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Small Matters: How Churches and Parents Can Raise Up World-Changing Children (Exponential Series)
by Greg Nettle Santiago Heriberto MelladoChildren have always been close to the heart of God and as followers of Jesus it is our responsibility to protect, nurture, and pass our faith to children. In Small Matters: Why Children are Such a Big Deal, authors Greg Nettle and Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado offer a model of discipleship that encourages parents to raise up the next generation to be deeply committed to and in love with Jesus. When we awaken to the fact that children between the ages of four and fourteen are the most likely to make a decision to follow Jesus, and that the discipleship that children receive forms their future, it will transform the way we view children, invest in them, reach out to them, teach them and ultimately, empower them to be disciples of Jesus. In recent history the church has embraced a model of discipleship that encourages parents to “Bring your children to us and we will disciple them. And, by the way, we would love it if you would help.” This model is ineffective as much as it is unbiblical. It is imperative that the church today shifts to a new model of discipleship that encourages parents to “Disciple your children as your primary responsibility. And, we (the church) would love to help.” Because our world is becoming more and more sensitive to the needs of children, a reflection of the heart of God, it provides those of us who follow Jesus with an unprecedented opportunity to disciple children in our homes, in our churches, in our communities and throughout the world. Now more than ever people are willing to invest in the cause of children through new church planting, equipping children’s ministries, child sponsorship—all of which are committed to holistic child development.
Small Miracles for Women: Extraordinary Coincidences of Heart and Spirit
by Yitta Halberstam Judith LeventhalEach and every woman is special and unique, yet as women we all share a common bond through our collective experiences of loving and learning. And sometimes fate steps in to miraculously change the lives of women in unforgettable ways, affecting them as wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, lovers, and friends. Could they be messages from a higher power? Whether these miracles come during times of difficulty or celebration, they represent extraordinary opportunities to explore the wonders life has to offer. One of the most popular books in the Small Miracles series, this beautifully repackaged and expanded volume collects more than 50 inspirational, unforgettable, and even divine stories of coincidence experienced by women from all walks of life.
Small Miracles from Beyond: Dreams, Visions and Signs that Link Us to the Other Side
by Yitta Halberstam Judith LeventhalFrom the New York Times–bestselling authors of Small Miracles, a collection of real stories evidencing our connection to loved ones who have passed on.This uplifting addition to a bestselling series will provide insight and solace to readers through inspiring true stories that demonstrate the soul's immortality. In their eighth compilation, Halberstam and Leventhal move beyond their earlier focus on our mortal world to examine the other side: death and the afterlife. Rich in miracles and extraordinary events, these incredible tales show how the connections forged with our loved ones exist through eternity—and how their intercession with us on earth continues long after they have passed on.
Small Talk: Learning From My Children About What Matters Most
by Amy Julia BeckerAlmost every day, one of Amy Julia’s children says something or asks something that prompts her to think more carefully: “Why Mommy crying?” (Marilee, when the family learned a young boy had died of cancer); “Booful, Mommy” (“Beautiful, Mommy,” as Penny proclaimed just as Amy Julia was looking in the mirror and critiquing her post-pregnancy body in her head); “What lasting mean?” (William, when he heard a song in church about God being an everlasting God). These conversations deepen her relationships with her children, but they also deepen and refine her own understanding of what she believes, why she believes it, and what she hopes to pass along to the next generation. Small Talk is a narrative based upon these conversations. It is not a parenting guide. It does not offer prescriptive lessons about how to talk with children. Rather, it tells stories based upon the questions and statements Amy Julia’s children have made about the things that make life good (such as love, kindness, beauty, laughter, and friendship), the things that make life hard (such as death, failure, and tragedy), and what we believe (such as prayer, God, and miracles). Amy Julia explores three parts—body, mind, spirit—as she moves in rough chronological order through the basic questions her kids asked when they were very young to the intellectual and then spiritual questions of later childhood. It invites other parents into these same conversations, with their children, with God, and with themselves. Moving from humorous exchanges to profound questions to heart-wrenching moments, Amy Julia encourages parents to ask themselves—and to talk with their children about—what matters most.
Small Things with Great Love: Adventures in Loving Your Neighbor
by Margot StarbuckMargot Starbuck is back with as much passion and energy as ever. In thirty brief chapters, she invites you to choose the adventure that fits who you are in authentically loving those around you. Yes, she knows: just the thought of adding something more to your life sounds exhausting. But here's the fantastic truth she's discovered in her own journey: "We don't have to add lots more overwhelming activity to what we've already got going. The regular stuff of our lives—the commute to work and the potlucks and home improvement projects and errands and play dates—are the exact places in which we express and experience God's love for a world in need." With a list of resources, a study guide and a six-week "Adventure Challenge," as well as plenty of stories and hilarity from Margot's own life, Small Things with Great Love will open your eyes to the people around you and the huge impact you can have on them through small acts of love. "Small things happen when I learn the name of my daughter's school bus driver," Margot writes. "Small things happen when I listen to the dreams of a woman who lives in a group home on my block. Small things happen when I risk crossing a language barrier even though I look really stupid doing it." And small things add up to big adventures and surprises, for you and others. The biggest surprise of all might be how powerfully God can use you, right in the midst of your walking-the-dog, paying-the-bills, doing-laundry life, when you're living out his love. Do the first small thing by opening these pages--and let the adventure begin!
Small Town Justice: A Riveting Western Suspense
by Valerie HansenDANGEROUS SECRETS Back home in Serenity, Jamie Lynn Henderson's determined to prove her brother was framed for the town sheriff's hit-and-run death years ago. But as she encounters dead end after dead end, Jamie Lynn discovers someone will go to any lengths-even murder-to bury the evidence. Her only hope of staying alive long enough to uncover the truth is Shane Colton, the late lawman's wary son. Shane's world was shattered by one senseless act that he can't forgive. But somehow he is drawn to protect the lovely woman trying to free her brother from prison. If they don't work fast, Jamie Lynn's single-minded quest might lead them both into the killer's trap.
Small Town Secrets
by Sharon MignereyEVERYONE DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE. . . Finally back on her feet after a nasty divorce from local cop Foley Blue, Lea Webster was getting ready to adopt the baby she'd always wanted. But Foley was stalking Lea and his once-idle threats were escalating to violence. Her cries for help went unheeded--no one wanted to cross the town's favorite son. Then Zach MacKenzie moved in across the street, and Lea found herself irresistibly drawn to his protective strength and quiet faith. Yet Foley's jealousy built dangerously, threatening Zach's freedom and Léa's safety. And she had to wonder whether their newfound love--and trust in each other--would be enough to save them both.
Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace
by Anne LamottFrom the bestselling author of Stitches and Help, Thanks, Wow comes her long-awaited collection of new and selected essays on hope, joy, and grace.Anne Lamott writes about faith, family, and community in essays that are both wise and irreverent. It's an approach that has become her trademark. Now in Small Victories, Lamott offers a new message of hope that celebrates the triumph of light over the darkness in our lives. Our victories over hardship and pain may seem small, she writes, but they change us--our perceptions, our perspectives, and our lives. Lamott writes of forgiveness, restoration, and transformation, how we can turn toward love even in the most hopeless situations, how we find the joy in getting lost and our amazement in finally being found.Profound and hilarious, honest and unexpected, the stories in Small Victories are proof that the human spirit is irrepressible.
Small on Purpose: Life in a Significant Church
by Lewis A. ParksSmall on Purpose: Life in a Significant Church is a joyful andhonest look at the kingdom-enriching characteristics of smallcongregations. Lewis Parks demonstrates how to see and build upon thosestrengths. His premise is not better/worse. Instead, Parks shows us howlife in a small congregation is profoundly significant and the importantrole these churches play. This book includes clear instructions on howleaders can streamline ministry to maximize the unique and powerfulcontributions small churches make in their communities. This book isinspiring and practical, a refreshing point of view for the church andchurch leaders."Small on Purpose reimagines what it means to be acongregation of ninety, sixty, or thirty by not focusing on size. Iespecially appreciate Lewis Parks’s attention to why ‘soul care’ iscritical for congregations under 150 as a means of discipleship andoutreach. Parks sees soul care as a countercultural act that createsmeaning for many who are seeking family-like relationships. This bookchallenges all congregations to take seriously the small things they aredoing—like soul care—as a compelling way to move into the future." —F.Douglas Powe Jr., Managing Director for The Institute for CommunityEngagement, Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington DC; author of NewWine, New Wineskins and Not Safe for Church from Abingdon Press"LewisParks writes with pitch-perfect tone about the life of small churches.He appeals to the experience of smaller congregations as gatheringplaces of worship and service. There he sees signs of the Spirit moving,of tradition revivified through song and word, of pastoral care sharedacross a congregation. Above all, he offers transformative words andperspectives with which small churches can claim their distinctivewitness." —Thomas Edward Frank, University Professor and Chair of theDepartment of History, Wake Forest College, Wake Forest University,Winston-Salem, NC"In a time when the culture is becoming moreand more individualistic, Lew Parks strikes a chord for the great valueof the gathered community of faith that is strengthened week by weekthrough their faithfulness to the gospel and to one another. Gather inyour small church and read this together. Your life and your communitywill be enriched." —Bill McAlilly, Bishop, Nashville Area EpiscopalOffice, The United Methodist Church
Small, Strong Congregations: Creating Strengths and Health for Your Congregation
by Kennon L. CallahanCreate a small, strong congregation is dedicated to advancing God's mission. The twenty-first century is the century of small, strong congregations. More people will be drawn to small, strong congregations than any other kind of congregation. Yes, there are mega-congregations; Their number is increasing greatly. Nevertheless, across the planet, the vast majority of congregations will be small and strong, and the vast majority of people will be in these congregations."With uncommon wisdom Kennon L. Callahan--today's most noted church consultant--moves ahead of conventional thinking and in Small, Strong Congregations offers his unique vision of the church of the future.This important book chronicles the emergence of a vast number of congregations that are questioning the bigger-is-better notion in church membership. These congregations are deliberately small, active, and happy in their dedication to creating strong church communities that advance God's mission. Step by step, Kennon Callahan shows pastors and other church leaders how they can develop the values and specific qualities helpful to shape and strengthen their own small congregations. Written to be a hands-on guide, Small, Strong Congregations offers practical suggestions for creating mission and service, compassion and shepherding, community and belonging, self-reliance and self-sufficiency, worship and hope, teams and leaders, space and facilities, and giving and generosity. This wise resource is filled with illustrative examples that show clearly how myriad small churches have created solid, vigorous congregations.
Small-Group Workbook: A Yearlong Bible Study Companion
by Daniel Sung HyunGather a study group and explore the entire Bible in one year Studying the Bible with others helps you open yourself up to greater meaning and reflection than studying alone. This small group workbook guides Christian men through the entire Bible every week for one year. Together, you'll explore prompts, questions, activities, and prayers that lead you from Genesis to Revelation. Written for men—Find thoughtfully curated discussion topics that focus on what it means to be a man of faith. Easy to manage—The readings are only a few pages long, paired with a schedule to fit every chapter of the Bible into 52 weeks. Opportunities to engage—Each week includes suggested passages to read, a short devotion, questions and exercises for the group, and a prayer to close each session. Get to know the Word in a new light and strengthen your relationship with Christ with this group Bible study for men.
Small-Town Bachelor
by Darlene FranklinVERITY CLARK DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE The struggling single mom is doing her best to raise her three kids. But when her eldest son is caught skipping school, she needs help. Thankfully, truant officer Garrett Sawtelle is on her side. Soon Verity is turning more and more to the caring educator, who's awakening tender feelings she can't afford to act on. Garrett wants to make a difference. He knows it's against the rules to get too close to the families he counsels. But the spunky widow and her children are fast becoming part of this bachelor's dreams for the future. Can he convince Verity that, together, they can build something real and lasting?
Small-Town Billionaire
by Renee AndrewsAn Unexpected Romance As the CEO of Brooks International, Ryan Brooks has money, power and a sought-after family name. But here on his sister's ranch in Claremont, Alabama, the billionaire only wants to be loved for who he really is. So when small-town shop owner Maribeth Walton ignores him and his valuable business advice, he's determined to figure out why. Problem is, Maribeth knows he's not sticking around and she won't let him get close. Or could it be she's keeping a secret-one that may hold the key to why she's so reluctant to admit she's falling for the billionaire?
Small-Town Brides
by Janet Tronstad Debra CloptonA Dry Creek Wedding by Janet Tronstad When her neighbor proposes a "practical" marriage, romantic Rene Mitchell throws the ring in his face. Fleeing Texas for Montana, Rene rides with trucker Clay Preston. Clay doesn't believe in romance. . . until Rene changes his mind! A Mule Hollow Match by Debra Clopton Trace Crawford broke Paisley Norton's cousin's heart--so Paisley thinks he deserves whatever trouble he gets! Yet Trace really is lost when it comes to caring for his new niece. Paisley's got a soft heart for children. . . and for adorably clueless cowboys, too.
Small-Town Dad
by Jean C. GordonSmall-town electrician Neal Hazard gave up his dreams years ago to raise his daughter. Now it's his turn to make those dreams a reality. But when his community college advisor turns out to be his high school prom date, he can't believe his eyes. Widowed Anne is more beautiful than he remembers, and completely wrapped up in her career. But when she suddenly becomes guardian to an orphaned toddler, it's Neal's turn to teach Anne a few things. Maybe together, they'll learn how priorities, parenthood and love truly fit together to create a family.
Small-Town Dreams
by Kate WelshJOSHUA DANIELS WAS A MAN WITHOUT A PASTBut with a Higher Power to sustain him, he'd found contentment in the present. Then Cassidy Jamison, bright, beautiful and beset by a deep-buried sorrow, entered his life, making him yearn for a future he feared was impossible.Her life had been filled with money, megadeals-and emptiness. But now Cassidy Jamison had landed in Mountain View, Pennsylvania, a tiny town where people knew what truly mattered, and Joshua Daniels, an unconventional preacher with sweet mischief in his eyes, was helping her to find her faith, her self-and a home for her heart...!
Small-Town Dreams & The Girl Next Door
by Kate WelshSMALL-TOWN DREAMS Preacher Josh Daniels lives in the present. Then he meets Cassidy Jamison. Before long, he begins to yearn for a future he fears is impossible. But fate brought this big-city girl into this tiny town for a reason. And with Josh's help, Cassidy just might find what she truly wants--a home for her heart. THE GIRL NEXT DOOR After an accident destroys his Olympic dreams, Jeff Carrington feels lost and bitter. Still, Hope Taggert won't give up on the man she's loved all her life. Restoring Jeff's faith takes patience and determination, but with God's help, anything is possible.
Small-Town Fireman (Gordon Falls #6)
by Allie PleiterThe Catch of a Lifetime Karla Kennedy doesn't belong in Gordon Falls. The aspiring restaurateur has far loftier goals than running her grandfather's quaint coffee shop. The only person who seems to relate is handsome volunteer firefighter Dylan McDonald. Dylan understands dreams-he risked everything to start his fishing charter business. Now he needs Karla's help to make it succeed. As they work together, Karla and Dylan quickly discover that while their timing may be bad, their chemistry is undeniable. Karla always thought of Gordon Falls as a layover on her way to a big-city career, but could it be where her heart truly belongs? Gordon Falls: Hearts ablaze in a small town
Small-Town Girl (Goose Harbor #4)
by Jessica Keller“Highly recommended for fans of inspirational and sweet romance, this is a story that offers many sigh-worthy moments.” —Serena Chase, USA Today, Happy Ever AfterGoose Harbor, Michigan, is the perfect place for Kendall Mayes to start over and open her date-planning business. When she encounters handsome loner Brice Daniels, who is struggling to keep the shipping business he runs going, she sees an opportunity. A weekly sunset cruise catering to couples and tourists will keep their dealings strictly business. Kendall has had enough of failed romances, and Brice is too burned by love to give it another chance. But despite their reservations, they soon let down their walls. Yet when Kendall’s silent business partner is revealed to be Brice’s longtime enemy, staying together might be next to impossible.“The characters demonstrate that while loving someone can lead to pain, it does not mean that love should be avoided altogether. The expressive narrative creates an ending which does not disappoint.” —Romantic Times (4 Stars)
Small-Town Hearts
by Ruth Logan HerneSecuring a location for his family's chain of sweet shops is big-city businessman Danny Graham's secret mission. But Grandma Mary's Candies will mean the end of Megan Russo's little shop-and the end of her dreams. How can Danny put a quaint, small-town candy shop out of business? Especially one owned by a kind young woman who's lost too much already? Still, here he is, trying to romance his sweet rival...although Megan doesn't know who he really is. Seems like Danny needs to look into his own heart and discover what matters most.
Small-Town Homecoming
by Lissa ManleyA Home to Cherish Ten years ago, Curt Graham left his hometown in disgrace. Now Curt returns to Moonlight Cove for a fresh start and to reestablish family ties. The pretty owner of the inn where he's staying is exactly the kind of woman he needs. But Jenna Flaherty is waiting for the perfect man. Curt knows he'll never be that. When the little boy Jenna babysits needs Curt's help, he's surprised to discover he's a good father figure-and that he harbors a wish to have a home of his own. Now if only he could convince Jenna he'd make her a wonderful husband. Moonlight Cove: A beachside town where love and faith blossom.
Small-Town Midwife
by Jean C. GordonUnexpected Arrival Autumn Hazard loves being a midwife. But a tragic loss has her doubting the path she's chosen. And her new boss isn't helping. She's worked with Dr. Jonathan Hanlon before, and he's just as handsome and seemingly perfect as ever. His presence could mean trouble for the clinic-and her sensible heart. Jon remembers Autumn, too. She's still beautiful, smart and oblivious to him. Maybe that's for the best-he's leaving the small town as soon as his training's done. Besides, he has secrets of his own, and he can't risk Autumn getting close enough to uncover them. Yet despite all their reservations, working beside each other doesn't feel like work at all...it feels like home.
Small-Town Mom
by Jean C. GordonThe Widow's Rules of EngagementJamie Glasser has two ironclad rules: raise her kids the best way she knows how and...no more military men! The widowed mother of three lost to the army her late husband-and her faith in God-but she can't avoid former air force lieutenant colonel Eli Payton. The handsome high school guidance counselor is committed to helping Jamie's rebellious teenage son. But it's Jamie who's tested when she's irresistibly drawn to Eli. Here, in the family-centered community of Paradox Lake, can a woman at a crossroads find the courage to reclaim her faith and give love another chance?
Small-Town Moms: A Dry Creek Family / A Mother for Mule Hollow
by Janet Tronstad Debra CloptonA Dry Creek Family by Janet Tronstad: Maegan Shay is on a mission-to meet her long-lost niece, Lilly, in Dry Creek, Montana. When Maegan discovers she and Lilly share a special trait, the two grow close. Now the girl's handsome guardian, Clint Parker, fears he can't be what Lilly needs. Unless Maegan can show him what faith and family are all about.A Mother for Mule Hollow by Debra Clopton: Widowed mother Olivia Dancer arrives in Mule Hollow, Texas, to check on her nephew-and his single father. But gorgeous rancher Gabe McKennon isn't exactly welcoming, for reasons that break and touch Olivia's heart. Until they're both won over by the town matchmakers and a little boy who just wants a mama.
Small-Town Nanny: The Amish Midwife's Courtship The Cowboy Meets His Match Small-town Nanny (Rescue River #3)
by Lee Tobin McClainFrom a New York Times–bestselling author, an inspirational romance about a widower who gets a second chance at love with his child’s unconventional nanny.Susan Hayashi is everything Sam Hinton is not looking for. She’s energetic, outspoken and spontaneous—the exact opposite of what he would want in a wife. Yet the wealthy widower can’t deny that the young teacher is great with his daughter, Mindy. In desperate need of a summer nanny, the small-town CEO hires Susan. After all, it’s only temporary. But Susan and her unconventional approach soon work their way into his and Mindy’s lives. His head says she’s all wrong for them, but a part of him believes that this quirky caretaker for his child might really be his Mrs. Absolutely Right . . .“Lee Tobin McClain’s books make my heart sing.” —Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times–bestselling author“Lee Tobin McClain dazzles with unforgettable characters, fabulous small-town settings and a big dose of heart. Her complex and satisfying stories never disappoint.” —Susan Mallery, #1 New York Times–bestselling author