mind is to your soul. #ArmorofGodStudy @PriscillaShirer @Reading_List1
Personal Likes
I have done a couple of other studies that Priscilla leads, and she is such a gifted teacher. Her vitality and faith shine through every single time - this study being no exception. Many young moms will relate to her as she shares her experiences as a mom, and yet her faith will connect with women of all ages, no matter where in life's stages you might be.
This study is overflowing with scripture and truth - your Bible will get a workout - and for that reason I know I can recommend this one. Every lesson is ground first in scripture, then backed up with history and word clarification. You will learn new facts while growing deeper in your understanding of scripture. Priscilla's personal stories only add color to the solid truth she is sharing and teaching.
The biggest difference with this study, since it is a follow-up to War Room and Fervent, is the fifth day's homework. You gather all the take away points from each day that are important and meaningful to you and then create a new personal prayer. The hope is that you will come out of this study with the confidence to pray mighty prayers and fill your own war room.
This study is overflowing with scripture and truth - your Bible will get a workout - and for that reason I know I can recommend this one. Every lesson is ground first in scripture, then backed up with history and word clarification. You will learn new facts while growing deeper in your understanding of scripture. Priscilla's personal stories only add color to the solid truth she is sharing and teaching.
The biggest difference with this study, since it is a follow-up to War Room and Fervent, is the fifth day's homework. You gather all the take away points from each day that are important and meaningful to you and then create a new personal prayer. The hope is that you will come out of this study with the confidence to pray mighty prayers and fill your own war room.
Personal Dislikes
As in many video based studies, the videos are echoed in the daily homework, and for many points that is great, but once in a while it can feel repetitive. This is why I suggest doing this in a small group, or with a prayer buddy so that you complete it once you start it.
And as a super minor issue, there are prayer cards that are meant to be filled out to start your war room, and I just wish there had been more room to write on those cards. Each week is so full of truth, there was too much to add to many of the prayer cards.
Reading List Rating
I have to give this study five stars - if I could I would take this study again because it is so powerful.
My Suggested Audience
This is a woman's study, so if you're a woman you're in - to be honest, the fact that the study is clearly on the armor of God, and for women, is what drew me to it. This is a passage I use with my boys because it's so powerful, but it often feels harder to grasp as a woman and to use it well. As far as ages go, really any age that can handle daily personal reflection and seven weeks of focus should be able to gain something from this one. The only other thought is for Christian development - many studies can be geared to a certain stage of faith - this one is for believers, yes, but really any believer that wants to understand prayer, how to use it and why it is important will benefit and that can happen the day after you choose to believe to those who have believed for 40+ years.
Believe and receive first; then utilize what you've been given. #ArmorofGodStudy @PriscillaShirer @Reading_List1
Wondering Questions to Consider
It is fairly common to tell people going through trials and challenges, I'll pray for you - what does that really mean for you? Do others, maybe even not-yet-believers, ask you to pray for them when they are struggling? Do you pray for their hearts as well as their struggles?
Every human being on the planet longs to be nurtured and filled with something--Someone. #ArmorofGodStudy @PriscillaShirer @Reading_List1
How do you feel about prayer? Do you pray often? Do you have a war room? Do you want one? How well do you know the verses on the Armor of God?
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