Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth and Everyday Teaching

Whether you are a substitute teacher called on short notice, a small group leader, or a chaplain serving in a correctional facility, the goal remains the same: to make the Bible approachable, practical, and spiritually enriching.
P.J. Mann’s ministry is built on the belief that anyone who can read English can teach an effective Bible lesson. Drawing from experience as a chaplain for the Good Samaritan Society and a leader in prison ministry, Mann has developed resources designed to bridge the gap between biblical truth and real-world application—requiring little to no preparation time.

The "Teacher Friendly" Method

For educators and substitutes, the biggest hurdle is often preparation. P.J. Mann’s flagship resource, Teacher Friendly Bible Lessons on Short Notice, was born from the necessity of filling in for absent teachers at the last minute.
These 52 complete lessons (suitable for Grade 6 through adult) are structured to ensure you are always ready to lead. Each lesson includes:
Printed Scripture Passages:

No need to flip through different versions; the text is right there.

Key Point Reviews:

Clear summaries to reinforce learning.

Life-Application Questions:

Prompts designed to move students from knowledge to action

Bible Quizzes:

Engaging time-fillers to test knowledge and spark interaction

From the Desk of P.J. Mann

Below are adapted excerpts from P.J. Mann’s lessons, offering a glimpse into the practical wisdom and direct teaching style found in her works.

Based on Lesson 1:
"A Foolish Man"
The Bible often contrasts the wise with the foolish. Jesus taught that the distinction lies not just in hearing the Word, but in doing it (Matthew 7:24–27).
The Trait of the Fool: The foolish person may know Bible trivia, but they build their life on sinking sand. They ignore danger signs, waste resources, and lose their temper easily.
The Trait of the Wise: The wise person hears the warning and acts. They understand that knowing Scripture is not enough; it must be active in one's life to provide a firm foundation.
Classroom Discussion: Ask your students, "Is it enough to memorize chapters of the Bible if we don't act on them?"
Based on Lesson 3:
"Anger Management"
Anger is a God-given emotion, but without control, it leads to destruction. As James 1:19 reminds us, we must be "slow to speak, slow to wrath".
The "Duct Tape" Method: Mann shares the story of a man who carried a roll of duct tape as a physical reminder to keep his mouth shut during angry moments—a vivid lesson in being "slow to speak".
The "Exit" Strategy: If you feel an explosion of anger coming, physically exit the room. A cool-down period can prevent words you will regret later.
Biblical Response: Proverbs 15:1 teaches that "A soft answer turneth away wrath." When confronted, choose a soft apology over a harsh retort to de-escalate the situation.
Based on Lesson 2:
"A World Without God"
Using the book of Ecclesiastes, we explore the search for happiness. King Solomon had unlimited wealth, entertainment, and power, yet he found it all "meaningless" without God.
Fun vs. Happiness: There is a difference between "fun" (which ends when the party is over) and "happiness" (gladness of heart that God provides even in hard times).
The Lesson: True meaning is not found in the accumulation of "stuff" or fleeting experiences, but in a relationship with the Creator

Devotionals for the Heart: The Psalms

For those seeking personal spiritual growth beyond the classroom, P.J. Mann offers the Let There Be Music series. This three-volume collection takes readers on a heartfelt journey through the Psalms.
Drawing on decades of ministry in diverse settings—from nursing homes to jails—these devotionals explore the full spectrum of human emotion, including joy, grief, and repentance. They serve as a guide for daily decision-making and offer comfort in seasons of loss.

Life Lessons from the Songs of the Psalms: Book of Devotionals and Short Bible Lessons:

Volume I

This synopsis shows how devotionals draw wisdom from the Psalms to guide believers through life’s challenges with biblical principles. Written largely by David—once a shepherd, later a king who endured betrayal and hardship yet remained steadfast in faith—the Psalms reflect deep trust in God’s protection and provision. Her most beloved work, the twenty-third Psalm, embodies this reliance. These songs are meant to inspire, encourage, and strengthen readers, helping them face life’s complexities with resilience and a heart of praise. 

Volume II

Volume II offers devotionals rooted in the Psalms, applying biblical principles to everyday challenges such as relationships, finances, emotions, and integrity. With many Psalms written by David—once a shepherd, later a king who endured betrayal and hardship yet remained steadfast in faith—these writings reflect deep trust in God’s protection and provision, most famously in the twenty-third Psalm. This collection is designed to inspire, encourage, and strengthen believers, guiding them toward spiritual … Read More…

Volume III

Draw from the Psalms to teach biblical principles and life lessons, guiding believers through challenges such as relationships, finances, emotions, integrity, and temptations. Written largely by David—shepherd turned king who endured betrayal, persecution, and family strife yet remained steadfast in faith—the Psalms reflect her deep trust in God’s protection and provision, most memorably in the twenty-third Psalm. These songs are meant to inspire, encourage, and strengthen readers, helpin.. Read more

Straight from P. J. Mann | Interviews & Insights

Whether you need a message for Easter, Thanksgiving, or a standard Sunday morning, P.J. Mann’s collections ensure you are never caught unprepared. Sign up for our newsletter to receive fresh devotionals, timely lessons, and inspiration straight to your inbox—so you’re always ready to share God’s Word with confidence.