Companions During Change

Picture Book: It Will Be Okay: Trusting God Through                                      Fear and Change

Author: Lysa TerKeurst

Illustrator: Natalie Moore

Summary: Little Seed  

 and Little Fox

face great changes in this story. During a storm, Little Fox is afraid

and runs into the shed where Little Seed is kept in a packet on a shelf. Little Fox knocks the shelf, the packet falls to the ground, and Little Seed rolls out, confronting Little Fox immediately. 

Once Little Fox explains his fear, he asks if he can live in the shed with Little Seed. 

They become companions and are thankful for the Farmer who is good, kind, and watching over them. God is the Farmer in this story who keeps both characters safe but encourages their growth. 

Their trust in the Farmer is tested when he addresses Little Seed, saying “I have a wonderful plan for you...today is the day!” As Little Seed is planted, the Farmer says, “You can trust me.”

Little Fox looks for Little Seed 

until he hears Little Seed from the soil. 

Night and day, Little Fox stays beside Little Seed; both are scared and lonely even though the Farmer’s loving attention is evident. 

They learn to believe, “It will be okay.” Eventually, Little Seed pushes through the soil, becoming something new and amazing. 

 Little Fox greets Little Seed,  

and as seasons come and go, Little Fox grows too.

Both learn to trust the Farmer, knowing that God’s attention and loving kindness mean it will be okay.

Hanna’s Comments: This book is unusual among the 600 or so PBT books here on the website. It is a secular story with an obvious God character so it bridges that gap between secular and sacred texts. What I especially like is the subject. Trusting in God’s presence and wisdom in times of uncertainty or fear is a crucial message for children to hear at home and in their faith communities. This story will encourage talk about how change can be scary. Teach strategies that will remind your audience that God is present in all situations. God’s comfort can be experienced and hope for good results is possible. I really like the page near the front of this book that lists 10 Scriptures to Memorize with Your Kids. Lysa TerKeurst is the bestselling author of several books for adults, especially Christian women. You might have heard of The Best Yes, Made to Crave, and Unglued. You’ll find her website [here].

Original Publisher & Date: Tommy Nelson, 2014

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 4 and up, Pre and up

Formats other than Book: Tablet

Scripture Connections: Any one of the ten scriptures listed near the front of this book.

Idea(s) for Application: Read this book to a group of children in your faith family in a lesson on trusting God or feeling God’s comfort during uncertainty. Emphasize the importance of having supportive companions.