Every year, it seems the consumerism around Christmas gets a little louder. In our home, we like to keep things simple and centered on the reason we celebrate Christmas. To acknowledge Jesus’ birth, give thanks for the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and rejoice in the hope we have today.

For us, that looks like a handful of simple practices: 

• Minimizing the focus on gifts
• Talking about Jesus’ birth often
• Decorating our small, artificial tree as a family
• Choosing to slow down and do less when able
• Reading Luke 1-2 before anything else Christmas morning

How I Chose Our Advent Devotionals

This year, I wanted to add something new. Something that creates more intentional family time and keeps Christ-centered conversations going.

So, I started looking into Advent devotionals! 

I spent a couple of days looking through nearly 30 devotional books – for both our family and myself. As I read sample pages, tables of contents, and customer reviews, I was surprised (and honestly, a little saddened) by some of what I found.

This became my list of goals for whatever I’d ultimately choose:

• Meaningful reading and/or thoughtful discussion questions
• A scripture passage for each day (bonus if it connects to other books of the Bible)
• No sarcasm, slang, or overly “silly” talk
• No pop-culture references (hymns and carols are great; movies and celebrity mentions, not so much)
• No glossing over important parts of the biblical account to create a smoother storyline
• Optional: simple, fun family activities

Here are a few Advent devotionals that rose to the top for me and that I feel good recommending if you’re looking for something Christ-centered this season.

Top Advent Devotionals to Consider

• For Families
• For Teenagers
• For Individuals

	The Advent Storybook: 25 Bible Stories Showing Why Jesus Came By Laura Richie, Ages: 3-6 A single page of text each day with life like illustrations. Devotions begin with a key verse and end with a question.
	The Way to the Manger: A Family Advent Devotional By: Jeff and Abbey Land, Ages: 3-8 This one has fun “memory-maker journaling pages” to record answers and questions from year to year.
	Discovering Christmas: A 25-Day Advent Devotional with Activities for Kids By: Amanda Jass, Ages: 3-8 Engaging scenes and text paired with Read About It, Talk About It, Go About It, and Pray About It sections.
	The 25 Days of Christmas: A Family Devotional to Help You Celebrate Jesus By James Merritt, Ages: 5+ Each day offers a Scripture passage to look up, short story, prayer, and simple family activity.
	The Light Before Christmas: A Family Advent Devotional By: Marty Machowski, Ages: 5+ Follow the story of eleven year-old Mia as she and her grandmother prepare for Christmas. Three devotionals per week with hymns.

	Longing for Christmas: 25 Promises Fulfilled in Jesus, Advent Devotional for Teenagers By: Chelsea Kingston Erickson Simple devotionals with scripture reading, questions, and prayers from a variety of contributors.
	Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: An Advent Devotional By: Asheritah Ciuciu A unique approach, this devotional focuses on the names of God. Each devotional offers thought provoking questions, prayers, and further reading suggestions.

	The Dawning of Indestructible Joy: Daily Readings for Advent By: John Piper, Est. time: 3-5 minutes
	Joy To The World: Daily Readings For Advent By: Charles Spurgeon, Est. time: 3-5 minutes
	Emmanuel: An Invitation to Prepare Him Room at Christmas and Always By: Ruth Chou Simons, Est. time: 5-10 minutes
	The Greatest Gift: Unwrapping the Full Love Story of Christmas By: Ann Voskamp, Est. time: 10-15 minutes

If your family has a favorite Advent tradition or devotional, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

Looking for year round family devotional ideas? Check out my list of family devotions for busy schedules!

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The post Advent Devotionals to Prepare Your Heart for Christmas appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

I didn’t go looking for The Bondage Breaker book because I was in some spiritual crisis or trying to make sense of my past. Was I trying to understand God’s reasoning for the “pause” in my blog? Yes. Absolutely.

But honestly, I picked it up because someone I trusted mentioned it several months prior and it kept coming to mind. However, as I worked through its pages, I began to realize just how deeply it spoke to the unseen struggles I’d carried for years without knowing their spiritual roots.

Discovering Spiritual Freedom

What I didn’t understand then is that many of the invisible battles in my mind were not just “personal issues” or quirks, but real spiritual attacks. And I wasn’t defenseless.

I’d recommend Neil T. Anderson’s book whether you’ve known the Lord for decades or just recently said yes to Him. It offers a solid foundation for understanding your true identity in Christ. It’s also packed with scripture that not only informs but transforms. I didn’t just read it. I worked through it. And in doing so, I found myself:

• pausing for conviction 
• renouncing lies I’ve long held true 
• working through bitterness 
• releasing childhood baggage 
• confessing sin 
• declaring my rights as God’s child 
• enjoying a deeper relationship with God
• experiencing mental and spiritual freedom
• recognizing the enemy’s schemes faster

Understanding the Battle

The book has also given me a new lens through which to look at every situation. 

It helps to understand that even the battles we think are small or unrelated to spirituality are part of a bigger war. Satan, “the prince of the air,” is fighting against God, and we are caught in the middle. The enemy loves to use ignorance, pride, and even our spiritual passivity to his advantage. 

But we don’t have to play his games. We can put on the full armor of God (Eph 6:14-17) and rest in God’s promises of victory.

The mental battles can be won. The strongholds can be broken. The flesh patterns can be rewritten. The lies can be refuted. The generational curses can be stopped. The crippling fear can be shattered. 

As God’s chosen sons and daughters, predestined for adoption through Christ (Eph. 1:5), we have the power to confront the rebel prince, to rebuke the enemy’s advances, and claim freedom through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. 

If anything I’ve shared here resonates with you, I hope you’ll spend some time with this book. God has a way of speaking when our hearts are willing to listen.

Abba Father, I pray you work in the hearts of every soul who’s read even a few of these words today. Help them to know and learn how deeply you love them, how much power is available to them, and how much you desire for them to walk in spiritual freedom. Enable us to stand firm against the devil’s schemes and come alongside those needing help with compassion. Thank you for being the ultimate sacrifice whereby we can be saved and experience true freedom. Amen.

P.S. Wondering what a relationship with God looks like? You can learn more on my Faith page here.

P.P.S. These are just a few other books by co-authored with Neil T. Anderson I’ve also enjoyed and recommend!

The post Discovering Spiritual Freedom in “The Bondage Breaker” appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

Now I’m speculating here, but I have a feeling Corrie Ten Boom’s name is pretty familiar to older generations and not so well known in younger crowds. With as much history is in this book, I think everyone, especially those in high school should read it. I know I’ll be adding it to our homeschool curriculum in the future!

The pages are full of thought provoking quotes I wanted to share on my own social media pages. However, it was getting really hard to choose which ones to share. So, I picked my top favorites (there are only 18, eek!), threw some graphics together, and decided to share them in a blog post. Also included are my thoughts on the book. Enjoy!

If you’d like to purchase your own copy, feel free to shop with Christanbook.com using the affiliate link below.

The Hiding Place, 35th Anniversary Edition

Corrie Ten Boom Quotes

I hope some of these resonate with you. If one happens to prick at your heart, pause and be still over it for a while. Perhaps God is trying to talk to you about something. I personally paused to pray, wipe tears, and attempt to place myself in Corrie’s shoes a bunch!

I also want to draw attention to the fact that not every quote is from Corrie. Her entire family was full of wisdom and faith. I’ve included the original author, along with a relational description, in each graphic.

The Hiding Place Thoughts

I mentioned it before, but what struck me the most with this book is how much history and faith is contained in each chapter. I don’t recall reading it in school; however, The Hiding Place would certainly stick in one’s mind more than endless history facts. Connecting with real life “characters” also helps stir empathy, which the world needs more of.

Little By Little

The storyline goes back to 1898, when Corrie was just six years old. This confused me at first, because Germany didn’t start invading Holland until 1940. But I soon realized it was important to understand how they lived and how the government operated beforehand to provide context.

It was astonishing (but certainly not surprising) to see how all the “little” governmental changes, over time, led to so much blindness. Wearing a yellow star to label you as different, curfew, food rations, no radio then no telephone, no talk of/singing Holland’s national song, no associating with Jews, undisclosed raids. It started with one, then another and another, and soon – total occupation from another country.

Perhaps it was just ignorance or thinking it wouldn’t/couldn’t possibly get worse. Or perhaps it was not wanting to believe such evil could really exist, rationalizing in one’s head it was necessary because of xyz, or: not having a firm foundation rooted in God’s love for all people. Either way, it’s like the little white lie that builds into something huge and eventually destroys many.

Modern Day Repeat?

Half way through the book, my mom asked how the reading was going. I had so much to tell her, but what came out was, “Mom, we’re practically living this out today. Like right now. History has repeated this behavioral pattern over and over.”

Corrie’s underground work started as a result of one man’s hatred for a different ethnicity, the Jews. Hitler thought they didn’t deserve to live, took his ideology, and created and spread propaganda. More people joined ranks; maybe because they were also full of hate or they would be killed for opposing or maybe some couldn’t see through the smoke to sift out the truth. Regardless, Hitler effectively started a movement that spilled into several other countries leaving destruction in it’s wake.

Although not exactly the same, we’ve all been in “cultural war scenarios” that have effected us directly or indirectly. In my life time, I thought of things like pro-life vs. pro-choice, presidential elections, vaxxed or not, countless awareness movements, and even the Pandemic in some ways.

There always seems to be an overarching sense of fear causing people to either find their voice or hide in a shell. Groups of individuals hurt physically, mentally, emotionally. And oh the division. Because it’s usually a “I’m right and you’re wrong!” approach, instead of a “How can I serve you? How can we agree to disagree and still show love?” approach.

I couldn’t help but check my own heart attitude towards worldly things causing division, hate, anger. Even if I don’t understand and/or agree with them – is my posture still one of love and compassion? Am I still reflecting Jesus and am I obeying God by loving Him and my neighbors above myself (Mark 12: 28-31).

Giant Faith!

In many ways, The Hiding Place could double as a devotional. Numerous times I was encouraged by Corrie’s and her family’s faith. I was reminded I really don’t have anything to truly complain about. It was inspiring to see how Corrie found even a tiny ant in her solitary confinement a gift from God.

I think it’s telling their family placed DAILY emphasis on reading the Bible, praying, and serving others together. The example was set for them at an early age. They also attended church together and rarely missed unless one was ill.

Today, quiet time with God, praying, church, and other’s needs takes a backseat to what the individual’s wants and needs are. We live in a self-centered society. Sundays are no longer a day to gather and worship God. They’re a day to cram in more shopping, projects, traveling, and endless school/sports activities. Is it really any wonder the vast majority of those around us spend so much time searching for something more, but never find it?

I’ve also done some deep soul searching, asking myself if I would be as brave as they were, to step out into what they knew was right despite so many odds being against them. Does all of the Bible reading, Bible studying, note taking, conference attending, encouragement and resource sharing mean anything – if I am not willing to drop everything I have to serve and/or sacrifice my life for the one true God?!

God’s Gift in God’s Timing

In the last chapter of The Hiding Place , Corrie shares how she felt restless after being released from the concentration camp. Returning home was wonderful, but nothing was the same. When approached by the underground group, and asked to help deliver false release papers, she quickly agreed. However, upon entering the jail, she proceeded to fumble things by personally addressing and warmly greeting a police lieutenant who helped the underground in front of German soldiers.

Reflecting on the incident she thought, “If I ever needed proof that I had no boldness or cleverness of my own, I had it now. Whatever bravery or skill I had ever shown where gifts of God – sheer loans from Him of the talent needed to do a job. And it was clear, from the absence of such skills now, that this was no longer His work for me.”

I couldn’t help but think of times I wished for different life skills, talents, connections, financial means while serving God. Sometimes it easy to see why I wouldn’t be a good fit. But other times, when I believe I could bring something to the table, it’s frustrating to keep seeing closed doors, especially if it’s something I’ve done in the past.

It was a sober reminder to keep my eyes focused on God and the path He’s set before me. I am not omniscient, but God is. Which means I need to be better at trusting His direction. God is going to give us different gifts and abilities that may (most likely will) change throughout life. The easier I can adapt and surrender my desires, the easier it will become to follow Him.

So, which Corrie Ten Boom quote(s) was your favorite? Have you read The Hiding Place? If so, please share your take-aways with us in the comments below!

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The post Corrie Ten Boom Quotes & Book Review appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.

Our goal is to read every night, but sometimes life happens, so we do our best! Included below is what our routine looks like and a list of my favorites, including what we’re currently using. The devotions listed below can all be completed within ten to fifteen minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules!

Remember, even something short and sweet is better than nothing at all! The more children hear and learn about God, the better chance they have of storing Him away in their hearts. I’m constantly amazed at how much my kids remember, even months later.

Our Family Devotions Routine

Daily devotions work best for us at night. I find it a great way to bring the family together at the end of the day and “settle down” for the night. Since we’re usually all tired (mom too!), I try to keep things around 10-15 minutes long.

In the past I’ve done the reading; however, a couple months ago the two older children started asking to read the Bible portion. What an amazing addition to our time together! Bible passages are now divided in half, so they each have a turn.

We typically read the devotion, answer any questions, and pray as a family. Then we all take turns talking about something we’re thankful for and/or that brought us a smile. Sometimes the kids will offer an additional prayer after that!

And if everyone is still hanging in there (meaning if baby R isn’t melting down yet!) – I read one chapter from a story book.

Favorite Family Devotions

In no particular order, here’s our list of favorites with a few details and reasons why. All of these can be done within 10-15 minutes. Click on the links to purchase and start using with your own family!

Long Story Short & Old Story New

I love how these devotions take you on a journey right through the Bible. It’s not just the big stories, but all the little ones in-between too. They’re designed to take around 10 minutes. Answers to questions are provided, which has helped hubby and I learn too! These are my top favorite and what we’re currently working through!

Taken from the Introduction: “Each week starts off with a creative activity, exercise, or bit of trivia to introduce the passage. On days one through four you review a portion of the week’s Scripture passage. Special attention is given on day three to connect the current passage to the gospel. On day four we’ve added a question for your older children to ask you, and day five you and your family investigate a Bible passage from the book of Psalms or an excerpt from one of the prophets to discover how the passage points forward to Christ.”

The combined devotions cover Genesis to Revelation and take a couple years to work through. But honestly, no one has ever said they’re bored, so don’t let that deter you! Since Jason and I walk away learning things, I would say the devotions are suitable for children age 5 all the way to adult!

Age: 5 and up

Duration: 78 weeks

Time: 10-15 minutes

Long Story Short: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God By Marty Machowski

Old Story New, New Testament: Ten-Minute Devotions to Draw Your Family to God By Marty Machowski

How Great Is Our God

These short and sweet family devotions offer a few things. Each two-page devotion includes a Bible passage, a small written excerpt connecting God with various topics, closing prayer, and a “How Great” section.

The “How Great” section offers a couple fun, real life facts about the topic, which the kids always enjoyed. Topics include animals, weather, science, plants, space, and the human body. Graphics are engaging with real life photos interspersed.

If you read five devotions a week, this would last five months. It is geared towards children Kindergarten and under. The devotion could easily be completed in five minutes, but I often tried to ask simple follow up questions to see if they understood what we read.

Age: 3-5 years

Duration: 100 devotions

Time: 5-7 minutes

How Great Is Our God: 100 Indescribable Devotions About God and Science By Louie Giglio with Tama Fortner

My Big Book of 5-Minute Devotions

These artistic, two-page family devotions focus on character traits of different kinds of animals. They include a single Bible verse, short excerpt, and four questions for further discussion.

The book itself isn’t very long, but the questions are great for little minds learning how to process things. They inquire about what was read, ask the child to think about their own emotions or how they would respond, and bring things round with “How/Why would God…” geared questions.

Easily completed in five to seven minutes, even if taking the time to look at the art work on each page. Perfect for the animal lover!

Age: 3-5 years

Duration: 40 devotions

Time: 5-7 minutes

My Big Book of 5-Minute Devotions: Celebrating God’s World By Pamela Kennedy with Douglas Kennedy

the Jesus Storybook Bible

This is not a true devotional, but we still enjoyed reading the stories and the kids were always commenting/making observations on the illustrations.

The storybook features main stories from both the Old and New Testament. It starts with Genesis and works to Revelation. There are no questions or closing prayers, but you can always create your own.

Each story is about seven to ten minutes long. If you choose to read the listed Bible passage, plan for an additional ten to fifteen minutes.

Age: 4-8 years

Duration: 44 stories

Time: 7-10 minutes

The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name By Sally Lloyd-Jones

The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New

We used this book as part of our homeschool curriculum, but it would be a fabulous devotional for family time as well! This book presents theology in a child friendly way, breaking down big topics into bite size pieces. Additional Bible verses are given for further research and questions/answers are provided in the back of the book.

It spurred several good conversations with the kiddos. Watching them connect ideas, God’s truths, and Bible stories was so heart warming. Theology topics included are: God, People, Sin, Promise and the Law, Christ, Holy Spirit, Adoption into God’s Family, Change, Church, End Times, God’s Word.

The Ology: Ancient Truths Ever New
By Marty Machowski

Age: 4-10 years

Duration: 71 devotions

Time: 10-15 minutes

The Biggest Story Bible Storybook

Unique, colorful illustrations and clear wording made this a kid favorite in our house! The author takes you on a journey from Genesis to Revelation showing children how the separate parts (Pentateuch, History, Poetry, Prophets, Gospels, Acts & Epistles, and Revelation) of the Bible all fit together.

We used this as part of homeschool curriculum, but it would be a great family devotional as well. Broken down into 104 chapters, each “lesson” recounts part of the Bible and ends with a short prayer. The kiddos often begged to read “just one more please!”

The Biggest Story Bible Storybook
By Kevin DeYoung

Age: 6-12 years

Duration: 104 chapters

Time: 5-10 minutes

The Ultimate Family Devotion

There is one “devotional” that will never match any other, and that’s the Bible itself. Have your child pick a name/story from the Bible they’re interested in, go more in depth on Sunday’s church service, or just pick a book to read through.

On several occasions, my children have asked to listen to the Bible on audio. I love doing this, in part because it frees up my hands, but also because I usually pick up something to ponder too. There are many Bible apps available with this feature; I personally use the You Version app.

What family devotions are your favorites? What does your family routine look like? Share with us in the comments below!

Stay Connected!

Encouragement for Faith & Everyday Life

Life can feel full with faith, health, home, and all the small things in between. The newsletter is a simple way to stay connected through new blog posts, encouragement, occasional shop news, and free tools that support intentional, everyday living.

A glimpse of the free tools

The post My Favorite Family Devotions for Busy Schedules appeared first on Blooming Rock Homestead.