A Little Bit Of Me | Lifestyle Blog by Charnita Fance

I've always been a little unsure about the Holy Spirit. God the Father? I get that. Jesus? He feels like a close friend. But the Holy Spirit often felt like a mystery, a concept I couldn't quite grasp. It seemed like everyone else had these amazing stories and experiences, while I was just… confused. If you've ever felt that way, like you're missing a piece of the puzzle in your faith, then I think I've found something that could help us both. I recently went through "The God You Need to Know" Bible study by Margaret Feinberg, and it completely shifted my perspective. This isn't your typical, complex theological deep dive. Instead, it’s a warm and welcoming journey to genuinely get to know the Holy Spirit. Margaret makes it feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation with a wise friend who’s excited to share something incredible with you. She takes you back to the Old Testament, showing that the Spirit has been active and present from the ...

I love reading the Bible, but I can admit that sometimes I get lost in the details. It's easy to see the individual books as separate stories instead of one continuous narrative. I've often wanted a guide that connects all the dots, and that's exactly what I found in The Story of God and Us by Jonathan Murphy. The first thing I noticed was the eye-catching cover, but what I found inside was even better. This book presents God's grand narrative in a way that is clear, engaging, and deeply personal, showing how we are all an important part of it. Who is Jonathan Murphy? The Author Behind the Story Before diving into the book, it helps to know the author. The Jonathan Murphy author credit belongs to the senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church and a professor at the respected Dallas Theological Seminary . This isn't just someone with a theory; he dedicates his life to teaching the Bible. His experience as a pastor comes through in his writing. He’s not just ...

I’ve always felt a deep connection to my faith, but sometimes, reading the Bible can feel like looking at a world that is very far away. The stories are powerful, but they took place thousands of years ago in a land I’ve only seen in pictures. I've often wished for something more, a way to make that history feel present and real in my own life. That's why I was so moved when I first learned about the Pendant of Eternal Faith . To be honest, I was a little skeptical at first, but now I can say it's one of the most meaningful items I own. When I was offered the chance to receive a gold and a silver Pendant of Eternal Faith for free, I was intrigued. The idea is simple but profound: each pendant contains genuine, authenticated soil from the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. This isn’t just symbolic dirt from somewhere in the Holy Land; it’s the actual soil from the location where Solomon’s First Temple stood and where Jesus walked, taught, and performed miracles. Holding it in my h...

Navigating the world of children's literature means constantly being on the lookout for books that do more than just entertain. The best ones offer something deeper, a resource for navigating the beautiful chaos of growing up. That's why "The Big Mess: A Deliciously Funny Story of Siblings Learning to Get Along," the new picture book from bestselling author Justin Whitmel Earley, is such a standout find. This heartwarming and relatable story has all the makings of a modern classic. It’s more than just a tale of two siblings; it’s a gentle guide to fostering patience, grace, and understanding between brothers and sisters. In a world that often feels fast-paced and demanding, finding moments to connect with children and teach valuable life lessons is absolutely essential. " The Big Mess " provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Through its engaging narrative and charming illustrations, this book opens the door to important conversat...

Sometimes, as adults, we make things more complicated than they need to be, especially when it comes to big, important topics like faith and prayer. We might get caught up in the “how” or “when,” forgetting that for kids, it can be as simple as having a chat. That's exactly what I found so refreshing about Tanner Olson's All The Things I Say To God (Learning to Pray Anytime, Anywhere) . It cuts through all the grown-up noise and gets right to the heart of what prayer truly is for a child: a natural, ongoing conversation with God. I remember thinking about how children approach things, full of curiosity and wonder. They ask a million questions, and they tell you all sorts of wild and wonderful things. This book perfectly captures that childlike freedom of expression and applies it to talking with God. It’s not about following strict rules or using fancy words; it’s about opening up and sharing whatever is on their hearts, big or small. Disclosure: I received this item free in ex...

I've been spending some time with the NIV Application Study Bible, Third Edition, and it's a magnificent Bible. If you're looking for a Bible that helps you connect God's Word to your everyday life, this one is definitely worth checking out. It's more than just a book with verses; it's designed to help you understand what the Bible meant back then and what it means for you right now. I've found it to be a really practical tool for growing in my faith. Disclosure: I received this item free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% my own. What's Inside This Bible? This Bible is packed with features aimed at helping you understand and apply Scripture. It includes thousands of study notes that come from the popular NIV Application Commentary series. Think of these notes as helpful guides that explain what a passage meant to the people who first read it, and how those ancient truths are still relevant to our lives today. You'll find differe...

I recently received a copy of The Message Student Devotional Bible: Psalms to check out, and I'm happy to share my honest thoughts on it. I have to say, I really enjoy this book. Psalms has always been one of my favorite parts of the Bible; it feels incredibly real and relatable. And The Message translation is great because it makes reading the Bible feel so natural. Putting these two together in a devotional Bible designed for students felt like a wonderful combination. Getting into this book felt easy and welcoming. It wasn't intimidating or overly complicated. It felt like it was made for young people trying to navigate faith and life at the same time. This edition promises to help students connect with the Psalms in a fresh, personal way. The tagline "God Wants to Meet You in these Pages" really captures the accessible and personal feel of this Bible. Disclosure: I received this item free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% my own. Why This Bi...

If you're anything like me, you might have a few Bibles sitting around your house. Maybe one you got as a kid, one you use for church, and perhaps one you intended to use for deeper study but haven't quite gotten around to. I get it. Life is busy, and sometimes picking up the Bible feels a bit overwhelming. Where do you even start? How do you figure out what it all means? That's where a really good study Bible comes in handy, and I recently spent some time with The Open Bible, New King James Version, from Thomas Nelson. And let me tell you, it's got some cool stuff going on. When I first got my hands on this Bible, the first thing I noticed was just how nice it feels. You can really see the quality. It's sturdy, well-made, and just feels good to hold. You know how some books just feel cheap? This isn't one of them. It feels like something you'll have for a long, long time. The cover material, the way the pages are bound — it all speaks to a level of craftsm...

Have you ever felt like your messy home is a reflection of your worth or moral standing? Do you struggle with the idea that a tidy house is somehow linked to being a better person or a more devoted Christian? If so, you're not alone. Many of us have been conditioned to believe that " cleanliness is next to godliness ," a phrase that, surprisingly, isn't even found in the Bible. 😱 In her latest book, Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House , Dana K. White offers a refreshing perspective that can help you break free from this misconception and find peace in the midst of chaos. Dana K. White is well-known for her practical decluttering methods and her no-holds-barred approach to home management. Her previous books, such as Decluttering at the Speed of Life and Organizing for the Rest of Us , have been incredibly popular among those seeking to tame the chaos of their homes. However, Jesus Doesn't Care About Your Messy House takes a different path. It's no...

Are you ready for a ghostly adventure that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking? Let me introduce you to “ The Ghost of Darwin Stewart ” by L.G. Nixon, a captivating tale that’s perfect for teens and young adults. This isn’t just any ghost story; it’s the first book in a series designed to engage young readers while exploring spiritual concepts through a fun, faith-based lens. Imagine a summer vacation that takes a wild turn when Lucy, our brave protagonist, stumbles upon a mysterious artifact at a flea market. What follows is an exciting journey filled with ghosts, shape-shifting entities, and the challenge of protecting her loved ones from dark forces. If you’re looking for a story that combines adventure with meaningful lessons about faith, you’re in for a treat! Disclosure: I received this item free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% my own. A Ghostly Adventure with a Purpose The story follows Lucy, a young protagonist who unknowingly becomes the keeper of a...

Are you ready for an adventure that's equal parts exhausting and exhilarating? Welcome to the toddler years! But don't worry, I've got just the thing to help you navigate this wild ride while keeping your sanity (and faith) intact. Let me introduce you to " Walking in Wonder ," the latest gem in Catherine Claire Larson's Wonder Series. The Wonder Series: A Spiritual Companion for Every Stage Before we get into the awesomeness of "Walking in Wonder," let's take a quick look at the Wonder Series. This collection of devotional journals is like having a wise, supportive friend by your side throughout your parenting journey. Disclosure: I received these items free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% my own. Waiting in Wonder: For the Expectant Mom Remember those nine months of anticipation? "Waiting in Wonder" is the perfect companion for pregnant moms. It's packed with:

Are you looking for a way to deepen your spiritual journey and engage your family in meaningful discussions about faith? If so, the "Enduring Grace: A Church Year Journal" might be just what you need. This journal invites you to explore God’s Word in a structured yet personal way, making it easier to connect with the teachings of the Christian faith throughout the church year. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or just starting to explore your spirituality, this journal offers valuable insights and prompts that can enrich your understanding of scripture. What makes Enduring Grace truly special is that it caters to both adults and children, allowing families to grow together in faith. With features designed for each age group, everyone can participate in the journey of reflection and learning. From scripture references and seasonal introductions to creative activities and discussion prompts, this journal provides a comprehensive framework for engaging with the liturgical cal...

Let’s be real for a second: loneliness can hit hard. Whether you’re scrolling through social media and feeling left out or sitting alone on a Friday night, it’s a tough place to be. If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one struggling to find meaningful connections, you’re definitely not alone. That’s where Kristen Strong’s "Praying Through Loneliness: A 90-Day Devotional" comes in. This book offers comfort and companionship through the shared experiences of women from all walks of life. With its relatable stories and heartfelt messages, this devotional is here to remind you that it’s okay to feel lonely—and that there’s hope for brighter days ahead. So grab your favorite cozy blanket and let’s get into this beautiful resource that promises to walk alongside you during those tough times! Disclosure: I received this item free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are 100% my own. A Compassionate Approach to Loneliness Strong's devotional takes a refreshingly...

Ever wish there was a social media platform where you could just hang out with other Christians and not deal with all the negativity? Well, Zaia is it! It's a place to build community and share your faith. This innovative Christian social platform isn't just another app – it's a digital sanctuary where 2.6 billion Christians from 46,000 denominations can come together, share their faith, and build meaningful connections. Here's what makes Zaia the go-to app for Christians seeking a positive, uplifting online experience. Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Frontgate. The Power of Zaia's Posting Features Zaia takes content creation to a whole new level, offering a suite of tools that rival even the most popular social media platforms. Whether you're a seasoned content creator or just looking to share your faith journey, Zaia has got you covered.

Let's take a moment to breathe, step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and journey into the depths of our hearts. Today, I'm thrilled to share a book that has truly resonated with me, one that promises to help us all cultivate a garden of peace, strength, and spiritual fulfillment within ourselves: " The Garden Within: Where the War with Your Emotions Ends and Your Most Powerful Life Begins " by Dr. Anita Phillips. Want to be notified about new posts?  Subscribe for a weekly dose  of content, inspiration, and personal musings delivered straight to your inbox. The Power of Embracing Emotions We're often told to suppress our emotions, to "toughen up" and push through. But what if our emotions are not the enemy? What if they are, in fact, the key to unlocking our most powerful selves? This is the central premise of "The Garden Within," a book that's made waves in the mental health and spirituality world. Dr. Anita Phillips, a r...

Let's be real here for a moment. Acne sucks. It's frustrating, embarrassing, and can make you feel like you're constantly battling your own skin. While I'm a firm believer in the power of science and modern medicine, as a Christian, I also know that prayer and faith can play a powerful role in our lives - even when it comes to something as seemingly mundane as acne. Now, before you roll your eyes and dismiss this as some kind of "hocus pocus," let me be clear: I'm not suggesting that prayer is a magic cure-all for acne. There's no doubt that acne is a complex issue with a variety of causes, including hormones, genetics, and lifestyle factors. And yes, a good skincare routine and a visit to a dermatologist are essential for managing acne effectively. But here's the thing: Prayer can be a powerful tool for supporting your overall health and well-being , which can, in turn, have a positive impact on your skin. Want to be notified about new posts?  Sub...

Can God handle your hardest questions, your deepest struggles, your secret doubts? We're often conditioned to believe he can't. We fear that giving voice to those things will lead to shame, rejection, and distance from the divine. But what if our raw questions aren't a detour from faith, but a highway straight to God's heart? That's the bold premise of Brenna Blain's new book, " Can I Say That?: How Unsafe Questions Lead Us to the Real God ." It's not just a book; it's a permission slip for the soul. It's a bold invitation to those who feel unsafe or unwelcome in traditional church settings, acknowledging the painful gap between religious rhetoric and real-life experiences. As a Bible teacher and advocate for survivors, Blain creates a safe haven for radical honesty. She doesn't shy away from the tough stuff: Am I safe here? Why does your presence feel so lonely, God? These aren't just questions; they're cries from the heart. Bl...

Recently, I enjoyed seeing an early screening of the upcoming movie, "The Firing Squad." It's a total game-changer. It's a raw and real drama, inspired by insane true events from 2015, that'll hit you right in the feels. The film kicks off with a bang, throwing you into a world of desperation where three people are about to face the firing squad. It's a heavy trip, but it dives deep into themes of faith, bravery, and the unbreakable human spirit—even when things seem hopeless. This movie will stick with you, that's for sure.  Incredible Acting Brings a True Story to Life The cast in this movie is incredible, bringing so much depth to their characters. James Barrington, as the doomed Peter Lowe, is devastatingly good. The legendary Kevin Sorbo and the always-amazing Cuba Gooding, Jr. completely own the screen.

In a world that often feels divided and unfair, the Breathe Life Bible brings a new perspective on the age-old wisdom of Scripture. It inspires us to become agents of hope, reconciliation, and transformative change. Through the lens of the BREATHE acronym— Believe, Reconcile, Exalt, Act, Trust, Hope, and Elevate —this unique Bible invites us to experience the Word of God in a way that empowers us to live out our faith in action. Contributors: Voices of Wisdom and Experience What sets the Breathe Life Bible apart is the wealth of wisdom and experience it draws from a diverse group of 24 esteemed leaders, including Dr. Bernice A. King, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Ambassador Andrew Young, Rev. Matthew Wesley Williams, Dr. Thelma Thomas Daley, Derrick Johnson, and many others. These individuals, deeply invested in addressing issues of justice with biblical truth, offer invaluable insights that breathe new life into the Word of God.

As someone who has spent decades immersed in Scripture, I'm always eager to learn about new resources to take my Bible study to the next level. In The Old Testament Handbook , I've found just that—a visually beautiful, content-rich companion that breathes new life into my understanding of God's Word. From its high-quality construction to the scholarly insights within, this handbook from B&H Publishing Group exceeds expectations. It's an absolute must-have for anyone serious about studying the Old Testament, which we all know can sometimes be challenging to understand. An Heirloom-Quality Resource Built to Last My first impression upon unboxing The Old Testament Handbook was simple awe. This is no ordinary study guide. The striking charcoal cloth cover has a subtle sheen, accented by cream endpapers and a foil-stamped title. The thick, opaque pages have an elegant feel. It's clear no expenses were spared in the production.