Entrusted - Entries written by Unknown
FriFridayFebFebruary3rd2012
Explaining the Gospel to Children
During one of my first conversations with my then-preschool- aged daughter about Christ and her need for salvation, she was lying in my lap looking up at me. The perfect scenario for my precious little girl to learn about the Gospel, I thought. But... More
TueTuesdayJanJanuary31st2012
Silver Platters
I believe that the Lord gives us (and so do our children!) special opportunities to build into their lives. We might also refer to them as “teachable moments,” those moments ripe for training, connecting, and reinforcing life lessons. It is so... More
FriFridayJanJanuary27th2012
God's Word Lights Our Path
Key Verse: Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 Items Needed: A Flashlight for each child Preparation: Set up an obstacle course in your house using tipped over chairs, blankets, cushions, and other objects. Use your... More
TueTuesdayJanJanuary24th2012
How to Help Children Deal with Anger?
Dear Betsy, I have a 6-year-old son who has struggled with anger and control issues since he was 3 years old. As a result, to this day he will stamp his feet, flail his arms and either cry, whine or complain in an angry tone VERY loudly when... More
TueTuesdayJanJanuary17th2012
MOPS Group -- Immanuel Lutheran
This past week Betsy had the pleasure of addressing the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Crystal Lake, IL. It was truly a privilege to spend the morning with these young moms (and some older ones, too!) as Betsy... More
FriFridayJanJanuary13th2012
Aunt Martha's Chili
My Aunt Martha shared this recipe with me when I was first married, and it’s the only chili recipe I have ever used. If you make it the day before, the flavors get even better. And I usually double the recipe to serve for another meal later in the... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary4th2012
It Is What's on the Inside that Counts
This is the first in our new series of Eternal Truths in Everyday Life. We want to provide you with fun, interactive ways to teach Biblical truths to your children in ways that they will understand and remember. Here is one that will teach your... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember20th2011
But in This Moment...
This December started out like many others -- enjoying Christmas parties, shopping, and family time. But over the weeks, many of my dear friends' holidays have become anything but normal as they encountered deeply difficult trials. A friend's... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember13th2011
Keeping Christ at the Focus of Your Family's Christmas
The month of December can quickly fill up with fun activities, family events, shopping, parties, and more. Here are some practical ways that your family can be intentional about keeping Christ at the focus of your celebration. Try finding at least... More
WedWednesdayDecDecember7th2011
Marshmallow Snowfriends
Here is an easy treat to make for a party favor or a teacher's gift this Christmas, and your kids can help! Take three marshmallows and place them on a lollipop stick (you can find these at craft stores in the baking aisle). Then dip the marshmallow... More
FriFridayDecDecember2nd2011
How Should I Teach My Kids about Sexuality and Purity?
Dear Betsy, The main question I have right now has to do with talking to our children about sex. To be honest, I have no idea what to tell them at their age. My oldest is 7 years old, and she assumed people have babies starting the minute they get... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember29th2011
Eternal Truths in Everyday Life
A modern version of the Entrusted memory verses in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 would read something like, "Let God's Words be always on your mind and in your heart. Diligently teach them to your children -- when you are sitting on the couch together or when... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember23rd2011
Thanksgiving Proclamation by George Washington 1789
Thanksgiving Day Proclamation Date: October 3, 1789 Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favour; and Whereas... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember16th2011
Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude
Thanksgiving is a celebration of all that God has provided for us. As you spend time with those you love during the days ahead, you may enjoy trying some of these ideas to help your family cultivate an "Attitude of Gratitude." THANKSGIVING JOURNAL... More
FriFridayNovNovember11th2011
Hope for Discouraged Parents
The following two questions are similar in reflecting the discouragement we can often feel as parents. Though the details vary somewhat, the principles are similar and so I thought I would address them together. Dear Betsy, I am a home school mom... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember8th2011
Entrusted at Revive '11
This past weekend our Entrusted Ministries team attended the Revive ’11 Conference in Indianapolis where we had the pleasure of talking with women’s ministry leaders from all around the country. We even met a lady who had traveled all the way from... More
WedWednesdayNovNovember2nd2011
A Glimpse into one of our Entrusted Couples' Groups
Take a peek at one of our Couples’ Entrusted Home Groups in action! This group of married couples used the Entrusted with a Child's Heart, Book Format to learn and apply biblical principles to their families. Each week couples brought pictures of... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober27th2011
2011 Entrusted Ministries Fundraising Event
On Thursday, October 20, Entrusted Ministries celebrated God’s continued faithfulness at their annual 2011 Entrusted Ministries Fundraising Event, hosted in the beautiful home of John and Julie Southard. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect... More
FriFridayOctOctober21st2011
Helping Children Develop a Devotional Lifestyle?
Dear Betsy: At what age would you suggest children begin to read their Bible and have a devotional life? Curious… Dear Curious: Obviously, the Bible is difficult for smaller children to read and understand. And since you want to develop a love the... More
WedWednesdayOctOctober19th2011
Lunch Box Love
Here is a great way to use up all those odd sizes of scrapbook paper you have left over from other projects. Not into scrapbooking? That's okay, you can also use wrapping paper or construction paper to wrap these special gifts. Then use various... More
FriFridayOctOctober14th2011
Top Tech Tips for Families? (part 2)
Last Friday, we posted the first five tips from our friends at Higher Ground Family helping parents stay informed and involved with their children's use of technology. Here are their final tips to keep you plugged in with your kids on this important... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober11th2011
Copycat
We had just pulled out of the car wash, when my four-year old, Jack, disappointingly exclaimed, “they missed a spot!” Apparently the guy who hand-dried the car with towels after going through the automatic wash did not meet Jack’s expectations. Chip... More
FriFridayOctOctober7th2011
Top Tech Tips for Families?
This past spring, while speaking at a family conference, Dave and Betsy Corning met a dynamic couple named Robbie and Denise Grimes. They were so excited to hear that the Grimeses share the same passion for Scripture Memorization! In fact, their... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober4th2011
Seeing God at Work -- Moody Church, Chicago, IL
Thank you to Family Pastor Bob Gunter of Moody Church and his wife, Linda who hosted a dynamic evening for their YMYF (Your Marriage/Your Family) Entrusted with a Child's Heart weekly parenting class last week. Dave and Betsy were invited to teach... More
FriFridaySepSeptember30th2011
Seeing God at Word -- Village Bible Church of Sugar Grove
We were blessed to be a part of Village Bible Church of Sugar Grove, IL Women's Ministry fall kick-off event! Betsy taught from Psalm 127 and shared her heart on God's design for families. It was a great reminder to all of us that unless the Lord is... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember27th2011
Contractor Needed
Just this weekend we were driving to our favorite restaurant for lunch, when a question came up about the dates of a Fall Festival we didn't want to miss. I pulled out my smartphone, spoke the search words to my friend Google, and within one click... More
FriFridaySepSeptember23rd2011
Clingy Toddler -- Maturity or Discipline Matter?
Dear Betsy, I have a clingy, whiny, 20-month-old boy. He is content to play on his own for some periods of time but generally follows me around the house while I’m trying to get things done, crying to be picked up. When someone else is with him like... More
WedWednesdaySepSeptember21st2011
Entrusted at my Church -- Fort Myers, FL
It's that time again for many of us -- the beginning of a new ministry season. We are so excited to welcome each of this year's Entrusted with a Child's Heart groups. Our Entrusted Ministries staff is praying for you and expecting God to do... More
MonMondaySepSeptember12th2011
God's Wake Up Call of 9/11
Ten years ago, on Tuesday, 9/11/01, I was so excited to take Entrusted with a Child’s Heart biblical parenting class for the first time! I was at a crossroads in my personal life, looking for direction, guidance and any glimpse of hope in my messy... More
FriFridaySepSeptember9th2011
Camp Noni with my Grandkids
Ever since my first grandchild Annabel was born, I’ve had an idea buzzing around in my head for a “Grandma Camp.” (In my case, it’s Camp Noni, since that’s what the grandkids call me). Well now that Annabel is six years old - and has been joined by... More
FriFridaySepSeptember2nd2011
Staying home with children?
Dear Betsy, I love your ministry and have learned so much! Thank you for being a faithful servant of God in this important area of parenting. My husband and I currently both work full-time. I am able to work FT from home but do require a sitter to... More
FriFridayAugAugust19th2011
How do I help my child learn to pray?
Dear Betsy, How do I help my 3 year-old daughter to pray? She often doesn’t want to pray. How do I foster sensitivity in her spirit towards God? — Praying Mom Dear Praying, There is something so sweet about a child’s prayer. They pray from the heart... More
FriFridayAugAugust12th2011
Sleepovers
Dear Betsy, How do you handle sleepovers with friends who have siblings of the opposite sex? What rules or expectations do you lay down without offending the other family? -Sleepless over Sleepovers Dear Sleepless, Think carefully whether you want... More
WedWednesdayAugAugust10th2011
Heart of Faith
“What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him?... Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. “ –James 2:14,17 For years I looked at this verse in a rather narrow way. When I... More
FriFridayAugAugust5th2011
Realistic Expectations for Children Sitting Still?
Dear Betsy, What are realistic expectations for a four year-old sitting still at meals, church, in restaurants, etc.? -Ants in his pants Dear Ants, A healthy, well-rested four year-old should be able to sit through a meal at a restaurant or an... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly19th2011
Playdoh Lollipops
I recently came across this "playdoh" recipe that is not only okay but delicious for kids to eat! My children enjoyed the process... of mixing the dough, customizing the colors, rolling it out, and shaping it into lollipops... almost as much as they... More
FriFridayJulJuly8th2011
Is Secular Music Okay for Children?
Dear Betsy, Is it okay to expose our kids to secular music? They’re going to hear it anyway. -Rock On? Dear Rock, While it is true that you will hear every type of music even at the grocery store these days, it may not be what you would choose for... More
FriFridayJulJuly1st2011
A Working Mom
Dear Betsy, I'm a working mom who feels like I really need to work at this time. My job carries our family's health insurance and our budget necessitates my income. How do I juggle a full-time job with managing a home and being a wife and mother? I... More
WedWednesdayJunJune29th2011
Newly Designed Website!
Welcome to our newly designed website! At Entrusted Ministries, we seek to come alongside churches, families and individuals as they build on the only solid foundation of Jesus Christ. Do you sometimes wonder how the Bible applies to real life? Is... More
FriFridayJunJune17th2011
Child-Crafted Dad's Day Gift Ideas
Father's Day is just a couple of days away! Need some fun, inexpensive gift ideas? Here are some easy ways to help kids show their love and appreciation. Dad's Coffee. Have kids create a Coffee mug for Dad using enamel paints on a white mug (which... More
WedWednesdayJunJune8th2011
Crossing Cultures with Entrusted
We'd like to introduce you to Mingshu, a mom who recently took the Entrusted with a Child's Heart study. Although she took the class here in the States, she originates from China. Here is what she had to say (in her own words) about the Entrusted... More
MonMondayMayMay30th2011
Summer Fun
Summer is quickly approaching at my house…The countdown is on until my daughter completes Kindergarten, which means our family is on the brink of our first summer break now that we have entered the “school years” phase. I am approaching this season... More
TueTuesdayMayMay24th2011
Seeing God at Work -- Family Conference, Moody Church
Dave and Betsy Corning were invited as guest speakers this past May for the "Your Marriage Your Family" Parenting Group from Moody Church. This group met in Lake Geneva, WI for a family retreat where the Cornings shared biblical truths about... More
TueTuesdayMayMay17th2011
Parting Words
On my wedding day, I remember waiting with my Dad outside of the chapel. As we watched the last of the bridesmaids go down the aisle ahead of us, I tried to take a deep breath but could go no deeper than shallow. I’m still uncertain if it was the... More
FriFridayMayMay6th2011
Best Answers from Our Moms
Dedicated to our Moms, who always seem to know the right thing to say... Happy Mother's Day! Mom's Answers: Wait til your father gets home. Wash you hands first. You can only control your own actions. Cover your mouth. Not in your good clothes...... More
WedWednesdayMayMay4th2011
Mother's Day Tribute
Mother's Day is a wonderful time to honor our mothers and the sacrifices they make to love us well. Here is a tribute submitted by one of our readers. We hope it will encourage others to express their love and gratefulness to Moms everywhere! Dear... More
FriFridayAprApril29th2011
Biggest Loser, Conclusion -- Greatest Gain: Christ Alone
Just this past weekend our family had the incredible blessing to spend Easter weekend all together, at the federal prison. As our 6 kids (now ages almost 4 to 17) and I made the very long, over 8-hour drive out of state on Good Friday, it gave me... More
WedWednesdayAprApril27th2011
Crisis of Faith
My teenage son recently was faced with a very difficult decision about dating an unbelieving girl. Would he follow the “logical,” conventional wisdom of his peers (which was perfectly in line with his sinful heart), or would he swim alone, against... More
SatSaturdayAprApril23rd2011
Biggest Loser, Part 11 -- Major Gain: My Identity
By the winter of 2011, our family was getting adjusted in our new home and surviving through another series of special holidays - Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s - all without the presence of my husband and their much-missed dad. On February... More
FriFridayAprApril15th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 10 -- Major Gain: Our House
By the spring of 2010, our family was adjusting to our new lives – one without the physical presence of a husband for me and of a father for our 6 children. We “successfully” survived the first year of my husband’s incarceration, but not without... More
TueTuesdayAprApril5th2011
Laundry, Laundry, Laundry!
Every family has it. Some of us like to let it pile high throughout the week before tackling it all in one or two days. Some of us prefer to wash smaller loads each day. And some of us like to just close our eyes tightly and wish for the Laundry... More
FriFridayAprApril1st2011
Teaching our Children to Memorize Scripture
At Entrusted, we strongly believe in the importance of memorizing Scripture. In fact, it’s a big part of both our Entrusted with a Child’s Heart resources and our upcoming Get the Word Out resources. We also believe that it is important to be... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch29th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 9 -- Major Gain: Our Insurance
By November 2009, I was beginning to accept and adjust to my reality as a “temporary single mom” with six kids, as I began to see glimmers of hope in our crisis. The Lord replaced our marriage as we knew it with the “gain” of a more God-centered... More
FriFridayMarMarch25th2011
Don't Forget
Kids' homework assignments. Tonight’s dinner. Grocery store items. The laundry that still needs to be folded and put away. Work deadlines. And my daughter’s permission slip for next week’s field trip. These are a few of things that my mind has been... More
FriFridayMarMarch18th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 8 -- Major Gain: My Job
Just like God was replacing the loss of our marriage as we knew it, with a new and stronger foundation set on Him alone through this difficult period of incarceration and separation, I began to see a similar pattern in other areas of my life. After... More
MonMondayMarMarch14th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 7 -- Major Gain: Our Marriage
My husband’s first year in prison was the most difficult for all of us. As a (temporary) single mom of 6 kids, there were so many unanswered questions and a multitude of adjustments to make - physical, emotional, social, financial and spiritual. The... More
SunSundayMarMarch13th2011
Seeing God at Work -- Meadows Baptist
On March 8th, Betsy and her assistant Nancy McDonaugh visited the moms of Meadows Baptist Church where Entrusted with a Child's Heart has been offered for the past three years. Nancy's mother, Leona Barnes (pianist for Meadows Baptist and piano... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch8th2011
Meet Carsten and Simeon
One of our Entrusted with a Child's Heart moms recently sent us some video clips of her adorable sons Carsten (age 4 1/2) and Simeon (age 2 1/2) showing us some of the songs they have learned from Entrusted's Scripture Memory CD ! We'd love for you... More
MonMondayMarMarch7th2011
Seeing God at Work - First Baptist Church in Elgin
We'd like to say thank you to the ladies of First Baptist Church of Elgin, IL who welcomed Betsy and Nancy to their Entrusted class earlier this month. Special thanks to Nancy Farquhar (mother of 8!) who hand-knitted a prayer shawl for Betsy and... More
FriFridayMarMarch4th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 6 -- Major Gain: My Identity
During the fall of 2009, I was forced to accept the hopeless circumstances of my mind-boggling reality. I just could not believe that I was now an unemployed, (temporary) single-mom of six kids with a husband in prison, facing foreclosure. In... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch1st2011
What's the Latest?
Ever had a doctor ask you when your last cholesterol check was and you just glazed over? How are we supposed to remember such things when it's challenging enough just to remember the size of every growing foot in the family! After one occasion of... More
TueTuesdayFebFebruary22nd2011
Biggest Loser, Part 5 -- Major Loss: Our House
By September 2009, our “new normal” was beginning to set in. The autumn season provided a fresh school year with the older two starting freshman and sophomore years in high school, our third child beginning 7th grade in middle school, a... More
FriFridayFebFebruary18th2011
"I was just..."
Andrea was enthusiastically looking through some drawers at her grandma's house. She had a plan in mind to help set the table. As she was digging in the drawer, her mom instructed, "Andrea, that's enough. Shut the drawer." Andrea, however, kept... More
TueTuesdayFebFebruary15th2011
Dear Readers...
Dear Readers: We have come to a point in our Read Through the Bible Challenge reading that may seem to get bogged down with heavy details and repetition. We need to keep in mind that the book of Genesis spans from Creation to 1804 B.C. (with the... More
FriFridayFebFebruary11th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 4 -- Major Loss: Our Insurance
July 2009 was when I hit rock bottom in my journey as a “temporary single mom” with six kids. Unemployment and the lack of a daily routine along with all the kids at home for summer vacation was a recipe for disaster. As I attempted to balance my... More
WedWednesdayFebFebruary9th2011
Seeing God at Work - Davenport, Iowa
Having just traveled through the snowstorm of the decade to arrive back in Chicagoland, Betsy and Nancy wish to thank the women of Harvest Bible Chapel - Davenport for having us as their guests. Last week Betsy addressed their Monday evening and... More
FriFridayFebFebruary4th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 3 -- Major Loss: My Job
Since my husband’s departure on February 17th, 2009, I became a (temporary) “single mom” with six kids (ages one to fifteen) literally overnight. Two teenagers, one middle-schooler, and three toddlers. One girl and FIVE boys. The first thought that... More
WedWednesdayFebFebruary2nd2011
Snowflake Maker
I recently read a wonderful book with my daughters called The Story of Snow by Mark Cassino. It gives a simple, clear explanation of how water vapor is drawn up into the atmosphere and under the right conditions produces snow crystals. The... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary26th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 2 -- Major Loss: My Marriage
Continued from Biggest Loser -- the story of one Mom's journey of hope through devastating loss. Tuesday, February 17th, 2009 was a cold and bleak morning in every sense of the word. It was the last day I saw my husband as a free man. At 5:30am, he... More
SatSaturdayJanJanuary22nd2011
Sharing from our Abundance.
Do your kids outgrow their clothes and toys in less time than it takes you to drink your morning coffee? Try keeping their rooms and closets organized more easily by placing a "To be Donated" storage tote in a central location in your house (laundry... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary19th2011
Biggest Loser, Part 1 -- A Different Way to Measure Life
The year of 2010 has been a season of extreme loss for many of us. Personally I have never faced such a dark season. My time of loss started about two years ago in 2009. I never thought in my wildest dreams (or in this case, “nightmare”) that I... More
SatSaturdayJanJanuary15th2011
Curfews
What do you do when your teenager stays out late and yet you and your husband like to go to bed early? Here's an idea you can try. Set a special alarm clock near your bedroom for 5 minutes after your child's designated curfew. When your child comes... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary12th2011
Who?
"Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you." Romans 16:6 This simple verse which appears to not say much, says so much about God. We don’t know who Mary is or what she did. Mary, whoever she was, appears in a long list of people to greet in Rome. She... More
SatSaturdayJanJanuary8th2011
2011 Read Through the Bible Challenge
Looking for a great way to dig into God's Word this year? Then join us in our 2011 Read through the Bible Challenge . We will be reading through the Bible chronologically at about 3-4 chapters a day. This takes most people only 15-20 minutes a day... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary5th2011
"Purse-suit" of Order
Are you constantly digging in your purse for a little piece of paper to make a note? Or do you find a crumpled phone number at the bottom of your purse that you've been searching for, for a month? One great way to eliminate this frustration is to... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember30th2010
The "Corning Top 10"
Every year at our house, as we approach the end of the year, we like to pick the "Corning Top 10" things that we are thankful for from the year. We make a simple list that includes all the significant events of the year. And before we start to... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember28th2010
2010 at a Glance!
We've been busy this year! And we're excited to share the many ways that God has been working in and through Entrusted Ministries with each of you, our friends and faithful supporters. As the year comes to a close, we are praising God for all of the... More
ThuThursdayDecDecember23rd2010
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel...
God with us. I am coming to understand that all of life is a love story. It is the tale of God’s love and anguish as He pursues us and waits for our response. In the beginning of time, He created Adam and Eve, and there were no barriers to obstruct... More
MonMondayDecDecember20th2010
Photo Nativity
Looking for a fun activity to do with your children over Christmas break? A great gift for the Grandparents? Here's an idea you can do with your family that will inspire your kids to think more deeply about the very first Christmas and the reason we... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember14th2010
Remember the Name!
If you know what the word "flannelgraph" means, you probably grew up in church like me. You know the stories as well as you know your own phone number, and you can find a Bible verse as quickly as someone can say "charge!" Or perhaps you didn't... More
FriFridayDecDecember10th2010
Splash Event with HBF Wives
I had the pleasure this past month to share Entrusted with a Child's Heart with this year's Harvest Training Center Wives. The Harvest Training Center is the church planting school of Harvest Bible Fellowship for pastors who will be planting Harvest... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember7th2010
Do You Really Know Me?
I stopped in the doorway catching my breath as I carefully lowered the final moving box onto the kitchen floor of my new apartment. This simple and somewhat musty rental was on the third floor of a large, old white house in a small city of... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember30th2010
Rest for the Weary
Have you ever come to the point of absolute exhaustion? Not just for a day but for a complete season of life? You are busy with so MANY things and you finally hit the wall…mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually. You are depleted. You are... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember23rd2010
With a Heart of Thanksgiving
For those of you who have taken the Entrusted with a Child's Heart class, you may be familiar with the list of benefits God heaps upon His children. Lesson 8 lists 24 wonderful ways that God provides for families who trust in Him. As part of your... More
FriFridayNovNovember19th2010
Giving of Thanks
Have you ever felt depleted as a mother? Exhausted, as if you just couldn't give any more? Certainly we all have. We're heading into the season that can be especially taxing on a mother. The Bible says in Psalm 127:2, "It is vain for you to rise up... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember16th2010
Blueprint for Family Life
Have you been taking an Entrusted class this Fall? If you have, you know the first memory verse is Psalm 127:1 which says, " Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman keeps awake... More
SatSaturdayNovNovember13th2010
Mr. Sticky and Mrs. Freshandfluffy
Having trouble wiping sticky faces and fingers? This is one of our favorite family cleanup solutions that we have done for years and years. You're not going to believe this, but I have a rag that is over 30 years old. Yes, it's raggedy and frayed!... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember9th2010
The Definition of Life
I once heard someone who was in the midst of some heavy caregiver responsibilities say, “I just don’t have a life anymore. When this is finished, and I get my life back...” I was shocked, but the truth is that I could relate to her. There have been... More
FriFridayNovNovember5th2010
Thinking Time
As little ones begin to outgrow their afternoon nap time, it is still beneficial for them to enjoy some time alone each day. When our children reached this age, we established a daily Thinking Time as a way to train them to quiet their thoughts and... More
TueTuesdayNovNovember2nd2010
Becoming Independent
I had another child leave the nest this year - three down, three to go. As I reflect back on the journey that took my son from a completely dependent baby to a self-sufficient, fully grown man, I am filled with wonder. Wasn’t it just yesterday that... More
FriFridayOctOctober29th2010
Pumpkin? What pumpkin?
Here's a Fall recipe that's easy to stir up with your children for a quick afternoon snack. Little ones will enjoy the yummy chocolate goodness while parents will love the wallop of fiber and vitamins concealed in each serving. Pumpkin? What... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober26th2010
What will your statement be?
“This Fall we’ll go to a Bears game.” These words casually spoken a few months back land solidly in your child’s memory. They bank on them as a promise and look forward with great anticipation to their fulfillment. Imagine their dismay and hurt... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober21st2010
True Woman -- Fort Worth 2010
Once again our staff had the pleasure of attending the True Woman Conference – this time in Ft. Worth, Texas. It was a special blessing as we heard from Kay Arthur, our own James MacDonald and many others who challenged and encouraged us from God’s... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober12th2010
Who's Influencing You?
This morning after dropping my children off at school, I sat down with a cup of coffee, logged into my Facebook account, and began reading the statuses of friends in my newsfeed. As I read through some of their uplifting thoughts, weekend plans, and... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober12th2010
Non-Negotiables
At every season of life, it is important to define 5 to 7 non-negotiables. Non-negotiables are those foundational commitments that you make to your family that "come what may" you will hold firm to them. Understandably, at times life will... More
TueTuesdayOctOctober5th2010
Busy, Busy, Busy!
“I just feel overwhelmed!” It’s a common refrain heard from busy moms. With all that we juggle every day - from our hectic schedules, rebellious toddlers or teens, struggling marriages (or singleness), to daily bill paying, grocery shopping, and... More
SatSaturdayOctOctober2nd2010
Capture it!
My parents did a great job of preserving memories for my brother and me in photographs. Fun pictures by our front steps and beside the occasional grassy Alabama snowman chronicle our growth. They also memorialize my green bell bottoms and toothless... More
WedWednesdaySepSeptember29th2010
True Woman -- Indianapolis 2010
Over the weekend of September 24-26th, some of the team from Entrusted Ministries traveled down to Indianapolis for the True Woman Conference. The ministry of Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Revive our Hearts does a fabulous job of encouraging Christian... More
FriFridaySepSeptember17th2010
The List
“If you didn’t know you needed it before you saw it, then you probably don’t need it.” (A quote from Dave Corning, Betsy’s wise husband) If a child believes they need something and you agree, the item goes on "The List." The next time you are at the... More
WedWednesdaySepSeptember15th2010
Worshiping God in a Minivan and Other Unusual Places
In this wonderfully full season of parenting, I find that my worshipful thoughts toward the Lord sometimes take a backseat to more pressing concerns -- such as which daughter’s turn it is to eat her cereal out of the Strawberry Shortcake bowl...... More
ThuThursdaySepSeptember9th2010
Scripture Memory CD
Check out this fun method for hiding God’s Word in your heart in a format that’s great for the whole family. Lead vocals and music by Josh Caterer. SONG SAMPLES: Psalm 127:1 TRACK LIST: Psalm 127:1 2 Timothy 3:14 Psalm 85:8 Deuteronomy 6:6-7 1... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember7th2010
Pearly Whites
When I took Isaiah and Samuel, then three- and two-years old, to their first dentist appointment, we were shocked to learn that they had nine cavities between them both. I felt embarrassed in front of the dentist, receptionist and other moms in the... More
TueTuesdayAugAugust31st2010
Planted
A couple of weeks ago someone I know was doing a major landscaping overhaul. They unexpectedly gave me 4 large hydrangea bushes along with about 15 other uprooted plants. I was grateful... but wondered whether I could keep them alive in the middle... More
FriFridayAugAugust27th2010
Calling All Moms!
Now that the kids are back in school, how about some “Mom Time” ? Learn what the Bible says about parenting and family life. Share the journey with other moms in a small group setting Scripture-based insights on every page Organized in manageable... More
WedWednesdayAugAugust18th2010
An Uncommon Cold
I had a cold. I mean a COLD. I don’t get usually get sick; in fact, I hadn’t had a common cold in a few years. But this cold was unlike all others and left me barely enough strength to get through our home schooling and the household chores. There... More
FriFridayAugAugust13th2010
Entrusted with a Child's Heart MEN'S Group
After 12 years as a “Moms Only” Ministry, Entrusted with a Child’s Heart has now officially crossed the gender barrier! The first “Entrusted for Men” group recently completed the entire study at 6:30 on Saturday mornings! They were led by none other... More
TueTuesdayAugAugust10th2010
Inexpensive Family Activities
Looking for a few more activities to round out your summer? In this time of economic crisis, money for family fun may be limited. But that's okay, here are some fun yet budget-friendly activities that our family has enjoyed. Visit a shop or factory... More
FriFridayAugAugust6th2010
Leadership Training
On Friday, July 30th, Entrusted held a leadership training event at our home church of Harvest Bible Chapel in Elgin, IL. We were pleased to host women’s ministry leaders not only from local churches but also from the states of Minnesota and... More
TueTuesdayAugAugust3rd2010
Will You Tie This for Me?
In these days of Velcro shoe fasteners and other latest things, are we losing the fine art of tying a shoe and other simple skills? We no longer darn socks, we just buy new ones. We forget how to add we just use a calculator. Who needs to learn how... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly27th2010
Praying for Others
“Praying for another person is like touching God with one hand and touching the person with the other," explains Jim Cymbala in his book When God's People Pray. While reading through this book with my small group, I came to realize how often I stop... More
FriFridayJulJuly23rd2010
Dinner Pants
Have you ever thought of an invention that you think the world must have? My daughter and her husband think that their idea of "dinner pants" is a household necessity. Adam and Emily have four children eight and under. They have mentally invented... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly20th2010
Discipline
I hate disciplining my daughter. It’s exhausting. She was born with autism and a very strong will, and she just doesn’t understand discipline. The negative consequences of punishment for wrong behavior aren’t strong enough to overcome her will. Nor... More
FriFridayJulJuly16th2010
Monthly Tasks
A good way to remember those once a month tasks (i.e. giving the dog his heart worm medicine, adding salt to the water softener, touching up paint on a finger printed wall, etc.) is to do them on the date of your birth each month. For instance, if... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly13th2010
What Am I Forgetting?
You know the feeling - you're all finally loaded in the car for a trip to the pool, and you just have that sense that something's missing. You rack your brain trying to figure it out, and when nothing comes, you eventually head off to your... More
FriFridayJulJuly9th2010
Entrusted at My Church...
The following is a recent letter written to Entrusted Ministries from an EWACH Leader. It is shared with permission from the author... We recently finished our second year of Entrusted with a Child's Heart at our church, and it was a great year. We... More
TueTuesdayJulJuly6th2010
Glow-in-the-Dark Christians
My girls love their bright pink glow-in-the -dark soccer ball. They will frequently take it into our pantry, shut the door, turn out the light, and stare at its greenish glow. One day the soccer ball was left in the dark pantry overnight. The next... More
TueTuesdayJunJune29th2010
More than Enough
I have always struggled in the area of self-sufficiency. I know in my heart I need the Lord but sometimes I find that I still rely too much on myself. One day in my Bible reading, I ran across this verse in Hosea and it deeply convicted me. Hosea... More
FriFridayJunJune25th2010
Training Children to Stand Strong
One of the favorite verses my husband and I claim for our children is Jeremiah 15:17 which says, "I did not sit in the circle of merrymakers nor did I exult. Because of your hand upon me, I sat alone, for you filled me with indignation." As we raise... More
TueTuesdayJunJune22nd2010
Place of Abundance
As a mom, one of the most challenging things I do is find creative ways for my children to realize their capabilities. Sometimes it only takes a suggestion. Sometimes it involves creating a circumstance they just “walk into.” And then there are a... More
FriFridayJunJune18th2010
The Idea Jar
“Mom.... I bored!…” Have you heard it yet this summer?... I have. One day while my children were happily playing, I used the time to brainstorm a list of things I thought they’d enjoy doing. Later, I wrote these ideas on colorful strips of paper,... More
MonMondayJunJune14th2010
Women's Retreat at Calvary English Chapel
On May 14-15, 2010, Betsy was invited to speak at the first annual Women’s Retreat for Calvary English Chapel, held in Schaumburg, IL. The theme of the retreat was “Everyday Counts.” Betsy shared biblical insights on subjects of tremendous... More
WedWednesdayJunJune9th2010
One Small Step... One Great Goal.
Parenting qualifies for the toughest job, the most invisible payback, and the longest commitment in my book. Finished in 18 years? Not a chance. Likelihood of your children “rising up and calling you blessed?” Rare, maybe after you die. My daughter... More
FriFridayJunJune4th2010
Traffic Jam of Children's Artwork
Do you have a traffic jam of children's artwork trying to make its way to your refrigerator? If so, try taking your children's beautiful art pieces to a printer (Office Max or Kinko's). Here you can have the art reduced down to a 4 x 6" size that... More
TueTuesdayJunJune1st2010
Whole Truth
“What’s milk made of?” my 5 year old daughter asked recently. “Hhmm… Well, I’m pretty sure that milk is made of… milk,” I answered. After saying that, I started thinking about how unusual it is to see single ingredient foods these days. I guess... More
FriFridayMayMay28th2010
Thank-you notes
When someone is kind enough to give our children a gift or do a service for us, it is important to write a note or make a phone call to thank them. In our family, we had a rule that these gifts should not be played with until the person who gave the... More
TueTuesdayMayMay25th2010
Heeling Power
I took my dog for a walk this morning. It’s not one of my favorite activities; in fact, I dread it. My 10-year old dog Maggie is sweet and well-behaved, but she’s developed some bad habits over the years that are not easy to break. I’ve never been... More
FriFridayMayMay21st2010
Taming the Tantrum, part 2
Some children are more prone to throwing tantrums, and the behavior may begin around 15 to 18 months. This needs to be addressed and corrected immediately upon onset so that it is completely done away with. They may test you for a few months, but if... More
TueTuesdayMayMay18th2010
Waiting on God
Waiting. Even the word makes us cringe. Waiting in traffic. Waiting for the doctor. Waiting in line. Waiting…waiting…waiting. It is a universal principle…none of us likes to wait! And yet waiting is a major theme of the Bible. Psalm 147:10-11 says,... More
FriFridayMayMay14th2010
Taming the Tantrum
Every spring, near the end of our ministry year, I visit our Harvest campuses for "Question & Answer" Day. I appreciate the thought-provoking questions that women submit which are a true reflection of their earnest desire to become godly wives and... More
ThuThursdayMayMay6th2010
Harvest University 2010
Over 1000 pastors, lay-leaders and ministry servants from 55 Harvest Bible Chapels and 50 additional churches gathered at the Harvest Elgin campus, April 19-21 for the annual conference called Harvest University. Our own Nancy McDonaugh stands at... More
SatSaturdayMayMay1st2010
True Woman -- Chattanooga 2010
Last month, Entrusted Ministries had the privilege of being a sponsor at the True Woman Conference held in Chattanooga, TN. As a team, we were blessed by the many speakers at the event, and also with the opportunity to meet women from all over the... More
SunSundayAprApril25th2010
20/20 Vision
Lightning cracked through the salty, early-morning air waking Tom and Jen. They jumped out of bed and hurried to the upper deck of their yacht to put down the sails and stow various deck items in preparation for the impending storm. Hours later,... More
FriFridayAprApril23rd2010
In Due Season
As hard as it may be to believe, some of my favorite gifts have been things that I have had to leave behind when we have moved. It all began when we first moved into a historic house with giant maple trees lining the street and dotting the yard.... More
TueTuesdayAprApril20th2010
The Excellence Award
Go beyond verbal praise and make great memories too by creating an Excellence Award for your family. You can make a handmade plaque, create an award from poster board, or even give new life to an old trophy (thrift stores have lots of these). Slip... More
FriFridayAprApril16th2010
First things First
A common phrase in our house was, "Do the things you have to do first." You can ask any of my kids today and they will still tell you that this was a phrase they heard often. We want to be teaching our children to develop a good economy of time.... More
TueTuesdayAprApril13th2010
Spilled Milk
It was a busy Wednesday morning, and I was trying to get my three young toddlers out the door and into the car for our Entrusted with a Child’s Heart Small Group, which would promptly start in 30 minutes. I just set all three boys down for a quick... More
FriFridayAprApril9th2010
Bullseye!
Did you know that you create a target for your child's behavior? You determine how large it is by what you will accept from them. You might want them to hit the bullseye, but you accept behavior "close to the mark" or "not so close to the mark."... More
TueTuesdayAprApril6th2010
What's Cooking in Your Family?
Sometimes I’m so hungry while watching the Food Network that I can almost smell the garlic sizzling in hot butter while Giada prepares another mouth-watering creation on Everyday Italian . And ooh… wouldn’t we all love to dip our fork through the... More
SatSaturdayAprApril3rd2010
Clashing with the Relatives at Easter Dinner
Having the relatives for Easter Dinner? It is one of the greatest joys in life to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus with family and friends. Whether you go all-out fancy or prefer simplicity, the details of your hospitality create a... More
ThuThursdayAprApril1st2010
Extravagant Worship
Have you ever given an extravagant gift to someone? A gift so well thought out or hard-earned that it went above and beyond the expectations of the receiver? Just before His crucifixion, Jesus' friend Mary honored Him with a significant gift (John... More
TueTuesdayMarMarch30th2010
It Happened at our House
Ah yes, April Fools' Day. That day when every school-aged child discovers the license to stretch, bend or reinvent the truth for a full twenty-four hours with no likely penalty. Certainly the excitement of pulling off the bluff, “Your shoe’s... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch24th2010
Words that Edify
I find memories to be very curious stockpiles of retained experiences. You will have great memories with your children in which you can recall every detail and treasure the moment. But they will have their own memories and things that were of great... More
MonMondayMarMarch22nd2010
Leading the Way
In the years that I have facilitated Entrusted with a Child's Heart at our church, I have memorized and taught Deuteronomy 6:6-7 many, many times. “And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them... More
FriFridayMarMarch19th2010
Mom's Home!
Think about the amount of stuff that is brought into your home. Other than the day you moved in, what percentage of all the weekly items collected for the home, are brought to it by Mom? If your home is like mine, I find that I, Mom, bring about 90%... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch17th2010
Testing the Anchor
As we parent our children and practice biblical principles of discipline, we may still find that at various ages of development, many children will “test the anchor” to see if it will hold. They are testing to see if you will respond as you did in... More
MonMondayMarMarch15th2010
Messages
"Bing, BING, bing," my ringtone chirped. I instinctively reached in my pocket and pulled out my phone to read the new text message awaiting me. This familiar sound calls to me often throughout the day alerting me to incoming messages. My life is... More
FriFridayMarMarch12th2010
Make Travel Easier
When packing your kids' things for a trip or vacation, consider placing each day's outfit (including hair pretties, socks, undies, pants/shorts, shirt) in a large ziplock bag. Each evening, you just pull out the next day's bag for each child. They... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch10th2010
Hurry Up!
“I’m hurrying as fast as I can!” They may be "moving fast" but only because they waited until the last possible moment to "move". Procrastination can be a form of manipulation used by children. It can become a bad habit; a character weakness that we... More
MonMondayMarMarch8th2010
Choosing Worthy Role Models
“A lady always leaves a place nicer than she found it”. This was one of those things my mother was known to have said; one of those adages that made its way into the core values of my life. I recall my mother saying this to me, and my sisters as we... More
FriFridayMarMarch5th2010
Words of Encouragement
What a wonderful boost a word of encouragement can be! So many people crave verbal affirmation for their daily efforts, and when they receive even a small token of praise, their spirits are revived. This is even more true for our children. "...but... More
WedWednesdayMarMarch3rd2010
Mind, Will, and Emotion in Discipline
A biblical picture of the heart includes a child’s mind, will, and emotions. In our role as parents, we are charged with growing our children up in all three of these areas so that they will grow up to be committed to Christ. Anytime your children... More
MonMondayMarMarch1st2010
Strong Foundation
Although this weekend’s earthquake in Chile was considerably stronger than the recent one in Haiti, there were significantly fewer deaths. Experts are saying one of the reasons for this incidence is the stricter codes by which structures in Chile... More
FriFridayFebFebruary26th2010
Mom's Voice
Many moms feel like they are always shouting at their kids in order to be heard and they wind up exhausted at the end of the day from the effort. It is so important that your children learn to respond to your voice. They must be taught that your... More
MonMondayFebFebruary22nd2010
Whining Child. Whining Heart.
When our children were younger, we often needed to discipline them for whining. One day when I was feeling especially frustrated and overwhelmed by their high-pitched protests, God seemed to gently show me how I sometimes do the same thing with Him.... More
FriFridayFebFebruary19th2010
Hugs and Kisses
Do you show affection to your children every day (even several times a day)? And do they do the same to you? It does not have to be public. It may be a little kiss on the cheek before they jump out of the car or a hug the first moment you see them... More
WedWednesdayFebFebruary17th2010
Practicing the Presence of God
As you interact with your children, make God real and ever present at the earliest possible age. Talk to Him in their presence and talk about Him to them even before they can understand. Make the mundane moments (like diaper changing) occasions in... More
MonMondayFebFebruary8th2010
Focused Faith
“O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31) Have you ever struggled to trust God? I’m sure we all have. Most of us are quick to say that we trust Him…but when our circumstances require faith, do we lose sleep at night? Do we try to... More
WedWednesdayJanJanuary27th2010
Just Passing Through
Have you ever thought about how ironic it is that airports have terminals? When I think of the word terminal, I think of permanence. And yet, no one packs their suitcases and moves in at the airport terminal. Can you imagine? "We were on our way to... More
TueTuesdayDecDecember1st2009
Christmas Packages
Christmas is a favorite holiday for my family. I love wrapping gifts and displaying them under the tree several weeks before Christmas. But I have curious kids so I never put a card on the gifts. Instead, I make up a “code” for each child and write... More
ThuThursdayOctOctober1st2009
The 4 Gold Chores
We made the decision not to pay our kids for general chores because we prefer that as members of the family, they learn to help out around the house. But there are four things that I can't stand doing, and I am happy to shell out money to get them... More
TueTuesdaySepSeptember1st2009
Have a file or folder for everything
I thrive on being organized. A professional organizer once told me that organization is not necessarily being clean, but how fast you can retrieve something. For me, a file for everything is the easiest and fastest way to get to the information... More
SatSaturdayAugAugust1st2009
Pop Probation
Shopping for a family of five can be a full time job, especially when three are teenagers. When my kids were growing up, "Pop Probation" became a necessity in our family. Every month, I would buy all the soda, water, gatorade, vitamin water, etc.... More
WedWednesdayJulJuly1st2009
"Top 30" Scripture Memory Verses
"Top Thirty" Got to have them verses: 1. II Timothy 2:2 2. Ezra 7:10 3. Genesis 1:27 4. Isaiah 59:2 5. Romans 3:23 6. Romans 6:23 7. Hebrews 9:27 8. John 5:24 9. Ephesians 2:8-9 10. John 14:6 11. I Peter 3:18 12. Romans 10:9 13. I John 5:11-12 14.... More
MonMondayJunJune1st2009
Designated Cabinet for Great Gifts
I love finding great deals. I learned this from my mom who learned it from hers. Both my mother and my grandmother have a knack for finding great gifts for fantastically low prices. Now when I find a great gift at a great price, I buy it and keep it... More
MonMondayJunJune1st2009
Honoring Your Mother
Somebody said it takes about six weeks to get back to normal after you’ve had a baby… somebody doesn’t know that once you’re a mother, “normal” is history. Somebody said you learn how to be a mother by instinct… somebody never took a three year old... More
SunSundayMayMay10th2009
Greetings to the Women of Prescott, AZ!
We just met a great group of ladies at their annual women's retreat hosted by Harvest Bible Chapel of Prescott, Arizona. I had the privilege of speaking about God's outrageous blessings in our lives. The worship and drama were incredibly powerful... More
FriFridayMayMay1st2009
Why God Made Moms
Here are some cute answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions: Why did God make mothers? She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is. How did God make mothers? God made my mom the same like He made me. He just... More
SunSundayMarMarch1st2009
If I have a few minutes...
Here are some great ideas sent to us by a young mom to help make the most of your time throughout the day. She came to these thoughts through her time in God's Word meditating initially on a scripture passage in Ephesians and then on Proverbs 31.... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary1st2009
Milk in the Fridge/Gas in the Tank
No matter our season of life and how we are adjusting to find a new normal for that season, there are standards that we need to determine to keep. Dramatic changes will come, yet for every season there will be things that press in on you and try to... More
ThuThursdayJanJanuary1st2009
Height Chart
Once, when we moved to one of our homes, I remember saying to David, "That kitchen wallpaper has got to go!" Because I always planned to take that paper down, we began a fun height chart right on the wallpaper. It wasn't simply a growth chart of our... More
Applying Biblical Truth to Everyday Life
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