Pastor’s Picks – Recommended Resources

These are recommended resources that we have been personally encouraged and challenged by and hope they do the same for you. It’s been said before that great leaders are readers, and we are committed to regularly reading through our Bible and never stop learning. May the Lord bless you as you grow! -Pastor Tim Molter

Dads and Sons by Dr. James Dobson

Dr. James Dobson give us a timeless and insightful book that explores the complex and often challenging world of raising boys. As a renowned psychologist and family expert, Dr. Dobson shares his wisdom and experience on how to navigate the journey of fatherhood and help boys become confident, capable, and compassionate men.

Boys need guidance, support, and encouragement as they navigate the journey to manhood, and that fathers play a critical role in shaping their sons’ identities and values. Through practical advice, real-life examples, and biblical principles, Dr. Dobson shows how fathers can:

  • Build strong relationships with their sons
  • Foster a sense of masculinity and identity
  • Encourage emotional intelligence and empathy
  • Model integrity, responsibility, and leadership
  • Help their sons navigate the challenges of adolescence and young adulthood

The book is not just a guide for fathers, but also a reminder of the significance of male role models in shaping the next generation of men. Boys need to be encouraged to take risks, develop resilience, and cultivate a sense of purpose, and that fathers play a critical role in modeling these values.

How to get this resource:

See if the book is available from your local library – It’s free (Minnesota Viking Library System)

Teaching from Rest (Amazon) at: https://www.amazon.com/Dads-Sons-James-C-Dobson/dp/1414388217

Teaching from Rest (A Homeschooler’s Guide to Unshakable Peace) by Sarah Mackenzie

“Teaching from Rest: A Homeschooler’s Guide to Unshakable Peace” by Sarah Mackenzie is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that challenges the conventional approach to homeschooling. As a homeschooling parent, Mackenzie shares her personal journey of finding peace and rest in the midst of the chaos that often accompanies homeschooling.

Homeschooling should not be a source of stress and anxiety, but rather a journey of peace and joy. By focusing on rest, not just physically but also spiritually and mentally, homeschooling parents can cultivate a sense of calm and confidence that will transform their approach to education. Through practical examples, personal anecdotes, and biblical insights, Mackenzie shows how homeschooling parents can:

  • Let go of the need for perfection and control
  • Prioritize relationships over academic achievement
  • Create a peaceful and restful learning environment
  • Trust in God’s sovereignty over their children’s education

The book is not just a practical guide, but also a spiritual companion that encourages homeschooling parents to seek God’s guidance and wisdom in their educational endeavors. Education is not just about imparting knowledge, but about nurturing hearts and minds.

I highly recommend “Teaching from Rest” to any homeschooling parent who is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain about their educational journey. This book is a gentle reminder that homeschooling is not just about academics, but about cultivating a sense of wonder, curiosity, and love for learning.

How to get this resource:

See if the book is available from your local library – It’s free (Minnesota Viking Library System)

Teaching from Rest (Amazon) at: https://www.amazon.com/Teaching-Rest-Homeschoolers-Guide-Unshakable/dp/1600512879

Teaching from Rest (Christian Books) at: https://www.christianbook.com/teaching-rest-homeschoolers-guide-unshakable-peace/sarah-mackenzie/9781600512872/pd/512872