If you’re like me, you may be stepping into a new season—new routines, new responsibilities, maybe even new roles.

Or maybe you're in a season that hasn’t changed in a long time—and you’re starting to wonder if it ever will.

Wherever this finds you today, may it serve as a soft, soul-level reminder:

God is kind.

Not just in theory. Not just when you’re at your best. But always—especially when you’re tired, stuck, grieving, or starting over.

In legalistic or shame-shaped systems, we often internalize the idea that God is distant or disappointed.

But the God of Scripture—the One who knows you fully and loves you anyway—is rich in kindness.

Let these words wash over you:

"But—When God our Savior revealed His kindness and love, He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy..."
— Titus 3:4-5 (NLT)

"How priceless your faithful love is, God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings."
— Psalm 36:7 (CSB)

"Do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?"
— Romans 2:4 (ESV)

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you."
— Isaiah 54:10 (NIV)

"As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is his love to those who fear him."
— Psalm 103:11 (The Message)

Let this be the week you pause—not to strive harder, but to soak in the mercy of a Father who doesn’t rush us through healing, who doesn't demand perfection, and who never withholds compassion.

You are loved.

Veritas et Gratia,
Kristy 💐

Have you ever known for sure you were supposed to do something, and you just didn’t do it?

It might have even felt like you couldn’t do it, for reasons you couldn’t name.

That happened to me when I was in my early 20s.

I remember sitting in a hospital lobby in East Texas, and looking across the room to see a woman on a pay phone. She was weeping, and something inside my heart knew I was supposed to get up, walk across the room, and ask if I could help her.

Instead of getting up, I sat frozen in my seat. It was like I could not get up.

Looking back, there were a million reasons why I didn’t get up, but it was mainly fear. It was a disbelief about who I was, what I was called to do, what I was capable of doing.

I remember watching her walk out of that lobby, thinking, I know I was supposed to get up and talk to her.

I’ve thought about this day with regret for many years.

Fast Forward 20-Something Years

I am a hospice chaplain.

A few weeks ago, I was in a facility visiting patients and I saw a woman coming down the hall weeping.

This time, without even stopping to think, I felt myself moving toward her.

I held out my hands toward her and said, “Ma’am, I’m a chaplain. I see that you’re crying, can I help?”

Through her tears, she told me that her sister was dying and asked me to go and pray with her. I walked to the room, met several other sisters, and spent some time praying with and just being with this family.

Honestly, it felt like a normal day in the life of a hospice chaplain.

But later in the day, the memory of younger me in that hospital lobby came to my mind. God gently reminded me of how much I’ve changed.

This time, I wasn’t frozen; thinking; ruminating; self doubting. I just moved forward toward a need, and let God take care of the details.

I can tell you today that living out my calling is so freeing. It is meaningful. And as I pondered this, I had to lift my voice in a prayer of gratitude: Thank you God for changing me!

I’m so grateful He didn’t leave me in that stuck space—that place of fear that kept me from doing what I was created to do for many years.

Living Bold and Free

This morning in my team devotion, I shared this story along with a Scripture:

These words took on a whole new meaning for me this morning as I thought about where I’ve been, where I’m at, and what I feel like God is calling me to in this season.

This is your Grace Note for today:
You are called to live free and bold before God.
You can silence debilitating self criticism.

Sometime today, look up I John 3:18- 21 in The Message translation, and sit with it for just a bit. If you want to take it a step further, grab your journal and ask yourself:

• Where is God calling you to live more bold and free?

• Are you allowing His grace-full truth to shut down debilitating self-criticism?
  

Hit reply and let me know your thoughts.

Veritas et gratia,
Kristy 💐

P.S. This post is transcribed from my YouTube post. Watch that video here (and subscribe!)

For years, I carried guilt like the heavy burden in Pilgrim’s Progress, convinced it was evidence of spiritual devotion.

But the truth is more nuanced, and a lot more freeing.

Guilt is a human emotion. And like all emotions, it can be misunderstood, misused, or manipulated.

5 Myths I Believed About Guilt

Here are some common myths Christians can believe about guilt, and what Scripture actually says about each one.

Myth #1: “Guilt means I did something bad.”

⤷ Truth: Guilt is a human emotion, but not necessarily a spiritual warning.

Yes, sometimes guilt is our conscience signaling something we’ve done wrong. But not every guilt we feel comes from actual sin.

Sometimes we feel guilty because we’ve been conditioned to believe the wrong thing about ourselves, our roles, or our faith.

The Bible describes conscience as part of our human makeup:

“God’s law is not something alien, imposed on us from without, but woven into the very fabric of our creation. There is something deep within [us] that echoes God’s yes and no, right and wrong.” — Romans 2:15 (The Message)

But that same conscience can also misfire when shaped by shame, not truth.

So if you feel guilty and can’t identify an actual wrongdoing, that guilt may be a shadow of something deeper, not a signal from God.

For a long time, I also believed guilt was one of God’s tools, and that He used it to keep me on the right path.

But is that really how a loving Father leads His children?

Myth #2: “God uses guilt to make me do better.”

⤷ Truth: God’s kindness brings us to repentance, not guilt.

Guilt can certainly motivate, but not in a life-giving way.

True transformation comes not through fear or self-loathing, but through the love and kindness of God that draws our heart back to Him.

“So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children.”
— Romans 8:15 (NLT)

And in The Message translation, Paul writes:

“There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love.”
— I John 4:18 (The Message)

God doesn’t use guilt to make you obey.

He calls you into relationship, and from that place of love, your heart wants to follow Him.

But what about when guilt feels like a spiritual attack? Is that the enemy... or something else?

Myth #3: “The devil makes me feel guilty.”

⤷ Truth: Satan uses condemnation as a weapon, but guilt itself comes from our fallen human nature.

Let’s be clear: the enemy doesn’t have authority over your conscience in the same way God does.

But condemnation—that heavy, persistent voice that says you’re unworthy or beyond grace—is absolutely a tactic of the enemy.

“But now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.” — Romans 8:1-2 (NLT)

I love the way The Message translation verbalizes this Truth:

“With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ’s being-here-for-us no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air, freeing you from a fated lifetime of brutal tyranny at the hands of sin and death.” — Romans 8:1-2 (The Message)

Condemnation is a spiritual attack—a heavy, persistent voice that says you’re unworthy or beyond grace. That’s not your conscience; that’s the enemy trying to steal your identity in Christ.

Guilt, on the other hand, is a human emotional response—sometimes rooted in conscience and truth, sometimes distorted by shame.

And sometimes, it’s not the enemy or even your own sin that weighs you down with guilt. It’s the culture or community you’ve been part of, especially religion.

Myth #4: “The church makes me feel guilty.”

⤷ Truth: Shame-shaped religious narratives use guilt, but guilt itself is not God’s design.

This one hits close to home for so many of us—especially women who’ve carried shame-shaped condemnation because of church legalism.

Religious guilt says:

• You’re not spiritual enough.

• You should be doing more.

• If you knew better, you’d behave better.

But the Bible tells a different story:

“Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?” — Romans 2:4 (NLT)

Kindness, not guilt, is the catalyst for genuine repentance and transformation.

So while the church (and people in the church) can use guilt, that doesn’t make guilt holy or God‑given.

After a while, it’s easy to start thinking all guilt is bad, especially if you’ve been burned by false guilt or shame.

But let’s not forget: not all guilt is unhealthy.

Myth #5: “All guilt is bad.”

⤷ Truth: Not all guilt is unhealthy. There is such a thing as healthy guilt.

Hear me out: guilt isn’t inherently evil. It’s an emotion. Sometimes it’s a God‑given conscience response when we violate a moral law or hurt someone we love.

Healthy guilt says:

• I did something wrong.

• I need to reconcile.

• I need to make it right.

This is normal and part of spiritual and emotional maturity.

But when guilt sticks around long after repentance, or emerges without real wrongdoing, that’s no longer holy conviction. It’s shame.

Also read: “What’s the Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Guilt?” (Psychology Today)

Healthy guilt is action-oriented and leads you back into relationship (with God and others).
Unhealthy guilt keeps you “stuck” ruminating, hiding, and isolating (from God and others).

If guilt has confused you, exhausted you, or made you question your worth, you’re not alone. But you’re not stuck, either.

So What Do We Do With Guilt?

Here’s how I’ve learned to think about guilt in light of grace, not shame.

We don’t dismiss it.
We don’t demonize every uncomfortable feeling.
We don’t let shame narrate our identity.

Instead, we learn to:

• Discern whether the guilt reflects actual wrongdoing or false narratives.

• Bring it to Jesus, who doesn’t condemn but heals (John 8:11).

• Recognize when guilt is a useful signal of conscience, and when it’s just a voice rehearsing old shame.

You don’t have to be afraid of guilt. And as a believer, you don’t have to let it destroy your peace or confidence.

A Prayer

Dear Lord, help me recognize when my guilt is a reminder to turn back to You, and when it’s a lie I need to reject. Give me wisdom to hear Your voice over every other narrative in my mind. Help me understand Your heart of grace toward me.

In Jesus’s name I pray,
Amen.

I don’t know where—or who—I’d be if not for good books.

By “good books,” I don’t mean stories penned by Dickens and Tolkein and Alcott and Austen—although those are definitely among my favorite authors.

But I mean the writers who show up as flawed, vulnerable, very”human” humans and bravely show us the way forward as fellow strugglers.

The mentors who don’t pretend to have it all together.

The broken who use their pain to help us heal.

The sinners whose words weave sonnets of grace that land on our souls like a salve.

When I open a page and feel seen, loved, and called to a better way—I know I’ve found a “good book.”

What I Thought Was Truth—Wasn’t

I entered adulthood (more than two decades ago) carrying a lot of “shoulds” and “dos.”

I wasn’t unraveling (yet!), but there were voices in my head.
Voices that I misunderstood to be Truth.
Voices completely devoid of grace.

Over the years, I’ve slowly laid down the heaviness of church legalism and embraced the “easy” and “light” yoke that Jesus offers (Matthew 11:28-30).

But I didn’t outgrow sinful, spiritually elite mindsets by myself.
And for a long time, I didn’t outgrow them inside a faith community—because nearly everyone I was close to had the same mindsets that I did.

I grew and healed and learned better by reading good books.

Books written by Jesus-loving strugglers who had learned to trade religious guilt for extravagant grace.

Why Good Books Help When Faith Feels Heavy

If you are walking into this season with inner heaviness that you can’t name, and definitely can’t shed—become friends with good books.

Stop ruminating.
Stop ignoring.
Stop running from guilt and start running toward grace.

Yes, you will likely have to turn around and face the music in order to silence it.
Yes, you will have to acknowledge the pain before it begins to heal.
Yes, you will have to figure out where the voices of guilt came from so you can replace them with Truth.

Good books—written by Jesus-lovers who understand this grace-shaped Gospel—can help guide you forward.

Start Here: Let a Good Book Guide You

If you need a few recommendations, check out my “10 Books to Read This Year (for Grace, Growth, and Boundaries)” post.

These are the books on my reading (or re-reading) list for 2026.

I could also call this list “10 Books to Read This Year (to Heal from Guilt, Control, and Co-dependency). Because that’s pretty much the opposite of grace, growth, and healthy boundaries.

And that—guilt, control, and co-dependency— was where I was at in my 20s when I first started reaching for “good books.”

Mercifully, I found them. And I haven’t stopped reading.

Tell Me Yours: What Book Shifted Your Faith?

What about you?

Have you ever encountered a book that shifted your faith paradigm in a meaningful way?

What “good books” help you live more fully as a confident, healthy Christian woman (or gentlemen, if you’re a guy)?

Hit reply or drop me a comment… I’d love to hear.

It shapes the clothes you wear, the roles you play, the question you ask—and most notably, don’t ask.

👉 By the time you’re done reading this post, my prayer is that you’re ready to honestly ask yourself: Is what I’m calling “faithfulness” actually fear? Is it obedience to God… or people-pleasing?

Quick Links

• What Is Legalism? (A Definition)

• What Is Legalism in the Church?

• Common Red Flags

• Christian Legalism Examples

• Signs You Might Be Living Under Legalism

• A Biblical Definition of Legalism

• Grace Tells a Different Story

• Go Deeper

What Is Legalism?

Legalism is the belief that spiritual worth is earned through performance.

Oxford defines legalism simply as “excessive adherence to law or formula.”

In theology, it often shows up as “dependence on moral law rather than on personal religious faith.”

In plain language, legalism substitutes grace with rule-keeping and turns relationship with God into religious control.

Church legalism thrives on “shoulds.”

• You should submit more

• You should stay silent

• You shouldn’t question authority

• You should conform

But Jesus didn’t die to make you a better rule follower. He came to set you free.

Here’s an important point to remember:
Legalism isn’t just a religious issue.

It’s a human issue—a product of our innate brokenness and misguided attempts to earn God’s love through our own effort.

Even well-meaning churches can unknowingly (or intentionally) teach human ideologies that replace God’s truth with man-made rules.

This mistake is as old as humanity itself.

What Is Legalism in the Church?

Legalism in the church looks like: “spiritual maturity” measured by behavior, conformity, and performance rather than by grace, growth, and relationship with Christ.

It focuses on the letter of the law instead of the spirit of the law.

When “holiness” becomes a rigid dress code,
when asking questions is shamed,
and when obedience is rooted in fear,
you’re not seeing Jesus—you’re seeing legalism.

Legalism replaces God’s voice with human control.

This is an important litmus test when it comes to recognizing legalism within the church.

And too often, women suffer most inside these shame-shaped systems.

Common Red Flags of Legalism in the Church

Legalism in the church can take on many forms, and this certainly isn’t an exhaustive list. But here are a few common “red flags:”

• Shaming or shunning those who don’t conform

• Fear-based rule keeping

• Overemphasis on external appearance (e.g., modesty policing)

• Suppression of women’s voices and callings

• Zero tolerance for questioning leaders or teachings

• Viewing suffering as punishment instead of refinement

• A paradigm of being “against” many things rather than “for” something

These signs aren’t just annoying quirks of church culture.

They are spiritual roadblocks.

They distort your view of God, and more tragically, your understanding of who you are in Him.

Christian Legalism Examples

Christian legalism examples may look like:

• Measuring your virtue by how “modest” your clothing is

• Believing your calling is invalid if it doesn’t fit traditional roles

• Thinking hardship and disappointment as a Christian means God is punishing you

• Obsessing over quiet time as proof of your “holiness”

• Shaming yourself for ambition or desire

(For more examples, read “Lies Women Believe Because of Church Legalism.”)

These are all examples of religious legalism that masquerade as holiness.

The proof that these beliefs are disordered beliefs about truth, and not Truth itself?
They produce fear, pride, comparison, and burnout. Hardly the fruit of God’ Spirit alive in us (Galatians 5.)

Signs You Might Be Living Under Legalism

• You feel constant guilt or low-grade shame

• You struggle to trust your own spiritual discernment and blindly trust spiritual authorities instead

• You believe God is always disappointed in you

• You fear what others at church will think if you change

• You believe your obedience earns God’s love

• It’s hard (or impossible) to be honest or authentic about your real struggles, thoughts, and desires

Bottom line: Legalism isn’t just about rules.

It’s a lens.

It changes how you see yourself, others, and even God. It makes you feel like you can lose God’s love if you mess up.

That is not the gospel.

What Is the Biblical Definition of Legalism?

In Scripture, legalism often shows up in the Pharisee crowd—rigid rule-keeping used as a measure of righteousness.

The New Testament religious leaders focused on performance, appearances, and control, but Jesus consistently rebuked them.

John Piper explains legalism this way: “Legalism is the conviction that law-keeping is the ground for our acceptance with God” (Desiring God).

But the gospel says your identity is secured in Christ alone. Not only are you not required to earn God’s favor—you cannot earn it.

Grace Tells a Different Story

Grace says: God’s love is not earned. It’s given.
Grace says: Your identity is secure even when you fall short.
Grace says: Jesus fulfilled the law so you could live in freedom.

If you’ve been living under spiritual legalism, it’s time to step into freedom.
Name it.
Renounce it.
Reclaim your grace-based identity.

Legalism tells you to earn God’s love.
Grace says you already have it.
You don’t have to hustle for worth.
Jesus already paid the price.

Want to go deeper?

Check out Unshakable Confidence: Embracing God-Given Identity with Grace, Style & Strength.

This guide will help you begin to recognize and silence shame-shaped narratives, reconnect with the Holy Spirit, and walk boldly into grace-shaped identity.

Learn More

Your Turn

Circling back to the question I presented at the beginning of this article:

Is what I’m calling “faithfulness” actually fear? Is it obedience to God… or people-pleasing?

How would you answer that right now?

Be brave enough to sit honestly in this space—healing doesn’t happen overnight, but it can happen over time. It starts with recognizing Truth from lies… and the courage to say it out loud, even just to yourself.

I’m with you on the journey…

Veritas et gratia,
Kristy 💐

P.S. — Need a gentle nudge toward grace-shaped confidence?
This digital guide is a great place to start.
👉 Unshakable Confidence: Embracing God Given Identity with Grace, Style, & Strength

It cloaks itself in righteousness, tradition, and scripture—but often leads to spiritual bondage rather than freedom.

While the gospel offers grace, many Christian women find themselves trapped in shame-fueled obedience to man-made rules that were never God’s intent.

Let’s name these lies for what they are, explore real examples of legalism in evangelical churches, and reclaim the unshakable confidence that comes from embracing our God-given identity as Christian women.

7 Lies Christian Women Believe Because of Church Legalism

1. It’s wrong for me to question anything.

This is one of the most common examples of legalism today.

Lay members (women and teens, especially) are often taught that questioning church teachings, pastors, or even theology is rebellious or divisive.

But spiritual maturity involves discernment, not blind submission. Jesus himself questioned the religious leaders of his time.

Healthy faith welcomes questions. Church legalism punishes them.

I often tell my teenagers, “Don’t believe anything you can’t question.” I wish someone had given me this advice when I was much younger.

2. The desire to be attractive, successful, or confident is wrong.

This is a prime example of spiritual legalism: the belief that “worldly” desires must always be sinful.

Scripture warns us that our carnal desires war against the spirit of God within us (Romans 6:19, Galatians 5:17, James 4:1,1 Peter 2:11), but this truth is taken grossly out of context within legalistic circles.

Many Christian women (myself included) have been shamed for wanting to wear makeup or nice clothes, make money, or get an education.

Confidence and success are not antithetical to holiness.

God created you with desires and dreams for a purpose. You absolutely can (and should) use your skills, personality, money, etc., for His glory.

3. My spiritual authorities always know what I need better than I do.

In spiritually legalistic environments, pastors or male leaders—or in some circles, parents (even of adult children)—are elevated to near-omniscient status. Everyone else is expected to unquestionably submit, even when instincts or discernment raise red flags.

This dismisses personal ability (and responsibility) to hear from God directly, or to hold spiritual leaders accountable when they are out of order.

I remember having a conversation with a sweet young woman who was in her mid-twenties several years ago. She was single, and spent the majority of her time volunteering in her church or helping her parents with her younger siblings.

I felt an overwhelming sadness when she told me, “My dad and my uncle (the pastor) know what’s best for me. I do everything to please them.”

Wise counsel is valuable, but “spiritual authorities” should never replace your own relationship with God—or override your agency as an adult.

4. My only “proper place” is in the home.

Christian legalism examples often tie womanhood solely to domesticity.

While homemaking, marriage, and motherhood are beautiful and sacred roles—I was a SAHM for nearly two decades—they are not the only holy calling for women.

This lie deeply dismisses and disqualifies the many remarkable women within the church body who do marry or have kids.

Whether you’re building a business, painting, preaching, or parenting, your place is wherever God calls you—not just where tradition has parked you.

5. If I’m struggling, it’s because I’m not faithful enough.

This lie weaponizes suffering and dismisses the human struggle of dealing with disappointment as a Christian.

It also implies that any hardship is the result of personal failure or spiritual weakness.

But even Jesus suffered. Paul struggled. David lamented (quite dramatically at times) throughout the Psalms.

Church legalism turns the Christian walk into a meritocracy, where pain is proof of a lack of faith.

Thank God, grace tells a different story.

6. God’s love for me depends on my obedience.

Perhaps the most dangerous lie of all.

Church legalism distorts God’s unconditional love into a transaction.

Follow the rules, get the blessing. Slip up, and feel the wrath.

But scripture is clear: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).

God’s love for us flows out of his infallible nature—He is love. We cannot earn it or lose it.

One of the most damaging results of this lie is how it twists Christian parenting. Some of the harshest parents I know are devout believers—but what they believe about God (he is a harsh Father) makes grace-shaped parenting impossible.

Read also: “Healing the Father Wound (for Christian Daughters)”

7. There is absolutely no room for making a mistake.

This lie is often an unspoken but understood part of legalistic faith communities.

(Have a conversation with a girl who’s gotten pregnant before marriage or a divorced Christian woman, and you’ll see what I mean.)

The problem with this lie is that all humans are inherently flawed—and yes, sinful.

While there are consequences when we sin or mess up, very often what gets us back on track is connection and support from people we love—in other words, grace.

Spiritual legalism negates the truth that it’s the kindness of God—not the wrath or disappointment of God—that brings us to repentance (Romans 2:4).

I can tell you from experience that living in a place of fear of “messing up”—or constant guilt from past mistakes—is the opposite of the abundant, joyful life God provided us through Jesus Christ.

Silencing the Shame Narratives of Spiritual Legalism

The shame narratives that stem from church legalism often masquerade as humility, modesty, or reverence.

But make no mistake: shame is not holy.

Shame disconnects you from your identity, from your God-given authority, and from your calling.

Here’s how to begin silencing them:

• Reclaim your voice: Start questioning the narratives you’ve been handed. Ask: Who does this belief serve? Is it rooted in grace or fear and control?

• Rebuild your theology: Study scripture with fresh eyes (and in different versions, if you haven’t done that before). Look for how Jesus treated women. Notice how grace, not law, sets people free.

• Return to intimacy with God: Let the Holy Spirit, not fear-based doctrine, guide your steps. God speaks to you, not just to your pastor, your parents, or other “spiritual leaders.”

Ready to Start Healing from Church Legalism?

If what I shared here resonates with you, it’s time to start owning your testimony of healing from legalism.

I’ve shared my story (and resources to help you heal and thrive) in a narrative-style guide: Unshakable Confidence: Embracing God-Given Identity with Grace, Style & Strength.

This is a digital product designed specifically for Christian women ready to dismantle spiritual legalism and step fully into who God created them to be.

Read more about Unshakable Confidence.

You don’t have to keep shrinking to fit someone else’s version of godliness.

You can live, lead, love, and thrive with confidence that comes not from performance, but from God-given, grace-shaped identity.

Your freedom starts now.

Veritas et gratia,
Kristy 💐

P.S. — Need a gentle nudge toward grace-shaped confidence?
This digital guide is a great place to start.
👉 Unshakable Confidence: Embracing God Given Identity with Grace, Style, & Strength

Learn More

Faith That Survives Disappointment Isn’t Shiny

I see you, Friend.
You obeyed.
You believed.
You stayed faithful.
You sacrificed.
You forgave.
You did the things.

And still the diagnosis came.
The marriage fractured.
The child walked away.
The prayer wasn’t answered how you hoped.

You were told obedience would lead to blessing. But no one warned you that blessing might look like grief with God in it.

This is the part of the Christian walk no one talks about.

The dark, uncertain places between the miracles and the mountain tops.

The places where prayers sit unanswered and hearts ache silently.

The part where you’re still showing up to church but not sure what you believe about hope anymore.

Disappointment Doesn’t Make You Bad

This isn’t a crisis of faith.
This is where your faith gets real.

Jesus wept.
Paul begged for the thorn to be removed.
David worshiped in caves and cried out in agony.

Disappointment isn’t new. It’s not weakness. And it’s not sin. It’s the groaning of your soul in a world where things break.

The good news? God doesn’t require you to have it all together to meet you there.
He just wants you to be honest.

And, as John Piper reminds us, God wants you to embrace the life you have.

Three Soul-Level Steps to Hold Onto Hope

1. Say it out loud.
   
   God, I’m disappointed. It’s okay to admit it. There’s no spiritual trophy for pretending you’re okay. Naming it helps you process it, so start there.
   

2. Breathe and release one thing.
   
   You don’t have to fix it all. Start small. Release the guilt. Release the timeline. Release the idea that your faith only counts if you’re cheerful.
   

3. Pray even if it’s messy.
   
   A whisper is enough. Try this breath prayer: “Grace covers what I can’t control.” If all you do is breathe that today—it’s enough.

You’re not broken for feeling broken. You’re not disqualified from God’s presence because you’re questioning the way things turned out.

📂 Download: The One-Minute Grace Pause

This printable breath prayer helps you return to peace when disappointment presses in. Designed to be simple, honest, and grounded in grace. Keep it on your mirror, journal, or phone.

God never promised a pain-free life—but He did promise He would never leave.
Even here. Especially here.

And I’m here with you, too.

Veritas et Gratia,
Kristy 💐

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FAQ: Dealing with Disappointment as a Christian

• How does God say to handle disappointment?
  Scripture never asks us to pretend we're fine. Instead, God invites lament, honesty, and trust. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that He is close to the brokenhearted. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, Paul tells us that God comforts us so we can comfort others. Disappointment is not evidence of failure—it’s a place where God meets us with deeper compassion.
  

• How do I emotionally deal with disappointment?
  Start by acknowledging it. You don’t have to explain it away or rush to fix it. Begin with breath, honesty, and one surrendered step. That could mean praying through the pain, journaling your grief, or simply sitting in God’s presence without a script. Emotional healing rarely comes through logic—it starts with permission to feel.
  

• Is it okay to be disappointed as a Christian?
  Yes. One hundred percent. Jesus Himself experienced sorrow, rejection, and grief. The Psalms are full of lament. Feeling disappointed doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful or unfaithful—it means you're still invested in hope. And hope, even when bruised, is still holy.
  

• How do I let go of hurt and disappointment?
  Letting go is often gradual. It may look like releasing blame, surrendering unrealistic expectations, or choosing to forgive someone (including yourself). Start by asking God what you need to release today—not forever, just today. Grace gives us space to let go slowly.
  

• What does the Bible say about being let down by people you love?
  Scripture is full of relational heartbreak—betrayal by friends, disappointment in leaders, family wounds. Jesus was betrayed by Judas, denied by Peter, and abandoned by His followers. The Bible never sugarcoats human failure, but it always reminds us: God is still faithful, even when others are not.
  

• How can I keep trusting God when I feel disappointed by Him?
  Bring that feeling into the light. God isn’t threatened by your honesty. Trust isn’t the absence of questions—it’s the decision to stay in relationship, even when it hurts. Often, the most courageous faith isn’t certainty—it’s showing up anyway.
  
  

Sometimes, the phrases that change our lives don’t arrive with fireworks. They slip in quietly, almost unnoticed, and then begin to reshape everything.

For me, one of those phrases is three simple words in Latin: Veritas et Gratia. Truth and Grace.

I first fell in love with the Latin language during my early years homeschooling our children. As we explored classical education together, I discovered how ancient phrases and prayers hold an enduring kind of beauty.

Latin began showing up everywhere—in the liturgies I was drawn to, the theological texts I devoured, and even the margin notes of books that helped reshape my inner life.

But this phrase—Veritas et Gratia—has stayed with me for reasons far deeper than aesthetics. It’s become an anchor for the way I live, parent, write, and walk with God.

The first time I heard someone speak of truth and grace together—without using them as opposites—was in a book that profoundly changed my life.

Dr. Henry Cloud’s Changes That Heal introduced me to a God who doesn’t just call us to truth, but who meets us in grace.

He wrote:

It was one of those moments where something inside me cracked open.

After years in a faith culture shaped by legalism, performance, and fear, I began to see the possibility of something softer—and truer.

Not a weaker faith. A more whole one.

Veritas et Gratia: Lived Out

Truth has always mattered to me. (INTJ, anyone?) But grace—grace was the piece I didn’t know I needed. The piece I was missing.

I had been trying (for decades) to survive on principles without Presence.

Now, years later, I find myself writing (and living) in the tension between both.

Truth and grace.
Conviction and compassion.
Holy grounding and holy gentleness.

So when I needed a phrase to quietly mark my writing—something that could hold all of this—I chose Veritas et Gratia.

Because I believe your story, like mine, deserves both.

Recommended Reading

If you’ve never read Changes That Heal by Dr. Henry Cloud, I highly recommend it—especially if you’re navigating religious deconstruction, emotional healing, or learning to let go of old wounds.

📚 Changes That Heal – Dr. Henry Cloud (Amazon)

Remember this:

You are loved. You are being led.

And there is no contradiction in being both grounded in truth and held by grace.

Veritas et gratia,
Kristy 💐

Redefining the “Dark Places”

In the church world, we often think of the “dark places” as addictions and other “bad stuff.”

I grew up as a PK, went to Bible college, married a pastor, and spent the first four decades of my life trying to fit in (and then survive) the world of legalistic Christianity.

It nearly broke me.

I never experienced the “dark places” church members talked about in hushed tones. But I did carry around the weight of deep guilt, anxiety, and depression for years… and it felt as dark and as heavy as any scarlet sin.

Finding My People—and My Purpose

When I finally walked away from legalism (after about a decade of outgrowing it), I was labeled as a “rebel” who left “the truth.”

But here’s the truth: I’m a woman who was delivered from the dark place of a shame-shaped religious system.

I do have a testimony–but no one in the church world I knew wanted to hear it.

So I created a space, and discovered there are lots of women carrying around the same wounds and the same testimony as me.

You are my people. I see you. I feel you.

And I believe there is so much more to you than being obedient, “good,” and small enough to make everyone around you comfortable.

Because of my story, I’m passionate about helping introverted, Christian women cultivate grace-shaped identity, mindful self-care, and purposeful work.

It’s time to silence the shame-shaped narrative and rise into unshakable confidence.

What Grace Has Given Me

I’ve walked through darkness called “faith,” and found light and freedom on the other side—emotional steadiness, purposeful work, and grace-led motherhood.

I don’t have all the answers, but I have stories. I believe in holding space for women who are growing through what they were never allowed to question.

If that sounds like you, you’re welcome here. I’d love to share more of this journey with you through my weekly letters.

Let’s heal, learn, and rebuild together.

Veritas et Gratia,
Kristy💐

P.S. — Need a gentle nudge toward grace and confidence?
These digital guides are a great place to start.
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This is for the ones who have ever felt isolated by the “messy” parts of life.

Or somehow disqualified from the “got-it-all-together” crowd.

To those of us who try to hide or fix or smile through the brokenness of our humanity, I’m sharing this for you.

Sign up here to receive free notes from (in)courage, delivered daily to your inbox.

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What’s Inside the Self-Care Kit?

• The Self-Care Guide (Printable PDF))

A calming, mindful guide featuring 10 restorative rhythms, journaling pages, planning tools, and gentle reflections to help you move from depletion to renewal—at your own pace.

Kit includes 28 pages and a set of 12 lock screens for your phone.

Why Self-Care for Christian Women Matters

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s how we sustain our clarity and strength.

Research confirms that intentional, consistent practices help regulate emotions, prevent burnout, and build resilience. According to the Cleveland Clinic, even small acts of care can support mental clarity and emotional balance.

For Christian women, mindful self-care creates the space to think clearly, restore your energy, and lead your life with quiet confidence.

Why This Kit Is Different

This isn’t a checklist or a challenge.

There’s no pressure to perfect your mornings or overhaul your habits.

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This Kit Is for You If

• Faith and family are important to you—but you’re often running on empty

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• You’re ready for a quiet, encouraging nudge toward what truly matters

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• Self-Care Guide: Digital PDF download (US Letter, 8.5×11”)

• Screensavers: 12-image ZIP file (1080×1920 resolution)

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💬 Self-Care for Christian Women FAQ

In case you need to know!

→Is this self-care kit just for Christian moms?

While it’s especially designed with Christian moms in mind, any Christian woman who craves quiet rhythms and intentional living will benefit from this kit.

→What format is the guide?

The guide is a digital PDF (8.5×11”), delivered via email right after purchase. You can print it at home or use it digitally on your tablet or computer.

→Are the screensavers compatible with iPhone and Android?

Yes! The 12 lock screen designs come in a ZIP file, sized 1080×1920 pixels—perfect for most smartphones.

→Do I need to be religious to use this?

The guide and email series are gently faith-rooted, with Scripture and encouragement from a Christian perspective. If you’re spiritually open but not religious, you can still use the rhythms meaningfully.

→Can I gift this to a friend or client?

Yes! This makes a thoughtful gift for introverts, new moms, creatives, and clients. Just be sure to purchase using their email or forward your confirmation message to them.

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This is for you if…

• You’ve ever been told you’re “too quiet” or “too emotional”

• You’re healing from spiritual wounds or performance-based faith

• You long for quiet confidence—not the loud, performative kind

• You’re an introvert, a feeler, or a thoughtful Christian woman seeking peace and presence

• You’ve wrestled with imposter syndrome or body shame

• You crave soul-deep clarity about who you are—and how to carry that with grace

What you’ll receive:

• 60+ pages of grace-filled, printable content

• Instant PDF download—use digitally or print at home

• Bonus worksheets and wardrobe planning tools

• Gentle, mentor-style formatting that encourages slow, soul-centered reflection

• Lifetime access—no expiration, no pressure

Add to Cart

Description

Unshakable Confidence is a deeply personal and faith-rooted guide for the Christian woman who’s done with shrinking.

After years of navigating faith, identity, and the pressures of perfectionism as a pastor’s wife and mother of five, I created this guide to offer the encouragement I once needed—a voice of grace rooted in Scripture.

What started as a fashion handbook became a testimony of healing, courage, and God’s relentless love. Inside, you’ll find five transformative mindset shifts, confidence-building exercises, a practical style guide, and soulful encouragement for stepping into the woman God designed you to be.

Emotional healing and self-awareness are foundational to genuine confidence. According to Harvard Business Review, cultivating self-awareness leads to better decision-making, stronger relationships, and increased creativity. By understanding and embracing our true selves, we can present ourselves authentically, allowing our inner confidence to shine through in every aspect of life.

I Need This

What This Guide Offers:

Unshakable Confidence is part memoir, part mindset reset — written for thoughtful, faith-driven women who are tired of playing small and ready to do the inner work of becoming rooted, confident, and whole.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• 5 Biblical mindset shifts for lasting confidence

• Gentle reflections on identity, shame, and truth

• Faith-based journaling prompts for healing & clarity

• A style guide to help you rediscover beauty and joy in how you show up

• Body-type support, capsule wardrobe tips, and printable worksheets

• Scriptures, storytelling, and soulful encouragement woven throughout

Unshakable Confidence Is Absolutely Possible

You don’t have to fix yourself. You don’t have to fight for visibility. You’re allowed to heal and be seen.

This isn’t self-help hype. This is the truth your soul’s been craving: You’re already called. Already enough. Already loved.

Let’s break through the fear—and step into the woman God created you to be.

Created for women like you—quiet, thoughtful, and full of potential—this guide is already bringing clarity and calm to those ready to live from God-given identity.

Begin your journey to unshakable confidence.

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💬 Unshakable Confidence Guide FAQ

In case you need to know!

• What is the Unshakable Confidence guide?

It’s a printable mini guide for Christian women who are ready to overcome self-doubt, shame, and imposter syndrome. You’ll walk through five mindset shifts, biblical encouragement, and faith-rooted style guidance that helps you heal how you see yourself—inside and out.

• Is this a Bible study or devotional?

Not quite. It’s more like a hybrid between a narrative workbook and a faith-based confidence guide. You’ll find Scripture, journaling prompts, spiritual reflection, and personal stories—but no daily reading plan or study format. It’s designed for flexible, heart-level growth.

• How is this different from the Gentle Self-Care Kit?

The Self-Care Kit for Christian Women supports your daily rhythm and emotional wellbeing with soul care practices and structure. Unshakable Confidence goes deeper into identity, narrative healing, and biblical confidence—especially for women overcoming fear, insecurity, or religious shame.

• What makes this a “style guide”?

In the final section of the guide, you’ll explore body type education, beauty mindset reframes, and wardrobe planning through a gospel-centered lens. It’s not about trends or rules—it’s about dressing with peace, dignity, and confidence that reflects who you truly are.

• Will this help with imposter syndrome or people-pleasing?

Yes. This guide was written by a Christian woman who’s walked that road. If you’ve ever felt invisible, “not enough,” or afraid to take up space—even in faith communities—this resource will help you gently rewrite those inner narratives with truth and grace.

• How do I access the guide?

After checkout, you’ll receive an instant PDF download. You can print it at home, read it on your device, or go at your own pace in a journal alongside it. BUY IT NOW

• Is it okay to give this as a gift or use with a group?

Yes! Individual use is always welcome. For small groups, retreats, or mentoring programs, please reach out about a group license or affiliate option.

• Is this for introverts only?

Nope! While introverted women often resonate deeply with the tone and reflective style, this guide is for any Christian woman seeking quiet, lasting, faith-filled confidence—no matter your personality type.

Grab the Unshakable Confidence Guide

Not always in the early mornings at home or during well-planned devotions—but in the unexpected hush of a city cathedral, when your feet are tired and your soul is more tired still.

A Trip for Two (and a Turn Inward)

I was in New York City for our youngest daughter’s senior trip—a whirlwind few days filled with all the typical city magic: bright lights, Broadway, street vendors, and endless walking.

My suitcase was packed with snacks and backup shoes. My mind was still partially back at home, juggling to-dos and the quiet ache of this new season of letting go.

Emily and I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at a French café on Broadway Street, happy to escape the dreary weather outside for a bit.

Once the rain let up, we took to the sidewalks again and meandered through lower Manhattan, surrounded by towering buildings and the steady hum of city life—and that’s when I noticed it: Trinity Church.

A Sacred Invitation: a Lent Reflection

I’ve heard of it, of course. This historic Episcopal church dates back to the late 1600s and has stood through wars, fires, and the ever-shifting skyline of the city. It’s been rebuilt, restored, and preserved—but even more than its architecture or age, what caught me was the peace I could feel just standing outside its doors.

Something about it whispered, Come in. Be still.

So we did. We hustled up the front steps and were ushered inside with a crowd, just as the doors closed.

The moment we stepped into the sanctuary, everyone fell quiet. I don’t just mean the noise level—although that certainly changed. We had arrived just as a Lent reflection began in the form of a traditional service.

Also read: “Easter Devotions for Families: A Curated Guide of Books, Printables & Readings”

The Sanctuary and the Silence

As my daughter and I slid quietly into a wooden pew, a deep calmness fell over the room like a reverent hush. My heart. My thoughts. The swirl I’d been carrying for days. It all softened in the hush of stone and stained glass.

The sanctuary rose above me in grand arches and warm light. The stained-glass windows were vibrant with color, casting jewel tones across old pews and older saints carved into the altar.

The air smelled of wood and wax and history. And reverence.

The windows drew my eyes heavenward. As my gaze wandered, I felt my shoulders fall.

All around us were other wanderers—some tourists, some locals, a few clearly deep in prayer. No one spoke. The only sounds were the soft rustle of the curate’s robe, a creaking pew, the deep tones of the pipe organ.

What Lent Reminded Me

It was Lent. A season of remembering, of preparing, of slowing down on purpose.

But I hadn’t slowed down yet—not really. Life had been busy, beautiful, full… but not still.

And I think God knew I needed a place where I couldn’t multitask. Where my phone didn’t matter. Where silence was the most holy invitation of all.

I thought about how many people have sat in those pews over the centuries. How many prayers were whispered here. How much heartache and hope and ordinary faith had filled that space.

And then I thought about my own life.

How easy it is to rush through seasons—even sacred ones—because we think we’re supposed to get it right. To make Holy Week meaningful. To plan the perfect Easter. To “feel” something spiritual.

But sitting there in Trinity Church, I remembered:

We’re not the ones who make this season holy. He is.

We don’t earn resurrection joy by performing well during Lent. We don’t make Good Friday weightier by crying harder. We don’t bring anything to the cross except our need.

And Jesus meets us in that need. Again and again and again.

A Moment That Stays

Emily and I sat through our very first Lenten service and Eucharist that day. Later in the week, we both agreed that wandering into that holy stillness was one of the most meaningful moments of our entire trip.

And as I walked back out into the city’s rhythm—and a few days later, back into the hum of busy life as a wife and mom—I carried something with me I hadn’t arrived with: a sense of peace that didn’t come from doing more, but from finally stopping long enough to receive it.

I hope I never forget the stillness and absolute calm I experienced in that sanctuary. I relive it a little every day—during early morning hours, in tiny breaks throughout my days, on quiet evening walks.

This trip became more than a getaway or a memory with my daughter—it became a Lent reflection I’ll carry long after Easter passes.

And I’m learning that holy moments aren’t limited to stained glass cathedrals or other-worldly sanctuaries on famous streets.

We carry access to the Holiest Place within our hearts—if we’re wise enough to pause and sit in the peace of His presence.

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
—Matthew 11:28

Create Your Own Sacred Pause

If today’s reflection stirred something in you—maybe a longing for stillness, or a quiet pull back toward peace—I’d love to invite you into my Weekly Reset for Introverts.

Inside: calming prompts, space to exhale, and gentle encouragement every Friday morning.

xo, Kristy

P.S. I’d love to hear from you—has a place ever surprised you with peace like that? Tell me about it in the comments.

The post A Lenten Pause at Trinity Church in NYC appeared first on Simply Kristy Lynn.

Since then, I’ve been curating my favorite Easter devotions for families—books, printables, audio readings, and a few meaningful tools to help you and your children walk through Holy Week with intention and grace.

If you’re looking for faith-filled Easter devotions for families, Holy Week resources for kids, or picture books that help make Passion Week meaningful, this post is for you.

These ideas and resources are perfect for family devotions, homeschool routines, or any time you read aloud or do activities with your kids.

(Our family’s Morning Time was how I fit in extras like this when my kids were little. If you’re new to Morning Time, I definitely recommend Better Together by Pam Barnhill.)

Looking for more family inspiration? Check out my favorite devotionals for kids right here.

Easter Devotions for Families: Tools to Enrich Holy Week at Home

1. Make the Most of Holy Week

A thoughtful article for adults or older teens. Includes ideas for observing Holy Week and recommended Gospel readings. Read it here.

2. Holy Week Devotionals by John Piper

Audio devotionals for Passion Week, best suited for older kids and adults. Listen here.

3. The Final Week of Jesus by Max Lucado

A beautifully written devotional book for families to read together during Passion Week. Grab a copy from Amazon.

4. Look to Jesus by Ruth Chou Simons

I love this elegant, picture-card-style Lent devotional set. Features art work and inspiring words by Ruth Chou Simons. Order your set here.

Also read: “A Lenten Pause at Trinity Church in NYC”

Holy Week Resources for Kids: Devotions, Crafts, and Printables

5. Walking Through Holy Week (Focus on the Family)

A free, family-friendly devotional series covering each day of Holy Week. Explore it here.

6. Passion Week Timeline & Craftivity

My boys loved this hands-on printable! A creative way to reinforce Passion Week events. Cost: $2. Get it here.

7. “The Last Supper” Printable Coloring Page

Celebrate the Last Supper and explore Michelangelo’s artwork with this printable. Cost: $3. Download here.

Faith-Filled Picture Books for Easter and Passion Week

8. The Easter Story (Alice in Bibleland)

My youngest son’s favorite Easter picture book. A simple and gentle retelling.

9. Holy Week: An Emotions Primer

A board book for little ones that walks through the emotional moments of Holy Week.

10. The Donkey Who Carried the King by R.C. Sproul

An engaging retelling of Palm Sunday with beautiful illustrations.

11. The Garden, the Curtain, and the Cross

A visually rich journey from Eden to Resurrection Sunday. A family favorite!

Your turn.

Do you have a favorite Easter read aloud or Passion Week tradition? Drop a comment below and tell us about it!

Looking for more gentle rhythms and resources like this? Subscribe to get my Introvert’s Weekly Reset—a 5-question check-in to help you reconnect with your faith, your energy, and your purpose each week.

The post Easter Devotions for Families: A Curated Guide of Books, Printables & Readings appeared first on Simply Kristy Lynn.

Life can be a lot, right?

Whether you’re navigating the chaos of motherhood, juggling a career, or just trying to keep your plants alive (relatable), finding time to nurture your soul is essential.

That’s where devotional books for women come in. These daily treasures are like mini retreats for your spirit—helping you connect with God & stay grounded in His Word, no matter how crazy life gets.

Best Devotional Books for Women

In this reading guide, I’m sharing some of the best devotional books for women—from a daily devotional for moms (hello, sanity savers) to a heartfelt mother-daughter devotional perfect for building stronger bonds with your girl.

So grab a cup of tea, a cozy blanket, & maybe a few tissues (some of these books hit deep). Let’s dive into a list of devotionals that’ll encourage, inspire, & draw you closer to the One who loves you most.

Inside this Reading Guide:

• Inspirational & Devotional Books

• Daily Devotionals for Moms

• Mother Daughter Devotionals

Check out “The Ultimate Reading Guide for Christian Women” for even more book recommendations.

Inspirational & Devotional Books

Lies Women Believe, Nancy Leigh Demoss

Choosing Gratitude, Nancy Leigh Demoss

Dancing with My Heavenly Father, Sally Clarkson

You Are Loved, Sally Clarkson & Angela Perritt

Own Your Life, Sally Clarkson

Growing Slow, Jennifer Dukes Lee

Beholding and Becoming, Ruth Chou Simmons

My Favorite Daily Devotional for Moms

Mom Heart Moments, Sally Clarkson

Keep a Quiet Heart, Elisabeth Elliot

30 Day Prayer Journal, Ruth Chou Simmons

-> More devotionals by Ruth Chou Simmons

Mother Daughter Devotionals

The One Year Mother Daughter Devo, Dannah Gresh

Between Us, Vicki Courtney

-> Also check out: “Devotionals for Kids”

You tell me.

If you found a new favorite in this list, let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear which devotional has impacted your life or which one you can’t wait to dive into.

And if you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to pin or share it with a friend—it might be exactly what she’s been searching for!

The post Beautiful Devotional Books for Women (Wives, Moms, and Daughters!) appeared first on Simply Kristy Lynn.

Looking for a devotional for kids? I have good news: I’ve got five kids and a list of the best family devotional books.(In my humble opinion.) The recommendations in this post are books that I love, my kids love, and I think you will love, too.

It’s not an exhaustive list; but it is a list of both picture books + chapter books that are Biblical, engaging + fun.

Need more inspiration for family devotions? Check out my article: “3 Easy Mindset Shifts for Better Family Devotions with Kids.”

Devotionals for Kids Of All Ages

As you read through my book recommendations here, please keep this in mind: I have not read all of these books from cover-to-cover, to all of my kids. Some of these books have been well loved (as you’ll see from the photos!) + read multiple times.

I’ve simply read from other books, as needed.

Our 24 Family Ways

I discovered Our 24 Family Ways at a women’s conference with Sally Clarkson when my kids were much younger. It really is one of the best kids devotional books!

My kids especially enjoy the coloring book that correlate with the devotional; there’s a coloring page for each week’s devotion. If you consistently read from this book every week, for five days a week (which I don’t), it would last you at least twenty-four weeks.

—> Find Our 24 Family Ways on Amazon.

Devotionals for Preschoolers

Big Thoughts for Little People

Big Thoughts for Little People: ABCs To Help You Grow features quick devotions for kids that begin with letters of the alphabet.

The devotions include delightful pictures, a Scripture, and topics like “asking,” “helping,” and “kindness.”

—> Find Big Thoughts for Little People on Amazon.

Just Like Jesus

I Want To Be Just Like Jesus is a Bible storybook which features stories that showcase character traits of Christ: “Jesus was caring,” “Jesus had compassion,” and “Jesus was generous.”

Each devotion includes a “Jesus in the Bible” and “Jesus in Me” feature.

I reviewed I Want To Be Just Like Jesus for Tyndale House Publishers; you can check it out at HipHomeSchoolMoms.com.

—> Find I Want To Be Just Like Jesus on Amazon.

My Big Book of 5-Minute Devotions

My Big Book of 5-Minute Devotions celebrates God’s creation with a two-page story a different animal. If you have a nature-loving child, this book will be a favorite!

—> Find My Big Book of 5-Minute Devotions on Amazon.

Devotionals for Kids: Elementary-Age 

These books make great devotion-time read alouds for kids of all ages, but they were especially suitable for my young school-age children: from ages six or seven up to ten or so.

My daughter read Heroes of Faith when she was eleven or twelve years old, so it’s definitely suitable for older kids too.

Hero Tales

Hero Tales: A Family Treasury of True Stories From the Lives of Christian Heroes is a biographical-style chapter book which highlights men and women of faith.

The chapters include stories about forty-five famous missionaries and historically Christians, including David Livingston, Amy Carmichael, Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther.

—> Find this Hero Tales volume, and other collections by the same author on Amazon.

Alice in Bibleland

The Alice in BibleLand story books were my oldest daughter’s FAVORITE books as a little girl. These are delightful little books!

Each book tells the story of a Bible character (Noah, Paul, Ruth, etc), as seen through the eyes of young “Alice” (who travels back to Bible times and watches the story unfold).

The stories are told through engaging poems… a great way to expose your kids to rhyming words, along with Bible stories.

—> You can find many Alice in Bible Land books on Amazon.

Pilgrim’s Progress

Pilgrim’s Progress and The Incredible Journey. Both these books are Christian classics that my kids have loved.

I personally love The Pictorial Pilgrim’s Progress, which is edited for younger readers (listeners).

My young kids especially enjoy the picture book version, The Dangerous Journey.

—> Find Pilgrim’s Progress on Amazon.

Children’s Bibles

I’m a fan of the Discoverer’s Bible, which is a large print Bible for young readers.

As a family, we read and memorize the King James Version; however, the NIRV (New International Reader’s Version) is delightful for kids.

—> Find The Discoverer’s Bible on Amazon.

Are you already an Amazon Prime member?

If so, you’ll get free shipping on each of the books I linked to in this post.

—> If you’re not already a Prime member, you can get a free, 30-day trial right here.

—> For further reading, check out my post at HipHomeschoolMoms: “So You Want to Have Daily Devotions With Your Kids (But Feel Like Such a Failure)“

Your turn.

What would you add to this list of family devotional books?

P.S. Thanks a million for sharing this post!

The post Looking for a devotional for kids? Here are my favorites. appeared first on Simply Kristy Lynn.