Tag Archives: children’s devotionals

Spotlight on Devotionals — Paws-itive Inspirations

19 Sep

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Paws-itive Inspirations: 90 Devotions for Kids and Dog Lovers by Michelle Medlock Adams & Wendy Hinote Lanier, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About The Book

Title: Paws-itive Inspirations: 90 Devotions for Kids and Dog Lovers
Authors: Michelle Medlock Adams, Wendy Hinote Lanier
Publisher: Iron Stream Media
Release Date: September 17, 2024
Genre: Juvenile Christian Non-Fiction/Devotional

Can Dogs Really Teach Us More About God?

Award-winning authors Michelle Medlock Adams and Wendy Hinote Lanier say yes! That’s why they’ve teamed up to offer Paws-itive Inspirations—a great way to help dog lovers connect with God and learn more about their favorite breeds.

Paws-itive Inspirations will have kids and adults alike digging up treasures about their favorite pups, as well as discovering new breeds and learning important biblical truths in every devotion. Each Fido-themed entry encourages readers to dig deeper into God’s Word as they uncover fascinating facts about our canine friends. The 90 devotions cover different dog breeds and include:

Unleashing the Truth (key Bible verses)
Digging Deeper (self-reflection questions)
Fido 411 (interesting tidbits about the breed)
Weekly Tail-Waggers (activities to reinforce each lesson)

Paws-itive Inspirations blends faith, fun, and canine facts to give readers a deeper understanding of God’s Word. The interactive format makes for a meaningful and memorable faith journey!

Excerpt

Honestly, if the dog world had a supermodel, it would be the Afghan Hound. With its flowing, silky coat, distinct narrow features, and dignified (sometimes standoffish) attitude, the Afghan Hound is a beautiful, sophisticated dog. But this breed has more than beauty going for it. The Afghan hound is also quite intelligent and a great problem solver. But it’s a very stubborn breed, which makes it difficult to train. Here’s what else— Afghans are very sensitive animals. They do not respond well to harsh correction, so when you train them, you have to be gentle. 

Let’s face it. Nobody likes correction—especially harsh correction. But, like the Afghan, we have to be corrected in order to become better. And, the way we receive God’s correction and training is by reading the Bible and following His commandments. Without discipline, we can’t become the people God has created us to be.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop

About The Authors

Michelle Medlock Adams is an award-winning author of over 100 books with close to four million books sold, including her best-selling What Is . . .? board book series. Michelle has written countless articles, helped pen a New York Times bestseller, hosted TBN’s Joy in Our Town TV program, and taught at more than one hundred writers conferences. Michelle is married to her high-school sweetheart, Jeff. They have two married daughters, two grandsons, and two granddaughters.

Connect with Michelle by visiting michellemedlockadams.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Wendy Hinote Lanier is a Texan, dog lover, and only child who always wanted a puppy rather than a brother or sister. She is a former elementary teacher who writes and speaks for children and adults on a variety of topics and is an award-winning author of more than 50 books for children.Connect with Wendy by visiting wendyhinotelanier.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(2) winners will each receive a print copy of Paws-itive Inspirations and a $25 Visa gift card!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight September 17, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on September 24, 2024. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US/CAN only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Children’s Corner — Twas The Season of Advent

30 Nov

If you are looking for a meaning-filled advent guide for your family, look no further than the beautifully illustrated Twas The Season of Advent: Devotions And Stories for The Christmas Season by Glenys Nellist. This hardcover book features 25 advent readings that are perfect for family reading time. Each day begins with a stanza of a Night Before Christmas-inspired poem sharing the Christmas story. The daily reading proceeds with scripture verses chosen from both the Old and New Testaments. A story is then presented, and the reading ends in a simple prayer. The illustrations will captivate the littlest reader, while older children will have a chance to learn more about the Advent season and discover God’s plan. Great for your home library or as a gift for a special family.

Highly Recommended.

Audience: families with children.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Celebrate the Advent season with this beautiful and heartwarming collection of devotions and stories from beloved, bestselling author Glenys Nellist. Told in the style of the classic ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas poem, make this read aloud your new holiday tradition.

‘Twas the Season of Advent is a 25-day devotional that will inspire your family as you eagerly await the arrival of Christ’s birth. Written in both prose and poetry, this beautiful picture book will engage children and adults alike and become a new holiday tradition for families everywhere!?

Glenys Nellist was born and raised in a little village in northern England. The author of multiple award-winning children’s books, including the bestselling ‘Twas the Evening of Christmas, The Wonder That is You, and five popular series: Love Letters from God, Snuggle Time, ‘Twas, Good News and Little Mole, her writing reflects a deep passion for helping children discover joy and hope in the world. Glenys lives in Michigan with her husband, David.

Children’s Corner — 100 Bedtime Devotions

19 Oct

The tagline for 100 Bedtime Devotions from The Beginner’s Bible is Meaningful Answers to Kids Big Questions. Designed for end of the day prayers and discussions, the book is divided up into topics including Peace, Hope and Patience, God’s Purpose for Us, and Loving God And Loving Others. There are devotions for when a child is scared or hurt, and devotions to encourage gratefulness and kindness — basically, every situation that can come up in a child’s life. The stories are short, simple, and easy to understand, and most importantly taken directly from the Bible. A short prayer prompt can help parents guide their child into quiet time with God. Brightly colored illustrations capture the eye as the truths from God’s word are shared. I can’t wait to share this book with my grandchildren!

Recommended.

Audience: children 4-8.

(I received a complimentary copy from Zonderkidz. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Snuggle up for some special time with God and your little one! The Beginner’s Bible 100 Bedtime Devotions contains sweet, meaningful devotions that are fun and accessible for young children, so you can end the day by reassuring your child of God’s amazing love for them.

The Beginner’s Bible 100 Bedtime Devotions is a cozy, faith-filled addition to any bedtime routine. With devotions organized by theme—including gratitude, courage, friendship, peace, and more—it’s easy to find the perfect message for anything that’s on a child’s heart or mind.

The Beginner’s Bible 100 Bedtime Devotions:

  • Is part of The Beginner’s Bible® brand, the bestselling Bible storybook brand of our time, impacting more than 25 million families for over 30 years
  • Features 100 original devotions perfect for sharing with young children
  • Organizes devotions by topic, so you can easily address anything your child is thinking about
  • Is a fun, accessible way to deepen your child’s faith
  • Features vibrant, three-dimensional art
  • Is perfect for Easter baskets, Christmas stocking stuffers, birthdays, and child dedications

Book Spotlight And Giveaway! — Good Morning, Little One

21 Feb
Good Morning Little One JustRead Blog Tour

Welcome to the Blog Tour for Good Morning, Little One by Amy Kavelaris, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Good Morning, Little One
Author: Amy Kavelaris
Publisher: Tommy Nelson
Release Date: February 8, 2022
Genre: Children’s Devotionals/Prayers, Christian

Reassure kids that God is carrying them throughout the day with these morning affirmations and whimsical illustrations from beloved author Amy Kavelaris. Adorable animals with gorgeous floral art and words of hope remind little ones of God’s love, security, and peace for the day ahead.

Through a child’s eyes, the world can be beautiful, wonder-filled, and a bit fear-filled all at the same time. Remind your little one that God is always near with this unique book of blessings. A beautiful companion to Amy Kavelaris’s popular Good Night, My Darling Dear, this inspirational picture book

• reassures children ages 4 to 8 that God carries them through good days, hard days, and anxious days
• shares biblical promises of God’s love, purpose, and protection
• features the whimsical imagery of nature and animals that has made Kavelaris’s art beloved
• encourages kids to discover God each day and joyfully live out who He created them to be
• gives children confidence to be brave in scary and unexpected situations

This unique book of blessings and prayers will remind your little one of God’s loving promises revealed in nature: that He protects us from the rain, He covers us with His wings, He shines His light into the darkness, and most of all, He’ll always be with us. Good Morning, Little One by artist Amy Kavelaris

• includes a stunning cover with a jacket over hardcover
• makes a touching keepsake gift book for a child’s Easter basket, baby showers, and other new beginnings such as adoption, a new sibling, or the first day of school
• is an enchanting piece of art for a botanical nursery or child’s bedroom
• is ideal for any parent, grandparent, or family who wants to establish a tradition of blessing their child in the morning

There’s no better way to start the day than praying over your children with this sweet, Scripture-based book about trusting God to carry each of you in His gentle arms.

PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | ChristianBook | BookBub


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Kavelaris

Amy (Kavs) Kavelaris‘ work can be spotted in Target, Anthropologie, Bebe au Lait, and Better Homes & Gardens, as well as in homes around the globe. She has collaborated with countless brands, including Skechers Shoes and Pampers Diapers, and served as a judge for the Miss America Foundation. Her impressionistic, bohemian style merges with her painterly whimsy. Amy and her husband live in the Midwest with their three small girls. See her art at bloomprintsstudio.com and @amykavs on Instagram.

CONNECT WITH AMY: Website | Instagram


TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Good Morning, Little One!

Good Morning, Little One JustRead Giveaway

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight February 21, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on February 28, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE


Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.

Family Devotional Giveaway from New Growth Press!

3 Dec
For active families, reading the Bible together can feel overwhelming. However, family Bible study doesn’t have to be complicated! With just ten minutes a day, parents have enough time to pass on the most valuable treasure the world has ever known.

Start off the new year resolved to study the Bible together. New Growth Press has you covered and is giving away a family devotional package every family will want to win!

In this third and final Spirit of Giving giveaway of the Christmas season, New Growth Press is giving away THREE gift boxes of family devotionals (retail value of $148 each). From December 3-8, you can enter to win one of family devotional boxes. 

Click HERE to enter.

Each gift box includes one copy of the following family devotionals written by Marty Machowski:
Children love stories, and the parables provide a wonderful opportunity to engage their imagination and help them understand and live out the good news of the kingdom of God. After teaching a parable, Jesus often said, “Whoever has ears, let him hear.” In other words, “This is important, so you better listen up,” and what could be more important than the good news of the kingdom of God? This family devotional provides a unique opportunity for parents to help their children “listen up” and hear the gospel as Jesus himself shared it.
Wise Up is designed to connect the teaching of Proverbs to God’s larger story of salvation. Children will learn that Solomon’s wisdom, life, and failures all point to “something greater than Solomon”—they point to Jesus. The goal of this devotional is to present the wisdom of Proverbs against the backdrop of the gospel to show children that real wisdom comes only as we depend on Jesus for daily help and forgiveness.
Long Story Short guides families through the Old Testament stories and is designed to cultivate honest and powerful discussion about the Bible, which is the catalyst for change in children’s lives. Through 78 Old Testament stories, Long Story Short explains God’s plan of salvation through the Old Testament, focusing on the hero of Scripture and important biblical truths without being corny, confusing, or condescending.
Suited for children from preschool through high school, this gospel-focused book is full of ten-minute devotions to continue the gospel story that began in Long Story Short. The consistent and short structure helps children walk through the life-changing truths of the Christian faith in the New Testament—without overwhelming them. Through 78 New Testament stories, Old Story New does the hard work for moms and dads. Simple discussion questions (and answers!) for each day’s devotion help children understand and connect with Jesus’s life, death, resurrection, and the birth of the Christian church.
This beautifully illustrated storybook captivates young readers with the heart of the gospel. The Gospel Story Bible points to Jesus, helping families and kids identify Christ as the hero of every story. While it’s easy to forget Jesus in the midst of frantic schedules, family squabbles, and conflicting priorities, Machowski reminds families of God’s plan of salvation in Christ, which is continually on display throughout the Bible. Ideal as a storybook for your preschooler, a devotional for your grade school student, a refresher for the adult believer, or an introduction for the new one, The Gospel Story Bible is also a companion to Long Story Short and Old Story New.

In addition to these books for the entire family, the winners will also receive a new book of devotionals just for parents, and New Growth Press’ latest parenting book.

In this uplifting and faith-strengthening devotional book for parents, Marty Machowski encourages parents in the midst of trials. Full of Scripture, testimonies of faithful parents, and insightful meditations, Parenting First Aid equips moms and dads to run to God and trust his ability to do what they can’t. The easy-to-use format provides encouragement to turn to God in the midst of family difficulty. While God does not promise happiness and ease in parenting, all can find comfort in God and peace beyond understanding through the Scriptures and meditations found in Parenting First Aid.
Every family is unique, which is why Child Proof explores the need for parents to cultivate personal and intimate care for their children as modeled in God’s individual, personal, and fatherly care to his children. This child-rearing book lays a foundation of parenting by faith and progresses by teaching readers how they can know their own kids well and raise them accordingly. By discussing particular issues moms and dads might have in family life, Lowe demonstrates how formulas aren’t the answer, and parenting with biblical wisdom is best for a proactive rather than reactive approach to parenting.

In case you don’t win the prize pack, sign-up for New Growth Press’ e-news at https://newgrowthpress.com/ to receive information about their Countdown to Christmas discounts so that you can order copies. Be sure to follow them on social media as well where they will be sharing daily deals throughout the Christmas season (facebook.com/ngpbooks | twitter.com/newgrowthpress | instagram.com/newgrowthpress).

Review: Big And Little Coloring Devotional

3 Oct

Kids crave constant activities and attention. Adults crave quiet moments of refreshment. How can we achieve both? Big and Little Coloring Devotional engages adults’ minds with appealing biblical devotionals while providing a creative outlet through coloring to diffuse stress.

Let’s have fun with our children through coloring and facilitate their spiritual growth with Scripture. Big and Little Coloring Devotional will incorporate physical, spiritual, and emotional refreshment by providing authentic faith-filled devotionals combined with therapeutic doodling for both the adult and child.

 

To purchase, click HERE.

 

Rachel C. Swanson is a dental hygienist turned best-selling author, speaker, and accredited christian life coach helping women discover their unique purpose and pursue their dreams. She inspires others through her blog, social media pages, in-person speaking events, and through her private high-level online coaching program.

She has published print, video, and online articles at FamilyShare (100+ million followers), Crosswalk, (In)Courage, QARA.org (leadership for millennials), Relevant Entrepreneur, MICI Magazine, Whole Magazine, and more. Her best-selling book, Big and Little Coloring Devotional, was birthed by her own struggle to keep it together as a busy mom of three children under two. Using the popular stress-relief coloring combined with Scripture for both adults and children to delight over, this has become “so much more than a coloring book.” She’s a rising speaker on popular topics such as pursuing your God-given purpose, modern motherhood, faith-based entrepreneurship, and overcoming anxiety.

Additionally, Rachel holds a Bachelors of science degree in Nutrition with an emphasis in pre-medicine from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo California. According to StrengthFinders testing her top 5 strengths are: learner, input, activator, intellection, futuristic. She also ranks an ENFJ, one of the rarer personality types and an ideal mix facilitating her creative entrepreneurial spirit.

Rachel is married to her husband Jeff of 11 years. They have three children: identical twin boys (Gavin and Rylan) and 19 months later a baby girl (Aria), and a Weimaraner (dog) who thinks she’s human. They reside in a wannabe country town in the suburbs of Los Angeles, California.

Web/Blog: http://www.RachelCSwanson.com
Facebook: @Rachelswansonofficial
Instagram: @Rachelswansonofficial

Jacy Corral (pronounced “Jackie”) is an illustrator, hand lettering artist, graphic designer, wife, and mom. After enjoying an extensive career in corporate marketing and design, she traded fancy slacks for yoga pants to focus on the great privilege of raising her daughter, investing in her home and marriage, and creating artwork that helps people to connect and reflect. Jacy lives with her husband, daughter, and miniature poodle in West Los Angeles, CA. She shares her creations regularly on Instagram and at http://www.hyssopdesign.com.

 

My Impressions:

While I have seen my share of adult and children’s coloring books, I have not seen one that combines both and can be be shared at the same time. The Big And Little Coloring Devotional does just that. It’s format allows the adult and child to face each other with compatible designs while allowing each to explore God’s word and work out their own creativity. Each two page spread includes a simple design with a Bible verse and a more complex design with devotional thoughts that expand on the scripture. Rachel Swanson has created the perfect way for mom and child to interact, have fun, and talk about the promises of God. And there are lots and lots of designs — this book will last a long time. The author shares how the book came about as she looked for ways to spend time with her daughter in prayer and Bible study. She says that the book is a creation orchestrated by the Creator Himself for you and your “little” to enjoy! Swanson has a hit on her hands as she combines God word, her devotional thoughts, and the beautiful designs of Jacy Corral. You are going to love it! Consider adding this one to your holiday shopping list.

Note: I reviewed this coloring devotional in a previous blog post. I haven’t changed my mind. It is still great!

Recommended.

Audience: parents and children

(Thanks to B&H Publishers for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Children’s Corner — The Daily Question for You And Your Child

19 Sep

A fun, thought-provoking 365-question guided journal and keepsake that sparks daily interaction with your child to create a memory book capturing your child’s life, personality, and faith journey.

This interactive prompted journal allows a parent to create a keepsake of three years of their child’s life. By answering each of the 365 questions together on the same date each year, readers will get a unique and precious picture into their child’s feelings, development, and personality. Some of the questions focus on spirituality and the child’s heart, while some are meant to capture their creativity, spirit, and sense of humor. All questions spark conversations and memories that span well beyond the pages of this book.

To purchase, click HERE.

 

My Impressions:

The Daily Question for You And Your Child is a wonderful resource for families. This small book packs 3 years of questions and conversation starters to track how your child grows in his perceptions of himself, his family, and his place in the world. I love the format — a brief prompt and then open space for your child’s responses. Arranged to be used daily, this book will not only open conversations today, but will be a treasured memento for the future. Here are just a few of the questions/thoughts to ponder:

If you could travel to the past where would you go?

Do you enjoy big storms? Why or why not?

What makes you a good friend?

If yo were a pirate, what would be in your treasure chest?

Some prompts will open up laughs, while others will go deeper into your child’s beliefs, fears, and dreams. The book is designed for one on one between parents and child, but I think it can easily be adapted for a whole family experience.

Recommended.

Audience: children and parents.

(Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Happy Release Day! — The Daily Question for You And Your Child

28 Aug

It’s release day for The Daily Question for You And Your Child. What a great resource to connect with your kids, to get them thinking, and to jumpstart conversations about God. Check it out!

A fun, thought-provoking 365-question guided journal and keepsake that sparks daily interaction with your child to create a memory book capturing your child’s life, personality, and faith journey.

This interactive prompted journal allows a parent to create a keepsake of three years of their child’s life. By answering each of the 365 questions together on the same date each year, readers will get a unique and precious picture into their child’s feelings, development, and personality. Some of the questions focus on spirituality and the child’s heart, while some are meant to capture their creativity, spirit, and sense of humor. All questions spark conversations and memories that span well beyond the pages of this book.

For more information or to purchase, click HERE.

 

Children’s Corner — 365 Trivia Twist Devotions

23 May

Explore a world of amazing trivia and exciting spiritual truths!
 
Every daily devotion in 365 Trivia Twist Devotions is based on a historical happening, intriguing invention, or offbeat holiday associated with that calendar day. From George Washington’s birthday to National Waffle Day, each reveals the truths of God’s Word in a fun new way. Bible verses and additional fun facts help to give every day of the year its own unique trivia twist.

 

To purchase, click HERE.

 

My Impressions:

What a fun, fun idea for a devotional guide for kids! 365 Trivia Twist Devotions is divided into daily essays that touch on something special for that particular day — scientific discoveries, inventions, historic dates, fun and funky holidays, and people and places that will spark your kids’ interest to go a bit deeper. But even more, the book ties the topics to God’s word with thoughtful commentary for everyday use. A scripture verse is included (great for memorization) along with an additional fact to think about.  365 Trivia Twist Devotions is geared towards elementary aged kids, boys and girls. Boys are sometimes hard to engage, and this one is perfect for them. Here are a few topics for the month of May: John Wayne, Walt Disney, the US Penny, Pack Rat Day, Stargazing. Although this book is designed for daily use throughout the year, its use in summer activities will keep your kids learning and exploring — an added bonus for those days when you hear mom, I’m bored. I predict this book will become one this summer’s favorite activities.

Recommended.

Audience: elementary-aged children.

(Thanks to B&H Publishing for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Children’s Corner — May The Faith Be With You

28 Mar

Life in the Spirit isn’t about cushioned pews and easy living — it’s about adventure, risk, daring, and the pursuit of wisdom. It’s about letting the awesome power of God work through you to do things you never thought possible.

In this brand-new 180-day devotional, you’ll learn the highest, truest, and most rewarding way to a life of wisdom, apprenticing with the Ultimate Master himself — Jesus Christ. May the Faith Be With You will give you a devotional experience that’s out of this world.

 

To purchase, click HERE.

 

My Impressions:

It is sometimes hard to find a devotional guide that is suited for elementary-aged children, but I think I found just the right one in May The Faith Be With You (180 Devotions That Are Out of This World). Each day your child can start their quiet time out right with a scripture, a statement that sums up the verse in a nutshell, a bit of info about the story surrounding the scripture, and a quick prayer to get them started talking to God. There is a mix of Old and New Testament verses that are just right for kids — ones that point towards God and our relationship with Him. I liked the format of this book and the way it leads to more investigation into God’s word. Your kids will definitely want to know more. The book is also a great discussion starter for kids and their parents.

May The Faith Be With You is a good choice as a birthday gift or Easter basket filler — really anytime you want to give something special to enhance your child’s walk with God.

Recommended.

Audience: kids ages 8-10.

(Thanks to Zonderkidz for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)