O Holy Night

O holy night the stars are brightly shining

It is the night of our dear Savior's birth

Long lay the world in sin and error pining

Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new glorious morn

Fall on your knees

O hear the angels' voices

O night divine

O night when Christ was born

O night divine o night

O night divine

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
Luke 2:13-14

Merry Christmas!!

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Giving - One of the Reasons I Love Christmas

I don't remember when I started to care more about giving gifts at Christmas than receiving them but I know for sure that I do now. I love to give presents to family members and watch their excitement. I love to shop for gifts. I love to save things up throughout the year so that I can give them to those people who are most important to me at Christmas time.

I love the feeling that I get when I give someone a gift that they appreciate. One sort of tradition that I have made through the years is the tradition of giving my oldest nephew a Mario graphic t-shirt each year. I have done this in different ways through the years - one year wrapping up a gift for him and my brother to share, with a Mario shirt in it for each of them, and this year buying Mario shirts for him and all of his siblings - and I always get excited about giving that gift. I know that the gift makes my little nephew happy, and that makes me happy.

The Bible tells us that it is more "blessed" to give than to receive, and I truly believe that. One of the main reasons that I love Christmas is the fact that this holiday gives us the excuse to shower our family with gifts.

Merry Christmas!

By Emily Acker, co-author of No Longer Broken

Christmastime Is Beautiful

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11

I love Christmastime for many reasons. I love picking out gifts for my family. I love baking and decorating. I love seeing Christmas lights when I drive around town.

Christmastime is beautiful, and it is about so much more than all of that. It is about Jesus. And I am grateful that he came to earth as a baby, that he lived a life here on earth, and died and rose again, to be my Savior.

Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
let earth receive her King!
Let every heart prepare him room
and heaven and nature sing.

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God Will Be With Me Through Anything

There are times when doubts creep into my mind, when fear and anxiety get the best of me. I start to panic and fear and wonder what the future is going to hold. In those moments, I feel that it is all on me. And that is overwhelming.

One night when I was beginning to worry a thought came over me. God will be with me through anything.

God will be with me through anything.

It was a simple thought, one that I should have known all along. But just thinking it then, knowing that no matter what I will face in the future God will guide me through it, calmed me.

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Psalm 25:5

I don’t have to be afraid for tomorrow because God is already there. He knows what is going to happen, and he will take care of me.

Life isn’t always going to be easy. It will be far from perfect. But God is going to hold my hand through everything, and I will be okay because of that. Is there anything more comforting than knowing that?

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
Deuteronomy 31:6

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

The Perfect Christian Fiction Book For Everyone On Your Christmas List

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for those on your list this year? Books are always a great idea, and here are nine Christain fiction books that will fill a variety of needs.

For the person who likes an emotional book:
Where Hope Begins by Catherine West

For the person who likes historical books:
The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden

For the person who likes a deeper read:
Life After by Katie Ganshert

For the person who likes a lighter romance:
The Convenient Groom by Denise Hunter

For the person who likes suspense or thrillers:
Try Dying by James Scott Bell

For the person who likes a humorous book:
A Charmed Life by Jenny B. Jones

For the person who likes a book about family:
Take A Chance On Me by Susan May Warren

For the person who likes to try a new author:
No Longer Broken by Emily Acker and Bethany Acker

For the person who likes Christmas books:
Keeping Christmas by Dan Walsh

I hope these books give you an idea of what is out there and help you to choose great Christmas gifts this year!


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

We Don't Know God's Plans. And, Somehow, We Have To Be Okay With That.

We don't know God's plans. And, somehow, we have to be okay with that.

God gives us a strength that we can't understand.

Life makes us fear. It breaks us down. It makes us want to give up. It makes us wonder what is going to happen next.

But God gives us the strength to endure. He gives us strength through things that we never could have imagined going through. Through the darkest moments, he is with us.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

When bad things happen, it is easy to think that God has abandoned us. Maybe we believe that he could never allow such things to happen to those he loves.

But he does love us. And he is looking out for us always, even when it doesn't feel like it.

We don't know God's plans. And, somehow, we have to be okay with that.

We have to trust that God is going to work it out for good even when it makes no sense to us. Even when it terrifies us.

When we think of the good times in our lives, we will see that God gives us so much more than we deserve. He blesses us in so many ways.

He blesses us with each sunrise and sunset that we see.
With days spent in the sunshine.
With the love of children.
With the laughter of family and friends.
With time spent with those who mean the most to us.
These are all such beautiful blessings and proof of God's love for us.

He is with us always. He will never abandon us. There is good in every day, even in the darkest moments. And he has a plan for us even when we can't see it.

God says that he loves us (John 3:16.) Jesus says that he will acknowledge us before His Father in Heaven (Matthew 10:32.) And we need to trust him at all times.

Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Making The Right Choices

God has given us the ability to choose our own paths. He allows us to make our own decisions. And sometimes that can feel scary.

There are times when I wish that everything was laid out before me, when I wish that I knew with certainty what I should be doing. There are times when I'm not sure what the right choice is.

But, there are other times when I am grateful for the opportunity to make my own choices. To learn from my mistakes.

God has given us so much to use as guidance in the Bible. We can talk to him in prayer. And, while we might not always get a quick answer or one that seems clear, we can still trust him. We can know that he has a plan for us.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28

The right choice might not always be the easy choice. At times, it might be difficult to choose what is right. But, there is no better feeling than we get when we follow God's plan.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Trust Him At All Times

Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8

Trust him even when everything doesn't go your way.
Trust him even when things turn out poorly.
Trust him even when the things you thought should happen didn't.
Trust him when you are afraid.
Trust him when everything feels wrong.
Trust him to make good of the bad.
Trust him.

Trust him at all times.
Trust him when you feel heartbroken.
Trust him when you're not sure where to go.
Trust him even when you feel alone.
Trust him even if you lose.
Trust him to hold you.
Trust him to help you.
Trust him.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

What Is True Joy?

Always be joyful.
1 Thessalonians 5:16

What is true joy?

There are many things we ask for in prayer. Many things we might wish God would give us.

And, if joy is one of them, as it is for most of us, then we need to have faith that God will give it to us.

When we think of joy, though, it might often come to our minds according to what we see in the world.

Maybe we believe that joy comes with getting a new car, or going on a vacation to the beach. We might find joy in those things, but that is not where true joy comes from.

True joy comes from deep inside of us. God sent his son and Jesus gave his life for us. When we remember that Jesus rose again from the cross we should feel true joy. When we see someone come to Jesus and accept his gift of Salvation we should experience true joy.

The Bible tells us that when we face trails we should feel joy. That when our faith is tested we should feel joy.

So, we should seek it out in prayer. We should ask God to fill us with joy. And we should know that true joy is better than, and possibly not quite like, anything we could imagine.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

1 James 1:2-3

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Whom Shall I Fear?

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 
Psalm 23:4

Every step we take, he is with us. Dark thoughts cloud my mind at times. I get caught up in what is to come and it scares me. I don’t always feel that I can trust God. But then I remind myself that no matter what comes, he will be by my side.

God isn’t going to make life here on earth perfect. He isn’t going to protect me from every bad thing. But he is going to hold me. He is going to walk me through it. And I can trust him to give me strength.

I need to take this life step by step, day by day. I need to trust in God’s plan and timing. I need to do my part, and I need to rest assured that I am doing enough. I need to know that God is with me and that I have nothing to fear. My God is a great God, and I should never be afraid.

The Lord is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid? 
Psalm 27:1


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

I Will Praise Him

I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.

Psalm 69:30

We were made to praise God. He wants our praise every day. He wants our praise during the bad times and the good.

Job never stopped praising God, not even when everything was taken from him, including his family. He continued to worship God. He trusted in him.

I want to trust in God like that. I want to praise him in all circumstances. I want to show him how grateful I am for the life he has given me.

God is worthy of our praise. He has given us life and breath. He has given us more than we deserve. He has given the promise of heaven to those who believe in him.

And I want to forever be praising God for all of the good things he has done for me. He loves me, he gave his life for me, and I want to praise him for that.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn- shout for joy before the Lord, the King.
Psalm 98:4-6

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God's Grace Makes The Difference

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

Sometimes we get caught up in thinking about what God expects of us. Sometimes we feel that we are not enough. We feel like we should be doing more.

I get convinced that it’s all up to me. That I have to be good enough. That God could never love me if I’m not. And that’s not true.

God wants us to love and serve others. He wants us to live out our faith. But that does not mean that we need to become obsessed with works or the things we say or do. Forefront in our minds and hearts should always be the fact that Jesus died on the cross for us. That he did that while we were still sinners. That he loves us despite our wrongs.

When we fully feel the grace and love of God we will be more willing to do works. To show love to orphans and widows. To be kind and generous. Because God’s grace will make all of the difference in our attitudes and lives.

But we don't have to do anything to receive God's grace. He offers it as a gift. He loves us and wants to give us eternal life.

God's grace is amazing and I am grateful for it. I'm glad that I don't have to earn into Heaven because I know I would never be good enough on my own. Only Jesus's death on the cross is powerful enough to take away my sins and make me new. And I am so grateful to him for giving me the gift of grace and salvation.

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved.Ephesians 2:4-5


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Strengthen My Faith

The disciples and prophets through the ages faced persecution. They were tortured and killed for their faith. They were mocked and made to be outcasts. But they were doing what was right. They were following God’s plan. They were allowing him to work through them.

When I read stories of the horrible things that happened to some of the believers in the Bible I don’t know how they endured it. When Peter and John were put into jail without doing anything wrong, how did they feel? Were they angry, or was their faith so strong that they knew God would rescue them?

It is a beautiful thing to see faith so strong that fear is dead. I long to have faith like that. And yet, I feel far from it.

He replied, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you."
Matthew 17:20

I want to have faith like a mustard seed. I want to believe that God will be with me no matter what I face. I want to live for him in a deep and true and beautiful way. And I pray that I will grow stronger in my faith every day.

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

No More Assumptions

Assumptions:

Your parents are married? Your childhood was perfect.

You're rich? You are content.

You're smiling? You must be happy.

You're quiet? You're antisocial.

You're anxious? You're not trusting God.

There are so many assumptions that people make that are just not true. None of us know what someone else is going through, not unless we really talk with them and get to know them. We don't know what kind of struggles they face. We don't know what might be hiding behind a smile. We shouldn't jump to the conclusion that because someone grew up rich or with married parents that their life is good.

Everyone has a different story. There are things that go wrong in each of our lives. And some people are better at covering up their struggles than others.

We shouldn't make assumptions about one another but we should take the time to get to know one another. We should show grace to strangers. We should be kind.

We should always treat others how we would want to be treated on our worst days. We should remember how many times we have faked being happy, how many times we have barely held it together, and we should be kind to everyone we see.

Spread a smile. Say a kind word on social media. Do something nice for someone you know or a stranger today.

Stop making assumptions but know that everyone is going through something. Know that everyone needs a little help. Everyone needs a little love. Show them Jesus.

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

John 13:34-35


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Looking Back I Realize... God Always Takes Care Of You

Looking back and I realize... God always takes care of you.

The more I look back on my life, the more that I see that he has always been with me.

Looking back on the past, on the days that were the hardest, I realize that God always takes care of you.

Looking back on the times when I felt alone, I realize that God was there with me. He held me through those times.

He has brought me so far. He has given me so much. Without him, I am nothing. I would not have made it this far without him. I would not have the life that I do without him.

God has given me so much. He has helped me through so much. He is an amazing, powerful God, and yet he loves me. He created the universe and everything in it, and yet he cares about me. It's pretty amazing to think about.

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

Deuteronomy 31:8

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Never Forget

Never forget this day.
Never forget the ones who lost their lives.
Never forget those who sacrificed to save others.
Never forget how strong America is.
Never forget how blessed we are with life and freedom.
Never forget.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

3 Authors Who Inspire Me To Be A Better Writer

When I get my hands on a book written by any of the three authors below I get excited. I can't wait to start reading. And I am inspired so much by each of these authors because of how well they are able to tell their stories and create realistic characters. They inspire me, and if you haven't read any books by them yet, I can't recommend them enough.

Catherine West. She digs deep and isn't afraid to tackle tough issues in her books. She puts emotion into her stories and writes very well. She puts together characters and plots that have me quickly turning page after page. She encourages me to put more depth into my writing.
I loved The Memory Of You and I am currently reading and enjoying Where Hope Begins.

Katie Ganshert. She is an author who isn't afraid of writing about deep and dark topics. She has a great way of putting together a story and making the reader feel hope. She inspires me to write on topics that I wouldn't always consider. She is a great author, and I highly recommend A Broken Kind Of Beautiful and Life After.

Susan May Warren. She has encouraged me as a writer for years and is one of the first authors that I really came to love. She writes books that are often focused on families and the issues that they face, and I love that about her. I like that she writes such carefully thought out and well-researched books. And I love that you can tell she puts her heart into her writing.
My favorite books by her are The Shadow Of Your Smile and the Christiansen Family Series.

These are just a few of the authors who greatly inspire me in my writing. I am glad I discovered all of them and that they put out such amazing books! I can't wait to read more from each of them in the future.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God Can Choose YOU. God Can Use YOU.

Often, we find ourselves doubting God's purpose for our lives. We feel like we're not good enough. We feel like there are many others who are more qualified to tell people about God's love than we are.

But we each have unique gifts. We have unique talents. And God will use each of us if we let him

We feel like God wouldn't use me, God wouldn't choose me. But why not? God has been using imperfect people for his good all through time. God used Paul despite the evil things the had done while still bearing the name Saul. He shined a light in Saul's path and helped him make a change. And Paul went on to do a lot of good and write much of the new testament.

There are no limits to what God can do with any one of our lives. But it is up to us to let him. To allow him to work through us. To be open to the good that he can do through us.

To know that God sees something good in us. He loves us. And he has a purpose for us.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
Why would God choose you? Why wouldn't he choose you?

Why wouldn't he want you to walk according to his purpose, to do good for his kingdom?

You are enough. God created you. He wants you to serve him.

To come before him, just as you are.

You don't have to be afraid that you won't know what to do or have the right words to speak. God will give you words. He will be with you.

You just need to choose to follow him.

For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.Luke 21:15

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

I Used To Dream Of Other Things

I was looking back at my social media page yesterday, reading posts from years ago. It is easy to see that I was a different person back then. I had different goals and dreams. I never could have imagined that my life would turn out like it has.

I used to dream of owning a bakery. I thought that baking was going to be my career.

And, while I still love baking, that is far from the truth. My dreams and goals have changed. I have fully embraced writing. It is my main passion.

I never could have dreamed back when I was a teenager that I would actually become a published author, or that that would happen when I was only 21. I am so grateful to be published, and although being a writer isn't easy, I am excited about my career. I enjoy writing. I have a passion for telling stories.

In one of my old posts, I mentioned how you can be different people when you write. And I still enjoy that about writing.

In my stories, I can be a baker or anything else that I want to be. But, in real life, I am happy with where I am.

I know that my life will continue to change as the years pass by. What I think will happen in the future will probably never come to be, not like I imagine it, anyway.

But I am okay with that. Because I know that God holds the future and he holds me.

...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:31

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

He Provides Rest

Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. 
Psalm 62:8

God wants us to feel peace.

He wants us to feel secure.

He wants us to trust that he knows what is right better than us. He wants us to know that he will take care of us. That he will be with us through everything that we face.

I struggle with trusting him. I want to do things on my own. I let fear take over, and I worry about everything from the small things to the big things.

But God has it all under control.

He has it all.

Nothing I could do on my own could make things better. Worrying will never fix my problems and fears.

But he will.

My God loves me, and he will take care of me. He will give me peace and refuge when I trust in him. He will provide for all of my needs and give me rest.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Matthew 11:28-30

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God Created You Specially

You are unique. Special. Different. Loved.

Is it hard for you to believe all of that? Do you struggle to accept the fact that you were purposefully made just the way that you are?

The Bible talks about how God created each of us while we were inside our mother's body. He took time to put each one of us together. He designed us specially. He made us unique.

When you are feeling down on yourself, know that God loves you. When you are feeling insignificant, know that God "knit" you into being.

Our God took the time to design and create you. Yes, you. And he does not make mistakes.

By Emily Acker, co-author of No Longer Broken

Let Us Love With Actions

Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
1 John 3:18

I hope this verse can be our inspiration today and always.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

It's Not Too Late

It's not too late to love yourself.

It's not too late to forgive yourself.

It's not too late to start a new life.

It's not too late to turn to God.

It's not too late to reconnect with a family member.

It's not too late to love more.

It's not too late to forgive others.

It's not too late to be happy.

It's not too late to be generous.

It's not too late to start over.

It's not too late for you.

God loves you.

He gives you many second chances.

So, turn your life around. Do the things you have been putting off. Today is not too late.

But one day it will be.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Your Grace Is Enough

I wish everyone could feel the grace of God. I wish that everyone could see that it is enough. No works can change a thing. Only God's grace can save sinners. Only his grace can make us whole.

In a recent sermon, a Pastor at my church said something like: "If I could be made right by what is done externally, then Christ died for nothing."

And Christ died for something. He died to save us from our sins. He died to take away our death and give us life. We are only saved through his grace. And his grace is enough.

Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough
Your grace is enough for me

Your grace is enough
I'm covered in your love
Your grace is enough for me
For me




By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

He Loves Us

We're human. We fail.
But Jesus loves us.
He loved us at our darkest. He knows our deepest secrets.
He sees us when we turn away from him and do any kind of wrong.
And yet he loves us.
He always loves us.




What a beautiful thing his love is.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Even Though I Walk Through The Darkest Valley

What do we do when the unthinkable happens? How would we react to a sudden loss of a relative or close friend?

It's nice to think that our faith would be strengthened. That we would be bold enough to endure. But we don't know that.

If there was a gun pointed at our face, would we be strong enough to keep from denying Christ? We don't have the answer to that.

The truth is we don't know what we would do if we were faced with terrible things. We don't know how we would react.

But one thing that we can know is that God will be with us always. No matter what kind of hurt or pain we face, he will be with us. He will love us. He will guide us.

When a dark time comes, we might be stronger than we think.

Or, we might go through a dark time and lose our way for a while. But when we come back, our faith will be sweeter than ever.

God provides strength for us. There is never going to be a time in our lives that is too hard.

With God, there are no limits.

He will not abandon us when things get hard. He will never leave our side. And that is what we need to remember.

Life isn't always easy. But God loves us.

Life can take some hard turns. Can point us in a direction we don't want to go. Maybe we won't see the end of a long, dark tunnel. But he does. And he is looking out for us.

I hope and pray that I will find strength in the dark times. That my faith will become stronger when I am challenged. And I hope you pray the same thing.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 23:4


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Not By The Law, But By Faith

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
Galatians 5:6b

Faith is what matters. Not the laws or rules that are put in place in regard to religion. We won't have a place in Heaven unless we have faith in God. Unless we believe in Jesus and ask that he take away our sins.

Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.” The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, “The person who does these things will live by them.” Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.
Galatians 3:12-14


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Inspiration from Acts

There is so much encouragement and inspiration found in the book of Acts. These verses are some that teach us to be brave and bold in our faith no matter what happens to us.

The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.
Acts 5:41

"We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God," they said.
Acts 14:22b

One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.
Acts 18:9

However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me-the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace.
Acts 20:24

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

A Few Amazing (not your average read) Christian Fiction Books I Read Recently

These are a few of the books that I have read recently and loved. They aren't your average reads, and that is what made me enjoy them so much.

A Time To Stand by Robert Whitlow
This book speaks on an important issue. It talks about racism. It focuses on a police officer who shot an unarmed teen, and it gets you to see things from every side. A very interesting read. So much different and deeper than most fiction.

A Dangerous Legacy by Elizabeth Camden
I love Elizabeth Camden's style of writing. She creates characters that are funny and have heart. I am not always a fan of historical fiction, but when it comes to her books I can't get enough of them. I love all of the facts that she mixes into the story, helping the reader to learn about the era they are reading about. This book had so much action, character, and family drama, and I loved every bit of it.

If I live by Terri Blackstock
If you love suspense books, then this is one that you need to check out. It is the third in a series so you should start with the others first, but even if you don't, it is still a great read. I enjoyed the fast-paced action and how the story kept going with twists and turns all the way to the end!


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Because He Lives

God sent his son, they called him Jesus,
He came to love, heal and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my savior lives.

Because he lives
I can face tomorrow
Because he lives
All fear is gone
Because I know he holds the future
And life is worth the living
Just because he lives




Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.

Acts 13:38

Happy Easter!

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

The Stones Would Cry Out

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises. 
Psalm 98:4

Palm Sunday is something we are familiar with as Christians. Maybe we have read the story of Jesus riding on the colt many times, or maybe we know of it because it comes right before Easter. The thoughts we associate with Palm Sunday might be about Jesus’ death and resurrection. Or maybe they are about his actual ride on the donkey.

One of the special moments that happened on that day that maybe we don’t think too much of is when those who saw him started praising Jesus. They sang praises as he rode on the donkey. And, when the Pharisees tried to get Jesus to rebuke them, Jesus said that the stones would cry out if they were silent.

The stones would cry out.

Praise was meant to flow from their lips. Praise was essential at that moment.

We are meant to give our praise to God. We are made to sing loudly and to proclaim how wonderful God is. The psalms are filled with praises. God has given them to us to read, to sing. God wants us to praise him, and to praise him always. In all circumstances and situations.

Praise him.

Read Luke 19:29-40 for the full story.


By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Trust In God

There is nothing we struggle with more often as humans than trust.

It's hard to know who we can rely on. It's easy to become jaded by people breaking our trust over time. But there is one who will never leave us or forsake us, who will give us the help and guidance that we need to get through life.

God is someone who we can trust and depend on always.

And trust means letting go and letting him take control.

Trust means knowing that God knows what's best more than me and accepting that.

It means embracing God's strength and knowing that no matter what we are going to be okay.

Trust in God is what we need. Not trust in man.

God is never going to disappoint us or leave us. He will be with us through all of the hard times that we face.

God knows what is best for us. He knows it more than we do.

And we need to trust him to take care of us and all of our needs, all of the time.

When we can do that, we will feel better about the life we are living.

Giving up and trusting fully is often a struggle. But it is worth it in the end.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Perfection Is Unattainable

Perfection is unattainable. No matter how hard we try. Perfection is not a reality. That's a fact. And we will only wear ourselves down if we try for it.

We're not made to be perfect. Only God is perfect.

When we live our lives with the thought that we can be perfect we will wear ourselves out. Because, as many times as we turn the other cheek, as many times as we give all that we can to the poor, we will still mess up. We will still be imperfect.

And that's okay.

Jesus paid the price for us on the cross. He died for our sins and imperfections. He lived a holy, perfect life on earth. He gave us a great example to follow. But perfection for us won't come here on earth.

There are always going to be imperfections in our lives. There are going to be little things that we do wrong. There are going to be bad things that will happen to us. This earthly life is not made to be perfect. But one day we will be in a perfect place.

Heaven will be everything that we could hope for, more than we could dream of, more perfect than anything we could imagine.

Heaven is perfection.

Jesus is perfect.

We are not.

The sooner we let go and realize how imperfect we are, the sooner we will feel free. We will find it easy to follow Jesus's example only when we realize that we will never measure up to him. We will be better people, happier, more forgiving and loving and caring when we know that we all have imperfections and always will.

We will be at our best when we look to our savior for perfection. When we fully accept the grace that only he can provide. When we know that only he can cover our sins.

No good we do could ever erase the wrongs we have done. Striving for perfection would not lead us into heaven. Jesus is the only way. The only truth. The only life.

God's ways are perfect. God's love is perfect. We are his creation, and he wants us to follow him. He wants us to be good, but to know that we are flawed and are in need of a savior.

And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.

1 John 4:14

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 14:6

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

John 8:36

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

Beautiful Nature

Last month, Emily and I and two of our brothers went on a short road trip to the Duluth, MN area.

From the gorgeous sunrise over Lake Superior to the ice and snow covered hills and rocks, there was so much beauty to take in.

I love traveling and seeing different areas of the country. God has created so much variety in nature for us to enjoy.

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good...

Genesis 1:31

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God Is Faithful In His Promises

God is faithful in all of his promises...

He promises that the earth will stay the same, as long as it endures...

And he promises comfort and joy in Heaven...

He loves us. And he promises to never leave us.

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

If Life Was Fair

How simple would life be if only it was fair?

Then we could stop asking questions like, why me? Why did this have to happen? Why do bad things happen to good people?

It’s easy to get caught up in these questions and to long for an answer to them. And it’s not always so simple to know the answer. There isn’t always going to be a reason that we see for why something bad happened.

But God is always in control.

We can always trust in him.

That is one thing that we can cling to through those “why” moments. Another beautiful thing to cling to is the fact that even though life is not fair, Heaven will be perfect. We have an eternal life to look forward to. God never promised us that this life was going to be easy or perfect, he, in fact, told us that it wouldn’t be, but something better is to come.

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

Colossians 3:1-4

It would be nice if life was fair and we didn’t have to ask the “why” questions, but it isn’t. And, when the pains and struggles of this world overwhelm us, we need to set our minds on what is to come. Because, this life may be filled with pain, but in Heaven God will wipe every tear from our eyes.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes.

Death will be no more;

mourning and crying and pain will be no more,

for the first things have passed away.” 

Revelation 21:4

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken

God Has Plans For Each Of Us... Learning From The Bible

God gives us many instructions and commands in the Bible. When we read it we can see how to live our lives in the best way. The more we study it the more we realize how much he loves us, and that that is why he is giving us the commands that he is.

God wants what is best for us, his creation. He wants us to treat others kindly, and he wants ut to be successful. He wants us to prosper.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11

It doesn't mean that things are going to turn out perfectly all of the time. We can see that by studying the Bible and those in it. We know that they faced struggles. Paul was persecuted for his faith and put in prison, John the Baptist was beheaded, and so on. But God will be with us.

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.
2 Peter 1:5-7

God's instructions are clear. He wants ut to be kind. To be good. To have self-control and to live the way that he wants us to. God has given us so much, and it is only right to give back to him.

There is so much to be grateful for in life. For our family. For our talents. For freedom. For health. For the food to eat and the clothes to wear. God has never gotten us, and he will never forget us. He knows our needs and he will look out for us and give us what is right. Does that mean that life will always be easy? No. But we can trust in him through everything we face.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Joshua 1:9

We can be strong in him. Through everything that we face we can know that he is with us. We don't have to be afraid of our enemies. We don't have to worry about anything. We just need to be strong and to know that he is there for us.

God loves us so much and he wants us to see that. He wants to live our lives in a way that reflect him. He wants people to see that we are unafraid because we trust in him.

So, we should all realize how precious it is to read our Bibles. We should draw encouragement from what we read and try to live in a way that honors God. 

By Bethany Acker, Co-Author of No Longer Broken