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Sara Ella

November 12, 2013

Jesus Calling for Kids | Deluxe Edition

I’m a list maker. In fact, this blog post is one of many things on this week’s list of “things to do before going to Phoenix”. On top of that, I have two chapters to read and make notes on for my writer’s critique group and another book review due by Friday. I also need to get an oil change and wash the windows on my car.

Yes, lists are a part of everyday life. Whether you write them down like I do or just carry them around in your head, one thing is certain:

Lists are never complete.

Every time I check one thing off I add at least two more. I’ve folded the laundry, but it’s taken me four days to get to it. I’ve checked it off my list (finally!) but I already have to do laundry again!

Does it ever end?

Sometimes we spend so much time focusing on the things we can do, that we forget what the Bible says about such things:

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

The word for “cast” in the Greek literally means to “throw”. When I think of throwing something, I picture a swift action with some force behind it. It is something done with purpose, usually with a destination in mind. It takes effort to throw something. Giving up a list of things I can do isn’t something done easily. It requires a choice to rely on my Savior, knowing that He is the one who came to this earth so that I wouldn’t have to carry the burden of our my sin.

“For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:30 (NIV)

He’s the catcher behind home plate, just waiting for your pitch. Will you throw your burdens to Him today, trusting that He is the one who will catch and carry them?

callingToday’s entry in Jesus Calling for Kids: Deluxe Edition spoke so much to me as I looked upon my to-do list with dread. How would I ever get everything done without losing some hair in the process? I love what author Sarah Young wrote on page 330. Read this as if Yeshua (Jesus) is speaking directly to you.

“Next time, instead of measuring your day against what you think you can do, measure it against what you know I can do—which is anything! There is no such thing as a day too tough for Me…I already know everything you’ll face today. And I’ll help you face it…Look to Me for all you need. I promise I won’t let you down!”

Oh that I would rely on all Him today! Father, give me the strength to throw. Catch my burdens today. Amen!

Jesus Calling for Kids by Sarah Young is now available as a Deluxe Edition. The beautiful leathersoft cover makes this book a great gift, which is why I am so excited to offer Jesus Calling for Kids: Deluxe Edition to one of you! Simply enter via the Rafflecopter now through Monday, October 25th. One random winner will be chosen and emailed within a few days of the giveaway’s end. I will also post the winner on my Worth Reading page. Also, check out my full review of the Jesus Calling devotionals here.

How about you? What burdens do you need to “throw” to your Savior today? I love hearing from you! Until then, happy reading!

Yours in Messiah Yeshua,

Tommy Mommy PinterestS

 

Disclosure:

I received a copy of Jesus Calling for Kids: Deluxe Edition through the Tommy Nelson Mommy Program. I was not asked to write a positive review. All views and opinions expressed are solely and completely my own. I received no compensation other than a copy of the book featured in this post, which is mine to keep. This post also contains affiliate links. To learn more, please read my full policy.

Copyright © 2013 SaraElla.com

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14 Comments

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Comments

  1. Christa says

    November 12, 2013 at 11:14 am

    I definitely need to lay down my burden of being/becoming a “perfect” mom. It’ just ain’t gonna happen 🙂 And I’m tired of how I make my family feel while I’m pursuing that goal.

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 13, 2013 at 6:20 am

      What a great response, Christa. I think we all struggle with that. Just remember that the perfect mom is one who loves her kids and family. Leave the rest to Him!

      Reply
  2. Randalin says

    November 12, 2013 at 11:24 am

    I need to cast all my care on Him!!

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 13, 2013 at 6:18 am

      Amen, Randalin!

      Reply
  3. Laura Pol says

    November 12, 2013 at 3:34 pm

    Worry! One of the biggest things I struggle with!

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 13, 2013 at 6:18 am

      Ditto, Laura!

      Reply
  4. Genevieve Y. says

    November 13, 2013 at 3:48 am

    My worries about our finances! I definitely need to throw that burden to Jesus!

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 13, 2013 at 6:18 am

      I can totally relate, Genevieve:) Finances always seem at the top of my worry list.

      Reply
  5. Merry says

    November 13, 2013 at 6:45 pm

    I am burdened for some issues going on in my church

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 14, 2013 at 3:10 am

      I can relate, Merry. I’ll be praying for you:)

      Reply
  6. Amber says

    November 15, 2013 at 4:21 am

    Whew, so many, it’s hard to nail it down to one!

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 15, 2013 at 4:31 am

      Amen, sister!

      Reply
  7. angela B says

    November 16, 2013 at 4:30 am

    I need to leavd my “what’s next”questions with God instead of working out my own scenarios. God has our next steps already planned.

    Reply
    • Sara Ella says

      November 21, 2013 at 9:21 pm

      That’s so true, Angela. I need to work on this as well 😉

      Reply

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Sara Ella
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1st Place ~ ACFW Genesis Contest 2014 ~ YA Category

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1st Place in the Young Adult Category for 2013!

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About Me

Once upon a time, Sara Ella brought dreams to life as a Disney cast member, wishing for the day she’d find her prince and live in a castle of her own. Now she spends her days homeschooling her three Jedi in training, braving the Arizona summers, and reminding her superhero husband that it's almost Christmas (even if it's only January). Sara is the award-winning author of The Wonderland Trials, Coral, and the Unblemished trilogy. She is old enough for fairy tales and believes happily ever after is never far away. Read More…

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🗓️ MARK YOUR CALENDARS! I have a full lineup of b 🗓️ MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

I have a full lineup of bookish events this spring! I’d love to see you at one or all of these:

@storyconusa | Salt Lake City, UT | February 27 & 28 | Workshops + Interrogate an Author + Book Signings

@tucsonfestivalofbooks | Saturday, March 14 | 10:00–1:00 | Indie Author Pavillion 

@pvpllibrary Book Fest | Saturday,
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🍪 Food is my love language. Whenever we go out of 🍪 Food is my love language.

Whenever we go out of town, I’m already looking at menus ahead of time, planning what yummy things I want to eat.

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There aren’t many people in this world who tackle hardship with joy the way you do. You are a true example of what it means to “count it all joy” amidst trials. Even on your toughest days, you find ways to bless others and see God’s sovereignty.

I don’t know what I did to deserve you as my best friend all these years. But I do know that God brought you into my life because He knew my life would be richer and fuller and just all around better with you in it. He knew I would need someone to walk alongside me in good times and bad. Someone to encourage me during discouraging years like this one has been.

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Here’s to the woman who inspires me as an author, speaks truth into me as a wife and mom, and reminds me that God never leaves us and that His plan and timing are perfect. I love you, Bestie! Many happy returns for the rest of 2025 and the year to come! My life is better because I know you.

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You know I’m always behind on the trends, but I co You know I’m always behind on the trends, but I couldn’t resist doing this one for Disneyland. 

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Fun fact about this date: December 18, 1971 was the first ever Candlelight Processional held at Magic Kingdom. 🕯️

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🎨 Painted Edges Unboxing & GIVEAWAY 🎁

I’m so thrilled to finally be holding these beautiful painted edges for Glass Across the Sea in my hands. Bethany @hilltop_art made my vision for the most beautiful lighthouse come to life! And the details are even more stunning in person. From the lighthouse to the fireflies and cherry blossoms, I couldn’t be more in love!

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✍️ When did you first start writing? This is a c ✍️ When did you first start writing? 

This is a common question I’ve received in various settings over the years. The easy answer is, “I’ve always been a writer.” And it’s true. English was my favorite subject all through school, and I’ve never not loved reading.

But when did I actually start taking novel writing seriously? When did I really begin believing that I could pursue it and reach my dreams of having a published book in my hands?

That happened in my 20s. When I had a baby on my hip, and my mom’s health began to rapidly decline. She’d always said I was a writer. It’s why my first book, Unblemished, is dedicated to her. But the truth goes deeper than that.

My mom’s lifelong dream was to open a coffee shop. I suppose it’s part of why I love this beverage more than any other. She wanted to create a place where people could fellowship, eat, laugh, and, of course, drink all the yummy coffee. But she passed away before that dream became a reality. 

She had always put off her own dreams for us kids. She sacrificed everything for us. As a mom of 3, what she did for us holds so much more meaning now. But she didn’t want me to wait. She said I could do both. That if I put off writing a book until I had time or my kids were grown, I never would.

I don’t know if that’s true. Lots of people write books later in life and are highly successful. But her hope for my future stuck with me, and so, after she passed, I made a promise to myself that I would write a book and get a publishing contract by my 30th birthday.

Many of you know the story—3 days before my 30th, I got the call. My dream publisher at the time wanted my trilogy. 🥹 And the rest is history!

Now I have 7 YA fantasy and fairy tale novels on the shelf, I have the most amazing family at @enclavepublishing , and I’m blessed with encouraging readers and writers all around me.

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I’ll admit, I am very selective when it comes to the audiobooks I listen to, and probably even more picky regarding the narrators for my own books.

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🩷 Happy Small Business Saturday! When I first sta 🩷 Happy Small Business Saturday!

When I first started out on my writing and publishing journey, I never imagined my idea for a portal fantasy about a girl afraid to look in the mirror would lead to a decade of books, editing clients, mentees, and more.

I am truly grateful for every single manuscript I’ve had the privilege to edit. For every author I’ve mentored who has equally blessed me with encouragement and kindness. And this year especially, for every reader who took a chance by picking up Glass Across the Sea, and every Substack subscriber who has followed me on my new venture.

This year has ushered in many ups and downs. I’ve never seen so much grief and loss in the span of twelve months. I don’t know what the future holds for our family. I don’t know where God will have us in 2026. Every day brings its own struggles.

But I do know I am so grateful for each person who has blessed and supported my little writing and editing business in different ways. You have made a greater impact on me and my family than you know. And for that I’m humbled and thankful.

👉 Tag your favorite small business in the comments so we can spread the support and follow them! Some of mine include:

@mariposa.aristeo.art 
@jennethleed 
@writewithapro 
@nadinebrandes 
@enclavepublishing 
@cassieporathauthor 
@gracebought 
@music.with.noelle 
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@lamplighterliterary 

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