Nat Theo Nature Lessons Rooted in the Bible

What is a Tasmanian tiger, and does it still exist? What did a herd of elephants do when their human friend passed away? Dr. Gordon Wilson invites us into the stories of those who protect God’s creation and helps us understand how we can do likewise.Here’s our trail map for today:How Did One Man Help Save Elephants in Africa?What Does the Bible Say About Taking Care of Creation?What Does Psalm 104 Say About God’s Wild and Domestic Creatures?What Is the Tasmanian Tiger And Is It Extinct?How Can We Help Take Care Of God’s Creation?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Watch the Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosAccess more resources in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Creation Care Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-taking-care-of-creation/Watch the new Riot and the Dance series on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/shows/riot-and-the-dance-seriesWatch The Riot and the Dance: Earth: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Dr-Gordon-Wilson/dp/B07LCTDW8S https://canonplus.com/tabs/discover/video-series/39009Watch The Riot and the Dance: Water: https://canonplus.com/tabs/search/videos/4154Books by Dr. Gordon Wilson:A Different Shade of Green: A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the Dominion Mandate: https://www.amazon.com/Different-Shade-Green-Biblical-Environmentalism/dp/1947644572Darwin's Sandcastle: Evolution's Failure in the Light of Scripture and the Scientific Evidence: https://www.amazon.com/Darwins-Sandcastle-Evolutions-Scripture-Scientific/dp/B0CJKV4V17The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Foundational-Biology/dp/1591281237Read Dr. Gordon’s articles on Answers in Genesis: https://answersingenesis.org/bios/gordon-wilson/articles/?gcbc_start=0&gcbc_count=72&sitehist=1738603541941Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Psalm 24:1 (NIV)“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good…” Genesis 1:31 (NIV)“God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.’” Genesis 1:28 (NIV)“The righteous care for the needs of their animals but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” Proverbs 12:10 (NIV)“The birds of the sky nest by the waters; they sing among the branches. He waters the mountains from his upper chambers... The trees of the Lord are well watered, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. There the birds make their nests; the stork has its home in the junipers. The high mountains belong to the wild goats...” Psalm 104:12-13, 16-18 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Tasmanian Tiger: A carnivorous marsupial native to Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea.  About the size of a medium dog. Believed to be extinct.Dominion Mandate: Our privilege and responsibility to take care of God’s creation, from Genesis 1:28.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

What would you do if you were charged by a rhino? What is it like to hold a wombat? Today we hear from biologist and filmmaker Dr. Gordon Wilson of the Riot and the Dance nature films and series. Join us for an adventure!Episode Links:Order Eryn’s book: The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Watch the new Riot and the Dance series on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/shows/riot-and-the-dance-seriesWatch The Riot and the Dance: Earth: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Dr-Gordon-Wilson/dp/B07LCTDW8S Watch The Riot and the Dance: Water: https://canonplus.com/tabs/search/videos/4154Books by Dr. Gordon Wilson:A Different Shade of Green: A Biblical Approach to Environmentalism and the Dominion Mandate: https://www.amazon.com/Different-Shade-Green-Biblical-Environmentalism/dp/1947644572Darwin's Sandcastle: Evolution's Failure in the Light of Scripture and the Scientific Evidence: https://www.amazon.com/Darwins-Sandcastle-Evolutions-Scripture-Scientific/dp/B0CJKV4V17The Riot and the Dance: Foundational Biology: https://www.amazon.com/Riot-Dance-Foundational-Biology/dp/1591281237Read Dr. Gordon’s articles on Answers in Genesis: https://answersingenesis.org/bios/gordon-wilson/articles/?gcbc_start=0&gcbc_count=72&sitehist=1738603541941Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

The smallest seed is the size of a speck of dust, but what plant does it come from? Discover the unique ways orchids grow from a microscopic seed to a beautiful flowering plant…with a bit of help from another species.Here’s our trail map:What Is the Smallest Seed?What Is an Orchid?How Does an Orchid Grow Up?Does an Orchid Have Leaves?How Can We Grow Up Into Christ?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Orchid Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-orchids-grow/Eryn’s wild orchid video on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erynlynumauthor/reel/CupX1cop-eS/Try CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then Jesus told another story: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man planted in his field. That seed is the smallest of all seeds, but when it grows, it is one of the largest garden plants. It becomes big enough for the wild birds to come and build nests in its branches.’” Matthew 13:31-32 (NCV)“...I tell you the truth, if your faith is as big as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. All things will be possible for you.” Matthew 17:20 (NCV)​​“Through his power all things were made—things in heaven and on earth, things seen and unseen, all powers, authorities, lords, and rulers. All things were made through Christ and for Christ.” Colossians 1:16 (NCV)“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” 2 Peter 3:18 (NCV)“Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:7 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Microscopic: Something so small we cannot see it with only our eyes. We need a microscope to magnify it so we can see it.Orchid: A flowering plant, or a plant that makes flowers. It comes in 28 to 30,000 different varieties, growing in many, many different places around the world including tropical areas, sem-desert, mountainous regions, ocean shores, and the tundra.Mycorrhiza: A group of fungus that grows and works with plant roots.Symbiotic Relationship: When two species have a close relationship, often helping each other, or one helping the other. Symbiotic relationships can benefit both species or only one.Relational: Relational means there is a relationship, connection, or bond between two people, creatures, or things.Photosynthesis: A process controlled by sunlight that puts things in a plant together to turn them into energy. Photosynthesis allows a plant to use the sun’s energy to make food.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

There were once around 60 million American bison in North America. How did that number fall to only a few hundred? And who helped save the bison? Discover North America’s largest mammal and its remarkable comeback story.Here’s our trail map:What is a Bison and Why Do They Have Four Stomachs?What Is the Difference Between a Bison and Buffalo?Why Did Bison Almost Go Extinct?How Did Bison Make a Comeback?Would God Forgive Those Who Hunted Bison?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Bison Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/the-amazing-comeback-of-the-american-bison/Join the Apologia Homeschool Science Fair: https://www.apologia.com/sciencefairExplore Apologia’s award-winning science courses: https://www.apologia.com/homeschool-science-curriculum/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (NIV)“I persecuted the people who followed the Way of Jesus, and some of them were even killed. I arrested men and women and put them in jail.” Acts 22:4 (NCV)“The God of our ancestors chose you long ago to know his plan, to see the Righteous One, and to hear words from him. You will be his witness to all people, telling them about what you have seen and heard. Now, why wait any longer? Get up, be baptized, and wash your sins away, trusting in him to save you.” Acts 22:14-16 (NCV)“We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved. … as the Scripture says, ‘Anyone who calls on the Lord will be saved.’” Romans 10:10,13 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Bovidae: Cloven-hoofed (split hoof) ruminating mammals.Cloven-hoofed: A divided hoof with two main points that look like toes, divided in the middle.Ruminant Animals: Animals with separate compartments in their stomachs and a unique way of digesting food, including chewing their food two times.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Keystone Species: A plant or creature that is very important for keeping other plants or creatures in its ecosystem alive. Extinct: A creature is no longer living on earth. There are no more of its species.Ecologically Extinct: A creature that still exists but no longer plays a very important role in their ecosystem, simply because there are not enough of them to fill that role as God’ intended.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Books and movies portray shape shifting characters, but those are fictional. Meet some true shape shifters: the octopuses. Discover how they rapidly change color and form not through fictional magic but by natural, God-engineered designs.Here’s our trail map:How Do Octopuses Change Colors?How Do Octopuses Change Shapes?What Is a Hairy Octopus?How Can We Be Careful of Mimicry in Life?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Octopus Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-do-octopuses-change-color/How to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastTry CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Sources used for research:Octopus and Squid: The Soft Intelligence by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Philippe DioleSecrets of the Octopus by Sy MontgomeryCephalopod Camouflage: Cells and Organs of the Skin by Ryan Gilmore, B.S., Robyn Crook, PhD, and Jacob L Krans, Phd.https://octonation.com/tiny-hairy-octopus/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” Matthew 7:15 (NLT)“But when the Spirit of truth comes, he will lead you into all truth…” John 16:13 (NCV)“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ.” Ephesians 5:1-2 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Skin Cells: Microscopic cells that build up together to create skin tissue.Chromatophore: Special skin cells with 18-20 muscles around them that pull and relax to reveal or hide colors inside the cells. The outermost layer of an octopus’s skin is made of chromatophores.Iridophore: Special skin cells with crystal-like structures (nanocrystals) that can reflect light and appear shimmering green, blue, pink, silver, or gold. These make the second layer of octopus skin.Leucophores: Special skin cells that scatter light and appear white, creating a blank canvas for other colored skin cells to appear brighter. These make the third layer of octopus skin.Invertabrate: Animals without backbones.Papillae: Skin bumps on an octopus that they can raise to rapidly change the texture of their skin.Hydrostats: Tightly packed, rigid muscles with fluid in them that support an octopus’s body and control their skin papillae.Mimic: To imitate or pretend to be something you are not.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Why do octopuses shoot ink out? And how many brains do they have? I’ll give you a hint…it’s more than one! These creatures might be called “aliens” by some because of their strange looks and behaviors, but they are not from another world. They are God’s wonderful creations!Here’s our trail map:What Exactly Is an Octopus?How Is an Octopus Born?How Many Brains Does an Octopus Have?How Does an Octopus Shoot Out Ink?Why Does the Bible Say We Are Like Aliens?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Octopus Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-many-brains-does-an-octopus-have/How to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastTry CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Sources used for research:Octopus and Squid: The Soft Intelligence by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Philippe DioleSecrets of the Octopus by Sy MontgomeryCephalopod Camouflage: Cells and Organs of the Skin by Ryan Gilmore, B.S., Robyn Crook, PhD, and Jacob L Krans, Phd.Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So God created the large sea animals and every living thing that moves in the sea. The sea is filled with these living things, with each one producing more of its own kind.” Genesis 1:21 (NCV)“O Lord, what a variety of things you have made!    In wisdom you have made them all.    The earth is full of your creatures.Here is the ocean, vast and wide,    teeming with life of every kind,    both large and small.” Psalm 104:24-25 (NLT)“Dear friends, you are like foreigners and strangers in this world. I beg you to avoid the evil things your bodies want to do that fight against your soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 (NCV)“People who do not believe are living all around you and might say that you are doing wrong. Live such good lives that they will see the good things you do and will give glory to God on the day when Christ comes again.” 1 Peter 2:12 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mollusk: A phylum (category) of animals that are soft bodied and have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have shells.Cephalopod: A class (smaller category than phylum) of mollusks including octopuses, squid, cuttlefish, and nautilus.Central Brain: The main brain or “control center” of an octopus’s nervous system. It is donut shaped and wraps around their esophagus.Ganglia: Clusters of neurons in an octopus’s arms. Each octopus has eight of these “mini brains” that can act on their own as well as send and receive messages to and from the central brain.Ink Sac: The organ that holds an octopus’s ink.Pseudomorph: A fake shape of itself some octopuses create with their ink to distract predators so they can make their escape.Melanin: A pigment (color) in the octopus’s ink. Melanin also colors our skin, hair, and eyes.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

What might it be like to be a lizard in the temple when Jesus taught? Or a sheep in the pasture when angels appeared to the shepherds to announce Jesus’ birth? Or a squirrel in a tree watching Jesus call Lazarus from the dead? Author and pastor Marty Machowski shares the Bible’s true stories through the creative lens of nature in the Redemption Tales series. Learn about the inspiration for his newest book, The Light and the Life, sharing true stories of Jesus’s life on earth through the creatures that might have been there.Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891The Light and the Life: https://newgrowthpress.com/upcoming-books/the-light-and-the-lifeOther books in the Redemption Tales series: https://newgrowthpress.com/search-results-page?q=redemption%20talesLearn more about Marty Machowski: https://martymachowski.com/Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

Have you ever heard of a bird delivering mail? Learn about the amazing homing pigeons that helped save human lives during wars, and how these pigeons find their way across hundreds of miles.Here’s our trail map:Why Were Pigeons Used to Deliver Messages?What Is Magnetoreception?How Do Pigeons Find the Right Address?Do Humans Have a Homing Instinct?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubHow to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastFree Pigeon Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/how-pigeons-navigateAsk your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askTry CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...He has planted eternity in the human heart…” Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT) “We know that our body—the tent we live in here on earth—will be destroyed. But when that happens, God will have a house for us. It will not be a house made by human hands; instead, it will be a home in heaven that will last forever.” 2 Corinthians 5:1 (NCV)“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!’” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Columbidae: The family of birds consisting of pigeons and doves.Domesticated: An animal that is trained and kept for human use.Magnetoreception: The ability of some creatures to use Earth’s invisible magnetic field to navigate.Magnetic Field: An invisible force around the earth created by the magnetic pull inside Earth’s outer core.Theory: An explanation for why things might happen or act a certain way. A theory is much more than a guess. It is based on observation, or what we see, and experimentation.Magnetite: One of the most magnetic naturally occurring minerals on earth.CRY4: A protein found in the eyes of some creatures that might allow them to sense or even see Earth’s magnetic field.Homing Instinct: An action of always returning home. Like special instructions God placed into the homing pigeon so it will always fly home.Homing Loft: A structure kind of like a nest where young homing pigeons are placed and always fly home to.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Parabo Press and CTCMath. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Have you ever touched a slug? Maybe it left its sticky slime on your finger. Why exactly are slugs slimy, and how does their slime help them survive? Meet one of the world’s slowest creatures, the Banana slug, on today’s episode.Here’s our trail map:Where Did the Banana Slug Get Its Name?Are Slugs Bugs?Why Are Slugs Slimy?How Does God Turn Our Disadvantages Into Advantages?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://erynlynum.com/club-videosGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubHow to make a homemade photo field notes set: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFYwsb4y_8X/Save $10 on an order at Parabo Press: https://www.parabo.press/?coupon=NAT10&utm_source=NatTheoPodcastFree Slug Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/banana-slug-factsSee a banana slug Eryn found in Washington: https://www.instagram.com/p/DA08SSDvPmm/Ask your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But he (God) said to me, ‘My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you.’ So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ’s power can live in me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NCV)“We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts. He gave us his love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Scientific Name: A name used around the world to help people know what a creature is. They are written in the Latin language and help scientists around the world know when they are talking about or writing about the same species of creature.Common Name: Like a nickname, and sometimes based on what the creature looks like. Common names are often easier to remember than scientific names, but they can be different from country to country.Mollusk: Soft-bodied animals that have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have shells.Gastropod: A category of mollusks including snails and slugs. Gastropod = “stomach foot.”Terrestrial Mollusk: Terrestrial can refer to land. A terrestrial mollusk is a mollusk that lives on land.Mucus: A slimy substance made by a body to protect certain parts of the body.Disadvantage: When there are unfavorable circumstances that make it hard to succeed or do well.Advantage: When conditions are favorable for success. Radula: A structure in the mouth of some mollusk animals with rows of microscopic teeth for scraping food off of a surface.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Parabo Press and CTCMath. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

What better way to wrap up our Wonderfully Made series than to hear from our listeners? Tune in for this very special bonus episode and always remember: You are wonderfully made!“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

What makes us smart? And how do our brains work? Is it possible for us to change our own brains? Discover all the amazing things happening inside your brain as you listen to this episode!Here’s our trail map:What Are the Parts of the Brain?How Does Our Brain Control Our Body?What Makes Us Smart?How Can We Use Our Brains How God Wants Us To?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Human Brain Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/gods-design-of-the-brain-for-kids/Try CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)“Do not be shaped by this world; instead be changed within by a new way of thinking. Then you will be able to decide what God wants for you; you will know what is good and pleasing to him and what is perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NCV)“​​Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do. Cerebrum: The biggest part of the brain, made of four lobes, where we do most of our thinking.Cerebellum: “Little Cerebrum.” Controls muscle movement.Brainstem: Connects our brain to the rest of our body, through the spinal cord, so our brain can send and receive messages to work with our body.Nervous System: A system in our bodies made of our brain, nerves, and spinal cord that sends and receives messages throughout the body so we can do everything we do.Neurons: Special cells in or used by the brain to help send and receive messages.Synapses: Tiny spaces between neuron cells where the cells communicate with each other and pass along information.Neurotransmitter: Chemical messengers used to pass information from one neuron cell to another.Neuroplasticity: The brain’s ability to form new or strengthen existing neuron connections. The brain can change and grow.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum, CTCMath, and Branch Basics. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Have you ever listened to or felt your heart beat? It’s an amazing sound, but what exactly is happening as our hearts beat all day, every day? Dr. Matthew Sleeth joins us to share about God’s amazing designs in the human heart.Here’s our trail map:What Is the Cardiovascular System?What Is the Heart Made Of?What Important Job Does the Heart Do? How Does Blood From Our Hearts Help Our Cells?How Can We Love God With All of Our Heart?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Blessed Earth - Biblically-based stewardship of creation: https://blessedearth.org/Reforesting Faith: What Trees Teach Us About the Nature of God and His Love for Us: https://www.amazon.com/Reforesting-Faith-Trees-Teach-Nature/dp/073529177224/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life: https://www.amazon.com/24-Prescription-Healthier-Happier-Life/dp/1414372280Almost Amish: One Woman's Quest for a Slower, Simpler, More Sustainable Life: https://www.amazon.com/Almost-Amish-Womans-Simpler-Sustainable/dp/1414326998/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature The Ology: Ancient Truths, Ever New: https://www.amazon.com/Ology-Ancient-Truths-Ever-New/dp/194257228XHuman heart coloring page: https://erynlynum.com/human-heart-facts-for-kids/Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubListen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)“Create in me a pure heart, God, and make my spirit right again.” Psalm 51:10 (NIV)“Trust the LORD with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5 (NCV)“Jesus answered, ‘Love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’” Matthew 22:37 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cardiovascular System: The system God designed that pumps blood through our bodies using the heart organ and blood vessels.Heart: An organ made of muscle that pumps blood through our bodies.Oxygen: An element that fuels our bodies and keeps us alive. The heart pumps blood, full of oxygen, through our bodies.Blood Vessels: A system of tubes that carries blood through our bodies.Carbon Dioxide: A molecule made from oxygen and carbon. Our bodies create carbon dioxide that needs to be exhaled (breathed out) from our bodies. Our blood helps carry carbon dioxide, a waste product, out.Pericardium: A thin sac full of fluid that protects the heart muscle.Endocardium: An inner lining in the heart that protects the heart muscle and its chambers and valves.Myocardium: The actual muscle that makes up the heart.Mitochondria: The organelle (“little organ”) inside our cells that acts as a power plant for our cells.Red Blood Cells: Cells in the body that do not have a nucleus. They have iron (metal) and carry oxygen.Lungs: An organ that inhales and exhales, bringing oxygen in and out of our bodies.Aorta: The body’s largest artery (like a big tube) that carries blood full of oxygen from the heart to the rest of the body.Coronary Arteries: Arteries (like tubes) that carry blood to the heart.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum and Branch Basics. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Dr. Matthew Sleeth was a doctor who believed only in science… until science failed him. When science could no longer answer his deep questions, he went searching for answers elsewhere, and he found them only after stealing a Bible.Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Blessed Earth - Biblically-based stewardship of creation: https://blessedearth.org/Reforesting Faith: What Trees Teach Us About the Nature of God and His Love for Us: https://www.amazon.com/Reforesting-Faith-Trees-Teach-Nature/dp/073529177224/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life: https://www.amazon.com/24-Prescription-Healthier-Happier-Life/dp/1414372280Dive in deeper with the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615

Have you ever coded anything? Discover the code inside your body that is more detailed than any human-made technology! Learn how this code carefully copies itself to wonderfully build your body by God’s design.Here’s our trail map:What Is a Nucleus? What Is DNA?How Does DNA Create Our Bodies?What Is Inheritance?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Human DNA Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/dna-lesson-for-kidsExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Try CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Romans 3:23 (NLT)“12 Sin came into the world because of what one man did, and with sin came death. This is why everyone must die—because everyone sinned…15 But God’s free gift is not like Adam’s sin. Many people died because of the sin of that one man. But the grace from God was much greater; many people received God’s gift of life by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ....17 One man sinned, and so death ruled all people because of that one man. But now those people who accept God’s full grace and the great gift of being made right with him will surely have true life and rule through the one man, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:12, 15, 17 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Nucleus: The largest and most important organelle in our cells. The nucleus holds a special package called DNA.DNA: A biomolecule that holds a code full of information that builds more cells and proteins, which build everything in our bodies.Organelle: “Little organ.” Organelles are little things inside our tiny cells that have very important jobs to do. They are like our cells' own organs.Molecule: A creation made from very specific tiny pieces called atoms hooked together.Information: Information tells us something. It can remove uncertainty, or remove what we don’t know by helping us understand something. It is learning and knowing.RNA: A molecule that copies information from DNA and brings it to the ribosome printers.Protein: Molecules in our bodies that create cells and perform many important jobs.Inherited: Something is passed down and given to someone.Sin Nature: Our inheritance of sin from Adam and Eve’s first sin. Sin is a part of who we are as humans.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum, CTCMath, and Branch Basics. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

What exactly are we made of? We might think of our bodies as skin, bones, and blood, but what makes our skin, bones, and blood? Today we are zooming way in and discovering the busy cities inside our tiny cells.Here’s our trail map:What Is a Cell?What Are the 3 Main Parts of a Cell?How Is a Cell Like a City With Buildings and Workers?How Does Jesus Hold Everything Together?Episode LinksOrder Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubAsk your nature questions: https://erynlynum.com/askFree Human Cell Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/whats-in-a-human-cellSave 25% on a Dwell Bible app subscription: dwellbible.com/nattheoExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Human Anatomy and Physiology course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-anatomy-physiology-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Save 15% on a Premium Starter Kit from Branch Basics. Ditch toxins and protect your cells with human-safe and animal-safe cleaning products from Branch Basics. Use the code NATURE at www.branchbasics.com/nature Listen to the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast: https://podcast.schoolhouserocked.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 (NIV)“Then the Lord God took dust from the ground and formed a man from it. He breathed the breath of life into the man’s nose, and the man became a living person.” Genesis 2:7 (NCV)“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cell Theory: The discovery made by Theodor Schwann and Mathias Schleiden in 1839 that all living things are made of cells and that cells are the building blocks of life. Cell Membrane: The outer layer of a cell, like a city wall, that keeps things in or out (and allows some things to pass through).Cytoplasm: Cyto means cell and plasm refers to liquid. Cytoplasm means cell liquid. Liquid inside a cell.Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do. Organelle: “Little organ.” Organelles are little things inside our tiny cells that have very important jobs to do. They are like our cells' own organs.Mitochondria: The organelle (“little organ”) inside our cells that acts as a power plant. The mitochondria turns nutrients from our food into energy called ATP, which powers our other cells and organelles.ATP: The energy produced by mitochondria in our cells to create more organelles and cells.Ribosome: The organelle (“little organ”) inside our cells that act like printers. Non membrane-bound organelles that are printing platforms. The ribosome “reads” copies of our DNA and prints them into proteins.Protein: Molecules in our bodies that create cells and perform many important jobs.Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): The organelle (“little organ”) inside our cells that act like print shop workers. They put final touches on the 3D-printed proteins in our cells.Lysosomes: The organelle (“little organ”) inside our cells that act like a cleanup crew. They rid cells of waste. They also act as recyclers, breaking down the food we eat into materials our cells can use.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum, Dwell Bible app, and Branch Basics. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

Why doesn't the fastest land animal in North America jump over a simple fence? Discover the very unique pronghorn of the American West and the people who are giving it a helping hand.Here’s our trail map:What Is a Pronghorn?How Are Pronghorn and Antelope Different?Why Don’t Pronghorn Jump?How Can We Accept Help and Help Others in Life?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Pronghorn Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-dont-pronghorn-jumpAsk your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askTry CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Save 25% on a Dwell Bible app subscription: dwellbible.com/nattheoOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Walk with the wise and become wise…” Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Ungulate: A group of mammals with hooves.Herbivore: An animal that eats primarily plants, like grasses, fruits, leaves, flowers, roots, and nectar.Opportunistic Herbivore: An animal that eats a wide variety of plants, taking advantage of what is available at the time.Migrate: To take a big journey from one area or habitat to another according to the seasons.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements from Apologia curriculum, Dwell Bible app, and CTCMath. All testimonies are the honest reviews of the host after personally using each product and service.

After searching for a nicely shaped Christmas tree, our family decided to bring one home that represents the Colorado wilderness! Enjoy our favorite Christmas storybook, Why Christmas Tree's Aren't Perfect, and hear my kids' favorite Christmas memories.See our Ponderosa pine Christmas tree: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDXP83NRggm/Order your copy of Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Christmas-Trees-Arent-Perfect/dp/1501825836Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect was read and recorded with permission from Guideposts books.

If a polar bear isn’t white, what color is it? Discover the amazing ways birds and mammals stay warm, alive, and thrive in frigid Arctic temperatures.Here’s our trail map:What Birds Did God Design to Live In the Arctic?What Mammals Did God Design to Live In the Arctic?What Color Is a Polar Bear’s Fur?How Does God’s Light Help Us Live and Thrive?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Jill Smith’s Book, Nature Unveiled: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Arctic Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/polar-bear-colorExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Earth Science Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-earth-science-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Psalm 104:24 (NIV)“Then God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Genesis 1:3 (NCV)“Then God said, ‘Let there be lights in the sky to separate day from night. These lights will be used for signs, seasons, days, and years. They will be in the sky to give light to the earth.’ And it happened. So God made the two large lights. He made the brighter light to rule the day and made the smaller light to rule the night. He also made the stars.” Genesis 1:14-16 (NCV)“The true Light that gives light to all was coming into the world!” John 1:9 (NCV)“In him there was life, and that life was the light of all people.” John 1:4 (NCV)“In the past you were full of darkness, but now you are full of light in the Lord. So live like children who belong to the light. Light brings every kind of goodness, right living, and truth.” Ephesians 5:8-9 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Countercurrent Circulation: A design allowing a bird to keep its body warm, even while its legs are in icy cold water, by trading heat between the blood in their feet and the rest of their bodies.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Guard Hairs: Longer coarse, or rough, hair that acts kind of like a raincoat, protecting an animal from rain or wet snow.Transparent: See-through.Undercoat: Short, dense, and soft fur growing beneath the outer guard hairs.Sebum Oil: Natural oil made by the body's sebaceous glands. Animals that make this oil use it to coat their fur like a waterproof layer.Back Fat: Thick layer of fat beneath the skin. Some animals can store this layer of fat to use as energy throughout the winter.Blubber: Thick layer of fat beneath the skin on marine mammals including seals, whales, polar bears, and walruses. Used as energy and insulation.Hibernation: When an animal goes into a dormant, sleepy state and its metabolism slows, heart rate slows, and body temperature lowers.Metabolism: A chemical process in a body that changes food into energy. 

Meet the oldest living caterpillar on earth who braves the Arctic and can survive in -90 degrees Fahrenheit! On part one of our 2-part Arctic feature, discover the unique Arctic ecosystems and the plants and creatures God designed to thrive there.Here’s our trail map:Where Is the Arctic and What Is It Like?Can Plants Grow in the Arctic?What Caterpillar Braves the Arctic?Do Any Amphibians Live In the Arctic?How Does God Prepare Us for Harsh Conditions?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Jill Smith’s Book, Nature Unveiled: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Arctic Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/arctic-woolly-bear-mothTry CTCMath’s simple and effective math lessons: https://ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Earth Science Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-earth-science-with-junior-notebooking-journal/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“God is our protection and our strength.He always helps in times of trouble.So we will not be afraid even if the earth shakes,or the mountains fall into the sea,even if the oceans roar and foam,or the mountains shake at the raging sea.”Psalm 46:1-3 (NCV)“By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life…” 2 Peter 1:3 (NLT)“May he (God) equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:21 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each other.Permafrost: A thick layer of soil beneath the surface that remains frozen throughout the year.Heliotropism: When a plant grows toward (follows) the sunlight.Photosynthesis: A process controlled by sunlight that puts things in a plant together to turn them into energy. How a plant makes its own food.Diapause: When an insect goes dormant (stops growing or developing) to survive the cold. Similar to hibernation.Generalist: A species that can survive in a wide range of conditions and make use of many resources for food and energy.Glycerol: A chemical compound some creatures produce to keep their cells from freezing.Amphibian: Group of cold-blooded animals that include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. Most live on land and in the water and go through metamorphosis.Harsh: Unpleasantly rough or severe.

How can a tiny wood duck baby survive a 60-foot fall? Discover God’s amazing design in wood ducks and what they teach us about trusting God’s voice.Here’s our trail map:How Does a Duck Keep Its Feet Warm?What Is a Wood Duck?Where Does a Wood Duck Nest?How Does a Baby Wood Duck Survive a 60-Foot Fall?How Can We Trust and Follow God’s Voice?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Wood Duck Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/wood-duck-babiesSend in your nature question: https://erynlynum.com/askWood Duck Map: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Wood_Duck/maps-rangeExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Try CTCMath’s K-12 math program for free at https://ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (NIV)“He (God) has planted eternity in the human heart.” Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NLT)“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard…” John 16:33 (NLT)“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings…” Hebrews 10:22 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Crest: A group of raised feathers on a bird’s head commonly used to identify certain species.Countercurrent Circulation: A design allowing a duck to keep its body warm, even while its legs are in icy cold water, by trading heat between the blood in their feet and the rest of their bodies.Tree Cavity: A tree cavity is a hole in a tree’s trunk that leads to a hollow area or sunken area inside the tree trunk. Formed by injury to the tree, branch loss, natural decay, or some birds.Down Feathers: A layer of soft, fluffy feathers under the outer feathers that keep a bird warm. In many species including wood ducks, chicks are born with these down feathers.Assurance: To have assurance is to be confident of something or to be certain about something.Instinct: Instinct guides and helps us to do something that we have not learned how to do yet, often to stay safe. It’s like a deep knowledge that God tucked inside of us or an animal.

Monarch butterflies make an incredible migration journey. But do all monarchs take this long voyage? Monarch expert Kayla White joins us as we explore God’s design in these long-distance insects.Here’s our trail map:Why Do Monarch Butterflies Migrate?How Do Monarch Butterflies Know When to Migrate?How Do Monarch Butterflies Find Their Way?Does Every Generation of Monarch Migrate?What Are 3 Ways We Can Follow God’s Plan On Life’s Journey?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubWatch a monarch emerging from its chrysalis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7Qh8PGdy64Kayla White’s Books: https://lucytheladybug.com/ladybug-books-and-more/Melody: A Monarch Miracle: https://lucytheladybug.com/product/melody-a-monarch-miracle/Kayla White’s Blog (Monarch post) https://lucytheladybug.com/video-have-you-ever-seen-a-monarch-emerge/Monarch Migration Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/monarch-butterflies-migrate/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.” Psalm 145:4 (NLT)“Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many advisers bring success.” Proverbs 15:22 (NLT)“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NLT)“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 (NLT)“The Lord says, ‘I will make you wise and show you where to go. I will guide you and watch over you.’” Psalm 32:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Generation: All the people born at about the same time. Like layers of people born throughout history.Diapause: When an insect goes dormant (stops growing or developing) to survive the cold. Similar to hibernation.Circadian Clock: The system God designed in a body similar to an internal clock. It helps our bodies wake, rest, and function throughout day and night.Imaginal Discs: A group of cells in a caterpillar that become the new parts of the butterfly.

How did the Black-footed ferret go from being endangered, to extinct, to endangered, to extinct, and now making a comeback? Come along on this fascinating story and discover how one woman’s curiosity helped save an entire species.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Black-footed Ferret?How Did The Black-footed Ferret Almost Disappear?How Did Curiosity Save the Black-footed Ferret?Why Is Our God-given Curiosity Important?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Endangered Animals Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/black-footed-ferretExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“...Stop and consider the wondrous works of God.” Job 37:14 (ESV)“Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Native Animal: An animal that is living where it belongs. It was not brought in by humans. It is living where God created it to live.Mammal: A group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Nocturnal Animals: Animals that are mostly active at night.Tapetum Lucidum: Reflective layer in some eyes that reflects light.Extinct: A creature is no longer living on earth. There are no more of its species.Endangered: When a species is likely to go extinct (meaning we will have no more of them in the future) if they are not protected.Awe: To be filled with amazement and wonder.

What good is a leaf after it falls off a tree? Meet the forest recyclers who help turn old things into new life.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Duff?How Is A Forest Recycled?What Lives In A Pile Of Leaves?Why Are Decomposers Important?How Does God Restore And Make Things New?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Get full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Forest Recycling Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/why-fallen-leaves-are-importantFind great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Botany Exploring Creation with Botany Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/apologia-advantage-set-botany-2nd-edition-with-regular-notebooking-journalRoly-poly Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/62dc056f-543f-49e1-8d71-c7056d13742a/Bacteria Episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1d403844-0e2d-494a-a113-5ed7e86c947b/Mushrooms and fungus episode: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/b5b86cc0-358b-4136-bc79-643bd15aff9b/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!’” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (NIV)“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Duff: A layer on the forest floor made up of dead leaves, sticks, grass, and other natural things.Recycle: To make something old new. To turn something that would normally be thrown away into something useful.Humus: Healthy soil that is packed full of good minerals and nutrients from decomposers.Rhizosphere: The area beneath the soil or dirt surface that surrounds plant roots. Decomposing: Something natural is breaking down by a chemical process. It is becoming rotten or decaying.Enzymes: A type of protein, a very important building block in life, that speeds up chemical processes.Reconcile: To restore or bring back into harmony.

Why does a tree have leaves, and if they are so important, why do leaves fall off a tree? Discover why a tree lets its leaves go and why those leaves turn many different colors before they fall off.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Forest Biome?What Are Coniferous And Deciduous Trees?What Is The Job Of A Tree Leaf?Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves?Why Do Leaves Change Colors?How Can We Let Others Around Us See God’s Beauty Inside Us?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Apologia Leaf Color Experiment: https://www.apologia.com/blog/fall-in-love-with-the-science-of-autumn-hidden-colors-activity/Access full Episode Lesson Guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Tree Leaf Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/tree-leaves-change-colors/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So they arrested him and led him to the high priest’s home. And Peter followed at a distance. The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, ‘This man was one of Jesus’ followers!’But Peter denied it. ‘Woman,’ he said, ‘I don’t even know him!’After a while someone else looked at him and said, ‘You must be one of them!’‘No, man, I’m not!’ Peter retorted.About an hour later someone else insisted, ‘This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.’But Peter said, ‘Man, I don’t know what you are talking about.’ And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord’s words flashed through Peter’s mind: ‘Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.’ And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.” Luke 22:54-62 (NLT)“We cannot keep quiet. We must speak about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20 (NCV)“I am not ashamed of the Good News, because it is the power God uses to save everyone who believes…” Romans 1:16 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Biome: A large area in the world with a specific climate including weather patterns and temperature where certain plants and creatures live.Coniferous Tree: A tree that makes cones, has needles for leaves, and most keep their leaves (needles) all year long.Deciduous Tree: Deciduous means “falling Off.” A deciduous tree has leaves that fall off. Most deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall, but some lose them in spring.Marcescence: When a tree holds on to its dead, faded, withering leaves. This happens in the case of some oak trees that keep their browned leaves through winter then lose them in spring when new buds form.Photosynthesis: A process controlled by sunlight that puts things in a plant together to turn them into energy. Photosynthesis allows a plant to use the sun’s energy to make food.Dormant: When something is not active or growing but can become active and grow more in the future.Chlorophyll: The pigment in plants that makes them green, including tree leaves.Xanthophylls: The pigment that makes leaves yellow, always present in leaves but not always visible.Carotenes: The pigment that makes leaves orange, always present in leaves but not always visible.Anthocyanins: The pigment that makes leaves red or purple, produced in the autumn after a hard freeze traps sugars in a leaf.Evergreen: A coniferous tree that keeps its leaves all year long and does not shed them.

Do whales clean their ears? And what might a scientist learn from a whale’s earwax? Whale expert Nikki Farmer joins us as we discover God’s amazing designs in whales.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Cetacean?How Does A Whale’s Blowhole Work?How Do Whales Communicate With Each Other?What Can We Learn From A Whale’s Earwax?What Are The Two Main Types Of Whales?How Can We Filter What We Take Into Our Hearts And Minds?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubNikki Farmer’s Website: http://becausegodcalleditgood.com/Christian Liberty Press Nature Reader 5: Ocean Book: https://www.christianbook.com/christian-liberty-press-nature-reader-book/9781629821719/pd/821724?event=ESRCGExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But test everything. Keep what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (NCV) “Don’t live the way this world lives. Let your way of thinking be completely changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you. And you will agree that what he wants is right. His plan is good and pleasing and perfect.” Romans 12:2 (NiRV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cetacean: A group of marine mammals including whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Blowhhole: A hole (or two in some species) at the top of a whale’s head allowing it to breathe. It exhales air out of the blowhole.Echolocation: A way God designed some animals to locate things by sound and echoes. Odontocetes: Whales with teeth (toothed whales).Mysticetes: Whales with baleen (baleen whales).Baleen: Plates of bristle-like structures that allow baleen whales to filter their food and take in only what they need.

How can a creature live forever...especially one without a brain? Marine biologist Sherri Seligson joins us to explore the incredible lives of jellyfish.Here’s our trail map:What Kind Of Creature Is A Jellyfish?How Do Jellies Sting?How Does A Jelly Grow Up?What Is An Immortal Jelly?How Can We Live Forever?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubPre-order Sherri’s new book for kids, Wonders of the Ocean Realm: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781496486462&tag=tyndalehous06-20Learn more about Sherri Seligson’s work: https://www.sherriseligson.com/aboutSherri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherriseligson/Sherri’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SherriSeligsonAuthorExplore Apologia’s curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The first heaven and the first earth had disappeared, and there was no sea anymore… The One who was sitting on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new!’” Revelation 21:1, 5 (NCV)“...I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me will have life even if they die. And everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11:25-26 (NCV)“You believe there is one God. Good! But the demons believe that, too, and they tremble with fear.” James 2:19 (NCV)“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved. We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God. And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved.” Romans 10:9-10 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Cnidarian: Animals in the phylum cnidaria including jellies (jellyfish), sea anemones, and corals.Bioluminescence: “Living light” created or carried by some creatures. Often caused by a chemical reaction that God designed into bioluminescent creatures.Plankton: Living organisms (animals or plants) that float or are carried by water currents and cannot swim against the current. Most plankton are tiny. Jellyfish are considered plankton because they cannot swim against the ocean currents.Nematocysts: Stinging cells on a cnidarian animal.Medusa: The adult form of a jellyfish with its “bell top.”Polyp: The juvenile (young) form of a jellyfish adhered to a hard surface, before it “blooms” and becomes an adult medusa.Planula: Tiny baby (larval) form of a jellyfish floating around before it attaches to a hard surface and becomes a polyp.Portuguese Man of War: Another cnidarian animal often mistaken for a jellyfish, but different.Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each other.Temporary: Only lasting for a while. Not permanent.Immortal: Lasting forever. Eternal.

What do a tiny garden slug and a 50-foot giant squid have in common? They are both mollusks! Discover a fascinating group of creatures and their unique problem-solving strategies.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Mollusk?How Are Seashells Made?What Is A Bivalve?How Is A Pearl Made?Why Are Pearls Valuable?How Can God Turn Our Problems Into Something Valuable?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubExplore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I begged the Lord three times to take this problem away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is enough for you. When you are weak, my power is made perfect in you.” So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses. Then Christ’s power can live in me. For this reason I am happy when I have weaknesses, insults, hard times, sufferings, and all kinds of troubles for Christ. Because when I am weak, then I am truly strong. 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 (NCV)“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:2-4 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Organ: An important part inside the body that has a special job to do.Mollusks: Soft-bodied animals that have an important organ called a mantle and a special foot used to get around, grasp things, or dig. Most but not all mollusks have shells.Mantle: A special organ in a mollusk that creates a shell.Bivalve: A type of mollusk creature with two shells held together by a hinge that can open and close.Incurrent Siphon: A part of the mollusk’s body, like a hose, used to bring in water and bits of food.Excurrent Siphon: A part of the mollusk’s body, like a hose, used to get rid of waste.Irritant: Something that causes discomfort or pain and is difficult to get rid of.Nacre: The material an oyster covers an irritant with. Sometimes it is called Mother-of-pearl.

Can sharks ever stop swimming? And what is a shark tooth made from? Marine biologist and shark expert Michael Lane joins us to shed light on common misunderstanding about sharks.Here’s our trail map:How Are Sharks Different From Most Fish?Can Sharks Ever Stop Swimming?How Do Sharks Use Electricity?What Is A Shark’s 6th Sense?How Has God Created Us To Find What We Need?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubEvidence 4 Faith Website: https://evidence4faith.org/Evidence 4 Faith Mailing List: https://evidence4faith.us17.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=f2656bda96ebe4b445450103c&id=e3c6289303Evidence 4 Faith Podcast: https://feeds.captivate.fm/e4f/Evidence 4 Faith YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@evidence4faithofficialExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“A person lives not on bread alone, but by everything God says.” Matthew 4:4 (NCV)“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. The only way to the Father is through me.’” John 14:6 (NCV)“But when the Spirit of truth comes, he will lead you into all truth. He will not speak his own words, but he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is to come.” John 16:13 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Ichthys: FishChondrichthyes: Cartilaginous fish. Fish with cartilage instead of bones.Cartilage: Strong tissue that is flexible. Protects and supports bones and joints. Human noses and ears are made from cartilage.Dermal Denticle: Shark teeth which are not made of bone.Enamel: Hard protective layer around bone or cartilage. Human teeth are covered in enamel. It is the hardest substance in a human body.Buccal Ventilation: A method some sharks use to breathe. They use muscles in their cheeks to draw water in and push it past gills, which take in oxygen from the water. Sharks that use this can breathe while not moving.Ram Ventilation: A method some sharks use to breathe while swimming with their mouths open, so water rushes over their gills.Electroreception: The ability in animals to sense electrical currents and fields.Ichthyologist: A scientist who studies fish.Ampullae of Lorenzini: Jelly-filled sacs (pores) that allow a shark to sense the electrical field and find food using electrical currents.Cephalization: When sensory organs are concentrated on the font of the body or face.Lateral Line: A line down the center of fish on both sides containing sensory organs. Fish use the lateral line to feel things around them.Sensitive: Being able to feel slight differences, changes, or influences. Being able to quickly respond to changes around us.

Explore the most mysterious place on earth! To kick off our ocean series, we’re meeting a massive squid and a curious creature with a light made from bacteria.Here’s our trail map:How Much Water Is On Earth?What Is The Continental Shelf?What Are The Four Ocean Zones And What Live In Them?Are Giant Squids Real?How do Anglerfish Light Up?What’s The Deepest Part Of The Ocean?Episode Links:Order Eryn’s new book, The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Ocean Series Printables: https://erynlynum.com/oceanGet full lesson guides in  the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFind great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Then God said, ‘Let the water be filled with living things, and let birds fly in the air above the earth.’ So God created the large sea animals and every living thing that moves in the sea. The sea is filled with these living things, with each one producing more of its own kind. He also made every bird that flies, and each bird produced more of its own kind. God saw that this was good.” Genesis 1:20-21 (NCV)“You will have mercy on us again; you will conquer our sins. You will throw away all our sins into the deepest part of the sea.” Micah 7:19 (NCV)“So if the Son (that is Jesus) sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Continental Shelf: Shallow part of the ocean at an average of 200-feet deep, surrounding land continents. This is where most ocean creatures live.Marine Habitat: An area in the ocean that support specific ocean creatures and plants such as a kelp forest, coral reef, or seagrass meadow.Twilight: The time right after sun sets when there is low lighting.Photobacterium: Microscopic living creatures that create their own light.Bioluminescence: “Living light” created or carried by some creatures. Often caused by a chemical reaction that God designed into bioluminescent creatures.Swim Bladder: A special organ God designed some fish with. A gas-filled organ, like a balloon, that helps fish stay buoyant and float at certain depths.

How do wolves, mountain lions, porcupines, and other animals see in the dark? Discover God’s amazing design of night vision.Here’s our trail map:What Are Nocturnal and Crepuscular Animals?What Animals Have Night Vision?How Does Night Vision Work?How Does God Help Us See Clearly In The Dark?Episode Links:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Night Vision Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo43Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“…God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.” 1 John 1:5 (NLT)“The Light (Jesus) shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overpowered it.” John 1:5 (NCV)“Your word is like a lamp for my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Nocturnal: Creatures that are mostly active at night.Crepuscular: Creatures that are mostly active at dawn and dusk.Tapetum Lucidum: Reflective layer in some eyes that reflects light.Photoreceptors: Special cells in an eye that take in light and send messages to the brain.Rods: Special photoreceptor cells that help see brightness. Rods help with night vision.Diurnal: Creatures that are mostly active during the day.

What is a cicada and why do they make so much noise? Biologist and cicada expert Jill Smith joins us to share about these amazing opera singers in nature!Here’s our trail map:What Is A Cicada?How Do Cicadas Grow Up?Why Were There So Many Cicadas This Year?Why Are Cicadas So Loud?How Can We Wait Well On God’s Timing?Episode Links:Nat Theo Shop: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Order Nature Unveiled by Jill Smith: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Unveiled-Reflections-Experiencing-Creation/dp/1947297805Jill Smith’s Website: https://jillsmith.my.canva.site/life-long-learnerExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Cicada Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo42Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: To the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day. The Lord is not slow in doing what he promised—the way some people understand slowness. But God is being patient with you. He does not want anyone to be lost, but he wants all people to change their hearts and lives.” 2 Peter 3:8-9 (NCV)“Before the mountains were born and before you created the earth and the world, you are God. You have always been, and you will always be.” Psalm 90:2 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Biologist: A scientist who studies living things.Hemiptera: Order of insects that are true bugs with a sucking mouth part like a straw.Incomplete Metamorphosis: A creature that goes through a big change (metamorphosis). Begins as an egg, then several stages of nymphs, then adult.Molting: When a creature sheds an outer shell (exoskeleton) as it grows older and grows new exoskeleton.Periodic Cicada: A group of cicadas in eastern North America that emerges, or comes out of the ground, after many years. They spend most of their lives (13 or 17 years) underground.Annual Cicada: Cicadas that live underground around two years then emerge. Different broods (groups) emerge each year.Predator Satiation: When many creatures of a species are born at the same time, so not all of them are eaten by predators. Some survive and continue having babies to follow God’s design of making more of its kind.Tymbal: A structure in the male cicadas that contracts (squeezes) then releases to make noise.

Discover the amazing secret language of prairie dogs. Prairie dogs have one of the most detailed ways of communicating among animals. Learn what they might be saying on today’s episode.Here’s our trail map:What Is A Prairie?Are Prairie Dogs…Dogs?What Is A Keystone Species?What Is A Prairie Dog Town?How Do Prairie Dogs Use A Secret Language?How Does God’s Spirit Use a Secret Language To Speak To Us?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Prairie Dog Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo41Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Now we did not receive the spirit of the world, but we received the Spirit that is from God so that we can know all that God has given us.” 2 Corinthians 2:12 (NCV)“But the Helper will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” John 14:26 (NCV)“Speak to each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:19 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Language: A way of communicating or sharing information. Prairie: A large area that is flat or has rolling hills, with a lot of grasses and wildflowers.Ecosystem: An area where the plants, creatures, and other things in nature like water, rocks, dirt, and sun all help each other.Keystone Species: A plant or creature that is very important for keeping other plants or creatures in its ecosystem alive. Prairie Dog Town: An area on the prairie where a lot of prairie dogs live.Prairie Dog Colony: A group of prairie dogs that live together in a prairie dog town.Burrowing Animals: Animals that dig burrows or use burrows underground.

Bats are misunderstood, which is one reason they are disappearing. Discover why bats are very important for our gardens, crops, and food, and how we can protect these amazing creatures God made.Here’s our trail map:What Are Micro Bats and Macro Bats?How Are Bat Babies Born?What Can Bats Teach Us About Friendship?How Are Bats Great Gardeners?Why Are Bats Disappearing?How Can We Help Protect The Bats God Made? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Explore Apologia’s curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia’s Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Free Bat Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo40Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Two people are better than one, because they get more done by working together.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NCV)“Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.” Philippians 2:4 (NCV)“It is good and pleasant when God’s people live together in peace!” Psalm 133:1 (NCV)“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.’ And it happened. The earth produced plants with grain for seeds and trees that made fruits with seeds in them. Each seed grew its own kind of plant. God saw that all this was good.” Genesis 1:11-12 (NCV) “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Micro and Macro: Micro means small. Macro means large.Bat Roost: Where a bat hangs out. In the roost, a bat might sleep, hibernate, groom themselves or keep themselves clean, and have babies.Bat Colony: A group of bats that roosts together.Maternity Roost: Where a temporary colony of female bats have their babies together.Pollination: A system God set up in nature to grow new plants. A creature (like a bee or other insect, bird, or bat) drinks a flower’s sweet nectar and gets pollen on its body. It visits another flower and that pollen rubs off, allowing a new seed to grow for a new plant.Endangered: When a species is likely to go extinct (meaning we will have no more of them in the future) if they are not protected.Vulnerable: Vulnerable means a species is not quite endangered, but they will be if we don’t protect them.

Have you ever heard anyone say someone or something is “blind as a bat?” Are bats really blind? Discover these unique and fascinating flying mammals! Here’s our trail map:Is a Bat A Bird?Why Do Bats Hang Upside Down?Are Bats Blind?What Is Echolocation?How Can We Send Out Signals To Hear From God?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Bat Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo39A photo of a bat hanging in our lilac bush: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9vHb36yJfq/Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV)“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”  Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)“The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers.” 1 Peter 3:12 (NLT)“And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.” 1 John 5:14-15 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Diverse: Having a lot of differences and varietyMammal: Group of animals that have hair or fur, are warm-blooded, have a backbone, (most) have live births, and feed their babies with milk from their bodies.Nocturnal: Active at night. Normally sleep during the daylight hours and are awake at night, hunting when it is dark.Chiroptera: “Hand-wing.” The order of mammals that is bats, with over 1,300 species of bats.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

How do spiders make silk, spin webs, and…fly?! Discover amazing arachnid engineers in nature. Here’s our trail map:Are Spiders Insects or Bugs?Why Do Spiders Make Silk and Webs?Can Spiders Fly?How Do Spiders Make Silk and Webs?How Can God Use Our Small Gifts to Do Big Amazing Things?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Spider Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo38Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://www.patreon.com/NatTheoClubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)“You can’t go out against this Philistine and fight him. You’re only a boy. Goliath has been a warrior since he was a young man.” 1 Samuel 17:33 (NCV)“But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and he chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose what the world thinks is unimportant and what the world looks down on and thinks is nothing in order to destroy what the world thinks is important.” 1 Corinthians 1:27-28 (NCV)“...You come to me using a sword and two spears. But I come to you in the name of the Lord All-Powerful, the God of the armies of Israel! You have spoken against him. Today the Lord will hand you over to me…” 1 Samuel 17:45-46 (NCV)“Do not let anyone treat you as if you are unimportant because you are young. Instead, be an example to the believers with your words, your actions, your love, your faith, and your pure life.” 1 Timothy 4:12 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Arachnid: Group of creatures including spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites. Have 8 legs and 2 main body parts.True Bugs: Insects that have a sucking mouth part, like a straw.Entomology: The study of insects.Arachnology: The study of arachnids.Anchor Line: A line of silk a spider creates to help it get around, and often to get down from tall heights.Ballooning: When spiders use the earth’s electric field to fly through the sky.Electricity: A form of energy. Electricity is naturally found all around us on earth.Protein: Molecules made up of amino acids. Proteins are important building blocks in our cells, which are like the building blocks of our bodies.Organ: A special part inside a body with an important job to do.Spinnerets: Special organs spiders use to make silk.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

When God created dart frogs, He splashed the jungle in color! Discover these amazing...and deadly...creatures. Here’s our trail map for today:What Is a Poison Dart Frog?Why Are Dart Frogs Poisonous?Are Poison Frogs Used to Make Darts?How Do Dart Frogs Get Their Poison?How Can We Guard Our Hearts and Minds Against Harmful Things?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Dart Frog Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo37Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Brothers and sisters, think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” Philippians 4:8 (NCV) “Keep me from looking at worthless things. Let me live by your word.” Psalm 119:37 (NCV)“I will not look at anything wicked…” Psalm 101:3 (NCV)“Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.” Proverbs 4:23 (NCV)“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Amphibian: Group of cold-blooded animals that include frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts. Most live on land and in the water and go through metamorphosis.Cutaneous Respiration: “Skin breathing.” This is when oxygen is absorbed (taken in) through the skin instead of through lungs or gills.Metamorphosis: When a creature goes through a big transformation or change from its baby form to its adult form.Cold-blooded: Body temperature changes according to the environment. Cannot make their own body heat.Theory: A theory is an explanation for why things happen or act a certain way. A theory is much more than a guess. It is based on observation, or what we see, and experimentation.Batrachotoxin: “Frog poison.” Toxin that causes muscle contractions and stops the lungs and heart from working. Found in frogs and some birds.Immune: Resistant to harm. Cannot be hurt by something.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Foxes are like the ninjas and escape artists of the wild, but why are they so sneaky?  Here’s our trail map:What Is A Fox?Where Do Foxes Live?Are Foxes Playful?Why Are Foxes So Sneaky?How Do We Create a Good Reputation With Others? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Fox Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo36Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Create in me a pure heart, God, and make my spirit right again.” Psalm 51:10 (NCV)“People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives.” Proverbs 16:2 (NLT)“...Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts.” 1 Thessalonians 2:4 (NLT)“Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16 (NLT)“If anyone belongs to Christ, there is a new creation. The old things have gone; everything is made new!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Canid: Dog family including foxes, coyotes, wolves, and pet dogs.Kits or Pups: Baby foxes. Vixen: Female fox. Nesting: When a mother animal or human begins preparing an area as the time gets close to have her baby or babies.Purposeful: To have a reason for doing something. Underfur: Shorter hair that keeps foxes warm.Guard Hairs: Longer coarse, or rough, hair that acts kind of like a rain coat, protecting the fox from rain or wet snow.Reputation: What people think about someone, normally because of the way they act.Motives: The reasons why we do something or act a certain way.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Beekeeper Jenny joins us as we dive into a beehive and learn all about bees and how God designed them with very important jobs to do, and creative ways to go about their work!Here’s our trail map:What Important Job Do Bees Have?How Do Bees Make Their Hive?How Do Bees Work As a Team?Can Bees Dance?How Do Bees Carry Pollen? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Super Simple Homeschool Podcast with Jenny Hedrick: https://www.supersimplehomeschool.net/podcastSuper Simple Homeschool Resources: https://www.supersimplehomeschool.net/notebooksExplore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Bee Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo35Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Source: Institute for Creation Research Creation Podcast: The Industrious Life of Bees: https://www.icr.org/article/creation-podcast-episode-49Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11 (NLT)“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.’ And it happened.” Genesis 1:11 (NCV)“People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 (NLT)“...The words I told you are spirit, and they give life.” John 6:63 (NCV)“For the word of God is alive and active….” Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Festooning: Bees link together by their feet to form a chain. Festooning helps bees work together in building their hive. It might be a form of measurement.Pollinator: A creature that helps spread pollen, which helps plants grow.Pollen: Fine powder substance made by the male part of flowers. When pollen lands on a female part, that flower can make more flowers.Nectar: A sweet liquid in flowers that bees eat and turn into honey.Hexagon: Shape with six sides.Beeswax: A natural wax produced by bees that they build their honeycombs out of.Pheromones: A chemical scent or smell given off by some creatures.Brood: A bee still growing inside its cell.Larva: Immature or baby form of an insect.Corbiculae: The “pollen basket” where bees carry pollen on their body back to the hive.Sustenance: What we need to survive. A source of strength.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

What do numbers, patterns, and shapes have to do with nature? A whole lot! Discover how God used math to create nature. Learn about a special pattern of numbers and shapes that show us God’s signature style in the wonderful things He has made. Here’s our trail map:Who Was Fibonacci and What Important Numbers Did He Discover?Why Are Shapes Important in Nature?How Do Numbers, Shapes, and Patterns in Nature Point to God? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Download the FREE Episode Activity Guide for this lesson, provided by CTCMath! https://erynlynum.com/nattheo34Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOne of the books used for research: Wild Fibonacci: Nature’s Secret Code RevealedScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I the LORD do not change.” Malachi 3:6 (NIV)“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)“​​God is not a God of confusion but a God of peace…” 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NCV)“For in him (Jesus) all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Mathematician: Someone who studies and uses math in their work. They are experts in math.Pattern: A pattern is something like numbers or shapes that happen in a regular or repeated way.Consistent: Something is unchanging, or remains the same over time.Geometry: The study of shapes and figures in math.Golden Rectangle: A special rectangle shape that is made from Fibonacci’s number sequence. Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

How do birds sing such pretty songs? God designed them with an amazing and unique voice box. Meet a few interesting species and hear their incredible melodies as we dive into the musical world of birds. Here’s our trail map:Why Do Birds Communicate?How Do Birds Communicate?How Do Birds Sing?How Can We Praise Our Creator?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Scripture Music by Scripture Lullabies, stream online now: https://scripture-lullabies.com/streamFree Bird Song Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo33Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Listen To The Birds book: https://www.amazon.com/Listen-Birds-Yoann-Gueny/dp/1324031034Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord and praise his name; every day tell how he saves us.” Psalm 96:1-2 (NCV)“Let the skies rejoice and the earth be glad; let the sea and everything in it shout. Let the fields and everything in them rejoice. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy.” Psalm 96:11-12 (NCV)“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 (NIV)“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” Psalm 105:6 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Communicate: To exchange or share information, news, or ideas. Theory: An explanation for why things might happen or act a certain way. A theory is much more than a guess. It is based on observation, or what we see, and experimentation.Complex: Something that is made up of many parts. The opposite of simple.Larynx: Voice box with vocal cords (muscles) used to make noise.Syrinx: A bird’s voice box. An organ deep inside a songbird’s chest containing a double set of vocal cords.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

What exactly is a sloth? Is it a type of monkey, or a koala? Discover how God designed these fascinating creatures to be expert tree climbers and to live most of their lives upside down. Here’s our trail map:What is a sloth and what types are there?What do sloths do all day?Why do sloths hang upside down?How can moving slowly be good for us in life?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Free Sloth Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo32Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubOrder Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Sloth research: https://slothconservation.org/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“Stop and consider the wondrous works of God.” Job 37:14 (NIV)“Teach us how short our lives really are so that we may be wise.” Psalm 90:12 (NCV)“Remember your Creator while you are young.” Ecclesiastes 12:1 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Xenarthra: A group of mammals including sloths, anteaters, and armadillos.Bradypus sloth: A 3-toed sloth, darker brown and gray with dark face markings like a mask.Choloepus sloth: a 2-toed sloth, light brown and orange color with a snout like a pig.Warm-blooded: Animals that keep a warm and consistent body temperature that mostly does not depend on their environment.Digestion: The processes in a body of breaking down food and turning it into energy.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a turtle and a tortoise? The answer might be surprising. The facts we're learning about their fascinating shells might be a bit unexpected, too! Here’s our trail map:What is the difference between a turtle and tortoise?What are the three main types of turtles?Why do turtles have shells and what is the shell?What built-in armor has God given us?Links:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Turtle & Tortoises Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo31Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:10-17 (NLT)Terms Learned in This Episode:Egg Tooth: A specially designed growth on a turtle’s beak (mouth) used to break open their egg. The egg tooth falls off within a day or two after hatching.Cold-blooded: Body temperature changes according to the environment. Cannot make their own body heat.Keratin: Protein that makes turtle shells as well as other things in nature including hair, nails, claws, scales, feathers, horns, hooves, and even the outermost layer of our skin.Scutes: Individual plates or pieces of the turtle shell. Scutes are made of keratin and cover the bone part of the turtle shell.Carapace: Top part of a turtle’s shell.Plastron: Bottom part of a turtle’s shell.Vulnerable: To be without protection. Something that is vulnerable can be easily hurt.Hinged Shell: Turtle shell that can open and shut.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

What would you think if the sun suddenly disappeared? I’m sharing my story of one of the most amazing things I have ever experienced: a total solar eclipse—and what it showed me about our Creator God. Here’s our trail map:What happens during a solar eclipse?How did scientists discover solar eclipses?What is a “Totality Zone” and how can you see a solar eclipse?How does a solar eclipse reveal God?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Free Solar Eclipse Activity Guide: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo30Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the skies announce what his hands have made.” Psalm 19:1 (NCV)“For in him (Jesus) all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV) “So don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.” Isaiah 41:10 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Solar: Something coming from or having to do with the sun. When you hear “solar,” think sun!Eclipse: Something moving in front of or blocking out something else.Solar Eclipse: When the moon moves in front of the sun, so it is between earth and the sun, and blocks out our view of the sun.Our Solar System: The collection of eight planets and their moons, along with our sun. All of these are bound together by an invisible force called gravity. Our solar system is our special place within the universe.Elliptical Orbit: An oval-shaped path. The moon has an elliptical orbit moving in a sort of oval path around earth.Astronomers and Mathematicians: Astronomers are scientists who specialize in space. Mathematicians specialize in math.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/How can you create space and time for your family to form core memories in nature? Be inspired by our guest, Ginny Yurich, of 1000 Hours Outside! Ginny reminds us that we get to make the decisions when it comes to how our family spends time, and provides practical ideas and a wealth of wisdom for investing more time in nature as a family. This episode is part 2 and the Parents Edition (always family friendly). Listen to Part 1 (Episode 28) as Ginny inspires our kids to spend their days outdoors.Order Ginny's new book, Until The Streetlights Come On: https://www.amazon.com/Until-Streetlights-Come-Brightens-Uncertain/dp/B0CMVCZF45/Get all of Ginny's free resources at https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/Listen to Ginny's fabulous podcast, 1000 Hours Outside: https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/podcastFind more Bible and Nature inspiration at Erynlynum.com

Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/When did you see a butterfly for the first time this year? When did the robins return? Learn how to create a nature "Calendar of Firsts" from our guest, Ginny Yurich, of 1000 Hours Outside! Ginny's also sharing with us all the good reasons to get out into the sunshine, and how we can inspire our friends to play outside with us. This episode is part 1, the kids edition. On part 2, Ginny will share with parents and caregivers. Order Ginny's new book, Until The Streetlights Come On: https://www.amazon.com/Until-Streetlights-Come-Brightens-Uncertain/dp/B0CMVCZF45/Get all of Ginny's free resources at https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/Listen to Ginny's fabulous podcast, 1000 Hours Outside: https://www.1000hoursoutside.com/podcastFind more Bible and Nature inspiration at Erynlynum.com

How does something as beautiful and complex as a flower grow from an itty-bitty seed? Today we are learning about the life cycle of flowers, and what their life—and even death—teach us about God’s Word. Here’s our trail map:How do seeds grow into flowers?How are new seeds made?Why are flowers important?What can flowers teach us about God’s Word? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Get Eryn's new book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Download the Hints of New Life Scavenger Hunt and Devotional: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo27Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“The Lord God put the man in the garden of Eden to care for it and work it.” Genesis 2:15 (NCV)“Then God said, ‘Let the earth produce plants—some to make grain for seeds and others to make fruits with seeds in them. Every seed will produce more of its own kind of plant.’ And it happened. The earth produced plants with grain for seeds and trees that made fruits with seeds in them. Each seed grew its own kind of plant. God saw that all this was good.” Genesis 1:11-12 (NCV)“The grass dies and the flowers fall, but the word of our God will live forever.” Isaiah 40:8 (NCV)“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Matthew 24:35 (NIV)“Lord, your word is everlasting…” Psalm 119:89 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Embryo: The first stage of growth and development.Dormant: To be inactive, or not active.First Plant Shoot: The first part of the plant to push through the soil and grow above ground. Tender and fragile baby plant from which the plant will continue to grow.Photosynthesis: A process controlled by sunlight that puts things in a plant together to turn them into energy. Photosynthesis allows a plant to use the sun’s energy to make food.Cotyledon: First leaf-like structures in a plant, present in the seed. Not “true leaves” and might look different from the leaves to grow after. Important for the plant to begin photosynthesis.Nectar: A sugary liquid in plants that insects and some birds rely on. Very important for pollination.Annual Flowers: Flower plants that only grow for one growing season.Perennial Flowers: Flower plants that grow for several seasons, going dormant in cold weather then sending up new shoots and growing again the following growing season.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Have you ever wondered how a rock is made? Have rocks just always been here? Is a rock…born? Let's dive into the study of geology and discover the creative and fascinating ways God made rocks—including mini crystal caves called geodes!Here’s our trail map:What are three ways rocks are made?How are geodes made?What makes geodes different colors inside?How can we grow in beauty and wonder inside?Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Join this month’s giveaway of a geode cracking kit and the picture book, When You Find A Rock! Enter to win at erynlynum.com/giveawayFree Geology Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo26Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubIf You Find A Rock Book: https://www.amazon.com/You-Find-Rock-Peggy-Christian/dp/0152063544Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way. What you have done is wonderful. I know this very well.” Psalm 139:14“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give will never be thirsty. The water I give will become a spring of water gushing up inside that person, giving eternal life.” John 4:13-14“A thief comes to steal and kill and destroy, but I came to give life—life in all its fullness.” John 10:10“God does not see the same way people see. People look at the outside of a person, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7Terms Learned in This Episode:Igneous Rocks: Rocks formed from cooled lava (originally magma).Sedimentary Rocks: Rocks formed from sediments (tiny pieces) of eroded rocks and sometimes once-living organic materials.Erosion: A process in which something is broken down over time by wind, water, or other natural forces.Metamorphic Rocks: Rocks changed from one form to another by extreme heat or pressure.Minerals: Substances God made in nature that are not alive and don’t come from plants or animals. They are the ingredients of rocks. We need many minerals to live, and we get a lot of minerals from the foods we eat.Satisfied: We are pleased and content. We have what we need and do not want or need more. To be satisfied is to have enough.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Have you ever heard that owls are wise? On this episode, we are meeting some very smart birds and learning how their brains are designed. But is being smart the same thing as being wise? Here’s our trail map:How does an owl’s brain work?Meet three other very smart birdsWhat is the difference between being smart and being wise?How can we be wise? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Get Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Free Smart Birds Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo25Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubSmart Bird Research from What It’s Like To Be A Bird by Sibley.: https://www.amazon.com/What-Its-Like-Bird-Singing-What/dp/0307957896 (Like many science and nature books, I don’t agree with everything this book says about how birds came to be, but it does share fascinating information about the design and behavior of these wonderful creatures God made)Clark’s Nutcracker information: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Clarks_Nutcracker/overviewOwl whistle story from What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World's Most Enigmatic Birds by Jennifer Ackerman Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6 (NLT)“There are four things on earth that are small, but they are very wise: Ants are not very strong, but they store up food in the summer. Rock badgers are not very powerful, but they can live among the rocks. Locusts have no king, but they all go forward in formation. Lizards can be caught in the hand, but they are found even in kings’ palaces.” Proverbs 30:24-28 (NCV)“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” James 1:5 (NLT)“It is better to get wisdom than gold, and to choose understanding rather than silver!” Proverbs 16:16 (NCV)Prayer from Ephesians 1:16-17 (NCV): “I always remember you in my prayers, asking the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, to give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation so that you will know him better.”Terms Learned in This Episode:Nocturnal: An animal that is active mostly at nightNeocortex: The area of a human brain where thoughts, ideas, emotions, senses, and self-awareness are processed.Pallium: An area of a bird’s brain that acts similar to a neocortex. This is where birds process information in their brains.Neuron: Nerve cells that send information all over our bodies and back to our brains. A master communication system in our bodies.Hippocampus: An area in the pallium where a bird thinks about location, direction, where they are, and where other things are.Scatter hoarding: When a bird finds food, such as seeds, and stashes it away, or hides it, in many different places.Knowledge: Gathering facts. It is learning by gaining new understanding and through experiences.Wisdom: How we use our knowledge. What we do with all of those facts we are gathering. Involves our soul and eternal perspective.Personification: When we write or talk about something that is not a human and give it human qualities.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Have you ever seen a Venus flytrap catch a fly?! These fascinating plants might look like they come from outer space—but that’s far from the truth. If they’re not from space, where are they from and why do they eat insects?Here’s our trail map:Do Venus flytraps come from space?Where did Venus flytraps get their funny name and where do they come from?Two theories as to why Venus flytraps eat insectsHow do Venus flytraps catch insects?What can the design of Venus flytraps teach us about sensing God’s Holy Spirit? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/What do you want to learn about on Nat Theo? Share your episode ideas on the form at Erynlynum.com/nattheoGet Eryn's new book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Free Creation and Creativity Activity: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo24Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubLambda and Universe Vital Signs information are form Michael Guillen, PhD, Believing Is Seeing https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-take-over-the-world/id1333158713?i=1000632146187Carnivorous Plants Article: https://answersingenesis.org/biology/plants/carnivorous-plants/Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“God said, ‘Look, I have given you all the plants that have grain for seeds and all the trees whose fruits have seeds in them. They will be food for you. I have given all the green plants as food for every wild animal, every bird of the air, and every small crawling animal.’ And it happened.” Genesis 1:29-30“So I will put a curse on the ground…The ground will produce thorns and weeds for you, and you will eat the plants of the field.” Genesis 3:17-18“But the Helper will teach you everything and will cause you to remember all that I told you. This Helper is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name.” John 14:26Terms Learned in This Episode:Habitable: Suitable or good enough to live in.Vital signs: Medical signs in your body that show if something is wrong. Lambda: A “Cosmological Constant.” Lambda tells scientists something about how quickly the universe is expanding outward.Fine-tuning: God carefully dialed in the vital signs of the universe so humans, animals, and plants can live and thrive on earth.Carnivorous plants: Plants that eat living organismsTheory: An explanation for why things might happen or act a certain way. A theory is much more than a guess. It is based on observation, or what we see, and experimentation.Photosynthesis: A design God made in plants that helps them turn the sun’s energy into food.Mechanoreceptors: Tiny sensors that sense a touch or pressure on skin.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com

Did you know bears don’t hibernate? But what is it called when they take a long, sleepy nap in winter? We’re exploring four fascinating ways God designed creatures to rest and why rest is important for us, too!Here’s our trail map:What is hibernation?What is a bear’s winter nap called?What are four ways God designed animals to rest?Why is rest important for us? Episode Links:Order Nat Theo T-Shirts Through September 3rd: https://erynlynum.myshopify.com/Get Eryn's new book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Free Nature's Rest Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/nattheo23Access full Episode Activity Guides by joining the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So the sky, the earth, and all that filled them were finished. By the seventh day God finished the work he had been doing, so he rested from all his work. God blessed the seventh day and made it a holy day, because on that day he rested from all the work he had done in creating the world.” Genesis 2:1-3“...The Lord is the God who lives forever, who created all the world. He does not become tired or need to rest…” Isaiah 40:28“This is what the Lord commanded, because tomorrow is the Sabbath, the Lord’s holy day of rest.” Exodus 16:23“Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Accept my teachings and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit, and you will find rest for your lives. The burden that I ask you to accept is easy; the load I give you to carry is light.” Matthew 11:28-30Terms Learned in This Episode:Hibernation: When an animal goes into a dormant, sleepy state and its metabolism slows, heart rate slows, and body temperature lowers.Metabolism: A chemical process in a body that changes food into energy.Denning: A bear’s winter nap. Similar to hibernation, but they only lower their body temperature by about ten degrees. (Also called Ursid hibernation or carnivore lethargy)Estivation: Like winter hibernation but happens during the summer.Torpor: Similar to hibernation but only lasts a few hours. Like a small, daily hibernation​​Circadian rhythm: Circadian means “around a day.” Circadian rhythm is our internal clock that helps us know what time it is.Find more Bible & Nature resources at Erynlynum.com