One of my readers wrote to me after reading The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch. She said that she found the book valuable because of its many teachable moments.

So I thought I’d take a moment and list some of these teachable moments for homeschooling mothers, teachers, and youth group leaders looking for a novel to use for instruction.

Overcoming Past Adversity: The story is about foster children who have all experienced past adversity. Benedict, the main character has the hardest time getting over his past. In fact, his fear stands in the way of his happiness.

Finding Strength in God: The biblical verse that carries this novel is Philippians 4:12-13.

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Every one can relate to this verse because we have all had our ups and downs. This novel demonstrates that with God strengthening us, we can get through the worst of times.

Staying Pure in Love: Tommy and Faden discover that they have an emotional interest in each other. But how do two Christian teens deal with their emotions? I love how these characters come together, and as their relationship develops, they teach young teens how love can grow without compromise.

Patience in Foster Parenting: Unconditional love is easy when the children are your own, but what about foster children? David and Martha Credence are the epitome of love and patience. How do they do it?

Holding onto your Faith in Times of Struggle: Martha and David teach their foster children about loving and understanding God. Their mantra is, “have faith.” But even those who are strong in their faith feel forsaken when trial follows struggle after pain.

Following Your Dreams: Even when your dreams seem unreachable, never let them go. Continue to strive for them. There are many moments in this book where a character questions their own dreams and abilities. But this story promotes following your dreams. They may be God’s gift to you and your way of glorifying Him.

Accepting Jesus Christ as Your Lord and Savior: This isn’t easy to do for Benedict. His fear is as strong as his faith is weak. This story doesn’t preach. It doesn’t tell the reader to follow Christ, but it demonstrates the pain when He’s missing in your life, and it reveals the joy that comes with opening your Heart to Him.

These are the main teachable moments that are offered in The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch. This novel provides additional opportunities for teachers and youth group leaders to use for instruction. If you’re using this book to answer other questions, please share them with us here.

If you haven’t read The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch, you can get your copy from this site.

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