How to Make Faith & Family Your Greatest Legacy
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Plus Retreat Giveaway!
Some gifts don’t fit under the tree. They don’t come wrapped in bows or tucked inside a box. Some gifts—the best ones—are found in moments.
This year, our family decided to give ourselves a gift that wouldn’t collect dust or end up forgotten in a closet. We gifted ourselves time together.
Over New Year’s, four generations of our family (from 4 months old to 80 years young!) packed up and headed to Branson Family Retreats. We needed to slow down, reconnect, and spend quality time building the kind of memories that shape a legacy. Let me tell you: best decision ever.
One House, Four Generations, a Lifetime of Family Memories
We’ve done a lot of family trips over the years, but there was something different about this one. Maybe it was the peaceful setting. Maybe it was the way time seemed to slow down when we weren’t rushing from one event to the next. Maybe it was simply the reminder that these moments matter more than anything else.
Some of our favorite moments?
🔥 Early mornings with coffee and quiet conversations by the fire.
🍳 Big breakfasts where everyone fought over the last pancake.
🎲 Game nights where laughter and a little friendly competition brought us closer.
🌲 Outdoor adventures where we saw God’s handiwork in every sunrise.
🥂 A New Year’s toast—not just about resolutions, but about faith, family, and fresh beginnings.
At home, life can be a blur. Schedules take over, to-do lists grow, and it’s easy to let days slip by without truly connecting. But in Branson, we pressed pause. And in that stillness, we made some of the most treasured memories of our lives.
Plan the Trip. Protect the Time. Prioritize Family Moments.
Let’s be honest—life moves fast. If we don’t schedule time together, it won’t happen. Work, school, sports, and endless responsibilities will always fight for our attention.
“To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.”
Barbara Johnson
And here’s the truth:
🔥 Your family is worth more than a busy calendar.
🔥 Your memories are worth more than another weekend lost in routine.
🔥 Your faith journey is strengthened when you slow down together.
My co-author, Leslie, and I talk about this in our new book, Faith that Sticks. The best way to show your children that they matter is to give them your time. No amount of gifts can replace the moments spent together, building memories that last a lifetime.
Branson Family Retreats gave us a place to reconnect and refocus on what matters most—our faith and our family.
Take the Family Trip—And Join Me in Branson This May!
If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to invest in family togetherness, this is it.
This May 15-17, I’ll be in Branson for the Teach Them Diligently Conference, and I’d love for you to join me!
Not only is it an incredible event to encourage and equip homeschooling families, but it’s also the perfect time to plan a family getaway—and experience what makes Branson Family Retreats so special.
Here’s the Plan:
📅 Step 1: Mark your calendar for May 15-17 and register for Teach Them Diligently
🏡 Step 2: Book your stay at Branson Family Retreats—the perfect place to recharge after a full conference day.
📚 Step 3: Come visit my booth! I’ll be at three Teach Them Diligently conferences this year, and I’d love to meet you, chat about faith and family, and help you find books that will encourage your heart. You can take a peek of them here!
If you’re looking for a trip that blends faith, family, and fun—this is it.
So take the trip. Make the call. Plan the getaway.
Because the best of times? They aren’t something you wait for. They’re something you create.
🔗 Book Your Stay at Branson Family Retreats
🎉 4-DAY GIVEAWAY! 🎉
- 🏡 WIN a Stay at Branson Family Retreats! 🏡
- PLUS… a FREE registration to the Teach Them Diligently Conference in Branson, MO (May 15-17, 2025)
- AND a $200 gift card from Tricia Goyer, celebrating her new book with Leslie Nunnery, Faith That Sticks!
Big family? Big fun! We’re giving one blessed winner the ultimate getaway—because family, faith, and making memories matter!
🌟 Your Giveaway Prize Pack Includes:
✅ 4-Day Stay at Branson Family Retreats – Spacious rooms, private baths, a full kitchen, and fun for the whole family!
✅ Teach Them Diligently Conference Registration – Be inspired and equipped at this incredible event for Christian homeschool families!
✅ $200 Gift Card from Tricia Goyer – Celebrating her newest book with Leslie Nunnery, Faith That Sticks!
📅 Hurry—enter now! Giveaway ends May 26th!
🔗 Enter Here!
📢 Branson Family Retreats—where big families make bigger memories!
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
March 17
Deuteronomy 16:18-22, Deuteronomy 17-20, Deuteronomy 21:1-9
Beyond Laws to Life’s Model
Moses, foreseeing the possibility of a king, instructs a unique directive—write a copy of the law, read it daily, and remain humble. A king in tune with God’s decrees would benefit the people, fostering a just and God-centered rule. The law wasn’t just about compliance; it was a model for righteous living.
Laws Revisited: A Reminder of God’s Standard
While many laws are revisited, we see a broader purpose beyond immediate compliance. The Torah becomes a preparatory phase, leading to the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah. Jesus brings a revolutionary shift—from external compliance to internal transformation, emphasizing faith and sacrificial love.
Word of the Day: Model
Definition: A standard or example for imitation or comparison.
The laws given to the Israelites were like a model, a representation of Jesus, who fulfilled every requirement. The law prepared us for understanding God’s standard, paving the way for Jesus’ fulfillment.
Modeling Jesus: A Call to Imitate Christ
As we grow to know Jesus, we are called to imitate Him, becoming models of His ways. Like a system set as an example, we are to imitate Christ and become the hands and feet of Jesus. Our love and actions become a model for a world in need, showcasing God’s love.
Being the Model: The Hands and Feet of Jesus
Paul urges us in 1 Corinthians 11:1 to imitate Christ, and at the end of every podcast, we echo the call to become “the hands and feet of Jesus.” Why? We are a model for God. People watch us, and through our love, they open their hearts to the good news of Jesus.
Let’s not merely follow laws but embrace the model of Jesus. May our lives reflect the transformative power of faith, love, and imitating Christ.
March 18
Deuteronomy 21-25
Treasures of Justice
As we navigated through the verses, our hearts couldn’t help but ache for those caught in less-than-ideal circumstances—the captured woman in war, the unloved wife in a polygamous marriage, and the woman left without children. These seemingly harsh laws uncover God’s compassionate teaching, guiding humanity to care for those in difficult situations. It’s a reminder that compassion must be taught, just as with any life lesson—a truth that resonates even in my household with 10 kids.
Legacy, Names, and Unforeseen Symbolism
The poignant law in Deuteronomy 21:22-23 caught our attention, foreseeing the Savior’s sacrifice centuries later. Little did Moses and the people know that this law, addressing the swift burial of a criminal hung on a tree, would echo through time, mirroring the crucifixion of Jesus for the sins of the world.
Laws, Laws, and More Laws
Moving on, we encountered a plethora of laws spanning Deuteronomy 22-25, addressing various aspects of life—from sexual conduct and property rights to marriage and fair treatment of workers. While the sheer volume may feel overwhelming, the essence lies in the Israelites’ understanding that they are God’s possession. These laws are a blueprint for a just and prosperous society, ensuring the people’s distinctive nature as God’s chosen possession.
Word of the Day: Possession
Definition: An item of property; something belonging to one.
This word encapsulates the heart of these laws. The Israelites were God’s possession, so they were to treat their possessions differently. These chapters underscore the importance of justice and fairness, guiding the Israelites towards prosperity and success in the Promised Land.
A Glimpse into Jesus’ Time
A fascinating revelation from Deuteronomy 23:24-25 mirrors an incident in Jesus’ time. The law allowing gleaners to eat from a neighbor’s field while traveling (Matt. 12:1) showcases the balance between personal responsibility and landowners’ provision—a timeless principle of reciprocity.
Looking Ahead
With the Promised Land on the horizon, God desires His people to stand out as His special possession. As we ponder on the laws, we’re reminded of 1 Peter 2:9-10: a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s possession. How we treat a special possession reflects our understanding of its worth—a profound analogy for our relationship with God.
March 19
Deuteronomy 26-29:1
Choices, Consequences, and the Fear of God
In today’s exploration of Deuteronomy 26-29:1 on the Daily Bible Podcast, we begin with harvest offerings and tithes. As the Israelites anticipate entering the Promised Land, God instructs them to remember their humble beginnings. From the wandering ancestor Jacob, they’ve evolved into a mighty nation by the power of God’s mighty arm. The call is to give the first portion of all they have back to the Lord, maintaining a heart of gratitude and acknowledgment of God’s providence. Every third year, a tithe is given to the Levites, foreigners, orphans, and widows, ensuring all have enough to eat.
A Vision for the Future
Moses instructed the people on their entry into the Promised Land. They were to erect stones on Mount Ebal, inscribed with the full body of the Lord’s instructions, creating a tangible representation of their covenant with God. A future altar of uncut stones would serve as a place for sacrifices. This forward-looking directive emphasizes the importance of remembrance and devotion.
Upon arrival, a significant ceremony unfolds. Half of the tribes, representing the sons of Leah and Rachel, pronounce blessings on the people, while the other tribes, the sons of the concubines, proclaim curses. This serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of both obedience and rebellion. The curses highlight the importance of moral integrity, illustrating God’s desire for His people to stand apart from other nations.
God’s Rescue Plan Unveiled
Stepping back, we recognize that the story of the Israelites is an integral part of God’s ultimate rescue plan for all people. From Genesis to Revelation, God intricately weaves a beautiful narrative of salvation. The retelling of the law in Deuteronomy reminds them that God is on their side, desiring their success and prosperity. Even in their stiff-necked tendencies, Moses outlines the consequences of straying from God and the abundant blessings that await those who listen.
Word of the Day: Fear
Definition: Reverential awe, especially toward God.
These readings introduce the concept of “fear,” not as mere tactics but as a profound reality. The Hebrew word “yirah” denotes a holy reverence, respect, and worship for God, connected to a deep awareness and trembling. True fear is a deeper understanding of God’s nature, capabilities, and consequences—both blessings and cursing—that accompany our choices.
Choices, Consequences, and Doors
In today’s reading, we confront the intense words of God, laying before us the choices of blessing or cursing, life or death. The gravity of these choices is emphasized because it’s serious business. God desires a set-apart people devoted to love, justice, and an unwavering commitment to Him. Fear of God isn’t just about awe; it’s a choice between positive fear – reverencing the glorious name of the Lord – and negative fear – fearing the consequences. Door #1 leads to blessings, abundance, and eternal life. Door #2 opens to painful consequences and spiritual destruction.
Choosing Paths, Embracing Fear, and Unveiling Blessings
As we reflect on Deuteronomy 26-29:1, let’s consider our choices. Each action sends ripples into our lives, and the doors stand open before us. The call is clear. Choose the path of obedience, embrace the fear of God in reverence, and walk into a realm of blessings, abundance, and eternal life.
March 20
Deuteronomy 29:2-29, Deuteronomy 30, Deuteronomy 31:29
Choosing Life
Moses emphasizes the importance of being aware and watchful, drawing parallels to 1 Peter 5:8, where believers are urged to be vigilant against the adversary. The central message is clear: choosing God means choosing life, while turning away leads to death (Deut 30:20). The responsibility lies in loving, obeying, and committing to God—being watchful and sober-minded in our faith journey.
Passing the Torch
At the threshold of his leadership transition to Joshua, Moses imparts a profound lesson: trust in God, and He will not fail you. This moment is akin to a coronation, a pivotal time for the Israelites. As we reflect on our own transitions and challenges, the assurance of God’s unwavering presence remains a beacon of hope.
The Danger of Complacency
Moses forewarns the Israelites about the perils of complacency, a human tendency to forget God’s faithfulness. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to lose sight of the miracles God has done. Yet, Moses reassures us that God’s Word is not a mysterious code but a guide to aligning our lives with His commands.
Secrets Known to God
Acknowledging that God has secrets beyond our understanding, Moses emphasizes our accountability for what He has revealed. The Bible is not an enigma but a clear communication of God’s will. It’s a reminder that our focus should be on living by His commands rather than unraveling cosmic mysteries.
The Power of Choice
Deuteronomy 30:19 presents a powerful choice—life or death, blessings or curses. Moses calls on heaven and earth to witness this decision. This choice isn’t a one-time event but a continuous commitment to live in alignment with God’s will.
Word of the Day: Watchful
Definition: Vigilant or alert; closely observant
Being watchful, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 29-31, is more than vigilance; it’s a call to be spiritually prepared. Like soldiers in a military lineup, we are trained through the Bible to recognize threats, fortify our hearts, and discern what is truly important. Reading the Bible is a training ground for our spiritual alertness.
Living with Integrity
Though spoken to the Israelites, Moses’ words resonate with us today. Living with integrity means choosing actions that reflect our desire for righteousness. It’s about setting an example for those around us, especially the watchful eyes of our children, who keenly observe and learn from our behaviors.
March 21
Deuteronomy 31:30, Deuteronomy 32, Psalm 90
Exploring Boundaries
Moses, in his song, unveils a profound lesson on satisfaction and vigilance. It’s easy to question the Israelites and then turn inward. As we read, we find parallels in our lives, recognizing cracks and areas where vigilance wanes. Psalm 16:5-6 echoes, reminding us that God alone is our portion and security. Moses emphasizes that these instructions are not empty words but the essence of life.
The Theme of Boundaries: God’s Intentional Design
A captivating theme surfaces in Deuteronomy 32:8—boundaries. Beyond geographical lines, Moses reveals God’s intentional design, setting up boundaries for each nation according to the number of the sons of Israel. The mention of “sons of God” or “heavenly court” in different translations expands our understanding. It’s a divine author sketching characters, designating purpose and space within His grand narrative.
The Pivotal Concept of Inheritance
The concept of boundaries extends to inheritance in Deuteronomy 32:9, as Moses declares, “For the Lord’s portion is his people, Jacob his allotted inheritance.” We witness God’s hand sketching outlines, inviting Israel into a distinct, protective love. This heavenly division, as described by Moses, happens before it unfolds on earth, showcasing God’s deliberate actions shaping human events.
God’s Protective Presence: An Eagle’s Wings
Deuteronomy 32:11 tenderly depicts God’s guiding presence as an eagle, spreading wings over His people. The imagery portrays strength, watchfulness, and unfailing protection. This metaphor reappears in Psalm 91:4, assuring us of God’s encompassing refuge under His wings.
Word of the Day: Boundaries
Definition: A line or limit where one thing ends and another begins, or something that indicates such a line or limit; a limit that separates acceptable behavior from unacceptable behavior.
Beyond mere lines on a map, boundaries become a profound concept. It’s not just a physical act but a spiritual one, showcasing God’s deliberate design in our lives. These stories come alive as we read, inviting us into a deeper relationship with our Creator. It’s a reminder that God has a unique place and purpose for each of us.
Connection Between Old and New Testament
The connection between Old and New Testament resounds in Acts 17:26-27, emphasizing God’s purpose for nations to seek Him. The repeated message is clear: “I have a place for you.” In heaven, boundaries were set for the children of Israel, and for us—His offspring. Acts reaffirms that in Him, we live, move, and have our being.
Psalm 90: Moses’ Last Message
Moses, in Psalm 90, leaves a powerful message with his last breaths. “Lord, through all the generations, you have been our home.” This prayer echoes the enduring theme of seeking God’s presence and finding joy in His love each morning.
Setting Personal Boundaries: A Vital Reminder
As we absorb these teachings, let’s remember the importance of personal boundaries. Moses, at the end of his life, teaches a song of praise, urging us to seek God daily. In Psalm 90:14, he prays for God’s unfailing love to satisfy us so that we may sing for joy throughout our lives.
Dear readers, take a moment to reflect on the boundaries in your life, especially with time. Just as God set boundaries of blessings for nations, consider the divine design for your existence. Seek God’s presence in your favorite place, and, like Moses, sing for joy. Boundaries are not restrictions but God’s way of guiding us to a life of purpose and fulfillment.
March 22
Deuteronomy 33-34
Joshua 1-2
Courage in Unexpected Places
In the final chapters, Moses bestows unique blessings upon each tribe of Israel. A departure from Jacob’s mixed blessings, Moses’ words are positive and tailored to each tribe’s character and future. From life and strength to ministry and safety, each blessing speaks to the richness of God’s promises.
Transition to Joshua: A Continuation of God’s Promise
As Moses’ earthly journey concludes, leadership transitions to Joshua. At 120, Moses’ strength and vision remain unimpaired. The baton passes seamlessly to Joshua, who receives the Spirit and the monumental task of guiding Israel into the Promised Land.
Rahab’s Courage: An Outsider in God’s Grand Design
Amidst this transition, we encounter Rahab, a resident of Jericho. Despite being an outsider, her courage shines as she protects Israelite spies. Her plea for kindness and protection in return showcases faith and allegiance to God’s people.
Word of the Day: Courageous
Definition: Possessing the quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc., despite fear; bravery.
Moses’ unique relationship with God, Joshua’s charge to be strong, Rahab’s courageous actions—courage takes center stage. Courage is not the absence of fear but the strength to face and overcome it.
Rahab’s Faith: A Living Example!
Rahab’s faith wasn’t passive; it was active trust. Mentioned in Matthew’s Gospel, she becomes an ancestor of Jesus, illustrating that faith without works is dead. Rahab’s courage challenges us: When were you last courageous?
Embracing New Seasons: Courage for Today!
Courage has diverse faces—rising in the morning, going to work, caring tirelessly for loved ones. Like Rahab, who faced a new season with faith, courage propels us through new phases. What new season are you in?
Courage Takes Many Faces: Proverbs 31 in Action!
Courage can be as simple as facing daily challenges or as profound as selfless love. A Proverbs 31 wife cared for her ailing spouse tirelessly, grieving with joy and serving others even after his passing.
Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s facing and pushing past it. What courageous step will you take today?
March 23
Joshua 3-6
Conquering Jericho
Picture this: Hundreds of thousands of Israelites, camped after years of wandering, facing the formidable Jordan River at flood stage. In this daring feat, God orchestrates a miraculous dry path, reminiscent of the Red Sea crossing. The Ark leads, priests follow, and as they step in, the river stands still, paving the way for a triumphant passage.
Joshua’s Leadership Unveiled: A Continuation of Divine Promises
As Joshua takes the reins from Moses, God assures him of divine support. The awe-inspiring march through the Jordan solidifies Joshua’s leadership, setting the stage for the conquest of the Promised Land. The people’s purification and God’s promise unfold a new chapter.
Memorial Stones: A Testament to God’s Faithfulness
After the crossing, Joshua selects a representative from each tribe to collect stones from the Jordan, constructing a memorial on the bank and another in the middle of the river. These stones are tangible reminders of God’s faithfulness and the miraculous passage of His chosen people.
The Commander of the Lord’s Army: A Divine Encounter
In a poignant moment near Jericho, Joshua encounters the Commander of the Lord’s Army. Not taking sides but representing God’s authority, this figure instructs Joshua to treat the ground as holy, echoing Moses’ burning bush encounter. This mysterious encounter foreshadows divine intervention in the impending conquest.
Renewal of Covenant Ceremonies: A Spiritual Reset
Before the fall of Jericho, Israel engages in a series of covenant ceremonies—circumcision, Passover observance, and enjoying the produce of the land. These acts signify a reconnection with God, preparing their hearts for the battles ahead. Obedience, even in seemingly illogical requests, becomes the key.
The Fall of Jericho: A Story of Faith, Obedience, and Miracles
The climax of our journey: the renowned fall of Jericho. The Israelites march around the city walls for seven days to demonstrate unwavering faith and obedience. God’s miraculous intervention, reminiscent of Rahab’s faith, leads to the collapse of Jericho’s impenetrable walls.
Word of the Day: March
Definition: To walk with regular and measured tread, as soldiers on parade; advance in step in an organized body; to engage in a procession organized as a demonstration of protest or support.
In our lives, God often asks us to “march” even when the outcome is uncertain. Just like the Israelites, let’s march in faith:
- Believe in God’s promises for victory.
- Obey His commands, even when they seem illogical.
- Observe and celebrate each new season.
- Accept the gifts He’s already bestowed upon us.
God Goes Before Us
Reflecting on Rahab’s view from her home and her eventual freedom, we’re reminded that God goes before us when our hearts are prepared. In uncertainties, God’s Word and active seeking lead to His divine intervention.
March forth, dear seekers! Let your hearts be prepared, for God goes before you. Share in His goodness, and He will show up in new and miraculous ways!
