Laura R Bailey

I am convinced Christmas arrives earlier and earlier every year.  Last Christmas, my family received our final ( and best) present at 7:45 pm, with the arrival of our youngest daughter. As I snap her monthly pictures, the reality of “count down till Christmas,” always lingers
in the back of my mind.

This Christmas I wanted to share what tools I use to study the Bible, books I recommend, and resources for Christian living. Many items on the list below I have received as gifts, or they are on my current wish list. I also wanted to include some of my favorites for letter writing, hosting/hostess gifts, and organization. ( plus a few extra items if you need to give your hubby a hint!)

With each Christmas, God chips away the ME in my selfish heart,  I now {truly} find more enjoyment in giving than receiving. As the rose color glasses of my youth fall farther and farther down my nose, the realities of this fallen world are blatantly visible. Our ultimate reason to celebrate this season is the birth of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross so that we can have eternal life. Though many of us seek happiness in the present under the Christmas tree, real joy and fulfillment is found when we accept the gift of salvation. ( John 3:16)

I pray that we give generously, serve selflessly, host happily, and above all, remember Jesus is the reason for Season! Merry Christmas!

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BIBLE STUDY TOOLS

This Bible is great for going deep into God’s word. Each book of the Bible has an introduction, maps, and historical context. Verse by Verse  commentary, with cross reference scriptures in the margins, this has transformed my quiet time.

 

  These are top priority on my list! Crossway released the ESV Illuminated Scripture Journals, for all 66 books of the Bible.  One side is the Biblical text and the other a blank page for prayers, thoughts, or comments. These can be purchased individually, Old Testament set, New Testament set, or all 66 together.

BOOKS FOR GROWTH

This book was a catalyst in helping me fall in love with God’s Word. Reading my Bible became something I wanted to do, not HAD to do. Jen lays out how to study the Bible with both our hearts and minds.

In a world of self help, Whitney Capps reminds us, that is not about ME but it is about GOD.  Spiritual growth comes when we are both honest and seeking to be holy- the Gospel is what changes us, not ourselves.

Anyone who struggles with choosing the meaningful when everything seems urgent, add this gem to your list. Valerie helps readers unveil their core time suckers, and how we can get out of time “debt.”

Tired of feeling like you always have to measure up? Maybe it is pressure at work, home, or perhaps your own high standards ( guilty). Jennie Allen encourages us to, ” wade deep into the streams of the Living Water and live secure in the knowledge that we have absolutely nothing to prove to God or to people.”

Momma, if this is the one book you read this year, let this be the one.  Motherhood is hard work-  Laura and Emily remind moms ( with practical and timeless Biblical truth) that true transformation comes from the Gospel alone.

 

MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS

“THE JOYFUL LIFE is a quarterly lifestyle print publication for Christian women seeking the authentic JOY found by inviting JESUS into our everyday lives.”   This is more than a magazine for Christian women- it is a collection of soulful stories, practical tips, alongside beautiful pictures and artwork, a true treasure.

John Rosemond is has updated his Traditional Parent magazine, a much needed resource for today’s Christian parent. “My ministry is to parents, children and families; my mission is to assist in the much-needed restoration of ‘old-fashioned’ parenting and family values, one household at a time. I believe that the long-term survival of American culture depends upon it.” – John

 

OTHER GOODIES

I have used this planner from, Plum Paper for the past 3 years. I love the different design options, and layouts.  If you are ( or know one) a type A planner freak- hand raised- snatch this up!  They also have personalized notebooks, which make great gifts!

I love stationary- and this brand is by far my favorite. Don’t get me wrong, I am often spotted with arms full at $3 packs from Marshals- but as a true lover and connoisseur of paper products, www.riflepaperco.com is makes my heart sing!

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I have gifted this necklace over half a dozen times.  Stillwell Style is local to Spartanburg, SC ( all handmade) and normally around the holidays she runs specials. All her stuff is cute, but I am especially fond of this arrow necklace. www.stillwellstyle.com  ( instagram @stillwellstyle)

These are handmade Alcohol Ink on glass ornaments.  Not only are these beautiful works of art, but the words @MaggieViskArt ( Instagram) includes with each unique piece of art is a powerful message of God’s love and redemption.  Check out her Instagram page for artwork currently available, and custom orders. Hoping my husband gets the hint this year …wink wink!

 

 

 

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