MOVIE REVIEW: American Underdog (Based on Rams Quarterback Kurt Warner)

 

AMERICAN UNDERDOG tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL MVP, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback for the St. Louis Rams. The film centers on Warner's unique story, including years of challenges and setbacks that could have derailed his aspirations to become an NFL player. But, just when his dreams seemed out of reach, it was the support of his wife, Brenda (Anna Paquin) and the encouragement of his family, coaches, and teammates that helped Warner persevere and reach his goals.

CLICK HERE TO SEE

"AMERICAN UNDERDOG" 

OFFICIAL TRAILER

MY THOUGHTS: To be honest, I am not a huge fan of football. However, that didn't affect my opinions of this family-friendly film at all. It kept my interest and was worth the watch. It wasn't really about football, but more about a young man who persevered through challenges and showed the world how anything is possible when you have faith, family, and determination. In that regard, I give it a thumbs up.

American Underdog will be in theaters on Christmas Day!

YOU CAN BUY TICKETS HERE:

AMERICAN UNDERDOG TICKETS

GIVEAWAY: Two (2) Fandango ticket codes to see American Underdog in theaters. To enter, you can comment on this blog post, making sure I have your contact information (you can e-mail it to me if you prefer). You can also comment on or LIKE the post on our Facebook page, or even send me a private message. There is a very short time-frame for entries this time. All entries must be received by Monday, December 20, 2021, at 12:00 Noon Central Time when a random drawing will be held. Limited to U.S. winners only. The winner will be notified by e-mail or Facebook Messenger.

Many thanks to Kingdom Story Company for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

#AmericanUnderdogMIN

#AmericanUnderdog

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

FILM CAMPAIGN: "David" by Sunrise Productions

 SUNRISE PRODUCTIONS is raising money to fund a new animated feature film about the David of the Bible! Think of how The Chosen was started - through a crowdfunding campaign. Now, there is an opportunity for you to help the rise of this new animated film about David - one that is believed to become the most-viewed animated film of all time by telling the story of David as you’ve never seen it before. 

David’s life was defined by his courage, faith and his love for God, along with his relatable humanity. As a shepherd, a poet, a warrior, and a king, he is one of the most inspiring characters in human history with an incredible "underdog" story. I'm sure everyone is familiar with how this shepherd boy took on a giant and won with God's help. But, his story is much more than that. David's life is a God-given story that can inspire us all to live more courageously, and love more generously. 

Here is a 5-minute demo of the film:

 

If interested in knowing more, check out this short introduction of the film below. From what I hear, the film includes the humor, music, and adventure of Tangled, paired with the biblical authenticity of The Prince of Egypt. It will be distributed by ANGEL STUDIOS, the same studio behind the success of The Chosen. 

 

I am looking forward to seeing this film. It looks fun and interesting and, as long as it is truly biblically accurate, I can see it becoming an impactful film for children of all ages, as well as inspiring to all who watch it.

USE THIS LINK TO INVEST: 

DAVID

GIVEAWAY:  One (1) autographed copy of the book, The Viiith (8th) Son, by Phil Cunningham, which was the inspiration for DAVID. To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL or a private message on Facebook with your contact information. Entries must be received by Wednesday, December 15, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 24 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. Limited to USA residents only.

WINNER:  Daneille S.

Many thanks to Sunrise Animation Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

#DavidMIN

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

FREE eBOOK: "25 Days of Christmas" by Arlene Pellicane of The Happy Home Podcast

Twenty-five days, starting on December 1st and ending on Christmas day - here's a FREE eBook download for busy moms (or anyone, really) who are interested in some practical activities to do with their families this Christmas season. 

The "25 Days of Christmas" devotional and activity eBook includes 10 devotionals (5 for Mom, and 5 for the kids), 10 fun family activities, and 5 easy ways to serve. I really like the ideas on ways to serve, (which can really be done as a family OR individually). The book includes ideas for serving family & friends, teachers, neighbors, and your community. 

NOTE:  Even though there are days of the month listed on each page, the activities in this eBook do not need to be done on any specific day, or in any certain order - unless you choose to do it that way. Just download it and have fun!  It is a practical guide of meaningful opportunities that families can use to connect with each other and celebrate Jesus together.

Begin creating special memories with your family today by downloading and reading through Arlene Pellicane’s “25 Days of Christmas” ebook. Its FREE, so why not? 

While you're at it, you can also check out The Happy Home Podcast on the AccessMore podcast network.

CLICK THE LINK BELOW:

25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Many thanks to AccessMore for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

#25DaysMIN

#25DaysofChristmas

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

REVIEW: God With Us: A Journey Home (A Children's Story Bible) by Jeremy Pierre

A unique children's Bible storybook, written by Jeremy Pierre and illustrated by Cassandra Clark. Unique because of the way Pierre uses the creative dialogue of two unnamed angels to cover the major stories in the Bible (one story/event in each chapter), taking us on a journey that highlights the presence of God in people's lives - past, present and future. The book does not avoid the sensitive subjects of sin and its consequences. It is meant to be real, and to give children an honest look at the overall theme of Scripture. It is meant to introduce children to the Gospel message, helping them understand how people were made to be in fellowship with God from the very beginning. It covers how we rebelled and were separated from God, how sin causes death and destruction, and how Jesus provided the only permanent way for us to be safely welcomed back into God's presence - not because of anything WE have done, but all because of His love for us. 

To be near to God

you cannot bring anything with you

to impress him

or to make you special in his eyes.

You are not special to God

because of your obedience to him.

You are special to God

because of his heart toward you.

~ p. 190 of God With Us

NOTE:  This book is not written is an easy-to-read, simplistic storybook format. Therefore, it may be a little challenging for children (especially younger children) to understand. However, parents/grandparents could still use it as a great tool to introduce the message of the Gospel (known as "the greatest story ever told") and use it to discuss God's presence in their lives. It is a book that could be read over and over, allowing children to learn and understand it more as they grow in their faith. 

SEE MORE INFO & FIND BUY LINKS HERE:

God With Us: A Journey Home

GIVEAWAY: One (1) physical hardback copy of God With Us. To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. Limited to USA residents only. 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Shepherd Press for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and not influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

#GodWithUsMIN 

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

MOVIE REVIEW: 10th Anniversary Edition of "Courageous" from the Kendrick Brothers - COURAGEOUS LEGACY

Ten years ago, the movie COURAGEOUS opened in theaters across the world. It was (and still is) a terrific movie, filled with heart-pounding action, laugh-out-loud humor, and powerful inspiration. It is especially geared to encourage fathers (and all men) to be men of integrity, but is a great movie for everyone in the family to see.

Now, ten years later, the Kendrick Brothers (creators of WAR ROOM and OVERCOMER) have brought us COURAGEOUS LEGACY, the remastered, special-edition release for a new generation. This updated version of the film includes an enhanced look and sound, along with new scenes and a new bonus ending. I feel the new ending was a great addition to this already impactful movie, and I think you will agree. So, gather your friends and family and get ready to head back to the theaters. 

You can see COURAGEOUS LEGACY in participating theaters, starting Friday, September 24th!

TRAILER

NOTE:  During the movie, there is talk of a "resolution" for Fathers that several of the characters decided to sign. You can download your own copy of the resolution here: RESOLUTION.

GIVEAWAY: Two (2) free tickets via FANDANGO to see COURAGEOUS LEGACY at a participating theater. To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. USA residents only. 

WINNER:  Chickie B.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Sony Pictures for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

#CourageousLegacyMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

DEVOTIONAL REVIEW: "Roar Like A Lion" by Levi Lusko (for ages 6-10)

 

If my kids were still young, I would highly consider reading Roar Like A Lion with them. I probably would have used it for morning devotions before starting our school sessions, or maybe my husband would have led us in discussion at the dinner table. Either way, this 90-day devotional would have been a great addition to our library. It is geared for ages 6-10, so older kids/experienced readers could read it on their own, while less experienced readers can enjoy some one-on-one time with a grown-up, or the entire family can benefit with some read-aloud family devotion time. The lessons are good for all ages to learn from, but specifically cover topics for kids such as:    

• Facing fears about school and friendships
• Dealing with peer pressure and bullying
• Handling new challenges, disappointments, and grief
• Having courage to try something new 
• Understanding how we each fit into God's great story

As I read through some of the devotionals I noticed the colorful illustrations, and I like the way each two-page devotional is laid out. Each devotional includes a relevant Bible verse, an easy-to-understand devotional, and then a short focused prayer. As an added bonus, each devotional also includes a short section of either a "Did You Know" fact, or a "Get Ready to Roar" call to action; and, for an extra fun activity, kids can go through the book looking for anchors that are hidden in some of the illustrations. How many can you find? I challenge you to find out...

ORDER YOUR COPY HERE

GIVEAWAY: One (1) physical copy of Roar Like A Lion devotional.To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. USA residents only.

WINNER:  Linda T.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive the product in exchange for this review and post.

#roarlikealion
#RoarLikeALionMIN
#tommynelsonbooks

FILM REVIEW: Show Me the Father (Kendrick Brothers)

 

This film is not like the other movies made by the Kendrick Brothers. If you go to the theater expecting to be entertained by a heartwarming story like "Facing the Giants," or "Courageous," this is not going to be like that. It is the Kendrick brothers first documentary film, a compilation of various "father stories" shared by men of faith such as Jim Daly (Focus on the Family), Sherman Smith, Stephen Kendrick, and Dr. Tony Evans. Since it is a documentary, it may not be as engaging as the other movies have been, and younger children will most likely have no interest in it. But for teens and older, it is a good, inspiring film that highlights the fatherhood of God.

Everyone has a unique "father story." Some of us have wonderful, positive memories of our fathers, some have abusive and/or painful memories, some have no recollection of a father at all. No matter what your "father story" is, we are all given the opportunity to lean into the goodness of God, our Heavenly Father, and receive the love and attention only a good father can give. 

SHOW ME THE FATHER invites you to think differently about how YOU view your earthly father, and also how you personally relate to God. 

TRAILER:

Get your tickets today at SHOW ME THE FATHER MOVIE . It will be showing in theaters beginning September 10th!

 ~❤~

GIVEAWAY: Two (2) free tickets via FANDANGO to see SHOW ME THE FATHER at a participating theater on opening weekend. To enter, leave a comment on this blog post with your e-mail address, or on the post on our FACEBOOK PAGE, or send me a private E-MAIL with your contact information. Entries must be received by Saturday, September 4, 2021, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner will be contacted. You will have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. USA residents only. 

WINNER:  Karen H. 

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Sony Pictures for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#ShowMeTheFatherMIN
#ShowMeTheFatherMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

MOVIE REVIEW: When We Last Spoke

 

My family and I recently watched an award-winning movie, When We Last Spoke, based on a book by Marci Henna. The movie stars Melissa Gilbert (Little House on the Prairie), Cloris Leachman, and Corbin Bernsen - all great actors.

When We Last Spoke tells the story of two young sisters who are abandoned and raised by their grandparents. It is a heartwarming, and sometimes humorous, story that kept my interest and had a good message of forgiveness. Be sure to watch the lower left corner to see when the time period changes, as it jumps back and forth between 1967 and 1996. 

If you enjoy heartwarming, family-oriented films, don’t miss this one. You can watch it on AMAZON PRIME or visit the When We Last Spoke WEBSITE to find the other ways of viewing it on various streaming platforms or DVD.

Disclosure: Many thanks to "Last Spoke Partners" for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#WhenWeLastSpokeMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

NOTE TO SUBSCRIBERS of "He Holds My Right Hand"

Sunflower Fields at Sam Parr State Park

If you signed up to receive e-mail notifications for new HE HOLDS MY RIGHT HAND blog posts, there is a good chance you are no longer receiving them. 

As of July 1, 2021, the Blogspot platform (i.e. Blogger) stated that maybe some people would continue to receive notifications, but their explanations were rather sketchy.

I tried to transfer your e-mail subscriptions over to the MAILCHIMP platform, but was not successful at that. At some point, I may hire someone to do that for me; but, until then, if you wish to see new posts, here are some current options:

• You can follow the FACEBOOK PAGE for HE HOLDS MY RIGHT HAND MINISTRIES. I post links to new blog posts there. 

• You can Bookmark the HE HOLDS MY RIGHT HAND website on your computer, and click on it when you want to read it. (Here is a tutorial if you need it: HOW TO BOOKMARK A WEBSITE.)

• Follow through an RSS FEED.

• Follow me on PINTEREST.

I’m sorry if this brings any inconvenience. 

REVIEW: Gary LeVox's Debut Solo Album ONE ON ONE

If you listened to Country-Pop music at all over the past 20 years, you have probably heard a group called RASCAL FLATTS singing songs like "Prayin' for Daylight," "God Bless the Broken Road," and "Life is a Highway." I know I have heard them, and have enjoyed listening to many of their hits. But, the exciting news is that the lead singer and co-founder of this influential group, GARY LEVOX, has recently gone solo with his debut faith-based album ONE ON ONE. 

Over the years, Gary has always been open about his faith on and off the stage. He has touched many fans through his music, and also with his compassion. In this season of his life, he is taking the opportunity to bring even more encouragement to his listeners at a time when hope seems to be lost for many. Gary says this about the original song, THE DISTANCE (which was the first song written for this new solo EP):   

With the struggles and battles so many have gone through this past year and how they’ve taken over people’s everyday lives, it [The Distance] just felt like the true song of hope we need... With this song, the message we wanted to share is that our hope is not lost – it’s found on the cross; and with God, we can go the distance. Don’t ever give up.

ONE ON ONE released on May 21st from Big Machine Records. It also features other musical talents such as MercyMe, Breland, and Gary's daughter, Brittany LeVox. I have been listening to all of the songs and have noticed a mix of upbeat and catchy tunes, as well as some that are slow and meaningful. They are all good. 

You can stream the songs on You Tube, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, and other platforms, or use these BUY LINKS to purchase the digital EP album. One dollar of every purchase goes to fight human trafficking through the Tim Tebow Foundation. Enjoy listening!

GIVEAWAY NOTICE:  If you would like to win a signed poster by Gary LeVox, leave a comment  by Thursday, June 3, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. I'll randomly draw a winner from the entries. Only for USA residents please. 

WINNER:  Rhonda J.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Capitol Christian Music Group for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#GaryLeVoxMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

UPDATE for HHMRH Email Subscibers

Dear Readers of HE HOLDS MY RIGHT HAND,

If you are currently signed up to receive email updates from this blog, I want to inform you of a change... 

Previously, you had signed up using a subscription service from FEEDBURNER. Beginning in July, this service is being discontinued. So, I have begun the process of migrating your subscriptions over to MAILCHIMP instead. 

In the process of this transition, please bear with me if you receive more than one email, or if the emails don't make any sense. I am learning how to use this new subscription service. 

As always, thank you for reading.

GET A FREE TRIAL of VOOKS: Storybooks Brought to Life

Videos + Books = VOOKS

VOOKS is a streaming library of ad-free, kid-safe, animated storybooks brought to life to help encourage the love of reading in children ages 2-8 (or those in that developmental age range). 

I always loved reading Curious George books when I was young, and also read them to my own kids. In fact, you might still find a few sitting on one of our bookshelves, and you might still find me taking a peek at one every now and then. (Heh heh). So, naturally, I chose a Curious George book for my first Vooks book to read/watch. 

When the narrator reads the story, each word is highlighted as it is being read, so the reader can follow along. At the same time, the images are brought to life with animated movements and with sounds. It's a whole new way to read and learn, and it's fun! 

I also enjoyed reading/watching "Gossie and Gertie," and "Who Said Moo!" and I'm sure I'll look at several more along with my adult, special needs daughter. She loves going to the library a couple times per month and choosing books like these to read, so I think she will enjoy this website. I will introduce it to her soon. 

When you sign up for a subscription, you will also find downloadable lesson plans for these books.The plans include activity ideas related to each book, vocabulary words, discussion questions, fact sheets to help aid in teaching/discussion, and several worksheet options. What a great resource to have available for teachers and involved parents! 

An example of one of the activities for "Curious George Says Thankyou."

〰

Try Vooks for yourself by enrolling FREE

for 30 DAYS!

Click HERE to sign up!

Then, if you decide to continue with your subscription, the cost is $4.99 per month, or $49.99 per year. 

FYI:  I did not see any faith-based books. However, there are many fun, family-oriented and educational books to choose from. Check it out FREE today! You have nothing to lose! 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Vooks for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#VooksMIN

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#Vooks
#betterscreentime
#vookspartner

FILM REVIEW: My Brother's Keeper

 

ABOUT THE FILM:

MY BROTHER'S KEEPER is an intense, yet hope-filled, Christian film that shows the reality of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and how it can affect returning war veterans. It features T.C. Stallings (War Room), Keshia Knight Pulliam (The Cosby Show), Joey Lawrence (Melissa & Joey), and Robert Ri’chard (One on One).

MY THOUGHTS:

The story-line was decent and kept my interest. The acting was good also - not a "B" movie. It gave a good presentation of how faith in God can help us through our difficulties, specifically PTSD. Faith in God does not make the PTSD go away, but it gives us hope and can provide healing to our souls.

The film also shows how some people, including Christians, can get confused about God's love. They think God doesn't love them, or care about them, because He doesn't stop "bad things" from happening to them. In the film, the main character was ready to end his life because he had the wrong impression about God's love. But, God doesn't always give us what we want in life. He doesn't keep "bad things" from happening to good people. What He does do is provide Salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ, and gives hope where there is no hope. That is the greatest love there is! He also gives strength in our difficult days, and promises to never leave us alone. 

THINGS TO NOTE: (1) Salvation was explained with what appeared to be a Baptismal Regeneration view. (2) The film includes guns, shootings (during combat, and also during a drive-by shooting), a suicidal attempt with a gun, and intense yelling scenes. (3) The shooting scenes are not graphic, but could be a bit too intense for younger children. 

Go see MY BROTHER’S KEEPER when it comes out in theaters on March 19th, or find a church that is hosting it. You can host the film at your church through the FAITH CONTENT NETWORK.

GIVEAWAY:

One winner via random drawing will receive a digital link to view this film. If you are subscribed to this blog through e-mail or Facebook, you will automatically receive one entry in the drawing. For an additional entry (whether subscribed or not), leave a comment by Saturday, March 20th, 6:00 p.m. Central Time. If your name is selected, I will contact you through e-mail and/or Messenger, and you will have 24 hours to respond before I select a different name. (You must live in North America). NOTE: Since this is a theatrical release, the digital code will not be available until the film is released on home entertainment.

WINNER:  Jeremy H.

CONTEST OPPORTUNITY:

Enter to win 1 of 20 "The Greatest Warrior" Bibles, as well as a grand prize Zoom call with the lead actors in the film: T.C. Stallins, Keshia Knight Pulliam, and Robert Ri'chard! Enter here:  WARRIOR BIBLE

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#MyBrothersKeeperMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

FILM REVIEW: Church People

ABOUT THE FILM:

CHURCH PEOPLE is a nutty (in a good way) Christian comedy, paired with the underlying message of the power of the Gospel, and rediscovering your passion for Christ. It features Christian comedian Thor Ramsey, Stephen Baldwin, Donald Faison, and Joey Fatone.

Weary from the showiness and materialism that has overtaken his ministry efforts, Guy (Ramsey) goes on a journey to get back in touch with the heart of ministry and be a real role model to his youth group kids. He makes the difficult decision to cut short his speaking tour managed by his money-focused agent (Faison) after realizing his reputation had become more fame-based than Gospel-driven.

When Guy returns to regular youth ministry, he is asked to take part in a strange and potentially blasphemous stunt for the upcoming Easter service. Amid the somewhat chaotic life of managing his youth group, navigating an unexpected love interest, and being a new father to his grown daughter, Guy ultimately puts on a powerful presentation, sharing why we all need to put our hope in Jesus and not in ourselves. 

MY THOUGHTS:

The film was surprisingly good. The humor and plot kept my interest, so I wanted to see it through to the end; and the end was the most meaningful part. It is geared towards the church (the true church - the people) and includes an important message about how "gimmicks" do not give the Gospel more substance. Safe and good for families to watch together. 

Watch CHURCH PEOPLE in a theater or church near you, starting March 13th! 

For interested churches, you can also host the film at your church through the FAITH CONTENT NETWORK.

GIVEAWAY:  One winner via random drawing will receive a digital link to view this film. If you are subscribed to this blog through e-mail or Facebook, you will automatically receive one entry in the drawing. For an additional entry (whether subscribed or not), leave a comment by Saturday, March 13th, 6:00 p.m. Central Time. If your name is selected, I will contact you through e-mail and/or Messenger, and you will have 24 hours to respond before I select a different name. (You must live in North America).

WINNER:  Linda F.

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

#ChurchPeopleMIN 

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork 

#ChurchPeopleFilm

FILM REVIEW: Dolphin Island

DOLPHIN ISLAND is a Dove-approved-for-all-ages, family-friendly film. It covers the topics of courage, faith, and forgiveness.

ABOUT THE FILM:

After losing her parents at a young age, 14-year-old Annabel lives with her fisherman grandfather on an island in the Bahamas. She is happy and well-adjusted, and surrounded by loving neighbors and her "best friend" – a dolphin named Mitzy. A dilemma comes when her maternal grandparents arrive with a shifty lawyer and plan to take her back to New York with them.

MY THOUGHTS:

Without giving away too much of the story, I can tell you it has the same overtones as the 1960's TV series, FLIPPER, but updated to modern times. If you are old enough to remember this fun, family- oriented TV series, you know it involved an extraordinarily intelligent dolphin that was "best friends" with two main teenage characters, Sandy and Bud, and he often helped rescue one (or both) from a dangerous situation surrounding the sea. The TV series was entertaining and full of family values. It is the same with DOLPHIN ISLAND. While it may not be the best film I have ever seen, it was good, and I would recommend it for families and/or youth groups. You can even download a FREE 5-Session DISCUSSION GUIDE to help with group discussions. 

AVAILABLE NOW TO WATCH FROM HOME:

BUY LINKS 

GIVEAWAY:  One winner via random drawing will receive a digital link to view this film. If you are subscribed to this blog through e-mail or Facebook, you will automatically receive one entry in the drawing. For an additional entry (whether subscribed or not), leave a comment by Tuesday, March 9th, 6:00 p.m. Central Time. If your name is selected, I will contact you through e-mail and/or Messenger, and you will have 24 hours to respond before I select a different name. (You must live in North America).

IN ADDITION TO MY GIVEAWAY HERE:  You can enter on the DOLPHIN ISLAND WEBSITE for a chance to win a digital link also. 

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Entertainment Squad for providing a link for this movie review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. 

#DolphinIslandMIN
#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

REVIEW: Cubekins (Faith-based Cartoon Series for Children)

ABOUT THE SERIES:

CUBEKINS is a new Dove-approved-for-all-ages, family-friendly animated series geared for children ages 3-8. Created by two homeschooling dads and their families, it is a wholesome, faith-based show,  set in a small town (think Andy Griffith's "Mayberry"), and has many of the same characteristics as the Veggie Tales series. The main character is an active, seven-year-old boy named Kip who is exploring the ever-changing world around him, while learning more about our never-changing God.  

MY THOUGHTS:

I watched Episode 1:  Invasion of the Cubecumber with my adult, special-needs daughter. Her favorite show at the moment is "Remy & Boo" on Universal Kids, and honestly prefers that show over Cubekins. However, she did enjoy watching it. The show's colorful characters, and the songs, are what made it most appealing to her. She said she would watch it again. I, personally, thought the animation was a little peculiar at first with the characters being in the shape of cubes; but I quickly realized the shape is what makes the show unique from other animated shows. The story-line is creative, and I appreciate the inclusion of faith, prayer, and good family values. I also enjoyed the catchy songs. 

Click HERE for more testimonials. 

AVAILABLE NOW TO RENT/BUY:

You can rent/buy the first episode on the CUBEKINS WEBSITE, or other streaming platforms (such as God Tube, Vimeo, Christian Cinema, Redeem TV, Amazon Prime, and Salt Flix).

On the website, you can also sign up to be a Fan Member and receive exclusive content, such as a printable coloring book, bonus videos, and a full-color "Kip Loves God" Reader.

GIVEAWAY:  One winner via random drawing will receive a digital link to view one episode of this new show. If you are subscribed to this blog through e-mail or Facebook, you will automatically receive one entry in the drawing. For an additional entry (whether subscribed or not), leave a comment by Saturday, March 6th, 6:00 p.m. Central Time. If your name is selected, I will contact you through e-mail and/or Messenger, and you will have 24 hours to respond before I select a different name. (You must live in North America).

WINNER:  Kelly R.

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Brainy Pixel for providing a sample of this series in exchange for this review and post. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. 

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DENISE PROSSER: From Fear to Faith

In this Guest Post from Denise Prosser, she shares about a time when she and her husband stepped out in faith in order to bring their daughter home from China. Thank you for sharing, Denise! ~VS

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FROM FEAR TO FAITH

Denise Prosser 

“I tell you the truth, if you had faith as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” (Matt. 17:20 NLT)

“You know what we have to do,” my husband stated matter-of-factly. “I know what we have to do,” I replied. “I just don’t know how.”

There we sat at a crossroad with a monumental decision to make: Would we adopt the precious Chinese girl who was staying in our home on a hosting program? It seemed impossible, but God was clearly beckoning.

Just five weeks prior, God had requested a smaller step of faith: Agree to host her for four weeks. We didn’t know how to handle that financially, but a friend had challenged us, “If finances are the only thing holding you back, step out and watch God show up.” We stepped and watched God and His people reduce the $1,900 fee to $35!

Adoption is forever, and this cost was much greater, but we knew it was God’s will, too. The words of an adoptive dad echoed in our ears, “This is every bit as much a spiritual journey, as it has anything to do with adoption.” So, we leapt... and show up, He did.

He revealed a plan for our family to minister gospel music in churches, teach about adoption and orphan hosting, tell our story, and take up love offerings. This yielded several thousand dollars. A neighbor designed a t-shirt for a special fundraiser. A stranger gave me a $20 winning lotto ticket in the Wal-Mart shoe aisle. Another stranger hugged me and stuffed a $100 bill in my hand in the Aldi’s parking lot, stating that she was “just doing what the Lord told me to do.” Our community put on a wonderful benefit dinner for us. God used His people again and again.

Bit by bit, God met each next step with the finances it required. Time after time, He provided in the eleventh hour, in ridiculous ways. Step by step, God cleared the way to make this little girl our daughter.

We made that decision in July of 2015. God turned fear to faith as we walked, and He turned that faith into provision. Nine months (and 400 pages of paperwork) later, we boarded a plane for China to bring our daughter home! God was faithful through it all, though our steps were often tentative. Thanks be to God; fear didn’t stop God’s plan. 

REFLECT:

1. Can you think of something big God has asked of you?

2. How did He help you conquer your fear so you could answer His call?

3. What are you currently facing that requires extra faith?

4. What can you do, or ask of God, to grow your faith toward obedience?

 

Denise Prosser is from Lakewood, IL. She has been married for almost 22 years and is a mom to 4 daughters, ages 11 to 19. Denise has experienced great variety in motherhood: (1) how she became a mom - both biological and adoptive, (2) how she educated her kids - public, private, and home education, and (3) the various physical, emotional, and developmental issues her family has encountered. Her passion is motherhood. Her vision is to educate, equip, and encourage moms toward raising godly families. Her hope is to walk with women toward freedom, learning, and healing, as they grow in their relationship with Jesus. 

Read more from Denise at:  STAND AND SING

REV. DAVID STANKUS: Intercessory Prayer

Sharing a short article about intercessory prayer by my husband, David. This came from one of his past sermons. ~VS

INTERCESSORY PRAYER

 ~ Rev. David J. Stankus ~

Colossians 1:9-12 (NASB) - For this reason we also, since the day we heard about it, have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all perseverance and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

Intercessory prayer is prayer for others. But, we see in Colossians 1:9-12, it seeks for more than just physical needs to be met. Here, in Paul’s intercessory prayer, he asked for deeper, more fundamental needs. He asked for them to: 

• know God’s will (v. 9)
• walk in a Christ-like manner (v. 10)
• be pleasing to God in every way (v. 10)
• be fruitful in every good work (v. 10)
• increase in the knowledge of God (v. 10)
• be strengthened, persevere, be patient, and give thanks (v. 11)

So, as we intercede for others, we need to go beyond the superficial requests, and beyond just the physical needs. We need to pray for their spirit as well – that they will have a spirit of joy, even in the midst of their trying circumstances. This is the kind of prayer that truly intercedes for someone. It meets the foundational needs of their lives. 

Make it a point to intercede in this way for your church members, your church leaders, our nation’s leaders, and for those who are unsaved. 

PASTOR DANIEL MCINTOSH: Because of God’s Past Faithfulness, I Can Trust Him for the Future

I am sharing an article recently written by my brother, Daniel McIntosh, the Pastor of Fish Creek Bible Church in Booneville, KY. He has some encouragement for us to consider as we face our struggles today. Thank you for sharing, Daniel. ~VS

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A few summers ago, the Christian youth camp where I worked had the theme, "Because of God’s Past Faithfulness, I Can Trust Him for the Future." It was based from Psalm 100:5 - “For the LORD is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.” (ESV)

Considering our past and seeing what God has done, where He has taken us, and how He has been with us, we can trust God with all that we go through. 

I recall that Spring we had strong winds bringing much damage; homes losing parts of their roofs; trees destroying property. Yet, God faithfully protected the camp. Trees did not damage the buses lying next the them. Not one dent. No major facility was damaged, including the recently built new chapel and dining room.  God protected, showing His faithfulness. 

Scripture shares many times where God protected and showed faithfulness to those who have trusted Him. Some examples include:

• Adam and Eve sinned, and God still showed love as He provided clothing and promised a way to reunite mankind back into fellowship with Him. 
• God used Joseph to inform the king of an upcoming famine, leading to salvation of the twelve Israelite tribes as they did not starve. 
• Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego trusted God, even to the point of death, and were spared in the flames.

With many examples in Scripture, examine your life.  What has God taken you through?  How has He helped you? 

Hebrews 13:5b encourages us that "God will never leave us, nor forsake us." No matter what is going on in our lives, we can know God is with us. We can trust Him, even in the midst of our struggles, trials and tribulations. 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Heb. 13:8 NKJV).  Because of His past faithfulness, we can always trust Him with anything and everything.

Pastor Daniel McIntosh

Fish Creek Bible Church

Booneville, KY

FILM REVIEW: Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare

Release date (DVD & VOD): January 26, 2021

At first, I didn't want to watch this movie. I knew it would make me feel uncomfortable, and I didn't want to feel that way. But, then, I thought, "What if promoting this video could help just one family become more aware of the horrors of human trafficking. What if it saves just one young person from becoming the slave of a demented panderer." After all, January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, in case you didn't know; and, so, I agreed to do this review. 

ABOUT THE FILM:

TRAFFICKED: A Parent’s Worst Nightmare is new feature-length drama directed by Joel Paul Reisig, and written by Reisig, George Sunders, and Scott Voshel. It is a "gritty" no-holds-barred story based on real-life events that have been experienced by too many families. It dramatically portrays how the lives of families are uprooted by the abduction and trafficking of a child. 

Bob Elder, President of Collide Media Group, shares this: "Awareness is the first step towards putting an end to these atrocities in our world. Trafficked is a heart-pounding feature film reminding us of how urgent this topic is and why we need to act now."

STORY LINE:

Allison Riley (Sophie Bolen) is a beautiful young girl with a bright future and a dream of becoming a veterinarian. On the eve of her 16th birthday, she sneaks out of her house to meet a handsome boy she met online, and then disappears. Her parents, Joanna (Kristy Swanson) and Case (Mark Boyd), contact the police who assume that Allison is just out with a boyfriend. The parents, then, reluctantly hire Private Investigator John Belton (Dean Cain) who has a reputation for making his own rules. Belton quickly discovers Allison had likely been trafficked by a handsome young man she met online, and that he’s on a race against time if the Rileys ever hope to see their daughter again. 

TRAILER:

 

MY THOUGHTS:

What this movie is NOT:  

• Not a "feel good" movie 
• Not really a faith based movie, aside from having a couple church/prayer scenes
• Not family friendly, meaning I would not recommend it for younger children

What it IS:

• Gritty (meaning it contains some graffic physical violence, mild language, drug use, and insinuating sexual scenes that would not be appropriate for younger children.)
• Informative about human trafficking, and the heartbreak it causes
• A movie that serves a specific purpose
• A good conversation starter among teen groups and families

This movie is not something I can say I "enjoyed" watching. But, I know its not really meant to be entertaining. It has a specific purpose, which is to cause awareness about the awfulness of human trafficking, and how a lot of teens get brought into it. It is devastating! And, not only to the teens who are stolen away, but also to the families. 

I recommend this movie for teenagers and their parents/guardians to watch together. It could produce a lot of questions, emotions, and conversations that parents should be a part of, if at all possible.

If it were up to me, I would have included more closure at the end of the movie. It was left open, and I felt like it needed to show more of the after-math. Perhaps this was intentional, to help spur on more conversation. Or, maybe they plan on making a second movie based around families who are recovering from situations like this. If so, I hope they also explain how faith in Christ can help victims and families be over-comers. 

 

GIVEAWAY:

I am able to give away a code to one e-mail address for a link to watch this movie in its entirety. If you are interested, please leave a comment on this blog post, or leave a comment (or a "like") under the post on our Facebook page: HE HOLDS MY RIGHT HAND MINISTRIES. Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. A random drawing will be held and the winner notified shortly after. Open to North America only.

PURCHASE LINKS:

Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

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18 Birthdays for Our Youngest Child

Eighteen years ago, David and I held our newborn son, our youngest child, in our arms for the first time. We thanked God then for this precious blessing, and continue to thank God today for giving Jonathan to us, and for making our lives a lot more fun...  

Take a walk with us down memory lane as we share a birthday photo from the past 18 years...

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This is the day the LORD has made. With all that is going on in our country, and in our world today, we choose to focus on the good things about this day. On this day, we celebrate the birth of our son, Jonathan. Thank you, Lord, for this day, and for the special gift you gave us. We love you, Jonathan! Happy Birthday!!