by Kelinda Crawford
Kelinda: “Know Who You Are, Live Like It Matters” sounds like an easy formula, but we know that life is rarely that simple. Tim, can you share with us an example of how profound this statement truly is when viewed from a Christian perspective?
Tim: Most of us know that life isn’t easy. A lot of times life is really hard! We can either live by our emotions in the highs and lows of life, or live by our convictions. If we hold on to how much God loves us, we don’t have to ride the roller coaster of life or be led by what others say about us (good or bad). When we live by our convictions, we can live for a greater purpose.
Kelinda: This book is described as one that will help a homeschooling student “discover who you are by discovering whose you are.” Can you give us an example of how this has gotten you over the hump when faced with difficulties?
Tim: During my trials, I had to always remember that God’s got a plan for me. When I think of myself, Tim Tebow, I’m limited. I’m finite, I’m lacking, I’m just a name. But when I see myself as a child of God, I can get through anything.
Kelinda: Why did you feel it was important to write a book for young people who are homeschooled—and for the parents who homeschool them?
Tim: This book is special to me because I was homeschooled. There’s not a ton of books written by home schoolers to encourage homeschoolers. I want to support homeschooled kids especially if they feel like outsiders or diferent. School is more than just about hanging out with everyone else or learning subjects like math or English—although it’s important. It’s about building character and becoming the person you want to be in life. I want to help kids do that!
Kelinda: You bring out the importance of journaling in “A Note From Tim” at the beginning of the book. When did you discover journaling as a tool for self-reflection?
Tim: I started doing this in my own way by writing in my Bible as early as in elementary school. (I still have the Bible today!). I would highlight passages and write down what I felt God speaking to me through them. As I got older, I would use the same Bible to jot down notes for speeches or thought-provoking things I heard others say. It’s not the traditional form of journaling, but it’s helped over the years.
Kelinda: In your book, you begin each of the 36 lessons with a Scripture, explain that scripture in a meaningful context, then ask the young people to journal about how it applies to their lives. Is this a pattern you use for your own life, when studying the Word of God?
Tim: When I read the Bible, I seek to understand the passage of Scripture in its context. Also, I find God teaches me something different every time, depending on what I’m going through or what I need. God’s word is powerful and life-changing!
Kelinda: What is the most important thing that you want homeschoolers to learn from Know Who You Are, Live Like It Matters?
Tim: When you are in a relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ, you understand how important you are. You matter. You have purpose. Your life has meaning. And knowing whose you are will make a different during those tough times. With God, you can do more than just get through life, you can thrive in it. Life isn’t going to be easy, but it’s worth it!”
Kelinda: This book can be a great tool for parents who are homeschooling their children. What advice would you give to them, as far as using the book as part of their curricula?
Tim: I want to first say thank you to parents for having the courage and commitment to homeschool their kids. I know it’s a never-ending—and important—job. My prayer is that this book can be a tool they can use, that my stories of failures and successes can help their kids build their relationship with God and with others.
Tim Tebow is a two-time national champion, first-round NFL draft pick, and Heisman Trophy winner. After playing in the NFL for the Denver Broncos and the New York Jets, Tebow joined the SEC Network as a football analyst. In addition to his role on SEC Nation, the network’s traveling road show, Tebow also contributes to a variety of other ESPN platforms. In 2016 he signed a professional baseball contract with the New York Mets. Tim’s true passion remains the work of the Tim Tebow Foundation (TTF). Created in 2010, TTF’s mission is to bring faith, hope, and love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need.
