Finish Well

In “Fourth of July Liberty & Responsibility,” episode #234 for teens and homeschool parents, Meredith Curtis reminds us of the freedoms we celebrate on our nation’s birthday. Personal liberty comes with authority and responsibility alongside accountability to God. Families have freedom with accountability, too. And what about church and state? Dive into a refreshing look at what makes the United States of America exceptional.

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How do you spend Fourth of July? We’re going to visit our son and his family this year.

Fourth of July is a wonderful time to explore the freedoms that we have grown up with and take for granted. Personal liberty, freedom of speech, the right to trial by jury of your peers, and accountability of leaders to their citizens are things that many people throughout history have been denied. Where did freedom begin? Did it start with the Magna Charta? Or did it start even further back?

According to Samuel Rutherford, in his book, Lex Rex (Law is King), written in the 1600’s by a Presbyterian pastor, the Bible makes it clear that the law is king. Rutherford took an in-depth look at Scripture and history to prove this, shattering the popular philosophy of the “divine right of kings” to rule as they please.

Everyone is equal under the law. Reformation & the Divine Right of Kings.

Our political rights and freedoms go all the way back to the Bible, the source of our rights and responsibilities. In the Garden, Adam and Eve had autonomy.

God has all authority & He delegated that authority to individuals, family, church, and state.

Freedom of thought, speech, decision-making, writing. Freedom to own property, start a business, succeed, fail, fall in love, get married, stay single, follow God, not follow God, care for the poor.

God delegates authority & responsibility along with that freedom.  What is the responsibility of man? To follow the Lord, to honor him, walk in His ways.

Accountability for actions, behavior, and fulfillment of responsibilities.

Galatians 5 tells us how to handle our freedom in Christ.

Families are free to choose educational method for teaching children, how they raise their children, where they live, and who can part of their lives.

God delegates authority & responsibility along with that freedom.  What is the responsibility of family? To follow the Lord, to honor him, walk in His ways, to provide, protect, teach, raise children, clothe members, care for the poor, and care for sick & elderly.

Accountability for actions, behavior, and fulfillment of responsibilities.

Churches have freedom from God to assemble, preach the Word, teach their doctrine, preach the Gospel, worship, administer church discipline, choose leaders, choose leadership style, care for the poor, and mentor members.

God delegates authority & responsibility along with that freedom.  What is the responsibility of church? See above freedoms

Accountability for actions, behavior, and fulfillment of responsibilities.

Government has freedom to make laws and enforce them, protect the nation militarily, provide fair trial, protect individual & family & church freedoms.

God delegates authority & responsibility along with that freedom.  Accountability for actions, behavior, and fulfillment of responsibilities.

What is the responsibility of elected officials in USA (based on our form of government – Constitutional Republic)? To obey the Constitution, obey the law, lead with integrity, personal integrity, keep campaign promises, NOT take bribes.

What is the responsibility of citizens in USA (based on our form of government – Constitutional Republic)? Understand issues that face the nation, vote responsibly, walk in integrity, remove bad leaders from office, put good leaders in.

What can you do to protect freedom in our beloved nation?

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Summer Job Applications & Interviews

In “Summer Jobs Applications & Interviews,” episode #233, Meredith Curtis gives teens wanting to grab a summer job some practical advice for the job application and interview. Learn to put your best foot forward with confidence. Mae Smith, a talent acquisition specialist, joins her to give the interviewer’s perspective.

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Homeschooled teens often grab a summer job during the family break. If you are planning a summer job, put your best foot forward in the application process and the interview!

When you wade through applications, what stands out to you?

What communicates to you that the applicant will be who you are looking for?

Share some interviews that did not impress you.

Share some interviews that were impressive.

Common Questions Interviewers Ask

Do you have any more tips for getting hired?

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In “Computer Skills for Children,” Episode #232, Laura Nolette comes out of the background at the Finish Well Podcast to talk to you about an important life skill for your children. Computer skills are life skills. Computers are everywhere and our children are fascinated by all the flashing lights and fun sounds. They usually don’t realize how useful computer are. Let’s talk about working with children as young as 5-years-old to teach them actual computer skills.

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Ask most children, “what is a computer for,” and they’ll probably talk about games or watching movies.

Keyboard

Mouse

Monitor

Printers

Cameras

Memory vs. Storage

Everything is made up of files

A marble in a bag in a bag in a bag …

Writing

Saving

Printing

Stay Aware

Stay Safe

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In “God’s Promises for Homeschool Moms,” Episode, #231, Meredith Curtis invites you to grab hold of the Promises of God for your situations so you can get out of survival mode to rule and reign in Christ. Whether you are needing wisdom, feeling overwhelmed, struggling with guilt, or simply exhausted, there is assurance for you that the Lord is with you and will provide for you in each and every situation.

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Do you want to get out of survival mode? Stop feeling overwhelmed? A bubble bath won’t cut it. You need the promises of God!

Away all night with sick children or nursing baby. Juggling so many different hats that you can’t keep them straight? Weary from your children squabbling all day?

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary. And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. (Isaiah 40: 27-31 NASB)

Wondering what curriculum to use? Or how to help your children get along? Want ideas on how to keep the flame from dying out in your marriage? What vaccines to give your children?

But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 NASB)

We all go through trials and hard times, but sometimes life hits us curve balls that leave us devastated, unable to go on.

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NASB)

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Or is blameless (Psalm 84:11 NASB)

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.  (Romans 8:28 NASB)

Wondering how you’ll pay the bills this month? Or worried how your son will thrive with Autism? Hoping your teens won’t do the bad things their friends do? Or just worried about the education you are giving your children?

For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 NASB)

And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NASB)

Have you yelled at your kids and feel awful about it? Do you struggle stay focused and fell guilty later when things are undone? Maybe you still feel ashamed of the abortion you had as a teenager. Guilt and shame come in all sizes but God’s promises cover all sin.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9 NASB)

As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103: 12 NASB)

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. (Romans 8:1-2 NASB)

Merey’s testimony of standing on the promises of God.

Dueteronomy 28 and Isaiah 54.

Are you a believer in Jesus? If not here’s some Good News!

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In “Between Easter & His Ascension,” episode #230, Meredith Curtis walks everyone through what happened during the 40 days after Jesus rose from the dead until He gave the Great Commission & ascended into Heaven. Meredith shares passages to cover and ways to bring it alive for children, teens, and parents.

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Easter is often hectic for Christian families. Church services and special events enrich our faith and family get-togethers fill our joy tank, but they leave little time to dig into God’s Word with our kiddos.

If you weren’t able to go through the Holy Week story in the Gospels last week, do it this week. It’s not too late. If you’ve already done that, this is a great week to teach your children what happened next … after Easter!

Jesus answered Doubting Thomas’ faith Questions – apologetics.

Jesus appears to 2 of his disciples on the Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) – Emmaus Walk.

Jesus reinstates Peter (go over the story of Peter’s denial Luke 22:31-34). Jesus makes him breakfast & brings him back John 21:15-21) – Fish Fry.

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20 & Mark 16:14-20) & The Plan & Priority of Extending His Kingdom (Acts 1:8) – Suitcase Craft.

Jesus tells them to wait for the Holy Spirit. Prayer & Fasting.

Jesus’ Ascension (Mark 16:19-20 & Luke 24:51-53 & Acts 1:9-11)

Talk about the Power of the Resurrection

Celebrate Easter Devotions starts the Saturday before Psalm Sunday and follows the last week of Jesus’ life step by step. However, these devotions don’t end on Easter Sunday. The following week looks at his post-Resurrection days and final ascension. Be reminded this season of the Resurrection Power of Jesus available to His people today.

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In “Easter Traditions around the World,” episode #229, Meredith Curtis travels the globe to uncover unique and inspirational celebrations in other countries. It’s so fun to learn about people in other places, to see how they rejoice in their faith! You just might want to try some of these traditions with your own family or homeschool co-op.

Bringing Homeschool Joy to Families Everywhere!

Are you ready to travel the world to discover unique and inspirational celebrations in other countries?

Easter is during the fall instead of spring.

In Africa, Easter is celebrated from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday. Churches decorated with bright cheerful cloth, butterflies, flowers and more. The music is joyous with drums and dancing.

Celebrate Easter Devotions starts the Saturday before Psalm Sunday and follows the last week of Jesus’ life step by step. However, these devotions don’t end on Easter Sunday. The following week looks at his post-Resurrection days and final ascension. Be reminded this season of the Resurrection Power of Jesus available to His people today.

            Stations of the Cross

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In “Feminist-Free Living,” episode #228, Meredith Curtis celebrates Women’s History Month by taking a fresh look at femininity and feminism. What is the purpose and worldview behind feminism and where does it lead? Does God have a better plan? What is His plan for families? What is his plan for women? Teens and parents, what does this mean for you?

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Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month! We’ll talk about God’s plan for women in the beginning of time and what it looks like today in 2025.

Back to the Garden – Genesis 1 & 2.

Equal but Different

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28)

What is femininity?

Does feminism liberate women from an oppressive, evil patriarchy?

When I was in college, as a new Christian, I thought about taking some courses in women’s studies but when I noticed the mention of witchcraft, spirit guides, and female goddesses, I was turned away.

Or does feminism strip away the fundamental structures that give us stability, security, and purpose?

If you look back in time, Satan always wants to destroy the church and the family. Who is at the heart of the family?

Does feminism trick women into abandoning their God-given identity to serve a new world order and one of the oldest belief systems in the world?

If mom is not at home, the state can step in and raise our children. Indoctrination.

Women are valuable, worthy of honor, protection, provision, and listening to. Treat all women like ladies. Open doors, pay on a date, notice how they make your life better and thank them.

Be the man God called you to be. Lead, provide, protect, serve.

Encourage men to be knights in shining armor with your respect, kindness, and example.

Be the woman God called you to be.

God’s ways are best. Seek His face. Live for Him. You will not be sorry.

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In “24 Women Who Changed the World,” episode #227, Meredith Curtis celebrates woman’s history month with you this week. Let’s meet 24 women from the 20th century who impacted the world in a lasting way. These women are unique pioneers, heroes, or leaders. Though this list of women is far from exhaustive, it gives a glimpse of how one life can change many. I hope it sparks an interest to discover even more of the amazing ladies from the last century that have truly made a difference.

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Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month! We’ll meet a scientist, nurses, missionaries, writers, national leaders, teachers, businesswomen, an astronaut, a nun, and a watchmaker.

Marie Curie – The couple that works together – radium, polonium.

Edith Cavell – A British nurse who save British soldiers.

Jeanette Rankin – first woman US representative.

Agatha Christie – introduced the world to mysteries.

Mary McLeod Bethune – Christian teacher/ president of Bethune-Cookman College.

Gladys Aylward – A parlormaid who became a superhero!

Corrie ten Boom – first woman watchmaker in Netherlands & rescuer of Jews.

Irena Sendler – rescued 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto in Poland.

Golda Meir – first woman Prime Minister of Israel.

Queen Elizabeth II – the longest-reigning British monarch

Rosa Parks – refused to give up her seat on the bus to a white man.

Elisabeth Eliot – chose to forgive and love the fierce Auca tribe in Ecuador.

Lillian Hochberg – first female-founded company to be publicly traded on the American Stock Exchange.

Lucille Ball – pioneer in comedy.

Mother Teresa – lived a life of chastity, poverty, obedience, and wholehearted service to the poorest of the poor.

Ruth Bell Graham – released her husband to travel.

Edith Schaeffer – hospitable homemaker & theologian.

Margaret Thatcher – conservative MP & PM in UK.

Sandra Day O’Connor – first woman associate justice on the Supreme Court.

Sally Ride – first American women in space.

Condoleezza Rice – first African American women to serve as National Security Advisor (2000) and Secretary of State (2004).

Ruth Beechick – homeschool mentor in the early years.

Darlene Zschech – worship leader and songwriter.

Laura Ingraham – author, radio host, editor, and political commentator.

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In “Presidents Day Salute!” episode #226, Meredith Curtis introduces you to her favorite Commanders-in-Chief along with their leadership style and impact on the USA and the world. The President of the USA is the most powerful man in the world. Yet, it is a taxing job fraught with constant conflict, difficult decisions, and extreme escapades. Grab your teens (or grab your parents) to learn some valuable life lessons from American History.

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The President of the USA is the most powerful man in the world. Yet, it is a taxing job fraught with constant conflict, difficult decisions, and extreme escapades. Look at pictures of Presidents before they took office and after. Being the President ages you!

Not one to give eloquent speeches, people followed George Washington into battle because they trusted him as a man of faith, integrity, and wisdom. Boldly courageous, he treated everyone with respect and honor, making time each morning to pray and read the Bible. His humility and love for people inspired deep loyalty from people in battle, business, and later in politics.

Sickly as a child, Teddy worked hard to get healthy and strong. A cowboy and war hero, he served as a NY assemblyman and NYC police commissioner. Thrust into the Presidency from his position as Vice-President when President McKinley died, he roared into his role as President. Roosevelt’s leadership style was ACTION! He was always learning, reading, and writing books. He believed in fighting for what you believe in.

Calvin Coolidge became President when President Warren Harding died. Nicknamed Silent Cal, he was a man of principle, rather than charisma. Never flashy, he was responsible and thrifty. He vetoed every spending bill he thought unconstitutional bringing the deficit down to almost zero. He was also a good, decent man respected by all. During his years in office, he was one of the most popular Presidents to occupy the White House.

A war hero, General Eisenhower led the massive invasion of Nazi-occupied Europe that started on D-Day when Allies stormed the beaches at Normandy. President of the US was his first political office and was elected to two terms. He excelled at strategy calling for a civilian space agency (NASA), interstate highways system (modeled after Germany’s autobahn), and cold war peace through strength. As a leaders “Ike” was likeable, optimistic, humble, and purposeful. He took responsibility – “always be the first to apologize” and wrote an “in case of failure letter” before D-Day.

Ronald Reagan loved people and had the best sense of humor! He told jokes about communism to communist dictators. How’s that for the power of humor? He was uncompromising and put America first, earning the love of Americans and respect of all other nations. He restored conservative values and pride in being an American after a decade of disappointment. His leadership strength was folksy communication that resonated with people, vision casting, trust, and expertise.

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In “Valentine’s Day Fun for the Whole Family,” episode #225, Meredith Curtis answers the question: Is Valentine’s Day just about romance? Nope! It’s a great day to celebrate God’s love, family love, AND romantic love. Join me for some amazing and creative activities the whole family – from children to teens to parents – can enjoy together.

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Is Valentine’s Day just about romance? Nope! It’s a great day to celebrate God’s love, family love, AND romantic love. Join me for some amazing and creative activities the whole family – from children to teens to parents – can enjoy together.

Grab a few boxes of Valentines for kids and pass them out – 1 box per person. Everyone writes little notes to other family members and hides them in their rooms.

Make or buy heart-shaped cookies and happy decorating with frosting, candy, and sprinkles. Or bake a heart-shaped cake.

Make beautiful homemade Valentine’s Day cards or try other Valentine’s Day crafts like treasure boxes, pencil holders, mugs, or T-shirts.

St. Valentine was a real person who loved Jesus. Read the well-written beautifully illustrated The Story of St.  Valentine ​from Voice of the Martyrs. Or read my blog post: 3 Leadership Principles from St. Valentine. Or listen to my podcast: Will the Real Nicholas, Valentine, & Patrick Please Stand Up?

Grab some time together with your kids to talk about how God defines love. Use a Bible  concordance to look up verses on love. Read verses and discuss what they mean for your family.

Here are some great verses on love: Romans 5:8, Romans 8:35-39, I John 3:1-2, I Corinthians 13:13, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 15:9, Matthew 22:37-39, John 13:34-35, Luke 7:36-50, Ephesians 3:14-21, Galatians 5:22-23, John 14:15, Romans 12:10, I Timothy 1:5, I Corinthians 16:14, Colossians 3:14, and Hebrews 10:24.

Visit shut-ins at nursing home and pass out flowers or cards. Sometimes Valentine’s Day is hard for singles – surprise them at work or home with flowers, cookies, and/or cards.

Go on a hike together (walk or bike) and end your time with a picnic.

Mom and Dad can share a piece of their love story: how they met, how Dad proposed, or their wedding adventures. Be sure to include pictures.

Pull out the fancy lace tablecloth and good China. Have a delicious feast and wear your best clothes.

Play your favorite karaoke tracks – love songs or Christian songs – and sing along. If you’re not a big karaoke fan, try lip syncing.

A family game night is a great way to end the night!

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