‘KEPT’: A helpful guide for daily inspiration

By Alice Thomas-Tisdale

JA Publisher Emerita

Jackson’s newest author Thea Thomas Faulkner makes good on her affirmation that “KEPT” (edited by Robert Blaine IV) offers readers an assortment of thought-provoking pictorials with corresponding scriptures for the purpose of “planting the truths of God’s Holy Word in your hearts and minds.” 

With beautiful simplicity and stunning clarity, this 396-page book, with topics listed in alphabetical order, contains numerous biblical verses. The book is beautifully bound – the cover feels like a soft, smooth silk fabric. The pages contain vibrantly colored photos. 

For example, an interesting picture of an unoccupied beautifully engraved dining chair invites the reader to feast on the words of Romans 8:28. She refers to it as “Called,” stating: “And we know [with great confidence] that God [Who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” 

A more complex entry, entitled “Priorities,” is a picture of a classic two bell alarm clock only visible by the light streaming through the window. It directs the reader’s eye to Psalm 119:37 – “Turn my eyes away from vanity [all those worldly, meaningless things that distract – let Your priorities be mine], and restore me [with renewed energy] in Your ways.” 

Faulkner’s close friends definitely made it a priority to attend her book signing held recently at Soule’ Cafe in Fondren. 

About the author

Thea Thomas Faulkner is a native of New Orleans, and has lived in Jackson, Mississippi, since 2005. She and her late husband, Rev. Larry I. Faulkner, are parents to Daniel, Jonathan, Mikayla, and daughter in love Kristin, and grandparents to Levi, Aaron, and Nola Grace, by whom she is affectionately called “Honey!”

If you ever ask Faulkner how she’s doing, you’ll hear her say, “God is keeping me, because He’s faithful like that!”

She is a member of City Heart Church, pastored by Kevin and Andrea Reid. She is active in the Connect Team ministry and Team Leader for The Village Elders, a group of women who are 45 years of age or better! Additionally, Faulkner has served as a small group facilitator for an intergenerational women’s class.

Faulkner’s next book signing is Friday, May 1, 2026; | 5:30 p.m.; BRAVO! Italian Restaurant in  Highland Village.