*Click the banner in Apple Podcasts to order Extra Nuggets!*

The Bible is the most amazing book ever to exist. It’s unlike any other book! I bet you probably have a Bible or 2 in your house but do you know just how special it is? Let’s see if you know these facts about the Bible…

Did you know the Bible is like it’s own little library since it’s made up of lots of different books written by different authors?

That’s right, there’s 66 different books written by over 40 different people! 

But, the Bible has one MAIN author who wrote all of it through those 40 different human authors…and that’s the Holy Spirit. It’s the Holy Spirit who told the human authors what to write down and how to say it. And it’s the Holy Spirit who has protected and preserved these words for thousands of years so that we can read them today!

In fact, the oldest book of the Bible was written over 3 thousand 500 years ago. And books don’t just happen to stick around for that long unless it’s by some miracle. And the Bible IS a miracle, not only because we have it but because it’s what we call the inspired word of God. And the word of God is described as a sword. That’s pretty cool, right? We can think of God’s word as a way that we can get to know God better and learn about who He is and what He’s like and how He acts and the things He says. Stuff like that. But we can also use God’s word to fight. Well, at least, that’s what Jesus did. Remember when Jesus fought with Satan when Satan was trying to tempt him? Jesus fought back to Satan’s tricks with God’s words – the words in the Bible. And we are to do the same today! We should know the Bible so well that we can use it whenever Satan tries to trick US!

You know, sometimes, God seems hard to understand or difficult to figure out and wrap our head around because He’s so different from us as humans. I mean, God is GOD and there’s no one else like Him. SO we don’t have many other ways of understanding Him or getting to know Him OTHER than reading the Bible. It’s like a letter He left for you to read about Him. He wants you to know Him and not some made up version of what you THINK he might be like..He wants you to know the REAL Him even the unexpected things about Him or the things that are hard to understand or even the mysterious things about Him. The Bible begins to reveal all sides of God to us if we take the time to read it!

And it’s because of how awesome the Bible is that I want us to start walking through each book of the Bible together. The plan is to complete the Old Testament this school year. I want us to talk about what each book is about, talk about a few of the cool stories found there and then talk about how it fits in this bigger story that God is writing. I want us to learn how different books show us different aspects of WHO God is and what we can learn from it. We are going to be doing this for subscribers only so I’d love for you to join us as we journey together through the awesome books of the Bible. You can click the banner in Apple podcasts to sign up for just a few dollars. 

But before we sign off, listen to this verse. 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17 says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

The Bible is God breathed….just imagine that. Isn’t that amazing that the words we read in our Bibles are directly from God just like your breath comes out of your body? I sure hope you’ll join us as we go through the books on Extra Nuggets, but more than anything, I pray you fall in love with reading your Bible. I pray you love it so much that you can tell others about what a special book it is to you in your life. And I pray that by reading it you come to love the Lord more and more.

Alright, parents! I want you to think about how many times you’ve bought a devotional book to do with your kids and you had the best intentions.. yall were going to do it every night at bedtime or at breakfast. And it was going to be this lovely time of blissful discipleship. But alas, life happened and that book ended up on the shelf and that dream of family devotionals …well it’s honestly on the shelf with those well intended books. I’m serious I probably have at LEAST 5 of those books in my house right now. 

And it’s not for lack of trying! It’s just that life is busy, seasons change, and honestly some days I’m just tired and don’t feel like doing it. 

Well, despite how many kids devotional books you’ve bought in the past, this podcast is here to help you accomplish your family discipleship goals in the easiest way possible. Even if you’re the best at family discipleship and you’re rocking a family bible study every day, I’m sure there are some days you just don’t have it and could use some back up. THAT’S what Backseat Bible Nuggets is here for! AND if we think of it like the easiest most convenient devotional ever, then it's a nobrainer that you’d sign up for Extra Nuggets, our new subscription plan. If you become a subscriber then you’ll have access to more content over the next year. So, go ahead and click the Extra Nuggets banner in Apple podcasts and get started! Your overloaded bookshelf will thank you later!

What’s the best gift you’ve ever been given? Maybe it was a birthday present or something you got for Christmas. Maybe it was a surprise treat you weren’t even expecting or maybe the best gift you’ve been given was getting to do something cool, like go on a trip or do some sort of  special experience.

My guess is that you’ve been given a lot in your life and that you’ve been blessed in lots of different ways. I know for me, it would be hard for me to think about the BEST gift I’ve ever been given since I’ve received lots of great gifts over my lifetime! But I remember when I was younger and how I really really really wanted to bird for a pet.  I had already tried cats, dogs, turtles, fish and hamsters for pets, but never a bird and I just thought it would be amazing. So I talked about it constantly to my parents and family. Everyone knew I wanted this bird.

I dreamed about what the cage would look like. I planned where it would go in my room. I brainstormed what I’d name the bird. I thought through all the details of owning a bird. I was so excited about having a bird. And would you know, the day came where my parents actually got me the bird?! I couldn’t believe it. I remember walking down the stairs in my house and seeing this big sheet covering something that looked sorta like a cage and there were tweets coming come underneath. All of my dreaming and wishing and hoping had actually come true! I was so excited.

Now, what I want you to know is that my parents aren’t the biggest animal lovers. It’s not like they shared my same desire for birds. And looking back, I bet they weren’t thrilled about bringing another animal to live inside their house. So, why did they get me the bird? Why does someone get another person a gift? What would lead them to do that? Well, love! My parents loved me enough to know that I really wanted that bird and they felt compelled to get the bird because of their love for me.  

This is how our Heavenly Father works too! The Lord knows you and knows what you love and He LOVES to give His children good gifts. In fact, Matthew 7:11 says, “Even though you are evil, you know how to give good gifts to your children. How much more will your Father who is in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”

In other words, if humans, who are sinful, understand the concept of loving someone so much that they want to give gifts out of love, how much more does our Father in&

The Advent book is out this year from Christian Parenting! I’m so excited because we loved ours last year. This year the book is called ‘Jesus, Light of the World’ and every day includes scripture, a short devotional, engaging activities that encourages kids to take ownership of their faith and yall know we love all those things here at Backseat Bible Nuggets.  You can get your copy at cpgive.org. That’s cpgive.org.

I have some friends who are going to be real life missionaries! I have always heard about missionaries, but I’ve never actually known a missionary that I called my friend. Do you know what a missionary is? A missionary is someone who is so excited about telling others about Jesus that they make it their job.

Your parents probably have a job where they might leave the house to go to work or maybe they work from home, but a missionary is willing to go anywhere where people need to hear about Jesus. To be more specific, a foreign missionary usually means they go to another country or a different part of the world to live and to tell others about Jesus and the Bible.

My friends are going to northern Africa to tell the people there about Jesus. How cool is that?

I think missionaries are like super heroes. And you should read some stories about missionaries, just like you read books about super heroes. Hudson, my 9 year old and I read a book on Hudson Taylor this summer. I chose it because they had the same name, but the life story of this early missionary made a huge impact on me! A missionary’s literal job is to introduce people to Jesus, which changes people’s lives forever. Is there a more important job? No!

But while my friends are packing up everything and moving to Africa and agreeing to learn a new language and live in a new culture, it reminded me that being a missionary doesn’t only mean those people willing to move to a different country. It’s important for all of us to be missionaries right where we live now.

Did you know that Jesus told all people who believe in Him to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded” in Matthew 28:19 and 20?

That verse I just read is called the Great Commission. Can you say Great Commission?

And it is the job description of a missionary, or really every person who believes in Jesus – to go and make disciples, which is just a fancy word for people who know and follow Jesus. And it says to do this everywhere…where you live, where you go to school, where you practice sports, where you dance, where your parents work, and even for some foreign missionaries it means wherever the Lord calls them in the world.

Okay, let’s talk about some things. You can pause after each question to discuss. And don’t overthink it…the point is to get conversation flowing.

1.     Did you know that you’re supposed to be telling others about Jesus?

2.     Is there anywhere that you can think of where you SHOULDN’T talk about Jesus?

3.     Who in your life might not know Jesus and you could tell them what YOU know about Jesus?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19 and 20.

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

www.BackseatBibleNuggets.com

In our last podcast, we talked about prayer and how it’s really not that complicated. It’s just having a conversation with Jesus! But we kinda need to stop and pause because while it IS just that simple, it’s also very different from talking to someone you can see.

Well, you’re not alone if you wondered to yourself…hum, but how can I talk to someone who I can’t see? Or how will I know if He’s even listening? 

I want you to know that it’s great to ask questions like this because God WANTS to answer your questions! Plus this is how we learn together and better understand these things that can sometimes be very confusing. AND these are questions that plenty of people have had since the beginning of time. 

In fact, let’s go all the way back to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve (the 2 first people ever created) walked around with God and actually had back and forth conversations. Their relationship and conversations with God looked very similar to how you’ve talked and interacted with people around you today. Adam and Eve would talk and God would respond and back and forth it would go. Imagine all the things they talked about!

But then, Adam and Eve broke the one rule God gave them, sin changed everything, and they were sent away, being separated from God. 

But God…He didn’t give up there. In His perfect kindness and deep love for us, He didn’t stop listening and talking to us altogether. Even though we all mess up, just like Adam and Eve did, God doesn’t get mad and give us the silent treatment. You know the silent treatment where one person gets mad at the other and says, “I’m not talking to you ever again!” God loves us way too much to ever say that. And because of that, we can be confident that He is ALWAYS listening when we pray to Him.... 

 ............

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss or just generally review together when it’s over. Oh, and this is important! There’s no wrong answer to these! The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1.     What does it mean that prayer is like a conversation? 

2.     Do you find it hard or difficult to pray to God? If so, why?

3.     How do we know that God hears us when we pray to Him?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice 1 John 5:14 together. Repeat after me. “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” 1 John 5:14

 You’ve been listening to Backseat Bible Nuggets. A podcast for kids about God’s great love for them and His written word. Parents you can check out more resources at BackseatBibleNuggets.com. We’re honored you listened and pray deep roots grow in the lives of your backseaters as you go along the way.

Music: Forest by Vlad Gluschenko

What was your first word when you were a baby? Was it Dada? Or Mama? Or supercalifragilisticexpialidocious? Okay, probably not that. BUT from an early age, even as babies, we are born with a desire to talk. We want people around us to know what we are thinking or feeling. This is why babies cry, right? Even before a baby can say a single word they want to let others know when they are happy or mad or sad.

Think of toddlers. Maybe you know a toddler and I bet you wouldn’t describe them as very quiet and having very few things to say. No, most children of any age really like to talk and be loud. And even if some of our friends listening struggle with putting sounds and words together, they probably have their own special way of showing those around them what they think and feel.

This is how we are wired as humans! It’s our instinct from day 1 of our life to communicate. So let’s talk about how that relates to prayer.

Praying is simple. It’s just talking to God. Just like you talk to your family members or your friends, it’s just like that when we pray to the Lord. In fact, prayer is sorta just a fancy word for having a conversation with Him. There are no magic words that are needed when we pray. And there is no right or wrong way to pray to Jesus. The only way we can mess up praying is by NOT doing it at all. Think of it this way: Who’s taking care of you today? No matter who is it, think of who is in charge of making sure you have food and clothes today? Okay. Now, what if you didn’t talk to them at all. All day. OR what if you ONLY talked to them for a minute or two before a meal or before bedtime. It wouldn’t make sense would it?! That would be silly and kinda just weird to be with someone all day but only talk to them for a brief moment at certain times.

So, why do we pray this way? Some people think we are only supposed to pray before a meal or maybe right before we go to bed. While those are great times to pray, so are the other 1,440 minutes that are in your day! Yep, there are 1,440 minutes in a day (assuming you stay up all night, which I would NOT recommend!) and so that means that there are plenty of opportunities to talk to God during your day.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to “pray continually.” That’s our verse! Just 2 words! Let’s hear it again, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “pray continually.” You might be wondering what continually means. It means… always happening, constant. In other words, pray without ever stopping.

Wait. Does that mean that we are supposed to sit around and pray all. Day. Long?! What about my toys I love? Or games with friends? Or crafting? or sports?  No, no, no. Go back to thinking of prayer as talking to God. Do you talk while you are playing with your favorite things? Sure you do! And so we can also pray while we are doing other things!

We can pray out loud while we are doing our favorite activity or we can just say it in our head, silently. We can say long prayers as we think of different things or we can say short quick prayers. We can thank Him for things AND we can ask Him for things. Remember, it’s a just conversation between you and God! And 1 Thessalonians 5:17 is telling us to never stop having that conversation.

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss or just generally review together when it’s over. Oh, and this is important! There’s no wrong answer to these! The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1.     What do you think prayer is?

2.     What does the Bible tell us about prayer? What did the verse say that we talked about?

3.     Why does God want us to pray to Him?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice the shortest verse we’ve ever had. I bet you can remember this one! Repeat after me. 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “pray continually.”
*Music: Forest by Vlad Gluschenko

Everyone is scared of something. Did you know that? What’s your mom or dad scared of? Or your grandparents? They’re scared of something too! If you don’t know what the adults in your life are scared of, just ask them! You might get some funny answers.

Me, for example, I’m scared of snakes. Any kind of snake. Long ones, skinny ones, short ones, fat ones….snakes are NOT my thing. And yet somehow I always seem to have lots of interactions with snakes. One time a snake even came in to my house when I opened my front door to get a package! Like he wanted to move in with us or something!

Anyway, I’ve learned to live with my fear of snakes because they are all around where we live. In fact, I saw a possum eat one the other day for a morning snack in my backyard! It’s a fear that I can’t get away from. Snakes exist and my fear of snakes exists, so what’s the answer? What gives? 

Think of what you’re scared of. What scares you most? You don’t have to say it out loud but just think about it. Being scared of something is the same as being fearful. So if I’m scared of snakes I can also say I have a fear of snakes. That’s my fear.

Well the Bible has something to say about fear. Listen to 2 Timothy 1:7. It says, “God did not give us a spirit of fear; but of power, love and self control.”

In other words, when we are a child of God we have God’s own Spirit, the Holy Spirit living in us!! This should blow our mind! We have God’s huge power living inside of us – the same power that created our world by just speaking word and it coming to existence. The same power that made hungry lions go to sleep and not eat Daniel. The same power that held back the rushing waters so that God’s people could cross over safely to freedom. The same power that brought Jesus back to life 3 days after he was crucified on the cross.  I could go on and on.

But here’s the deal… if we have THAT sorta power living in us….Why should we ever feel scared of something? Well, we shouldn’t! But….even if we try really hard to not be scared, it always seems to come creeping back, right?

That’s something that we will always deal with while we live on this Earth, but you should know that it’s not from God to feel that way. No. The verse said that God’s Spirit DOES NOT make us weak and fearful. He is no scardey cat! God is the only one who has no fears. And if He gave us His Spirit, like actually part of Himself to live in us, then we too shouldn’t give in to our fears.

 Because He gave us a Spirit of power and love and self control. You see, He doesn’t want you to go through your day and night being scared of this and that. No! He wants to replace your fear with His power, His love, and His ability to help us control our fears.

 We can’t control our fears on our own. No, we need a helper. And that’s just what God WANTS to do for us! He isn’t scared of what you’re scared of. But He doesn’t laugh at your fears and think they are silly or ridiculous. He wants to HELP you with your fears.

 Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss or just generally review together when it’s over. Oh, and this is important! Listen. There’s no wrong answer to these! The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1.     What are you scared of? What’s your fear? 

2.     Do you believe that God can help you with that fear? Can He actually help you to not be afraid of that?

3.     What would be different in your life if you trusted Him to take away your fear and replace it with His power, love and self control?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice 2 Timothy 1:7 together “God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self control.”

Parents you can check out more resources at BackseatBibleNuggets.com. 
*Music: Forest by Vlad Gluschenko

Hey……you….yeah, you…..what cha doing right now? Riding in the car? Listening to something while waiting on dinner? Laying on the floor with nothing to do? Playing legos?

Did you know that all of these activities and NOT activities are opportunities to talk about God? 

Yep!

The Bible tells us in Deuteronomy chapter 6 to talk about God no matter what’s happening… any circumstance. Any time of the day. Any place. Whenever and wherever! 

In fact, listen in Deuteronomy 6 verses 5-7. It says this: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

The people in Bible times walked everywhere they went. They didn’t have bikes or roller blades or scooters. Just walking! But, how do you get to places most of the time? If you live in a town like we do, we drive everywhere we go! And this Bible verse that tells us to talk about God when we are “walking along the road” can now be applied to “when we are riding in the car.” 

Some of my best thinking and talking happens on car rides!

And so that’s why we’ve named this podcast BACKSEAT Bible nuggets. It was created for parents that have someone in the backseat that they want to talk about God with as they are going as the Bible has commanded us in Deuteronomy 6:7. These are short devotional podcasts to get you talking about God and His word as you go!

 So, back to our verses…Let’s hear it again. Deuteronomy 6:5-7. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (Whew! That means everything that we have in us! My heart, my brain, the things I do in my own strength with my arms and legs and hands and so on) These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. (In other words, parents are called to have God’s commandments in their hearts and minds so that they can then TEACH them to YOU, their kiddos!) Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (All. The. Time!)

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss or just generally review together when it’s over. Oh, and this is important! Listen. There’s no wrong answer to these! The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it! 

1. Okay, so first. What does it mean to love God with ALL of our heart, soul and strength?

2. Why is it important that we talk about God and His words in the Bible?

 3. And lastly, how can you make sure that you talk about the Lord all the time, like it said in scripture. Remember it said talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up? How will YOU help your parents do that? 

I’m sure they would love to talk about Him with you! And even if they don’t know all the answers, you can learn together! God loves when we come to Him. Whether we know it all or not!

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice Deuteronomy 6:5 together. You can repeat after me: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”

You’ve been listening to Backseat Bible Nuggets. A podcast for kids about God’s great love for them and His written word. Parents you can check out more resources at BackseatBibleNuggets.com. We’re honored you listened and pray deep roots grow in the lives of your backseaters as you go along the way.

* Music: Forest by Vlad Gluschenko

One of the coolest things about our world is that it’s made up of billions of people who are different from us. Not one single person is the same! We have different countries, languages, beliefs, habits, and preferences. This is one of the coolest things about our world! How diverse it is! 

You can meet different people or even travel to different countries and experience the way they do life. Every country has different foods they eat, music they listen to, clothes they wear, even how they like to do things. I mean even toilets look different in different countries! Really, look it up! Toilets around the world.

It’s fun to learn about these differences!

And while our different countries, languages, and cultures are God’s plan and something to be celebrated, it’s not always easy. No, sometimes countries, or nations as they can be called, argue and fight. Sometimes they even go to war for their differences. Sometimes people even end up hating other people for their differences.

And this has been happening for a LONG time. Nations have been fighting and disagreeing over their differences basically ever since sin came in to the world. And wars continue even today. Lots and lots of kids grown up in countries that are at war with other countries. It’s almost like it’s a part of their everyday life to hear and see signs of war all around them.

And while it breaks God’s heart to see nations fight, I want you too remember something really important today. It won’t always be this way! How do I know that? Because of what it says in the Bible.

Psalms 86:9 says, “All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name.” 

Did you hear that? ALL the nations. All countries, as different as they are, will one day ALL come before the Lord and worship Him. They will all agree together over the fact that Jesus is Lord and bring glory to His name.

YES! That gives us hope today to know that even as different as we are and even tough we will fight and disagree with other countries, we will all be united and AGREE one day… in the name of Jesus. Knowing this and remembering this makes me realize that God’s kingdom is so much bigger than any country here on Earth. His kingdom will last forever and will have billions of people in it since the beginning of time and from every country that ever existed.

Revelation 7:9 and 10 is another great description of this. It’s were John is having this sneak-peak in to heaven and he describes what he sees. He says, “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Raise your hand if you’re ready to see that one day! I am!

Okay, let’s talk about some things. You can pause after each question to discuss. And don’t overthink it…the point is to get conversation flowing.

1.       What are some differences that you know of between where you live and another country?

2.       Why do countries or nations fight or go to war?

3.       What did those verses tell us about how it will be one day in heaven?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me. “All the nations you have made - will come and worship before you, Lord; - they will bring glory to your name.” - Psalms 86:9

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

*There

Y'all, Christian Parenting has been hitting it out of the park lately with their products. This month they are rolling out a devotional made just for kids called My Time with God. It’s geared for ages 6-12. And it’s a colorful and fun devotional to read scripture, engage in creative activities, deepen their prayer life, and learn the benefits of spending time with God every day! Go get today at CPGive.org

Today we talk about questions with Hudson (9) and Avery (6):

What’s special about the Bible?

When do you usually read your Bible?

Why do you like reading your Bible?

What is your favorite Bible story and why?

How does the Bible help us live the way God wants us to live?

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

If yall follow me on social media, you saw me post about the Noteworthy Prayer Cards last week. These little cards made my kids whole week when they found them in their lunch box at school!

Each card has an uplifting message, a Bible verse, a prayer, and a space for you to write your own note to your child! Simply tear off a page and place it in or on their backpack, lunch box, bathroom mirror, or pillow! Wherever they will find it!

Get creative! Remember, your kids are never too young or too old to hear how much you adore them.

For more information and to get your cards, head over to cpgive.org. That’s cpgive.org

Who loves a tongue twister? I know we do in our house. Have you ever tried the one that says…how much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood? Here it is slowly….how much wood…could a woodchuck chuck…if a woodchuck…could chuck wood. One more time as fast as you can, how much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?

So fun! If you didn’t get it this first time, I’m sure you will with practice.

Well, we are talking about tongue twisters today because I’ve been reading in the Bible, in the book of John lately, and I’ve realized that the very first verse or sentence of that book is like a tongue twister. Or better yet, a brain twister.

It says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.”

It’s a brain twister because it’s a bit confusing on what’s being said here. It almost sounds like the disciple John who wrote this book is repeating Himself a few times. But he’s not. Let’s take each phrase and look at what he’s saying. First of all, he’s talking about Jesus who we can think of as “the word.” So when John says “in the beginning was the word,” what do you think that means? I’m going to give you a minute to pause here and talk about that together. When John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the word,” what does that mean?

PAUSE

If you said that it means that Jesus existed since the beginning of time, you’re right! Remember that “in the beginning” is the phrase that is used in Genesis which explains the whole creation of the world? John is letting us know that Jesus was there at that time! Jesus’ life didn’t just start when He was born on earth!

Okay, let’s add the next part of that verse: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God…remember we can think of “the word” as another name for Jesus here so we’ve already said that Jesus existed before the world was created, but it also says “the word was with God.” This shows us that Jesus is in perfect fellowship with God. And this is a fancy way of saying that they were hanging out together and best friends. It shows us that they are 2 unique people! Which is sorta mindblowing given the next phrase. Let’s add it in…

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The last phrase says “the Word was God.” So we shouldn’t think of Jesus and God as 2 separate people with different things they like and don’t like, but we should think of them as the same beucase this tells us that Jesus IS God. I told you this was a brain twister, right?! This is a concept called the Trinity, which we have a whole episode about if you want to learn more here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/backseat-bible-nuggets/id1573752728?i=1000531698203

But for now, let’s say the whole verse together. But this time I’ll pause so you can repeat after me: In the beginning was the Word….and the Word was with God…and the Word was God…John 1:1

Awesome job everyone! I encourage you to keep practicing this verse and keep thi

Do you ever need help with something? I mean, is there ever something that you can’t do on your own and you need someone to help you do it?

Let’s talk about some examples. When have you needed help today? Go ahead and tell me about a time recently where you needed help.

Okay, now I want you to tell me exactly just HOW you asked for help when you needed it.

Alright, so maybe you asked for help by simply saying “I need help.” Or “can you help me, please?” or maybe you just cried and the adult you were with knew you needed help.

It’s a totally normal part of a kid’s day to need and ask for help. It happens A LOT, I bet, doesn’t it?

Well, that need for help doesn’t stop when you grow up. It might look a little different. Like as you grow up, you’ll learn how to tie your shoes or cut you your food or things like that or other things you might need help with at this age, but even grown-ups still need help in all sorts of ways. Good news is that we know someone who always hear when we ask for His help. It’s Jesus!

Did you know that the Lord really really really wants US – me and you -  to ask Him for His help? He wants us to go to Him when we need help because He can help us!

John 14:13 and 14 is where Jesus said, “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.”

Philippians 4:6 tells us to “not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

There is certainly a right way and a wrong way to go about asking for help from God. For example, if you demand that God gives you an ice cream cone right now!! ….He might not. But, if you go to Him, thanking Him that He listens to you and your need for help. And if you ask Him to help you through a situation or if you ask Him to help you with a hard situation so that His name would be glorified, John 14:14 tells us that He will do it!

So, here’s what I want you to remember today, because this is a big deal. We can ask God for help. Repeat John 14:14 after me…..”You may ask me for anything…..in my name….and I will do it…. John 14:14”

Jesus said those words. He wasn’t joking or making it up. He really really wants us to go to Him when we need help and ask Him for help. Don’t you think that God Almighty who created the heavens and the earth just might be the perfect person to ask for help? I do. And it’s a good reminder that we can go to Him first for help when we are in need.

I want to leave you with 2 questions to talk about with whoever you’re listening with….

1.     Where do you need God’s help in your life right now?

2.     How do we ask God for help?

Talk it out and maybe even pray together as we put it in to practice of asking God for help in our life!

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Have you ever seen one of those big inflatable balls that people can get inside and fit their whole body in? It’s almost like a giant hamster ball, but for humans? Apparently, it’s called a zorb. You can look it up! https://www.zorbs.us/ Well, my friends, this is sometimes how I visualize God’s protection of His children.

Hah! That might sound sorta strange, and I should start by saying there is no Bible verse that talks about giant human hamster balls, but scripture is full of stories that show God’s full and complete protection from all sides. And it’s the Lord’s protection that encompasses those who follow Him as they live their life.

In fact, God’s plan of sending Jesus to die for our sins PROTECTS us from death for all of eternity. Talk about ultimate protection! And so those who have surrendered their heart to Jesus and received His gift of salvation can know that they know that they know that the Lord will always protect and that He will never leave them or forsake them. That’s a promise in the Bible that we can depend on. And part of Him never leaving us means that we can count on His protection all around us. A protection that cannot be broken. A protection that cannot be penetrated.

In fact, Psalms 18:2-3 says, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.”

So, these verses talk about the Lord being a fortress. Hmm, what is a fortress? We don’t typically have those around town anymore, but they used to be very common and very important to protecting people! A fortress was almost like a castle or a giant structure that was meant to protect people inside from an outside enemy attack. It usually had thick walls made from stone and its whole purpose was to protect the people and keep them safe.

So Psalm 18:2 is telling us that the LORD is OUR fortress. The Lord is like this huge structure made from the biggest stones that cannot be broken. His protection is a like a fortress that we can stay in and know that we will be safe. And a fortress sounds like much better protection than a giant hamster ball, doesn’t it?

Now, I want to say one thing. God is our protector. He does offer us protection. And He won’t ever fail. But, does that mean that nothing bad or hard will ever happen in our life, right? No, sometimes people choose to walk away from God’s protection, like they walk out of the fortress and think they can protect themselves on their own. Or sometimes God allows things to happen in our life to give Him glory as we grow through it. But either way, God as just as He is described in Psalm 18:2. Y’all can repeat after me on this one. It says, “The Lord is my rock…my fortress….and my deliverer…My God is my rock…in whom I take refuge….” Psalm 18:2…

So, let’s talk about some things that we learn from this. You can pause to discuss. And remember, don’t overthink it. Just give your best answer and get the conversation going!

1.     What does it mean that God is our protector?

2.     How have you seen God as protector in your life?

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Have you ordered your prayer journal from Christian Parenting for this school year? This simple yet powerful tool will be your most valuable school supply you get! So, make sure you’re staying rooted in prayer for your kids this year by going to CPGive.org to get yours today!

You know the feeling of being extremely thirsty? Just dying of thirst? Maybe you’ve been playing outside in the hot sunshine and suddenly it hits you how thirsty you are. It’s like the only thing you can think about is getting some ice-cold water.

When we are thirsty, most of us are able to just run inside and get water. OR we’ve brought a water bottle along with us that’s right by our side for when we get thirsty. Our bodies need water constantly to stay hydrated and feeling good. We don’t just drink because it tastes good, we drink because we need it for our body to stay alive! And while my kids sure do love milk and juice and all the special drinks, nothing can satisfy our thirst quite like water can. Is this making anyone else thirsty? Like then need some water right now with all this talking about it?

Well, just as we get thirsty every day, so did Jesus. Actually, there is a story in the Bible, in John chapter 4, where Jesus goes to a well to get some water to drink. A well is like a big tunnel or hole in the ground where they used to get water from. Anyway, he sits down at the well probably super thirsty because he’s been walking a long way. And he starts talking to a lady that the Bible calls the Samaritan woman.

This conversation that Jesus has with this Samaritan woman is so unusual because back in Bible times, the Samaritan people and the Jews, which is what Jesus was, did NOT get along. There was this long history of them not being friendly with each other. So, they usually wouldn’t even talk. But Jesus doesn’t care about those types of things and he starts talking to this lady at the well.

And Jesus ends up telling her in John 4:13 that “everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Wow! What if you had been the one talking with Jesus and he told you that He had water that would make you never thirst again? What would you have said in response?

PAUSE

I think I would’ve said, yes please! Give me some of that special water. In fact, let’s put some in my water bottle for later too! But, Jesus wasn’t talking about water like we drink every day. What do you think He was talking about?

PAUSE

Jesus was using this example of water and the fact that we get thirsty and keep having to drink water to explain the fact that Jesus offers us something better. He offers us a type of spiritual water that can satisfy our heart and mind a soul in a way that only Jesus can. In a way that won’t keep going away like regular water does in our bodies. In fact, our verse said that the water Jesus gives will become a spring in us! So, we will have a constant source of water! Amazing, right!?

Jesus called this water “living water” in John 4:10. What do you think “living water” means?

PAUSE

The Lord can satisfy us in ways that regular ole water could never do. Don’t get me wrong, water hits the spot on those hot days after I’ve been running around. But, Jesus also hits the spot when my heart is worried or my mind wonders about certain things or even when I’m scared or disappointed. There’s nothing that can satisfy me like Jesus’ presence. And His presence, the Holy Spirit, is that living water that is living IN me as a child of God.

So, after all this talk about water, maybe we should go get a big glass of ice water! Sound good? Let’s do it.

Water sound.

Drink sound.

Miss Patty Cake “Little Me” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI_pDN-edw8

I’ve been walking with Jesus for 30 years now and its crazy that I’ve just recently realized that the longer I know Him, the more I understand how much I don’t know and don’t understand about Him.

I mean, most people, the more you spend time with them, the more you know them, right?!

That’s true with Jesus too in some ways. The more time I spend reading the Bible which teaches me about Him, the more I know Him. The more time I spend in prayer talking to Him, the more I know Him. The more time I spend singing songs about Him, the more I know Him.

But since God is unlike any other person I know because, well, He’s God…I’ve realized that the more I know Him it’s like the less I know.

The more I realize how huge and great and holy and mighty in power and just massive His presence is. My understanding grows to see how nothing can stop Him and how He can speak a word and whatever He said happens and how even tiny details all throughout history are orchestrated and directed by Him. He is just on this massive huge scale that I can’t even wrap my brain around.

But yet. Here’s the amazing part.

He loves me. Little me.

But why? Why would He love me? There’s plenty of other people for Him to love. Plenty of cooler people who are better at all sorts of things than I am. Yet…..little me. He loves and cares for so deeply. And He doesn’t just love me big picture or if I’m acting really good. He loves me even when I make the wrong decision. He loves even the details of my life. Like He knows what hurts my feelings and what foods I like or don’t like. He knows me. He knows my thoughts. He knows me better than I even know myself because He made me.

Makes me think of this song my daughter learned in preschool that’s by Miss Patty Cake. I’ll put the link to the song in the show notes. Listen to this song…

AVERY SING

Jesus loves little me. The God who is bigger than we can ever understand….He loves little me. How amazing is that? And that my friends, is what I’ve been learning recently. Even after walking with the Lord for 30 years. It’s the basic gospel, the good news about what Jesus did for us while we were yet sinners, that still floors me and brings me to my knees in worship. My little knees, if you will.

Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Here are some questions to get you and whoever you’re listening with talking about how amazing the Lord is to us.

1.     How can God create the heavens and the earth yet still know your thoughts?

2.     How does that make you feel to say that Jesus loves little me?

3.     What can we do in response to such an amazing love? Like should we just say thank you and walk away? Or what can we do because of His love for us?

Let’s practice our verse together one last time. You can repeat after me. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Hey Backseaters! I have noticed that there are a LOT of new listeners here on Backseat Bible Nuggets which means you’re telling all your friends about this podcast and that makes me super happy. Thank you!

But, I thought it might be time to reintroduce myself again for some of our new Nuggetters! So, Hey! I’m Laura Young. And I’m the most normal mom of two kids you’ll ever meet. Hah! What I mean by that is that I’m not a fancy podcaster with a big studio and slick production skills. Nope! I’m actually a mom who wanted a podcast devotional for her kids to listen to one morning as we were running out the door and it was stressful, crazy and everyone was frustrated. We needed something to reset our hearts and minds for the day ahead since the morning hadn’t been our best. Anyway, I couldn’t find anything. All I wanted was for someone to basically read a devotional to us since I was driving and definitely not in the right state of mind to wing it as we headed out the door.

Since I couldn’t find anything, I decided to make it! Well, actually, I prayed about it, tried to get other people to do it and really felt like the Lord kept saying, “why not you? Why not you?” So, 2 years ago I decided to go for it and kicked off this whole Backseat Bible Nugget project.

That’s how I got here! And I’ve done it with the help of lots of kiddos like you. My favorite episodes are when I hear your voices instead of my own! Speaking of kid voices, my kids are Hudson and Avery and you’ll hear their voices on here helping out pretty often.

Right now though, they are enjoying summer activities like invention camp, water parks, dance camp, reading challenges, family trips and swimming. Lots and lots of swimming since it’s so so hot.

Anyway, since I want you to know who we are, here are 5 random things about us….

1.     My kids prefer to be barefoot all day every day no matter the terrain.

2.     We think that Papa Johns pizza is the best pizza that exists.

3.      We had a black bear walk across our front porch last year!

4.     We live near an air force base that has tons of fighter jets constantly flying. It’s super fun to see an airshow every day, but not always best when it comes to recording a podcast since those planes are LOUD.

5.     Our family has 2 kittens who are brother and sister. They look just alike and we have a hard time telling them apart!

What about you? What are some cool things about you? I’d love to meet you and get to know you better! You can always email me at backseatbiblenuggets@gmail.com or even find me on Instagram or facebook. I’d love to hear your thoughts and even any ideas you might have for some podcast episodes!

But, you know what? Even if we don’t ever meet, I know something about you. I know the Lord created you and has big plans for your life! The Bible says that the Lord knit us together so He’s made YOU in a special way. And I know that He can use YOUR life to do awesome and wonderful thing for God’s glory if you follow Him and His ways all the days of your life.

And that’s my prayer for every ear listening. That this podcast would be used to add a little fuel to your fire in walking in relationship with the Lord. That it would be a supplement to help you remember and talk about Jesus and all He’s done for us every day.

Okay, yall, well it’s been great to meet you. I’ll be back next Wednesday with a regular episode. See you the

Our family recently went on a trip where we were able to soak in God’s beautiful creation. We stared up at majestic mountains. We played in creeks. We hiked to waterfalls. We hunted for cool rocks at the edge of the water. We even tried skipping rocks, which is harder than you might think!

Anyway, I think it brings God great joy when His children play in and enjoy His creation. The things He made for us! And I think it brings Him even greater joy when we recognize Him and thank Him while we are enjoying the works of His hands.

While our family spent a few days in these mountains with rivers and lots of rocks, we kept talking about 2 Bible verses and 2 concepts that come from these verses.

First, is that do you know Jesus talked about rocks crying out in praise if humans don’t praise Him? Luke 19:40 Jesus says, “If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” In this verse, Jesus is being asked to make the people who are praising Him be quiet. And this is how Jesus responds! If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out. Well, that just gets me to thinking…. what do YOU think a rock would sound like if it cried out in praise to God?

I guess it depends on the rock. Maybe just like people, rocks have different singing voices. I have no idea. But it shows us how serious God is about us praising Him! All of His creation, even rocks and stones, points to just how awesome He is.

Speaking of creation praising God, the other verse we talked about on our trip a lot was Psalm 98:8, “Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy.” What a band we are getting together here in creation, right!? Rivers clapping their hands is such a cool description because as we stood next to rivers and waterfalls, if you closed your eyes, it DID sound like a huge crowd just applauding and clapping their hands as hard as they could in praise to God. Amazing!

All creation points us back to the Lord, the one who created it all and the one who deserves all the glory and praise from it. I’m so thankful He made His creation in such a way that we can play and explore it and praise Him while we do!

Here are some questions to talk about. Remember, there’s no wrong answer, so don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1.     Let me hear what you think it would sound like if a rock sang praises to God.

2.     Why is it important for us to praise God as we enjoy His creation?

3.     What are some ways that you can praise God for His creation that you see around you right now?

Let’s practice our verse together one last time. You can repeat after me. Since we talked about 2 verses, I chose just one, but would love for you to look both of them up! Okay, here we go. “Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy.” Psalm 98:8

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Need a resource to help you talk to your kids about politics from a Biblical world view this election season? SUBSCRIBE here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/backseat-bible-nuggets/id1573752728

All content is party neutral and focuses on topics like being citizens of God's kingdom first, setting our minds on things above, and even what it looks like to respect government authority.

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/backseat-bible-nuggets/donations

Do you know what obedience is? It is when you do something that’s been asked of you. It’s when you obey! But, I’d like to add that it’s doing what’s been asked of you right away and with a happy heart. I’m sure you and your parents talk about obeying pretty often. I know we do around our house! And there’s a reason for us talking about it so much. It’s because learning to obey your mom and dad or any other adult that’s in charge is SO important.

Why? Well, because God told us it was important! Ephesians 6:1 says, “children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right.” That verse makes it clear that obeying your parents is what the Lord WANTS us to do. The Bible tells us that obeying our parents is the RIGHT thing to do. It’s not asking us whether or not we FEEL like obeying or if we agree with what’s being asked of us. Ephesians 6:1 says, “obey your parents in the Lord for this is right.”

But, second of all, obeying your parents is helping you learn how to obey the Lord, which is also super important.

Think about this for a second….take your favorite Bible story. What is your favorite Bible story right now? Or maybe just a story that pops in to your head. I bet there is someone in that story that obeyed or disobeyed the Lord. Obedience….or disobedience….is in every story of the Bible! Think about it.

Adam and Eve disobeyed and were kicked out of the garden.

Noah obeyed and built the ark.

Abraham obeyed and was blessed with a huge family.

Moses obeyed even though others around him didn’t.

The story of the Israelite people is a rollercoaster of obedience and disobedience.

King David himself mostly obeyed the Lord but definitely had his moments of disobeying.

Even Jesus obeyed the Lord. Yeah! Philippians 2:8 tells us that he was obedient to death – even death on a cross. Meaning, that’s what God had asked him to do and he did it! He obeyed.

What about people in the Bible like John the Baptist or the disciples or Paul? They all have stories of obedience to the Lord.

I could keep going, but I think you see the point. Obedience is SO SO important the Lord!

So let’s practice and get really good at obeying our parents because that means that we will be able to better obey the Lord!

Here are some questions to talk about. Remember, there’s no wrong answer, so don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1.     What does it mean to obey?

2.     Why is it sometimes hard or difficult to obey what we’ve been told?

3.     Tell me about someone in the Bible who either obeyed or disobeyed.

Let’s practice our verse together one last time. You can repeat after me. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right.” Ephesians 6:1

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Happy 2nd Birthday Backseat Bible Nuggets! In this special episode, we celebrate the last two years and the way that God has grown the BBN podcast family!

You can't have a birthday party without some fun and games, so we brought in a special guest, JJ Campbell from Along for the Ride Podcast. She's a blast!

We hope you have fun with this episode and don't forget to grab your party favor of your chance to win one of 4 giftcards to Chick-fil-A (2) or McDonalds (2) BY CLICKING HERE!

THANK YOU for listening and being part of the Backseat Bible Nugget family!

In Luke 17:11-19, Jesus heals 10 men that all had a skin disease. But guess what? There's more going on in this this miracle than meets the eye.

We explore the importance of the 1 man who returned to thank Jesus for his healing. We talk about how we need Jesus' help in order to have thankfulness be our frist reponse.

While there are deeper meanings to this story in the fact that it was a Samaratin who was the one thankful man, we focus on the fact that he was simply thankful to Jesus. How often are we forgetful to be thankful for what God has given to us?

...

Here are some questions to talk about. Remember, there’s no wrong answer, the point is to get conversation flowing:

1.     How many men were healed and how many men said, “thank you”?

2.     Tell me about a time where you forgot to say thank you.

3.     Why is it important to thank God?

Let’s practice our verse together one last time. You can repeat after me. “He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him.” Luke 17:17a

Everyone knows that kids ask really great questions. And sometimes the questions are tough to answer! Here are a few questions I’ve heard recently: “If God created everything, then who created God?” or “Why would God create hell?” or “When is Jesus coming back to earth?”

These are all awesome questions! And the thing I love most about these questions is that it means you’re thinking about the Lord. But, these questions don’t have easy and clear answers.

In fact, there are a lot of things about God that are somewhat of a…..mystery. A mystery is just something that’s hard to explain or difficult to understand. And certain things about God will always be a mystery us. Why? Because we are humans that can’t understand EVERY. SINGLE. THING. about God. Sure, we can understand a lot about Him, especially as we read the Bible which teaches us about who He is. But, the Bible doesn’t give clear answers to every detailed question we might think of.

And I want to tell you something…..that’s okay! It’s okay for God to be a God of mystery. It’s okay that all of my questions don’t have perfect clear answers. This is important! If I were able to figure out every little thing about the Lord and how He works and thinks, then I might start thinking I could do His job for Him, which wouldn’t be good.

We should see God’s mystery as reassuring to us that He’s way bigger than we are and able to do much more than we can ever imagine.

So, let’s be okay with the mystery, deal?!

Romans 11:33-34 talks about this when it says, “how very rich are God’s wisdom and knowledge! How He judges is more than we can understand! The way He deals with people is more than we can know! Who can ever know what the Lord is thinking? Or who can ever give Him advice?”

That verse says God’s ways are more than we can understand, more than we can know. So, if anyone ever tells you that they know everything and they have all the answers, just know that’s not possible because this verse tells us that we won’t ever figure out all the things about the Lord.

Kinda mindblowing, if you ask me.

One last thing as we’re talking about this. Yes, God is a God who has some mystery. But, He’s also told us A LOT about who He is in the Bible. So, don’t get discouraged that God will always be a mystery about everything. There’s a LOT to know and learn about Him for your entire life! There will just come a point, on some questions or topics, where we have to be okay with NOT knowing every detail. That’s where we trust what we DO know about Him and go back to the main truths in the Bible.

So, let’s talk about a few things… You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get us talking:

1.     What hard questions do you have about God?

2.     Now ask the adult you’re listening with what questions they have about God? What is a mystery to them about the Lord? Remember how our verse said that God’s ways are more than we can understand and more than we can know? That’s for everyone, kids AND adults! So, ask your adult what is a mystery to them about the Lord.

3.     Do you think it’s cool or not cool that God has some things about Him that we can’t figure out? How do you feel about His mystery?

I hope you had great discussion! And I want to tell you on the last question, if you don’t love that you can’t figure everything out about God, then we can pray and ask Him to help you have more trust or faith in Him. He can help us with that! It doesn’t mean He will tell us all the answers for our questions, but He will help us to better trust who He is and trust His goodness even in the mystery.

One last time, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me.

“How very rich are God’s wisdom and knowledge! How He judges is more than

Alright Backseaters, as we start this episode, I want you to show me your best dance move. GO ahead and let me see it! I’ll be dancing right along with you.

Wow! Incredible moves! Where did you learn to dance like that?

Did you know that dancing is not only fun but it can be used to worship God? That’s right! The Bible talks about dancing a lot. If you want to read some verses you can check out Ecclesiastes 3:4 or Psalm 30:11 or Psalm 149:3.

But today we are going to talk about King David dancing. You have probably heard of King David but have you heard of his dance moves? King David loved to dance and he wasn’t afraid to show it!

Now, he didn’t just dance to show off his dance moves, but he danced to worship God, to give God glory and he did it in response to how awesome he thought God was.

2 Samuel chapter 6 tells us the story of when King David brought the ark to Jerusalem. Now, this ark is called the ark of the covenant. NOT Noah’s ark. NOT A BOAT! The ark of the covenant was a special box that God told the people exactly how to make and it represented God himself being with the people. It seems a little strange to us today because we live in a different time where God’s Spirit can be with us anywhere, anytime. But it wasn’t always like this!

God’s presence, or just God being with His people centered around this box called the ark of the covenant. Okay, so the ark of the covenant was coming into Jerusalem and King David…oh man….he was SO excited. You know why? Because it meant God would be with them, close to them!

And guess what? David showed His excitement and praise and worship to God by busting out his BEST dance moves!

2 Samuel 6:14b tells us that David, “danced in front of the Lord with all his might.” Show me how you can dance with all your might like David.

NICE!

And David wasn’t the only one worshipping. EVERYONE was excited and worshipping God, it says! The next verse says that “the whole community of Israel helped him bring it up. They shouted. They blew trumpets.”

They all worshipped God in different ways, but King David is known for his dance moves in this story.

So, let’s talk about a few things… You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get us talking:

1.     What’s your favorite way to worship the Lord?

2.     Why do you think it’s important for you to worship God?

3.     What do you think is God’s favorite dance move?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “David danced in front of the Lord with all his might.” 2 Samuel 6:14b

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Last week our family visited Washington DC and had so much fun exploring all the sites and being in the city. We noticed that there are a lot of differences between Washington DC and where we live in Florida.

One major difference that was easy to see was how many different TYPES of people we saw. We saw people from all different countries from all over the world. It was easy to tell they were from a different country because they either looked different from us, dressed in different clothing styles or even spoke a different language.

The different languages was fun to hear as you’re walking past someone and they are speaking something they can understand but yet makes no sense to me! Anyway, the differences were fun to see and something to be celebrated.

But, it also makes me think how we are all the same in a lot of ways. I kept thinking about how Jesus loves each of us – no matter what we look like or where we are from or what language we speak.

Makes me think of the song, Jesus loves the little children. All the children of the world. It also makes me think of one of our favorite songs right now by Ellie Holcomb called “God of all nations.” We love her whole Sing album, but the song God of all nations reminds us that every language, every color…you and I are sisters and brothers.

Those songs help us remember the truth we hear from the Bible. “For God so loved the WORLD, that He gave His only Son, so whoever believes in Him will not die but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Did you catch that? For God so loved the WORLD. Not just one country or type of person. So even though certain people might seem different from me, to God they are all loved the same! AND guess what? One day, when all believers are in heaven, it’ll be people from all over the world from all through time and we will all be united in God’s kingdom. How awesome will that day be?!

Okay friends, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get us talking:

1.     Do you know someone from a different country? Or maybe just someone who is different from you? Tell me their name.

2.     Okay, now let’s talk about how you and that person are the same. What are your similarities?

3.     Why do you think it’s important to know that God loves people from all over the world in every country?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so whoever believes in Him will not die but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

This episode is a follow-up to the 'How do I become a Christian?' episode. If we don't understand the WHY behind the HOW then we're missing the whole point.

We talk about how because we are all sinners then we need Jesus! That's WHY we should ask Jesus to be Lord of our life and follow Him and His ways. An understanding of personal sin needs to come before a true commitment to following Jesus. Let's make sure our kids understand that they need Jesus because they are sinners, not becuase their parents tell them to or because they grow up going to church.

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

We talk a lot on here about how Jesus came to earth and died for our sins. But, did you know that Jesus is going to come back to earth some day?!

Yeah! He’s going to come back one day. But this time it’ll be different. This time He won’t be born in a manger with Mary and Joseph as his Mom and Dad. This time will be A LOT different.

I have to tell you up front that we don’t know EXACTLY all the details about how Jesus will come back, but we DO know He said He would come back so we can trust that it’s true.

We can look to the Bible for some clues about what it will be like when Jesus returns to earth. So, here’s what we DO know about when Jesus comes back again, which we also sometimes call His second coming.

We know he will come on the clouds. We know that every eye will see Him. That means every person will see Him with their own eyeballs. We know He will come with all of His angels – tons and tons of angels with Him. Oh, and there will be trumpets! Loud trumpets! (trumpet sound) AND we know that the only person who knows when all of this will happen is (drum roll) God, Himself.

Revelation 1:7a says, ”Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him…”

How cool is that?! Our God is so amazing that He can do all of those things – like come in the clouds with millions even billions of angels behind Him. With a trumpet call announcing His arrival so that all eyes on earth will look to Him and see Him. I REALLY want to see this because I think it’ll be the coolest sight ever!

And it will be for those who know and love Jesus! For those who don’t know Him or follow Him, though, it won’t be the best day ever. That’s because when Jesus comes back they won’t have time anymore to turn to Him. That’s why it’s important that we know and follow Jesus TODAY! We can’t wait to do that because remember….no one knows when He’s coming back. Only God knows that!

What if it’s today? Look up! Do you see Him in the clouds right now? What if it’s tomorrow? What if it’s when you’re 100 years old? Who knows?! Maybe it won’t happen in your lifetime. Maybe it’ll be in 10,000 years. Only God knows. But, we are told to live for Him right now and to be excited about the day when He comes back in this awesome way.

Okay friends, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get us talking about this:

1.     What are some things we know from the Bible about Jesus’ second coming?

2.     What are some questions that you might have about Jesus coming back to earth? There are plenty of things that we don’t know about this day! So what are some of your questions?

3.     How do you think you’ll respond if you see Him coming back? Would you jump for joy or find a trumpet to blow or maybe you’d hide not knowing what was happening or something else?  

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him…” Revelation 1:7a

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Does God forgive and forget? When we say, "God, please forgive me," we can magically erase His memory? Explore and ponder these questions with us!

Psalm 103:12 says, “He has removed our sins from us. He has removed them as far as the east is from the west.”

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Did you know there are lots and lots of different meanings for the word “love”? The Bible has A LOT to say about love. So much so that we don’t have time to talk about every Bible verse that mentions the word. In fact, the type of Bible translation that I’m using mentions love 551 times! Woah!

Here are a few major things I want us to know about God’s love though.

1 John 4:19 says that “we love because He first loved us.” God loved us first. He didn’t wait on us to love Him before He returned that love. He loved us before we were even born! And this verse reminds us that He Himself is the definition of love. We love because He first loved us.

And also, His love for us and our love for Him makes us do things. Sorta like how your love for a certain food makes you crave it or how your love for a friend makes you want to play with them. Another way to say it is that love is action. Love isn’t JUST a feeling, it makes us do certain actions.

Mark 21:31 tells us to love our neighbor as ourself. And 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 talks about what actions go along with love. Listen to this: “Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not want what belongs to others. It does not brag. It is not proud. It does not dishonor other people. It does not look out for its own interests. It does not easily become angry. It does not keep track of other people’s wrongs. Love is not happy with evil. But it is full of joy when the truth is spoken. It always protects. It always trusts. It always hopes. It never gives up. Love never fails.”

Okay, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1.     How is God’s love different from other types of love?

2.     How do you know that God loves you?

3.     How can you show love to someone today?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “We love because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Backseat Bible Nuggets is BACK! We are excited to get back to the routine with you as school gears back up. There are a lot of new things in store for this season including a Backseat Bible Nuggets SUBSCRIPTION for extra episodes! Click here to find out more: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/backseat-bible-nuggets/id1573752728

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

How do I become a Christian? This episode walks through the basic understanding required to pray and ask Jesus to be Lord of your life. We must first start with our sin nature and our need to be forgiven. Then we look to the cross where Jesus died for our sins. Finally, we must ask Him to be in charge of our life and live out each day for Him with the help of His Holy Spirit.

This is a complicated subject for some kids and will likely require listening to other episodes to put all the puzzle pieces of understanding together for the big picture.

We are praying for you as you listen to this episode with your Backseaters!

One of the goals of this podcast is to get you interested and excited about God’s word. The Bible is important to our everyday life…when we submit or REALLY listen to God’s word it puts our heart and attitude in the right place to go throughout our day no matter what happens. God’s word is living and active, it’s powerful, as we’ve talked about before!

But today, I want to remind us that God’s has a sense of humor and we can find that when we look at details of the Bible. In fact, Hudson, my 8-year-old, found something he thought was super funny in the Bible the other day that made him laugh. Do you think it’s okay to laugh at something in the Bible? It is! I think God loves when we laugh and I think He especially loves when we are reading His word with enough attention to realize when something is funny!

Okay, so Hudson was reading in 1 Samuel 24 and this is where David is being chased by Saul because Saul wants to kill him. Listen to what it says and see if you can find the funny parts… “Saul returned from chasing the Philistines. Then he was told, “David is in the Desert of En Gedi.” So, Saul took 3,000 of the best soldiers from the whole nation of Israel. He started out to look for David and his men. He planned to look near the Rocky Cliffs of the Wild Goats. He came to some sheep pens along the way. A cave was there. Saul went in to go to the toilet. David and his men were far back in the cave. David’s men said, “This is the day the Lord told you about. He said to you, ‘I will hand your enemy over to you. Then you can deal with him as you want to.’” So David came up close to Saul without being seen and he cut off a corner of Saul’s robe.” That’s 1 Samuel 24:1-4.

Did you find anything sort of funny about that? First of all, I should say, there was nothing funny about this situation because Saul was trying to kill David and David was hiding for his life! Yikes!

But here’s what’s funny….if you are in to bathroom humor, which most kids are, right?! Saul has to use the toilet, he has to go to the bathroom. And it just so happens that he chooses to use a cave where David and his men are hiding. PU!!

And Hudson pointed out that Saul must’ve gone #2 if he was in there long enough for David and his men to discuss what was happening AND for David to sneak up and cut a corner of his robe off.

What in the world!? HAHA! Can you imagine? Have you ever snuck up on someone going to the bathroom? I wouldn’t recommend it. Stinky!!!

Anyway, this goes to show that when we pay attention to the details of God’s word - when we listen and really think about the details of what we are reading then it comes alive to us! These aren’t just made up stories! They are real life! And sometimes real life can be a little bit funny and make us laugh.

Okay, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1. What did you find funny about that story with David and Saul?
2. Why do you think God would include funny details like that in the Bible?
3. Can you think of other funny stories or situations in the Bible?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Saul went in to go to the toilet. David and his men were far back in the cave.” 2 Samuel 24:3b

Have you ever been lost? If that’s ever happened to you then you know how scary and confusing it can be for everyone involved!

Well did you know that one time Mary and Joseph lost Jesus? I mean the most important child in the world was LOST! That’s right!

Luke 2:41-52 tells us about the time that Jesus was lost for 3 days. And this was way before they had cell phones to call people or text and ask if anyone had seen Jesus. They just had to go around asking and I’m sure Mary and Joseph were worried sick.

I love thinking about this story right after Christmas where we tend to imagine Jesus so peacefully sleeping in the manger almost like a fairytale. This story reminds us that Jesus lived a normal human life. Sure, He was the savior of the world and He wasn’t worried or scared when He was lost. But, it reminds us of that He was fully human. And that meant that things happened….like being lost. AND that God chose Mary and Joseph knowing full well that they would lose Jesus one day for a few days. Their parenting mess up didn’t disqualify them from being the perfect choice of parents to Jesus. And that’s reassuring to me as a parent, myself!

Okay, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1. How did Mary and Joseph lose Jesus?
2. How did Jesus respond to being lost?
3. What do we learn about Jesus as a 12 year old boy through this story?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Why were you looking for me? He asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” Luke 2:49

Jesus being born is a special story for everyone. For me and for you! The story of Jesus being born, the life he lived, and then eventually the death that he died on the cross was all for you. He came to this world for you!

This was such great news for every single person that even a big group of angels shows up praising God saying “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests” in Luke 2:14.

I pray that when you hear the Christmas story, even if you’ve heard it before, that your heart explodes with worship for what God has done for each of us through Jesus.

So here are some questions to get us talking about this famous story. You can pause to discuss and as always, there’s no wrong answer!

1.     If you had to be one character in the Christmas story, like if you could be Mary or Joseph or Jesus or an angel or a shepherd or a sheep or a wise man or anyone else in the story, who would you want to be?

2.     What’s your favorite part of the Christmas story? Do you have a favorite detail?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice this awesome verse together. You can repeat after me. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14 

Backseat Bible Nuggets was created by me, Laura, a mom of 2 that wanted an easy tool to help refocus our hectic days. Our hope is that this helps every adult easily start Christ centered conversations with the kids in their life. We are so honored you listen and would love for you to leave us a review or better yet, spread the word. Let your friends know about this podcast! And as always, I’m praying that your backseaters grow deep roots as you go along the way. 

Emmanuel.

It’s another name for Jesus. In fact, it was a name given to Jesus like 700 years before Jesus was born! Did your parents name you 700 years before you were born?!

Mine didn’t!

You see, this time of year as we celebrate the birth of Jesus we have to remember something very very important. This birth had been planned since the beginning of time! That’s pretty crazy. Most ladies are pregnant with a baby for 9 months, but Jesus being born had been in the works for thousands of YEARS!

We know this because 700 years before Jesus was born a guy in the Bible named Isaiah said that a virgin would have a baby boy and they would name him Emmanuel.

Here’s the super cool part. Guess what Emmanuel means? If you know what the name Emmanuel means go ahead and tell me…

Emmanuel means God with us. And that’s just what happened when Jesus was born. God was with us through this little bitty baby who needed his mommy and daddy to feed him and bathe him and change his diaper. But then he grew and grew and became a man who told everyone about God and His ways and eventually died on the cross for our sins so that we can have eternal life with Him. Whew. What a life this miracle baby had!

He changed the world! Emmanuel…God with us. What a cool name.

What a cool God that He would want to come and be WITH US. He left heaven to come to us.

And if you’re anything like me you might think….why? Why would God want to come and be with ME? I can think of a lot better things He could be doing or cooler people He could be hanging out with. I mean, I make bad choices sometimes and mess up and I don’t always have the best attitude. Why would He want to be with me and not someone else?

Well, it’s all because He loves us no matter what…even the worst part of us. He loves you and He loves me so much that He wanted to be WITH US. Emmanuel.

Matthew chapter 1 tells us of the details about the birth of Jesus and says in Matthew 1:22 and 23 “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord has said through the prophet: (who was Isaiah 700 years earlier) “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel.”

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing:

1. Emmanuel is another name for Jesus, but what does it mean?
2. Why is it important that God wanted to be with us?
3. How can you thank God for the gift of Jesus in coming to be with us?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me. “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel.” Matthew 1:23

Hey Parents! Have you ever wondered how to best approach and balance the topic of Jesus and the topic of Santa during the Christmas season? Well, after a BBN parent asked me about this, I have put together a special parents-only content bundle on this topic. It'll include some thoughts on the subject along with 4 suggested activties to get the conversation flowing and help you set the stage for you to have age-appropriate converstaions with your kids! It'll even include a beautiful and meaningful piece of digital artwork from Lauren Johnston Duncan (@laurenjohnstonduncan)! If you're interested in this content, please send your email address to @backseatbiblenuggets on Instagram or Facebook or backseatbiblenuggets@gmail.com. Merry Christmas, y'all!

We get to hear from some Backseat Bible Nuggets listeners today! They are going to share some of the things that they are most thankful for.

We have so much to be thankful for. And even if I don’t know you, I know that the Lord has surely blessed you with some special gifts in your own life. Can you think of some things right now that you’re thankful for?

The Bible tells us in the first part of James 1:17 that “every good and perfect gift is from God.” Every good and perfect gift is from God!

Those things that you can think of that you’re thankful for…they are all from God Himself. He loves you so much and He’s given you so much. Let’s thank Him together for those gifts that He’s given us.

Will you pray with me?

Lord, you are the giver of the good gifts in our life. It’s so cool that you love us like you do and that you give us things in our life that are awesome. Thank you for giving us the gift of salvation and eternal life through what you did on the cross. That’s the best gift! But I also thank you for things like family and friends, good food and sports and even beautiful things in your creation. It’s a gift to be able to talk to you like this in prayer. Help me understand just how much you’ve given to me and help me to continue to thank you for those good things every day. In your name I pray, amen.

Hey, now it’s your turn. I want you to talk with your people about the things you’re thankful for and THEN I want you to pray and thank God for those things! I’m sure He can’t wait to hear what you have to say!

Hudson talks to us about having self control with something he loves - screen time! Remember that self control is a fruit of the Spirit? And it's something that doesn't always come naturally to us. But as we walk and grow in the Lord, self control is something that God will develop in us just like a fruit growing on a tree or vine. 

In this episode, we talk about the familiar Bible verse of 2 Timothy 1:7 that says, "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-control.” 

What's the difference between having head knowledge and having heart knowledge? In this episode, we explore the differences by using candy as a simple and fun example. 

And is the head or the heart more important? This episode will teach you kids the importance of having heart knowledge of God and how the Lord values our heart more than our head knowledge (knowing lots of facts about Him).

The Bible tells us in Romans 10:9, “that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

And in 1 Samuel 16:7 we find out that, “man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Knowing the difference between head versus heart knowledge is foundational to lifelong Christian doctrine.

Is God good even when I’m sad?

We had a very sad day in our family this past week and it made us wonder about this question. Is God good even on the sad days?

Our go-to prayer in our house before we start the day usually includes: “Lord, help us to have good days.” We pray that all the time! And it’s a great thing to ask of God. But what happens with it turns out to NOT be a good day?  Does that mean God forgot about our prayer?

Well, I’m here to tell you, after our past week, that God is still good….so good…even on our sad days. There are lots of things in life that will happen as we go through our day, but none of them change anything about God. In fact, God hasn’t changed at all since the beginning of time. Can you imagine that?! Like you and I change every day. We grow taller, our hair gets longer, our fingernails need clipping, our brains grow bigger and understand more, the things we experience change as we get older. SO much change in our lives!

But God, the never-changing God, is the same yesterday, today and forever. That’s Hebrews 13:8.

And since our God never changes, we can be sure that He is good to us always. EVEN on the sad days. No matter how sad they might be.

And we can run to God in our sadness. Have you ever run to your mom or dad when you’re sad? You can run to God just the same when you’re sad! And He will meet you with open arms ready to listen to you and hug you in the best way. He’s really awesome like that.

Listen to this…Psalms 34:17-18 says that, “Godly people cry out, and the Lord hears them. He saves them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to those whose hearts have been broken. He saves those whose spirits have been crushed.”

I love that. He is close to those who hearts have been broken. Aw man, it can feel like our hearts have been broken sometimes. But this verse tells us that God is right there with you when you are sad!

Here are some questions that you can talk about with your people. You can pause after each question to discuss. And, like always…don’t overthink it! The point is to get talking about what we are learning about the Lord!

1. Tell me about a time you were sad recently. What made you sad? How did it feel?
2. Is God good even on the sad days?
3. How do we know that God is good even when we are sad?

Let’s try and learn our verse together. You can repeat after me.

“The Lord is close to those whose hearts have been broken. He saves those whose spirits have been crushed.” Psalm 34:18

This is the 100th episode of Backseat Bible Nuggets podcast! Woohoo!

This fun project that started 2.5 years ago aimed to help parents have Christ centered conversations with their kids in the middle of the busy and hectic schedules of life. And the Lord has been faithful to the idea that He gave me. HE has made this podcast grow. HE has planted seeds in the hearts of our children through it. HE has grown our confidence as parents to remind us that WE are equipped by His Spirit living in us to lead our kids to Jesus in daily conversations.

Surely, He has done great things! To God be the Glory!

It’s also equally true that this podcast has never taken a break. Lots of podcasts break for certain seasons, but this one kept right on trucking. At one point we slowed the pace, but never a pause.

Well my friends, that day has come. It’s time for Backseat Bible Nuggets to take a break and pause. Why? Well, because I’m learning the importance of rest and Sabbath. I’ve been a bit confused about resting in the past and while I knew it was Biblical, I guess I saw it as optional and something we COULD do on an as needed basis. This is in fact, not the case though! 

Isaiah 40:28 says God doesn’t grow tired or weary. If this is the case, which it is, they why does God, from the beginning of time, show us what it means to have a rhythm of rest built in to our life? If sabbath rest is optional they why is it such a main point of Genesis 2:1-3 where it says that God rested from all of His work? Because He was tired? Well, no….not possible. And if God doesn’t grow tired or weary as Isaiah tells us, then why do we see Jesus set a rhythm of retreat back to His Father? Why does Jesus often slip away from the crowd for a few moments? I think these examples point to the importance, the essential fact of needed rest. Not the option of it.

So, friends, that’s what Backseat Bible Nuggets is going to do for now. Rest. It doesn’t mean I’ll take a nap every day, although I wouldn’t complain! But it does mean there won’t be new episodes for a while. Good news is that you now have 100 episodes to listen to, along with other great resources. 

Even better news is that by this point, I hope and pray you’re seeing how the simplest most mundane daily occurrence is an opportunity to talk to your kids about Jesus. YOU can do it! YOU are the parent to your specific kids for a reason. YOU can speak to them best. YOU can minister to their hearts most successfully. Will you commit to do it? Will you daily ground yourself in God’s word so that you naturally overflow the gospel to your kids? It starts with you!

You’ve got this Mama! It’s gonna be great, Dad. And to the grandparents listening, we need your wisdom more than ever! I love yall and can’t wait to catch up soon. But for now, I’m going to take a rest.

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

When it comes to raising confident and godly girls, YOU are the right mom for the job. But you don’t have to go at it alone!

A course called Helping Moms Raise Confident Daughters was developed by Terra Mattson, a licensed marriage and family therapist of over 20 years. Each Course includes:

Eight video lessons for moms like you, giving behind-the-scenes coaching on the mental, emotional, and physical world of your girl;

Conversation guides to foster deep discussions between you and your daughter; and a downloadable journal to spark a more intimate connection between you, your girl, and the Lord.

Visit cpguides.org to select your course today!

On the episode this week, we are talking about how most of us LOVE to win! First place is the best place, right?! Or is it? Find out how Jesus and God's kingdom views first place. This is a great episode for those super competitive kids in your life. But, it's also a great reminder of all of us that Jesus said, "So the last will be first and the first will be last." Matthew 16:20

How cool is it that there’s a story about a queen who loved God in the Bible? We just heard how brave she was to go to the king and ask for him to save the lives of the Jews. When Esther went to the King without him asking her to come she could have been killed! Kings were very serious back then with lots of strict rules!

In fact, Esther said this in the Bible: “I’ll go to the king. I’ll do it even though it against the law. And if I have to die, I’ll die.” Esther 4:16

Esther, trusting God and His plan, knew what she had to do to save the Jewish people. Even if it meant putting her life on the line. Wow! What bravery!

You can read more about Queen Esther in the Bible. She has a whole book in the Bible named after her for what she did!

Through the book of Esther, we see that God’s plan will always win. And we learn that He always takes care of His people. AND guess what? Esther’s story shows us that God has more power than any king or ruler.

So, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss. Oh, and the point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1. How do you think Esther felt when she had to be brave?
2. Have you ever had to be brave and do something you were scared to do?
3. For this last question, you might have to go and read more about Queen Esther to answer. But, in what ways did God honor her bravery? Like what happened to Esther after she did this for God?

Our verse today is Esther 4:16. You can repeat after me. “I’ll go to the king. I’ll do it even though it against the law. And if I have to die, I’ll die.” Esther 4:16

Sometimes in church, we use words or say things that are sometimes confusing. For example, maybe you’ve heard of someone say that we should be “in the world, but not of the world.” What does that mean?

Or earlier this week my 8 year old asked me what “the fall” meant. Is it like when someone tripped in the Bible and it was super embarrassing so we still talk about it to this day? No, no. No one remembers when you trip, I promise.

Anyway, I wanted to talk about what those 2 terms, ‘the fall’ and ‘the world,’ and what they mean just to make sure we aren’t confused.

Check us out on Instagram @backseatbiblenuggets

You know how in lots of movies, they are searching for some object that has great power or even like a treasure that has great value? Like the genie lamp in Aladdin that would give whatever was wished or desired. Or in the latest Minions movie when they are after the Zodiac stones that would give unlimited power. Lots and lots of movies have an object like that – one that is powerful and legendary. I’m sure you can think of other examples from your favorite movies.

Well, I started thinking the other day that we should think of the Bible like that. We should think of the Bible as a treasure. A powerful object. An ancient artifact of great value.

Because that’s what it is!! Hebrews 4:12 tells us that God’s word is sharper than a double-edged sword. And it’s not just any sword, it’s a sword that can divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow; and judge the attitude of the heart. That sounds really powerful!

And it IS powerful! Did you know that when Jesus was tempted by Satan, and they were having this sorta spiritual fight, that Jesus fought back with Satan by using words from the Bible? Isn’t that crazy?

Jesus didn’t use jiu jitsu moves or Hulk smash punches to beat Satan. No, Jesus used the most powerful tool He had – which was God’s word. The Bible.

Psalm 119:105 also tells us that the Bible is so powerful that it’s a lamp to our feet and a light for our path. The guy who wrote Psalm 119 goes on to say that God’s word makes his heart tremble – which means to shake or shiver because it’s so powerful.

The Bible really is a powerful treasure. And most of us have it right in our house! How great is that?! We don’t have to go on a long quest or fight off bad guys to get this powerful treasure, like they do in the moves. No, we just have to open it and read it. You see the power of the Bible, doesn’t come from just owning a Bible. That’s not how this treasure works. This treasure is powerful when we read the words or hear the words.

So, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss. Oh, and there’s no wrong answer to these. The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1. In what ways do you think the Bible is powerful?
2. What gives the Bible it’s power?
3. How might this change the way that you think about reading the Bible every day?

Now, let’s practice our verse together. We talked about a few verses today, but lets reread Psalm 119:105 together. You can repeat after me. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105

Think with me for a minute about your school supplies at the END of last school year. What did they look like? Did they look like the same supplies that you took on the first day of school?

No way!!! If you are like my kids, they ended up coming home with a dirty looking pencil box full of broken erasers, half pieces of crayons, and dull markers. Everything they had started school with looked a little worn out by the end of the year.

Thankfully, the beginning of a new school year means a fresh set of school supplies. And honestly, the new school supplies is probably my favorite part of starting school.

The picture of the old worn out school supplies and then the fresh set of school supplies is similar to what happens in our life when we become a Christian.

You see, before we come to know and follow Jesus, our hearts are like the old dingy supplies. Rough and used and worn down by sin.

But, the Bible tells us that when we come to know and follow Jesus then we become like those brand new school supplies! He makes us new! How? Because of Jesus’ love for us and because He has the power to make our hearts new!

Don’t believe me? Listen to this! 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”

Can’t you hear the excitement in that verse?! I think Jesus gets so excited to see someone’s heart go from old to new. From dirty, old and worn out to bright, shiny, and fresh.

So, here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss. Oh, and there’s no wrong answer to these. The point is to get conversation flowing. So don’t overthink it!

1. What do you think it means to be a new creation in Christ?
2. Why do you think God would want us to be a new creation?

Now, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me. Oh, and since we are about to start school where you’ll have to use inside voices, let’s take this opportunity to use a crazy loud voice when you repeat after me. Just to send summer out with a bang and get us excited about starting school. Okay, repeat after me in your loudest voice. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17

In this episode, I interview Avery (5 years old) about why she loves to sing a song called "Good Morning God" every morning when she wakes up. She gives insight on how we can praise God and talk to Him at any time during the day, but how it's special to start our day off by praising the Lord and asking for Him to "show us the way," as the song says.

The focus verse for this episode is Psalm 143:8 that says, "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”

Ezekiel 37 tells us the cool story of the vision that Ezekiel saw where a bunch of dead bones came together piece by piece and came to life. This story was used to prophesy to Israel but is also useful for us today to remind us that when we are without Christ, we are just like those dead dry bones. But when we believe in Jesus and ask Him to be in charge of our life, we receive His Holy Spirit which gives us life! It's like we are those dry bones coming to life when Jesus fills us up!

Romans 6:11 says "Count yourselves dead to sin, but alive in Christ.” Let's talk about this cool story and the visual that it gives us to what the Lord does within our hearts when He gives us spiritual life!

Do you know what freedom is? Well, in case you don’t, I looked it up for us. According to Google, if you have freedom then it means you are allowed to act the way you want to, say the things you want to and think however you’d like to without anything holding you back.

It also means you’re not trapped. Like the lizards my kids keep catching and putting in our bug catcher. Those lizards are NOT free. They are trapped until we decide it’s time to play something else and let them go.

Anyway, freedom is a big deal! Lots of countries have worked and fought very hard for the freedom they have in their country. I live in America and freedom is a celebrated thing. The fact that we are free to go where we want to, say the things we want to talk about, and think however you’d like about different things. It’s a big deal!

There’s all different types of freedom. Maybe it’s summer now and you have freedom from school! Or if you were ever quarantined for COVID and felt the freedom after you got out of quarantine. Maybe freedom is as simple as being free to play the games you want to play every day. Or being free to sing a song when it’s in your head.

There’s all different types of freedom.

But, the most important freedom we can have is the freedom that Jesus gives us. The freedom from the consequences of our sin.

2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

When we are a follower of Jesus then we have the Holy Spirit and that means that we have the best kind of freedom. We will be free FOREVER and won’t ever be trapped by our sin. We will be free FOREVER with a freedom that is bigger than a freedom that we will find in any country in this world. The freedom found in Jesus is the best freedom!

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss. Oh, and there’s no wrong answer to these. So don’t overthink it!

1. In what ways do you have freedom in your own life? Like what are you free to do?
2. Let’s fill in the blank….The Bible verse, 2 Corinthians 3:17 said that “where the ________ is, there is freedom.” Can you fill in the blank?
3. Let’s talk about why we are so thankful for freedom both in this world but also forever. Why are you thankful for freedom?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17

*Music: "Forest" by Vlad Gulschenko

How much fun would your kid have making their own Backseat Bible Nuggets episode? You can help them follow these steps:

1. Choose your favorite Bible story or verse and read it!

2. Find out what the story/ verse teaches you about God.

3. Apply it! How does the story/ verse change your life?

4. Ask questions about the story or verse that will get people talking!

And remember to have fun while you do this and as always...don't overthink it!

You can let me know how your episode turns out @backseatbiblenuggets on Instagram or Facebook!

*Music: "Forest" by Vlad Gulschenko

Peter, who was one of Jesus’ closest friends, got very scared in this story. Being scared and fearful is something we’ve all felt before. But guess what? When Peter called out to Jesus to save him, then Jesus was right there ready to reach out and save Peter.

We can learn from this story that Jesus is always with us. Especially when we are afraid. No matter what we are scared of, He is there! And we can ask Him to help us!

Here are some questions to talk about. You can pause after each question and discuss. Oh, and there’s no wrong answer to these. So don’t overthink it!

1. When was the last time you were scared?
2. What did Peter do when he was scared?
3. What can you do the next time you’re scared and afraid?

One last time before we sign off, let’s practice our verse together. You can repeat after me. “Right away Jesus called out to them, “Be brave! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Matthew 14:27

John 10:28 talks about someone snatching something out of another person’s hands. Now, I’m just curious if you’ve ever snatched someone from someone before? Maybe your sibling had a toy that you wanted and you just grabbed it. How well did that go? It never goes well in our house when that happens. And let me guess, you hate it when someone else snatches something out of your hands, right? No one likes having something taken from them when it was theirs to begin with. And as parents we teach this lesson to our kids. Maybe you’ve already learned it!

Well since we know that having something snatched from us isn’t the most enjoyable, Jesus clearly tells us that nothing can be snatched out of His hands. And guess what’s in His hands? His children! He holds those who believe in Him in His hands. Those must be some BIG BIG hands!

John 10:28 is where Jesus says, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.”

So that’s saying that Jesus is the one who gives us eternal life when we believe in Him. And because we have eternal life, we won’t ever die. Okay. But the second part of that verse is where Jesus says that once you believe in Him, you’re in His hand, and nothing can snatch you out.

Like you can’t fall out. You can’t jump out. You can’t get lost and wander out. And this is a huge deal because He’s talking spiritually. Meaning once we give our heart to Jesus, nothing changes that. It’ll always be safe and secure in His hands. Isn’t that awesome. It brings such confidence and comfort to know that He has me forever and ever and I’m protected in His hands as His child.

Let’s talk about some questions today. Remember, don’t overthink it! The point is to get conversation flowing.

1.     Who are the people in God’s hands?

2.     Who would try to snatch anything out of God’s hands?

3.     If you have given your heart to Jesus, how does it feel to hear that nothing can snatch you out of His hands?

Let’s practice our verse one last time before we go. You can repeat after me. “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:28

Backseat Bible Nuggets is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual advice to help you grow into the parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

There is a lot of amazing content out there, so Christian Parenting did all the sorting and filtering for you and put together a resource to help you navigate it all.

Discipleship Simplified is a digital guide that includes some of the best articles, podcasts, and videos on topics like:

· Faith at home

· Reading the bible

· Theology

· Prayer

You will also find conversation guides and discussion starters. Even scripts to use with your kids.

You can go to www.cpgive.org to download your copy for just $5!