God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World

Simple. Good teaching. Scripture references. Colorful illustrations.

I can’t make it through the entire book without choking up. It is a very sweet book and my 3 year old daughter loves counting along on each page. The simple truths in the book ministered to my heart greatly.

This is a beautiful book that shows kids numbers in scriptures. I love that after the numbers she has the infinity symbol with scripture to support God's infinity & ends with some thoughts on God counting. I think this book can be useful to help kids see that they can look for themes & repetition & that God does speak in numbers. Once again, Irene Sun has come up with a creative way to teach kids about God & His kingdom.
1 - God is first
2 - we are not alone (Adam & Eve)
3 - God is love - trinity & Jesus died at 3 o' clock & rose on the 3rd day
4- God made everything beautiful - Gen 2:10 & Revelation 4:7-8
5 - God speaks - Ps 19:10 (5 Mosaic books), Deut 6:4-5 & John 14:15 Eight tells us God rescues his
6 - God hates sin - Prov 6:16-19
7 - God is with us - Jericho
8 - God rescues his children, because God saved 8 people in the arc
9 - be like God - 9 fruits of the Spirit
10 - God does not want any of his children to be lost - parable of the lost coin
11 - God forgives us - John 13:21,30 & Matthew 26:56-75 11 disciples left Jesus & 11 he forgave
12 - we will live with God forever - Rev 21:12, 22:2

This book is a great way to not only introduce kids to numbers, but also connect numbers with the Bible and teach kids important points of theology. Great find! Would definitely reccomend!

What a fun way for children to not only learn how to count, but learn more about the bible! The pictures are bright, lively and engaging. Each number represents a different aspect of the bible, and I love how the author was able to easily include bible verses throughout the book. Little readers will enjoy listening to the story of how God loves them. It’s also for readers that are a little bit older, as it opens the door for wonderful conversation about the bible! I encourage you to read this book with your young readers!

A simple book for very young readers, using the very simple act of counting to engage your child and tie things we observe in creation with explicit acknowledgement of our creator.

New Growth Press has recently published a variety of really good options along this line. They are delightfully illustrated, cleverly told, engaging books that my youngest daughter asks for repeatedly, and my second youngest now picks off the shelf to read on her own (she’s a beginning reader.)

These books provide great source material for dealing with hard topics (failure, anger, fear, ethnic diversity, and marveling at God’s creativity!) and provides parents with guides for discussion along these topics. My girls also love the tear-out pocket bible verses included in each.

The best part about these stories, is that they aim at pointing a child to Christ in faith, rather than simple behavior modification and moralism, in accessible ways. Oh, and the messages of the books are good reminders and encouragement for me, the parent, as well. :)

God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World by Irene Sun is a new book that looks at different numbers (1-12 and infinity) and how they tie into the story of the Bible. I appreciate that the book begins with God creating and that everything, even numbers, comes from Him. There are many helpful connections that Sun makes throughout the book. The number three focuses on the Trinity. Five points kids the the fact that Moses wrote the Pentateuch (five books). I felt that nine was very creative as well, drawing the readers attention the the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5.

Sun does a nice job of not trying to stretch numbers to mean something they do not. Instead, she points to places of Scripture where these numbers show up, not trying to super spiritualize some meaning into them. I enjoyed reading this book to my sons and they really enjoyed it as well.

The illustrations are by Alex Foster and are very well done. They do a great job of illustrating the point that the author is making on each page. The only complaint I have is the portrayal of Noah’s ark. All of the people and many animals are out on an observation deck (of sorts) while the flood is taking place. Scripture speaks of God shutting Noah in the ark and that he opened a window after the flood waters decreased and “the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat.” While maybe not as visually appealing it would have been nice to see an ark that was to scale (even if no animals and people would have been visible).

Overall, I felt that Irene Sun communicated some good truths in a very readable manner for young children. I

God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World by Irene Sun is a delightful children's book! Unique in its approach, the book takes key Biblical truths and relates it back to a number. While you can consider it a counting book, it isn't remotely 'babyish'. Instead, the focus on a number allows deep theology to be presented in a way a child can grasp.

The book begins with the greatest truth; "One tells us that God is the first and the best." And the book (for what our part & our kids' part to learn) ends with infinity. Finally, the book ends with God counting....this page shows how personally God knows all that is within His world, and all that he knows about each of us. What a powerful way to display & teach of God's power and love!

My four-year old enjoyed reading back to me the number and what each one represented. By seeing how 9 tells us to be like God, and seeing what qualities Jesus has, she is essentially learning the Fruits of the Spirit!
We have enjoyed reading this book as a family, and I look forward to my kids becoming more independent in remembering what each number represents. Very sweet book, and I highly recommend it.

This book is super cute. My 5 year old was captivated by the pictures and story. He is in kindergarten and this book helped with his numbers. God has given us great beauty in his world - and this book is a great reminder of it.

My youngest daughter is three and her favorite thing to do is read with her mommy. We are always looking for fun books that we can read together. I personally love those books that have a bit of Jesus in them. This is a new favorite of ours! God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World.

Numbers are so much more than just digits. Every number has a powerful purpose in the Bible. While that sort of teaching may be a bit too much for younger ones, this book has a beautiful way of showing even our littlest ones that numbers have great value for God.

Every page speaks to a number and a lesson we can learn from it. As we read about the number two we are reminded we are not alone.

We learn there are six things the Lord hates. God hates sin and sin is what keeps us separate from him.

The pictures are so warm and inviting. I cannot tell you how many amazing conversations we have had. She is only three but every image is beautiful to her. And she loves every bit of each page.

This really is a fun book to read. My daughter traces and counts; she loves seeking out animals and the stars. It really is an amazing book. artistically and literally. One we are enjoying over and over and over again.

I'm so in love with this book. If you only pick up one book on this list, make this one it. The illustrations are stunning. It's a beautiful mix of learning about counting and learning about Jesus, which I love and I think Charlie will love to as he gets older.

In this engaging, illustrated children’s book by Irene Sun, young readers learn how numbers declare the glory of God, discovering Bible stories and the truth, beauty, and goodness of our sovereign God through numbers and patterns. With countable illustrations and an easy-to-learn structure, children who are always seeking, finding, tracing, and counting numbers will be captivated by God Counts.

Through simple language kids will understand, God Counts shares theological truths and helps children become familiar with Scripture, exploring the patterns of creation, numbers in the plan of redemption, and the intimacy of a personal relationship with God. This children’s book explores how God counts every fish in the sea, every star in the sky, every hair on their heads, and every tear in their eyes.

This playful children’s book serves as a beginner’s theology book for young readers who love numbers and patterns, introducing the Trinity, the God of order, the holiness of God, the problem of sin, the rescue and love of Jesus, and much more. Children who love to count will be filled with wonder, leading them to understand deeper truths about God, themselves, and the world around them.
There are a lot of children’s books that explore God’s creation through letters. I’ve not run across any that did so through numbers, not until now. In God Counts, theologian Irene Sun invites young readers and pre-readers to master their numbers through learning about the way God uses numbers in the Bible to teach us about himself.

I have to admit that I was skeptical at first. Other than a few number combinations—3 for the Trinity, 2 for animals on the ark, 7 (or 6) for days of creation—I wasn’t sure what concepts Sun would use to fit the construct of counting. I couldn’t envision how it could be done and not seem contrived.

I was wrong.

So wrong.

And Sun defies convention and expectation. 2 wasn’t about animals on the ark. 12 wasn’t about the disciples. Instead of searching for a number in Scripture and plugging it into her book, Sun gets deeply theological. The concepts she covers range from how God speaks to us, how we were not made to be alone, that we were created to reflect God’s character.

This is not a counting book.

This is a theology book.

When I turned to the back cover, I found that Sun studied liturgy and literature at Yale. She definitely brings that academic background to this book, applying it at a level that your youngest readers and pre-readers will be able to follow. She’s also written a recent article called You Can Teach Theology With Picture Books, which you should definitely read.

There are individual pages addressing each number 1-12, plus a page on ‘infinity’ and ‘God counting’. I was able to keep my son’s attention while sharing this book with him. The colors are beautifully chosen and the illustrations are perfect for little eyes.

Each page has a simple sentence or two relating that number to God’s word, along with a verse or two from the Bible that supports the text. For example, “Four tells us God made everything beautiful.” What does the number 4 have to do with beauty? Genesis 2 speaks of the four rivers God made and Revelation 4 speaks of four creatures standing before God’s throne. Both the rivers and the creatures are beautiful simply because they were made by God.

One could easily read this in one sitting or use each number as a start to a Bible lesson for almost any age.

"In the beginning, God created numbers. Numbers declare the glory of God." Thus begins Irene Sun's colorful picture book about numbers in God's word and His world. Using appropriate Bible references for each number 1-12, children will be learn about creation, God's place in our lives, and more. From the turquoise hardcover to the full two page art work throughout, this is an eye appealing book. Most adults expect the message in a children's picture book to be simple, but not in this title. That means there is much to talk about beyond the rhymes. For example, the number 10 refers to the parable of the woman and her lost coin. The real message for that two page spread is that God does not want even one of his children to be lost. It may take an adult reader to help a child, even an independent reader, to understand the message behind the number and the parable. After a powerful look at the symbol for infinity and the lesson that God is infinite in his power, the book ends with the message that God "counts" every fish, every star, every hair on your head and He also knows your every cry, your every step and your every day -- the real message of the book.

This book would be a welcome addition to a children's church library or a church-affliated pre-school/ kindergarten.

God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World by Irene Sun is a new book that looks at different numbers (1-12 and infinity) and how they tie into the story of the Bible. I appreciate that the book begins with God creating and that everything, even numbers, comes from Him. There are many helpful connections that Sun makes throughout the book. The number three focuses on the Trinity.  Five points kids the the fact that Moses wrote the Pentateuch (five books). I felt that nine was very creative as well, drawing the readers attention the the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5. 

Sun does a nice job of not trying to stretch numbers to mean something they do not. Instead, she points to places of Scripture where these numbers show up, not trying to super spiritualize some meaning into them. I enjoyed reading this book to my sons and they really enjoyed it as well. 

The illustrations are by Alex Foster and are very well done. They do a great job of illustrating the point that the author is making on each page. The only complaint I have is the portrayal of Noah's ark. All of the people and many animals are out on an observation deck (of sorts) while the flood is taking place. Scripture speaks of God shutting Noah  in the ark and that he opened a window after the flood waters decreased and "the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat."  While maybe not as visually appealing it would have been nice to see an ark that was to scale (even if no animals and people would have been visible). 

Overall, I felt that Irene Sun communicated some good truths in a very readable manner for young children. I received a copy of this book from New Growth Press in exchange for an honest review.

This book was very inspiring and compelling to read with that also had a story that offering to a young reader to learn and study more about God uses numbers from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and infinity in the Bible with also come with a color full of cartoon in every pages easy to understand, fun and surprising with a small little thing that will give you a knowledge too. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a cop of this book from I read with Audra for this review”.

While I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, it is one I would’ve gladly purchased. Here’s why:

There are individual pages addressing each number 1-12, plus a page on ‘infinity’ and ‘God counting’. I was able to keep my son’s attention while sharing this book with him. The colors are beautifully chosen and the illustrations are perfect for little eyes.

Each page has a simple sentence or two relating that number to God’s word, along with a verse or two from the Bible that supports the text. For example, “Four tells us God made everything beautiful.” What does the number 4 have to do with beauty? Genesis 2 speaks of the four rivers God made and Revelation 4 speaks of four creatures standing before God’s throne. Both the rivers and the creatures are beautiful simply because they were made by God.

One could easily read this in one sitting or use each number as a start to a Bible lesson for almost any age.

God Counts Numbers in His Word and His World is a beautifully illustrated storybook and the message within is even more so. I know God likes numbers and I really appreciated how this book takes the numbers from 1-12 and gives us a simple message which includes Bible verses and their references. After the number twelve, the author tackles infinity and delivers a meaningful Gospel message that even the young at heart can comprehend. This was another great children’s book by New Growth Press that delivers a heartfelt and most important story to kids of all ages. Written towards the younger crowd especially, this is a nice neat book to share with preschoolers.

God Counts Numbers in His Word and His World is a beautifully illustrated storybook and the message within is even more so. I know God likes numbers and I really appreciated how this book takes the numbers from 1-12 and gives us a simple message which includes Bible verses and their references. After the number twelve, the author tackles infinity and delivers a meaningful Gospel message that even the young at heart can comprehend.
This was another great children’s book by New Growth Press that delivers a heartfelt and most important story to kids of all ages. Written towards the younger crowd especially, this is a nice neat book to share with preschoolers.
I received a copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

As children grow, they learn the basics of an education. This often begins with parents teaching children their ABC’s and 1-2-3’s. For Christian parents, there should be an even greater priority: to teach their children who God is and what He has done. But what about a resource that points children to God as their Creator while also teaching them how to count? It is that such resource we find in the creative new book by Irene Sun, God Counts: Numbers in His and His World.

Numbers in Scripture

Along with eye-appealing illustrations by Alex Foster, Irene Sun teaches kids to count from numbers 1 to 12. She does this by taking each number and citing an example where the number is used in Scripture. After counting to 12, Irene takes a page to talk about infinity, teaching children God is infinite and has no end. She closes the book by getting personal and addressing the reader about the God who counts and cares for them.

Counting and the Creator

When it comes to teaching children who God is and how to number, God Counts: Numbers in His Word and His World by Irene Sun is the book parents can count on. Other than the need to clarify or define a couple of words in numbers 10 and 11, the book’s straightforward approach equips parents to teach their children to learn how to count and to find out more about their Creator in the process. Because of the nature of the book (namely, that it is on counting), parents should realize that an explanation of the gospel is not necessarily laid out. Where the book does touch upon the realities of the gospel, parents should use what the book does share as an opportunity to begin or continue a conversation with their kids about their own sin and need for a Savior. The book is ideal for elementary-age kids, 5–11 years old. If you are a parent or know a child who is learning how to count, then be sure you get them God Counts by Irene Sun, so they can learn about the works of their Creator as well.

I received this book from New Growth Press in exchange for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own and are my honest review of the book.

This is NOT your typical counting book for the little ones. This book presents deep, theological ideas wrapped up in the beauty of numbers. It doesn't entail mathematics, yet states that the Maker of the Universe, God, created numbers and that they declare His glory. Yes, all of creation declares the glory of the Creator, God.

Information that is usually gleaned from sermons or Bible studies such as their being four rivers in the Garden of Eden, four wings on every butterfly, and four creatures before God's throne saying, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty!" will enrich the parents reading aloud this interesting children's book.

"Six tells us God hates sin..... 'Here are six things that the Lord hates. unkind eyes, a lying tongue, hands that hurt, a wicked heart, disobedient feet, and lies that separate people.' Proverbs 6:16-19

The book is definitely for those who wish to give their children deeper ideas to think about. It goes far beyond the typical kiddie counting book. While it is a "picture book" the text, scope of thoughts, and theology don't fit a picture book pattern.

I can highly recommend the book. That recommendation is, however given with the caveat that the book is not to be skimmed over, quickly read and tossed in the book heap. It is to be delved into thoroughly and with each reading pursue further discussions about the implications of these ideas.

God Counts is colorful and contains much biblical truth. It's fun to count various objects with littles throughout the pages of this book. I appreciate that it included Scripture references. At times, the organization seemed a little random and scattered to me. It goes from:

God
to humans as image bearers
to the Trinity, cross, & resurrection (without mentioning sin)
to the beauty of creation
to new creation
to God speaking
to sins that God hates
to God's presence with us (like Joshua)
to the rescue of his children (like Noah)
to imaging God through the Holy Spirit
to God seeking his lost children
to forgiveness (of the disciples)
to eternity
to infinity.

One concern that I have about this book is that God Counts seems to assume that preschoolers are saved and heaven bound which could lead to a false assurance of faith if parents aren't careful to balance out what is presented here. God Counts lacks any call to repentance and faith. That being said, Number 11 does lend itself well to this discussion when it mentions that Judas did not return to Jesus for forgiveness, but the other eleven disciples did return and were forgiven. The final number reads:

"Twelve tells us we will live with God forever"

and the book concludes with:

"God counts all of your steps
Until you walk with him side by side.

God counts all of your days
Until you see him face to face..."

While there is much to commend in this book, in light of these particular issues, I would only recommend this to those who are grounded well enough in Scripture to balance out what they read with their listeners.

*Many thanks to New Growth Press for sending me a complimentary copy of this book! This is my honest opinion.