Archive for the ‘Books’ Category

National Texas Day

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On February 1st, National Texas Day recognizes the Lone Star State along with its fierce record of independent people and history, including these Ambassador International authors from Texas!

 

Jim Mann

Dr. Jim Mann, author of "A New Normal: A Journey from Loss to Joy"Dr. Jim Mann is the founding and Lead Pastor of New Life Church in Denton, Texas—the town he grew up in. He holds a Ph.D. in New Testament from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and serves as Adjunct Professor of New Testament for Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Christine, have two teenage children. Christine Mann wrote the study questions for this journal and serves as the Women’s Minister for New Life Church.
Jim is the author of adult nonfiction A New Normal: A Journey From Loss to Joy

 

Terry Overton

Terry Overton, author of middle grade Christian fictionTerry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed.D. in special education. She taught in public schools and was a school psychologist and a professor before retiring in 2016. Her university experiences included teaching at Longwood University in Virginia, the University of Texas-Brownsville, The University of Texas-Pan American, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and Stephen F. Austin State University. She held positions as Dean and Department Chair during her tenure in higher education. Her areas of research included behavior disorders, learning disorders, autism, and research in higher education. She currently resides in Laguna Vista, Texas. She enjoys Biblical history and general Bible studies, writing, blogging, and playing golf.
Terry is a prolific author and has authored Both Sides of the Border, an adult contemporary fiction; the Sabal Palms series, an adult contemporary series, the Newton Chronicles series, a contemporary fantasy series for middle grade; and The Oddball Ornaments series, a contemporary middle grade Christmas series.

 

Allen Steadham

Allen Steadham, author of Christian fantasy and sci-fiAllen Steadham created comic books and webcomics before he started writing novels. He has been married to his wife, Angel, since 1995 and they have two sons and a daughter. When not writing stories or drawing comics, Allen and his wife are singers, songwriters, and musicians. They have been in a Christian band together since 1997. They live in Central Texas.
Allen is the author of Christian fantasy and contemporary novels. He has authored Mindfire; the Jordan of Algoran series; Into the Unknown: Seven Short Stories of Faith and Bravery; Christmas Miracles: Six Short Stories of God’s Faithfulness in Any Time, Space, or Realm; and The Former Things.

 

Cynthia Conner Goyang

Cynthia Conner Goyang, author of Just One TouchCynthia Goyang is a Christian wife and mother. She and her husband Tony have three adult sons and now enjoy spending time with their three granddaughters. Cynthia was born and raised in Denver, Colorado. She grew up in a large household with her parents and ten siblings, of which she is the second to youngest. She met her husband while at school in Oklahoma and now resides in the West Texas town of Midland. She is an avid reader and loves to use her pencil to illustrate the Lord’s principles. Biblical fiction Just One Touch is her debut novel.

 

Marcy Lytle

Marcy Lytle, author of Life is Fluid: A Women's Study from the Book of EcclesiastesMarcy Lytle is currently editor of two local magazines in the Austin, Texas area, and Life is Fluid is her second book. She is married to Jon, and they have two children, Kamrin (who is married to Tyler) and Conner.

 

Mary E. Sandford

Mary Sandford, author of UnwantedMary E. Sandford has published more than fifty stories in Sunday School papers, numerous magazines, and two CHICKEN SOUP books. Some of her work has earned SCBWI awards. She has served on the board of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators in Illinois. She attends workshops and conferences in Illinois, Iowa, Tennessee, California and now where she lives in North Texas. Mary also has been a speaker and story teller for AWANA and other programs for children. For five years Mary directed a puppet ministry which included writing puppet performances and public speaking. In Illinois, she was President of Word Weavers West Suburbs in the Chicago area and is currently starting a new Word Weavers group in Texas. Mary’s goal as a writer is to live and work for Jesus Christ so more children will know Him and want to serve Him with their lives.
Mary is the author of Unwanted, a historical middle grade fiction.

 

D. K. Doulos

D.K. Doulos, author of dystopian YA fiction WoE is UsD. K. Doulos has written stories most of his life and is thankful he can use his talent in service to God. When he’s not writing, he enjoys going camping, impersonating a grill master, and watching college football. Between epic cross-country family road trips, he’s blessed to live in Texas with his wife and four children.

D.K. is the author of Christian dystopian young adult fiction WoE is Us.

National Florida Day

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National Florida Day is celebrated on January 25th every year. Here at Ambassador International, we’re using this day to celebrate our Floridian authors!

 

S.A. Jewell

S.A. Jewell, author of Christian fictionS.A. Jewell is the author of biblical fictions Solomon’s Concubine and Of Friends and Followers;  Blink, a fictional “end-times” novel; as well as the author of two children’s fictional books, A Christmas Dinosaur and Visit from a Shepherd Boy. She holds a master’s degree in Bible studies from South Florida Bible College and Theological Seminary. She is founder of www.teamofGod.org, a non-denominational Christian ministry assisting ministries in Africa and in Florida.

 

Barbara Taylor Sanders

Barbara Taylor Sanders, author of Bloodline SecretsAuthor Barbara Taylor Sanders, B.A., is also an advocate and an award-winning artist. As a member of the National League of American Pen Women, she is actively involved with professional writers, artists and musicians in SW Florida. For decades, she’s been a tireless advocate for the poor and disadvantaged, especially single mothers struggling to better their lives. Her lifelong passion is to share the love of Christ Jesus through book publications and creative evangelical outreach to the lost and forsaken of the world.

Barbara is the author of contemporary suspense Bloodline Secrets and historical suspense The Bloodstone Ring.

 

Derrick West

Derrick West, author of The League of Pardoned RebelsDerrick is a minister, theological educator, and writer who resides in the smallest town with the best restaurants in the United States: Vero Beach, FL. He married his wife, Dawn, in 2003. Together, they have two children: Miller (13) and Darcie Samantha (12). He is an accomplished blues guitar player who also enjoys playing golf and letting his friends know just how good Clemson University is at football.

Derrick is the author of a concise but thorough expose of the original disciples, The League of Pardoned Rebels.

 

Vanna Nguyen

Vanna Nguyen, author of The Life She Once Knew: The Incredible True Story of Queena, The Bloomingdale Library Attack SurvivorAs a young child, Vanna Nguyen enjoyed a prestigious life in South Vietnam until the country’s fall to Communism in 1975. After risking her life for the dream of freedom, she fled to the United States where she became a citizen and raised her two daughters, Anna and Queena. Life was perfect until 18-year-old Queena was brutally attacked and raped while dropping books off at the local library. As a result of the attack, Vanna lost not only her once-thriving small business, but she also lost her beloved daughter as she knew her. Today, Vanna is a tireless advocate for Queena’s rehabilitation from traumatic brain injury sustained during the attack. Vanna manages the popular Join Queena website and official social media accounts. Vanna was compelled to write her memoir to share her journey as a refugee and as a mother whose daughter suffered a traumatic brain injury. Vanna hopes her story will inspire others and will imbue them with strength.

Vanna is the author of The Life She Once Knew: The Incredible True Story of Queena, The Bloomingdale Library Attack Survivor.

 

Tracy L. Smoak

Tracy Smoak, Author of Who Brought the Dog to Church?, contemporary fictionA native Floridian, Tracy L. Smoak grew up in Clermont riding horses and climbing citrus trees. Her passion is to encourage others in their faith journey. Smoak contributes to Guideposts. In addition to her debut novel with Ambassador International, Who Brought the Dog to Church?, Bold Vision published her Bible study about encouragement titled Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place.
She loves photography and authored three hardcover devotionals with her original pictures, including Treasures of the Wise: 30 Devotions for Storing Up Heavenly Riches (and Redemption Press: Living Water to Refresh Your Soul and Arranged with Love).
Smoak holds a master’s in Education and a bachelor’s in Communication. At her church home, she leads small-group Bible studies. She is an active member of Word Weavers International. Her website is www.tracysmoak.com. Devotions with her photography set to music are available on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@tracysmoak/playlists.

 

Jim Brissey

Jim Brissey, author of Christian living booksJim and Jean Brissey are Senior Pastors of Higher Ground Ministries in DeLand, Fl. Jim earned his Bachelor of Biblical Studies through Omega Seminary. Jean is a graduate of Spirit Life School of Theology. Jim and Jean have been married for thirty-seven years. They are ordained through Revival Ministries International in Tampa, Fl. Jim and Jean have spearheaded hundreds of outreaches throughout the U.S. and abroad and have witnessed thousands give their heart to Jesus. They have a passion for revival, evangelistic outreach and training outreach ministers.

Jim is the author of two Christian living books, A Shepherd’s Heart  and Step 13: Overcoming Addiction and Joyless Religion.

 

Dan Manningham

Dan Manningham, author of I Can Stand on Mountains: A Book of Encouragement and ChallengeDan Manningham is a retired 747 Captain and award winning aviation author. In addition he has previously authored three Christian books. He has been married to Fran for fifty-seven years and they have seven children, thirty grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He is a certified Biblical counselor and has served in many church leadership positions and on the board of four mission organizations. He has served in Mali, West Africa, and in Afghanistan as a pilot with PACTEC.

Dan is the author of I Can Stand on Mountains, a book of encouragement and challenge.

 

Belinda Ford Kramer

Belinda Ford Kramer, author of Jesus and the Children of GalileeBelinda Kramer is a graduate of the University of Florida. She is an educator, journalist, author and speaker. She is also the mother of a daughter, Lauren, and son, Nathan. She resides in Brandon, Florida, with her husband Jack.

Belinda is the author of middle grade historical fiction Jesus and the Children of Galilee.

 

 

William D. Howard

William D. Howard, Author of American Crisis, a politics and religion bookWilliam [Bill] D. Howard began his journey as a world-traveler in 1970, and has since visited over forty countries studying their history and culture. Along the way, he earned degrees in philosophy and history and served as a social worker and teacher at the high school and college level. For over thirty years he taught advanced courses in history, philosophy, and world religions. Using this knowledge, and as a practicing Christian, he served as a guest commentator on both radio and television and published numerous essays defending the Judeo-Christian faith.

Bill is the author of newly-released American Crisis: The Collapse of Christian Culture, a look at the state of cultural crisis in America.

National Healthy Weight Week | Imagine Not as Much

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According to National Day Calendar, “National Healthy Weight Week kicks off annually during the third week in January. The observance aims to reinforce healthy eating as a way of life instead of dieting to lose weight. It also provides tools to help establish healthy relationships with food, a positive body image, and approaches to improving healthy habits.”

In their book, Imagine Not As Much, Nathan and Tammy Whisnant use the tools and techniques they have learned to lose weight to inspire others on their own weight-loss journeys.

Nathan and Tammy Whisnant, authors of Imagine Not as Much: 13 Weeks to Better Spiritual and Physical Health“We wrote this book out of a desire to help those who have lost hope in their weight-loss journey and/or for those who want to begin the journey,” write the Whisnants. “We hope that this book will help you to lose weight and grow in your relationship with the Lord.”

Using their own life experience to draw from, the Whisnants share their own personal stories of losing weight and growing closer to God while giving practical tips and weight-loss plans to help others who are struggling in the same way. From simple recipes and snack options to exercise plans, the Whisnants encourage others on their way to losing weight by also providing spiritual inspiration and daily devotionals.

Created for group or individual use, this book is more than just a typical weight-loss book. It’s a tool to strengthen body, mind, and spirit—losing pounds but gaining a closer relationship with the Lord.

About the Book

Do you feel overwhelmed at the thought of losing weight? Have you wished that you could find a diet and exercise program that would work for you? Have you ever imagined not as much of yourself?Imagine Not as Much: 13 Weeks to Better Spiritual and Physical Health by Nathan and Tammy Whisnant

Nathan and Tammy Whisnant were once there themselves-overweight, exhausted, and unable to enjoy their grandchildren. But one day, the Holy Spirit convicted them of their need to be the best version of themselves, and together Nathan and Tammy have now lost nearly a hundred pounds. After working off the weight themselves, the Whisnants decided to share their secret to success with others, and Imagine Not as Much was born.

Imagine Not as Much focuses on four fitness aspects:

  • nutritional: learn how to set goals, set your calorie intake, identify what types of food to eat, along with when and how to eat them;
  • physical: learn the different types of activities and choose the ones best for you;
  • motivational: receive encouragement to set your mind to this lifestyle change and to conquer road blocks that you may face; and
  • spiritual: learn how to begin a relationship with Jesus and ways you can deepen that relationship.

Including daily devotions by Nathan and Tammy’s tidbits, Imagine Not As Much encourages a healthy mind, body, and soul.

 

National Arkansas Day

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January is recognized as National Arkansas Day, and we’re using the day to highlight our authors from {or who reside in} in the Natural State.

 

Malanya M. Donaho

Malanya Donaho, author of Amazing GraceBorn in Bellflower, California, Malanya M. Donaho was six months old when her parents relocated to Arkansas. She was raised in a Christian home, accepted Jesus as her Savior when she was five, and was thirteen when writing found her. Upon graduating high school, Malanya entered the workforce, where at age twenty-one, she met the man God had created for her. A year later, they were married and now have two children: a daughter in Heaven and a son who has surrendered to be an evangelist. In addition to writing, Malanya loves singing, song writing, playing piano, playing video games, reading, storm spotting, and furthering her knowledge of American Sign Language. Malanya and her family attend Grace Baptist Church of Conway and live in Central Arkansas with her mother-in-law, their six dogs, three cats, and various goats and chickens, the number of which fluctuates on a regular basis.

Amazing Grace: A Novel by Malanya M. Donaho, contemporary Christian romanceMalanya is the author of contemporary romance, Amazing Grace: A Novel. When Dr. Sam Gray is sent to Africa as a volunteer physician, he is counting down the days until he can go home again. During a trip to the local school, he runs into the Cloverdales, a missionary family determined to win every soul in Africa to Christ. Try as he might, Dr. Sam can’t seem to resist the family and finds himself being pulled into their midst again and again. As he battles his own beliefs, Dr. Sam begins to find that maybe he’s in need of a Physician as well. Can anyone heal his hardened heart?

 

Terry Thompson

Terry Thompson, author of Daniel: Prophet at the King's CommandFollowing a rewarding twenty-four-year career as an Air Force pilot and commander, Terry was called into the pastorate of a large church in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Throughout his life, Terry has applied his writing talent to books, periodicals, proposals, promotional pieces, Bible studies, and college-level curricula. Terry is a prolific speaker and writer including a popular blog, Terry Thompson on America. He taught various business and communication courses online and in class for John Brown University for eleven years. He is an Elder of Crossgate Church in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Terry and his wife, Linda, have four children.

Daniel: Prophet at the King's Command by Terry ThompsonTerry is the author of a historical biblical fiction called Daniel: Prophet at the King’s Command. Daniel was just a teenager when he was taken captive by the Babylonians, never to see his family again. As Daniel and his friends strive to make the best of their circumstances—slaves in the king’s court—they also fight to honor their vows to the one true God amidst a people who worship only false gods. From slave to the highest position in the king’s court, Daniel shows how God can use an ordinary person to do extraordinary things.

 

Priscilla Peters

Priscilla Peters, author of Enough of Me: Winning the Tug-of-War Between Our Flesh and Our MissionPriscilla Peters is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University with a B.A. in Mass Communications and a Minor in Speech Communication. She has been married to her husband Coby for 10 years, and they have a blended family of six children. Priscilla is the Vice President of Marketing for the largest advertising agency in the transportation industry, and she’s been in the marketing and advertising business for 20 years. She serves as the Assistant Leader for the Real Women Ministry at That.Church in Sherwood, Arkansas. She speaks often, both in her professional career at industry conferences and trade shows, and at women’s ministry speaking engagements.
When Priscilla isn’t at the office working, speaking at Real Women events, or blogging, she is busy cheering on her Arkansas Razorbacks, chaperoning her daughter at her competitive dance events, and laughing way too loud about pretty much anything and everything.

Enough of Me: Winning the Tug-of-War Between Our Flesh and Our Mission, an 8-Week Bible Study by Priscilla PetersPriscilla is the author of Enough of Me: Winning the Tug-of-War Between Our Flesh and Our Mission. Do you have a nagging in your heart for more purpose? Are you right smack dab in the middle of a tug-of-war between your flesh and your mission?
Often we want to live out the purpose and mission God has for us, but we’re too distracted, exhausted, and empty.
Enough of Me is an 8-week Bible study for women focused on what God’s Word has to say about the tug-of-war between our flesh and our mission. The study explores the barriers that stand between where we are today and where God wants to use us to finish His work.

 

Jake Tyson

Jake Tyson, author of the Vindicators series, a superhero fantasy seriesJake Tyson, a journalism graduate from Central Baptist College, has been writing creatively since he was nine years old and has been a fan of superheroes and Star Wars for as long as he can remember. He and his wife Jessica live in Conway, Arkansas. Jake works for Lifeword Media Ministry and as the youth pastor at Oak Park Baptist Church. He is the author of The Vindicators series. He has also written a flash fiction short story, Joining the Team, for gohavok.com, and a short story in Ambassador International’s science fiction anthology, Into the Unknown.

Vigilante's Light by Jake TysonIn Vigilante’s Light, book one of The Vindicators, after his rescue from guerillas in Venezuela, Gideon finds himself with super-abilities, result from genetic engineering during his capture. When he returns home, he finds his beloved city in shambles and torn apart by crime. The police are understaffed and most do not care about the poor side, The Brooks. Gideon becomes a vigilante to protect his city and uses his newfound abilities. But he learns that being a vigilante comes with a price.

 

C.J. Vegter

C.J. Vegter, author of Pausing with PurposeC.J. Vegter grew up as a missionary kid in Bogota, Colombia, and Quito, Ecuador. After college, she moved to Bangkok, Thailand, as a missionary for two years besides working various jobs and moving around from Florida to Missouri to North Carolina until she met her husband on a missionary kid retreat in Spain. They live in Centerton, Arkansas, with their two kids and are still involved in their local church and helping missionary kids when they can.

Pausing with Purpose: A Lenten Devotional by C.J. VegterDuring the Lenten season, we have the opportunity to stop and reflect on what Christ did for us thousands of years ago and what He has done for us over the past year. During a season of extreme health issues, C.J. Vegter wrote down inspirational quotes as she spent time with God asking for healing. Now healed from many of her illnesses, C.J. wants to give others the same hope she received during some of the darkest days of her life—and what better way than to help with meditations during the Lenten season. These forty-seven days of devotions will help you to navigate the Lenten season and reflect on the goodness of God in your own life.

 

 

 

 

 

National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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In January, National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month brings together law enforcement and organizations across the nation in a strive to eliminate human trafficking.

Because trafficking is so prevalent now, Judy DuCharme wrote her latest novel, Who Will Rescue Us?: A Love Story, to highlight this endemic situation. She believes the more people know what’s going on, the better they can recognize someone being trafficked, and know who to contact and what to do and what not to do.Who Will Rescue Us? A Love Story by Judy DuCharme, Christian fiction

When Sofia sets out from South America to start a new life in the States, she discovers evil is just as prevalent in her new country. Working at a hotel, Sofia sees numerous children she suspects are being held against their will. After Sofie meets Hector, they devise a plan to help the most vulnerable. But will she jeopardize her own citizenship status? And more importantly, if she and Hector don’t rescue the children, then who will?

Who Will Rescue Us?: A Love Story is a new take on the dangers of trafficking, endearing the reader to the lives and personalities of the children enmeshed in this horrible crime and the love and humanity of the rescuers. Because it is such a heavy subject, DuCharme also wrote it to weave in the concept of forgiveness in difficult situations, and it has a lot of hope and even a sweet love story.

Home Team 2 by Dave Pratt, Christian romantic suspenseDave Pratt highlighted the current problem of human trafficking in his latest novel, Home Team 2. In Home Team 2, after a successful mission for the Home Team, the government is ready to create a Home Team 2 to help thwart human and drug trafficking. But finding recruits who can handle the assignment is not so easy. And the measures that the Lees will take to protect their investments puts everyone on the team at risk. When Washington State Patrol Trooper Ellen “Ell” Evander is reassigned to spend time with the Home Team, motivation to find her kidnapped niece clouds her judgment and spurs her on a mission that may end her career. Army Ranger Alex Anthem soon finds himself side by side with the attractive state patrol trooper. As the pressure mounts, Ell and Alex both have decisions to make that could change the courses of their lives forever.

Dave’s goal in writing Home Team 2 was to show how a dedicated person, seeking justice for others, can get wrapped up in their crusade to do it all on their own, no matter the danger.  All too easily, they forget that they need others and more importantly, that God is there to help when they ask Him to guide them and be on their side. As a secondary goal, Dave wanted to set the stage for the story against the timely, current problem of human trafficking and show that there is hope in the battle.

Human trafficking is a timely issue, with over 89,000 missing persons cases open at the FBI and 1,100 human trafficking victims counted in the U.S. each year. Home Team 2 shows how a person, even as ill-advised as the story’s main character, when motivated by good and guided by God, can make a difference.

 

The following resources are for those who have been trafficked or are in danger of being trafficked, for those who suspect someone is being trafficked, for troubled young people, and for those who would like to donate or volunteer:

 

National Human Trafficking Hotline

888-373-7888
Text INFO to 233733
www.Humantraffickinghotline.org

 

Tim Tebow Foundation

For info on anti-human trafficking and child exploitation, to join the rescue team as an advocate or to pray, to donate financially, to volunteer
www.timtebowfoundation.org

 

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

800-843-5678
www.missingkids.org (cyber tipline)
missingkids.org/gethelpnow/support/teamhope
Courageous and Free
Serenity Orchards, a place for girls who are survivors of
sex trafficking and abuse
1-833-ONEHOPE
www.courageousandfree.org

 

Love146

Journeys alongside children impacted by trafficking today and helps prevent trafficking of children tomorrow
203-772-4420
www.love146.org

 

Hope for the Children Ministries

Changing the Lives of Children and Families through Faith, Hope, and Love
Working with At Risk, Under Privileged, Foster kids ages 11-18
727-459-5055
www.hftcm.org

 

Ready for Life Pinellas

Supports former foster care youth in homelessness prevention, education, employment, and lifeline support
727-954-3989
www.readyforlifepinellas.org

 

Sak Suam

A ministry dedicated to the prevention, rescue, restoration, transformation, and rehabilitation of vulnerable and exploited women, men, and children through vocational training and community development
www.saksaum.com

 

Women At Risk, International

Provides protection for the wounded, voices for the silenced, dignity for the abused, hope for women
and children worldwide
(616) 855-0796
Tollfree: (877) END-SLAVERY
www.warinternational.org

 

Wisconsin Child Sex Trafficking and Exploitation Indicator and Response Guide

dcf.wisconsin.gov

 

National Child Traumatic Stress Network

University of California: (310) 235-2633
Duke University: (919) 682-1552
nctsn.org/resources/all-nctsn-resources

 

5 Stones / Fox Valley

Three short films about the realities of sex trafficking
www.facebook.com/5stonesFoxValley

 

Hope for Justice

Non-profit organization that aims to end human trafficking and modern slavery in the U.K., U.S., Cambodia, Norway, Australia, Ethiopia, Uganda
www.hopeforjustice.org

National Science Fiction Day

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While science fiction isn’t the main genre we publish here at Ambassador International, we certainly do publish this well-loved genre, and it might even be one of our favorites! If science fiction is right up your alley and in honor of National Science Fiction Day, here’s a breakdown of some science fiction novels we’ve published throughout the years.

 

When Legends Rise | Legends of Light | Book 1

When Legends Rise by Daphne SelfA genetically altered assassin, whose job it is to hunt down and destroy the Christian Coalition in the Galaxy, finds himself about to be decommissioned. His only recourse for survival is a new identity and his search for the one friend he had―a friend who defected and deserted him. Those he once hunted will save him. Yet it comes with a price. A price that demands much of him. What happens when an assassin awakens?

Learn more about When Legends Rise

 

The Withering

The Withering by P.S. PattonDuring the apocalyptic final days of Noloro, three orphaned teens have nothing left in the world but each other. A sardonic sorcerer offers them a way off their dying world, but at what cost? Family, courage, and faith are at the heart of this end-of-the-world adventure.

Learn more about The Withering

 

Serpentine

Serpentine by Christy DietzDetermined to survive, an orphaned Esther must fight a rising new order in a broken America. This new order, the Federation of Acceptance, enforces directives that jeopardize human rights and beliefs. On the run from the Federation in an endless quest for truth, Esther must rise up to lead a resistance of people willing to lose it all for what matters most—their God, their freedom, and an everlasting hope.

Learn more about Serpentine

 

Solitary Man

Solitary Man by Eric LandfriedDoyle is used to being on his own ever since the war devastated the land. With cannibals always a threat, alone is better. Until he has to stop at a city for repairs and provisions. One heroic act and now he’s the leader of a small band of Christians determined to spread the gospel to the rumored neighboring cities. It’s a task he’s qualified for, but he didn’t plan on the effect that this little group would have on him . . .

Learn more about Solitary Man

 

Remnant

Remnant by Daniel PeytonThe year is 2522. Anna is a Remnant—a secret Christian in a world that has banned any form of religion. She is also an astro-geologist working with her Robot, named Z, for the Planetary Science Commission. The PSC has worked for 200 years to find alien life on another planet, and finally, after two centuries, a primitive lifeform has been discovered. Faced with the reality of evolved primitives on a forested moon, Anna begins to question all she has ever believed. Anna and Z stumble upon a conspiracy that has universal implications. Will Anna discover the truth about the moon and its inhabitants? Can God still move within a culture that has abandoned Him?

Learn more about Remnant

 

Woe is Us

WoE is Us by D.K. DoulosLyrian Wallace was only ten years old when the Malevolence struck on October 10, 2056. She thought the next decade had numbed her to the grief, the death, the bots, and the daily struggle for survival. She lost her parents when they became Sleepers, but like everyone else, she had pieced together a new family. Lyrian was almost content when the Alliance began taking them . . . The world always took things away from her. She could only live for today and never dared to hope for any heaven. But when her circumstances change, Lyrian must choose how she might live for both this life and the next.

Learn more about Woe is Us

 

Made for Mercy

Made for Mercy by Lauren SmythBarely out of their teens and trained as assassins, Rigel members are taught that the Kalideyes are evil and must be destroyed. As Maru prepares for her first mission, she realizes that relying on herself in times of crisis isn’t enough, but her teammates are as broken as she is. When she is forced to fight for her life, who will be there to save her? It won’t be long before Maru learns the truth behind the enemy and an even bigger truth that leads her to safety.

Learn more about Made for Mercy

 

Silent Altitudes

Silent Altitudes by Michael James EmbergerThe world looks up to the sky in hopeful anticipation as the Pennychuck Atmospheric Carbon Reduction System comes online. Finally the chance to eliminate global warming will be obtainable. Within moments, something goes terribly wrong. As the system operates at progressively higher altitudes and causes so much destruction, two scientists must find a way to shut it down…or die trying.

Learn more about Silent Altitudes

 

The Jordan of Algoran series

Jordan's World by Allen SteadhamThe Jordan of Algoran series starts with teenaged Jordan Lewis and her mother being abducted to an alien world and seemingly marooned there. However, God has a plan for Jordan’s life and all she has to do is trust Him. Along her decades long journey, Jordan matures, finds love and family, experiences extraordinary triumphs and devastating heartbreak. And yet, Jordan has one decision to make that surpasses them all.

Learn more about The Jordan of Algoran series

Preparing Our Hearts and Homes to Celebrate Thanksgiving, Part 3: Five Verses to Ready Your Heart

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This is the third in a three-part series on preparing our hearts and homes for Thanksgiving. Dee Travis is the author of Celebrate Life: Living to Serve God and Encourage Others as We Celebrate Life Together.

 

Psalm 100 is one of my favorite Scripture to meditate on as we approach the Thanksgiving season. When I think about that first Thanksgiving I imagine the Pilgrims and Indians in 1621 gathering to thank God for a bountiful harvest.

Thanksgiving-PinterestBut long before that another group of people had set aside a time to celebrate God’s goodness. It was the children of Israel during the Feast of Booths. In the fall after crops were harvested, the people had a time of worshiping and thanking God for all He had done for them. They brought their offerings of Thanksgiving to the Lord. (Leviticus 23: 39-44)

Psalm 100 is a song of thanksgiving and praise to God that we can reflect on during this Thanksgiving.

 

Day 1

“Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth.” Psalm 100:1

Have you ever felt so thankful you just couldn’t keep quiet? Sometimes I just stand in awe of God’s handiwork in the things I see around me in His creation. Sometimes I just want to proclaim what an awesome God we serve! Everyone on the earth is admonished to praise His name because everyone benefits from God’s goodness! In Psalm 19:1-3 and Psalm 98:7-8 it says that all nature joins in to declare the glory of God and sing praises to His name. It is neat to imagine the rivers clapping and hills singing together for joy in praise to God.

 

Day 2

“Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful singing.” Psalm 100:2

There is joy in serving Jesus! We can all serve Him whether we are young or old. Offer to teach a Sunday school class or volunteer to take a meal to someone or go visit someone who is in need of a friend. And sometimes the hardest thing is to do it with a happy heart. Many times we do something because we know we need to…. but our heart isn’t really in it. Having a joyful attitude comes from loving God and reading His word and spending time in prayer. With happy hearts we can use the talents God has given each one of us for serving Him not just during the holiday season but each and every day!

Day 3

“Know that the Lord Himself is God; It is He who made us and not we ourselves; we are His people the sheep of His pasture.” Psalm 100:3

God is the very one who created us. He knows us better than anyone. He know when we all overwhelmed or discouraged with so many things pulling at us in a hundred different directions during the holidays. That’s when we go to Him as His sheep and lie down in green pastures. (Psalm 23:2) Find that quiet spot and sit beside the still waters talk to God. He loves us and will restore our weary soul! He cares for us like a good shepherd and for that I am truly thankful.

 

Day 4

“Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and bless His name.” Psalm 100:4

We are so blessed in this country to be able to go to church and worship God freely. Being thankful for God’s love will show in our actions as we enter into worship and praise with others who love Him too. I love to gather together with my church family during Thanksgiving and hear testimonies of God’s goodness and faithfulness and mercy. Bless His name for all he has done for us!

Day 5

“For the Lord is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting, and His faithfulness is to all generations.” Psalm 100:5

One of my favorite sayings is “God is always good and you are always loved”. What a great truth to know that the God of this universe loves us so much He was willing to send His Son to die and take the punishment for our sins. We simply have to believe and He gives everlasting life! (John 3:16). God’s lovingkindness is everlasting! He will love us forever!! And His faithfulness is to ALL generations! God daily loads us with so many benefits. God knows our needs and watches over us and never leaves us to fend for ourselves. He cares about us and will always do what is best for us. God is so good!

 

Thanksgiving is a time of celebration and a time to turn our thoughts to God and His Word and realize how very blessed we are of Him. Every day is a gift that we have been given…so every day (not just at Thanksgiving) thank Him and praise His name!

Did you miss part 1 of this series? Find it HERE. Part 2 can be found HERE.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Preparing Our Hearts and Homes to Celebrate Thanksgiving, Part 2: Welcome an Attitude of Gratitude

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This is the second in a three-part series on preparing our hearts and homes for Thanksgiving. Dee Travis is the author of  Celebrate Life: Living to Serve God and Encourage Others as We Celebrate Life Together.

I really enjoy our church Thanksgiving Eve service. My week has usually been hectic and I have a house that needs cleaned and food that needs to be prepared but nothing helps my “attitude of gratitude” more Thanksgiving-Pinterestthan this night! Everyone enjoys homemade pie and then we have an informal time of singing and testimonies. It is good for me to hear others thanking God for what He has done in their lives over the last year. For some it has been a difficult year with pain and sorrow but they are still praising God and that is so encouraging. Sometimes it is a child who gives a testimony and it doesn’t get much better than childlike faith! I always go home feeling blessed and thankful for my church family! If you don’t have a Thanksgiving service at your church maybe you can make a list of the ways God has been good to you over the last year. Then have your own testimony time by thanking Him for all He has done!

We can also welcome gratitude to God for all He has done and provided for us by doing something special for others! We have so much to be thankful for as Christians. We have a God who loves us and has provided a way for us to have a home in heaven through Jesus Christ. When we place our trust in Him we receive eternal life. We enjoy the freedom to worship God here in America. We also have warm homes to live in and an abundance of food to eat at our tables. Every day God has richly blessed us and that should make us willing to bless others.

Plan to take a traditional Thanksgiving meal to some elderly or needy people in your church or neighborhood. It would probably be easiest to plan your dinner before Thanksgiving. This is a great service for kids to be involved in. They will love helping and it is good for them to see that we love and care about others. You might also want to print out Psalm 100 and attach it to one of the food containers. Contact families ahead of time so they will know you are coming and be sure to spend a few minutes and visit with them as you deliver their Thanksgiving meal. I know it seems like a lot of work but everyone will receive a blessing!

And then there is Thanksgiving Day that we spend with family and friends. It might be the biggest test for our attitude of gratitude! Most people get together on Thanksgiving Day with those they love and friends they care about. We celebrate together on Thanksgiving Evening. If we know of a family who doesn’t have their family close we will ask them to come join us. Since some have already had turkey and stuffing and are a little “stuffed” themselves we just do appetizers. It seems to be a big hit at our house. I usually put out our Scrabble game and everyone is to make a word about something they are thankful for. Mostly the kids like to do it! Sometimes I have the grandkids draw something they are thankful for and we have to guess what it is! An active game time usually finishes or evening together. I am so blessed and Thanksgiving Day and every day is a good time to celebrate God’s goodness!

 

Did you miss part 1 of this series? You can find it HERE.

 

Preparing Our Hearts and Homes to Celebrate Thanksgiving, Part 1

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This is the first in a three-part series on preparing our hearts and homes for Thanksgiving. Dee Travis is the author of  Celebrate Life: Living to Serve God and Encourage Others as We Celebrate Life Together.

November is here and it makes me start to think about the holidays. I always feel bad because Thanksgiving it such a great holiday and it gets here so fast and then after one day….it’s over and Christmas bells are ringing. Just one day of thankfulness doesn’t do it for me. There is so much to see and do as we think about Thanksgiving approaching. How about taking the whole month of November to celebrate Thanksgiving with me?

Thanksgiving-PinterestStep into November by getting outside and looking for God’s goodness and bounty! His glory in creation can be seen everywhere in the fall! The trees are changing into a beautiful display of God’s canvas of red, orange and yellow! How about visiting a pumpkin patch or a farm during harvest of the crops. Take your kids or grandkids to an apple orchard and pick some crisp juicy apples. We live on a farm in rural Iowa so we get to see harvesting of corn and soybeans first hand. We also grow a ton of pumpkins for the grandkids to pick. God is so good to us! We have a few apple trees so one of our favorite traditions is picking apples and making fresh apple cider! Those times all makes me reflect on how good and faithful God has been to us throughout another year. Harvest time with the bounty He gives us through crops and food and nature’s beauty will help us prepare our hearts to thank and praise an Almighty God!

Try reading a Psalm every day during November! Every day is a gift from God so celebrate His goodness every day. Start with Psalm 100 and go through Psalm 136. Some are short so you will be able to combine a couple of chapters on certain days. I kind of think that the Psalms and Thanksgiving go together like turkey and pumpkin pie! Each day after you are done reading write down three different things you are thankful for so that you can look at them during the month and then read them all on Thanksgiving Day! Always be ready to give thanks to God for what He had done for us! God is always good and you are always loved.

One of the things I love to do every year in November is attend my grandchildren’s Thanksgiving program at school. It really makes me think about our 9781620205310country and how the first Thanksgiving Day was started. The Pilgrims came to America to be able to worship God freely. They set aside this special time at harvest to thank God for all He had done for them. (And it was probably more than just one day!) It is such a good example for us to follow! The pilgrims not only shared their food with the Indians but they also shared their faith in a mighty God. Our forefathers sacrificed a lot for the freedoms we enjoy today and for that I am truly thankful!

Well are you in? I hope you will start to prepare your heart all month long and this Thanksgiving may be the most blessed ever!