a Mighty Word ~ relax

"If God is for us, who can be against us?  
He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all -- how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?"  Romans 8:31-32

Feeling challenged?  Remember Who you belong to. He's on our side, and He is already victorious!
Thank You, Father!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal


Have you registered?
Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.   What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God! Register today online at http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/3/98.html;  first 100 registrants receive a special gift package worth $20. Register before October 1st for $10 off registration.

See you there!

keep looking

"...never tire of doing what is right." 2 Thessalonians 3:13

We were looking at the same plant, but we viewed it quite differently.  He was anxious to swing his axe

and rid our yard of the plant he found hideous and practically dead. But i couldn't let go of it yet. I love sunflowers, and just one bloom was beauty enough for me to save it for another day.

Father, help me to focus on people more like my sunflower plant and take the time to look beyond the obvious.  Sometimes it's easy to get wrapped up and turned off in what's ugly, aggravating or unnerving in others.  And in doing so, we miss what You want to show or teach us. Help me to step back and see others in Your Light. With patience, an open heart and Your love, goodness and beauty will shine through the upfront ugly spots.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God, 
veneal 


have you registered?
Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.

What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!

View the schedule and register today online at  http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/3/98.html .
Special registration fee offered until October 1st.

see you there!

ready to climb the tree?

Paul said...
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me -- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9

God told Paul and Paul told me,

"Meet Me in the heart of all you see."

Up the learning tree with God, let us be.

There we'll find peace in the heart, for you and me.

Thank You, Father, for loving, instructing, correcting and guiding me closer to You.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

have you registered?
Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.

What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!

View the schedule and register today online at  http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/3/98.html .
Special registration fee offered until October 1st.

see you there!

how do you see yourself?

"... from the beginning God chose you ... May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 16-17

Looking at the portraits on the wall, a fact was clearly evident.  How we see ourselves is probably not completely accurate. And likely not how others see us.

Do we see the best in ourselves or the worse?  Is it a picture of truth or fiction? Who's picture of us is most true?

God sees us for who and what we truly are... His Child.  If God had a  refrigerator, your picture would be on it with a frame saying, "My Beloved Child". 


Father, i want my portrait to be ever changing.  As each day passes i want to bear a greater resemblance to You.  Less of me and more of You is the reflection i want to see in the mirror.  So erase the worries and doubts and marked me permanently Yours... with a big smile.

friend, we are love and chosen by God,
veneal

have you registered for the Faith and Freedom & Public Schools workshop?  Register now online http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/3/98.html . See you Saturday, November 1st!

never too late

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2

If you missed the opportunity to pray with others around a school flagpole this morning, remember it's never too late to pray.  Just stop right now and pray for your school, it's entire leadership, faculty and staff, all the students and parents.  Your prayer will join the thousands of others and strengthen our request to God for favor, guidance, blessings, and protection for our children.  Obedience to our Father has a sweet sound to it... it's  called peace.

By the way, you have already been prayed for today.  Go about your business with the confidence God is with and for you.

friend, you are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

p.s. have you registered for the Faith and Freedom & Public Schools workshop? Saturday morning, November 1st.  Register now online http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/3/98.html

see you there!

a Mighty Word ~ Prayer

"NEVER STOP PRAYING, ESPECIALLY FOR OTHERS." Ephesians 6:18a cev

Tomorrow is the day! SYATP, See You At the Pole.

From that very first year in 1990, See You at the Pole has been about one simple act—prayer.
See you around the flagpole!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

Mark your calendar! SYATP, Wednesday!

"On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers.  Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many." 2 Corinthians 1:11

In early 1990 a small group of Texas teenagers felt strongly compelled by God to pray for their friends.  They drove to three different schools and prayed for the friends, schools and leaders around the flagpoles.  Later on that year in September over 45,000 students in 4 states stepped up to the challenge they made to others to pray.  Now more than 3 million students/people in over 20 countries participate and pray at schools on what has become known at "See You at the Pole" day.

Isn't it amazing what obedience to our Father does!  One can witness the results of prayers for our schools every day.  God is so faithful, even when we are not. 

So, mark your calendar!  This year's SYATP is this Wednesday, September 24th.  

Many prayer warriors will gather at 7am around the pole.  My home school, Pine Street, will gather at 7:30am.  Check your local school for an exact time.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

veneal

p.s. Have you registered for Faith, Freedom & Public Schools workshop?  :)

      www.gtbe.org click on UPCOMING EVENTS / Nov. 1

i must ask...

"Where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD..." Psalm 121:1-2

South Carolina Upstate Educators...
Have you registered yet?

Register now for the Faith, Freedom & Public Schools event coming to Spartanburg on Saturday morning, November 1st at Milestones Church (across from Spartanburg Community College).   

Here's your chance to be absolutely certain about what you can and cannot teach in the public school classroom related to God, the Bible, and Christian values.

Watch the 2 and 3-minute teacher testimony videos (scroll down on the website for each video): http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/5/27.html and then register online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st. 
  
What a great opportunity to learn how to be the Hands and Feet of God -- legally, appropriately and academically.

Endorsed by Focus on the Family, American Family Association, Christian Educators Association International, Chuck Colson Center and others, this conference is led by Gateways to Better Education President Eric Buehrer of Lake Forest, California. 

Watch the 2 and 3-minute teacher testimony videos (scroll down on the website for each video): http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/5/27.html and then register online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st.

The first 100 registrants receive a gift pkg. (valued at $20) at the workshop.  

Share this information with other Christian teachers, and come together to receive clarity about issues of faith in the classroom.

 

Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st. 

The cost is $30 by Oct. 1, or $40 after Oct. 1.

 

I'll see you there!

veneal

 

p.s. If you live in another area, check online at www.gtbe.org for other workshops!

 

a Mighty Word ~ whistle

"In that day the LORD will whistle..." Isaiah 7:18

As the Lord whistled while He worked, may we whistle too.  No matter what level of difficulty or aggravation is before us, God with us makes all things possible.

For the joy of the Lord is my strength!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

Have you registered yet?
  Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.   What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God! Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st;  first 100 registrants receive a special gift package worth $20. Register before October 1st for $10 off registration.
  See you there!

seed of promise

"... only God makes things grow. The person who plants and the person who water have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are God's fellow workers; you are God's field, God's building." 1 Corinthians 3:7-9

We each have an important role in God's beautiful garden of children.  He has equipped us with special gifts and talents to be shared.  Created by God for God, our living in faith and obedience to Him allows others to see and know His goodness.  May we help prepare the hearts and minds of others to receive His blessings.

God is our promise of things to come.Thank You, Father!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal


Upstate Educators, have you registered yet?
Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.  

What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!

Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st.

see you there!
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ WiLd

"The LORD your God has chosen you, (your name), out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be His people, His treasured possession." Deuteronomy 7:6

God is wildly in love with you! Sometimes we just need to be reminded how very much we are loved.  

Thank You, Father, for soothing my irritable soul with Your loving, caring Words.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

where are my trophies?

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward to the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

"Mom, where are my trophies?"
"I threw them out."
"WHAT??!  You never throw anything away. I can't believe you got rid of my trophies!"
"Oh, i'm sorry. I didn't think you were interested in them, and the dust on the shelf was so thick. I thought you'd be tickled i tossed something out."

  
It was easy for me to lay down her trophies from so long ago, surely they didn't mean that much to her... but what about my own trophies? 

Tossing out anything of mine is not easy for me.  From greeting cards and plastic bread bags to 20 year old ill-fitting suits, i have a hard time letting go of my stuff.  People say things worth remembering, styles repeat, and saving money is always smart...so keep everything, right?

Yet, letting go of the past can be freeing.  The past can paralyze us into old ways or habits.  Whether our past brings back memories of glory or defeat, if we sit in it too long it can deter us from receiving what God has in store for our future.  Growing in the knowledge "God is not finished with us yet" helps to nurture and strengthen our relationship with Him.

Father, as we move on with You in faith and obedience, please help us to shake off all the old dust surrounding us.  Open our mind and heart to prepare for a fuller, more meaningful life with You.  You are the one prize our eyes need to rest upon.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
 veneal



Have you registered?
Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.   What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God! Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st;  first 100 registrants receive a special gift package worth $20. Register before October 1st for $10 off registration.
See you there!

on the run

"As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:15

The week was everything i thought it would be and more.  Being out for a day, several special events scheduled, my leader gone due to unexpected needs, all meant one thing -- i needed to wear my tennis shoes.  My feet stayed in constant motion as the needs and demands of the day exceeded the usual pace.

I love my job. But to be honest with you, i am thankful today is Friday.  I look forward to putting my feet up and closing my eyes for awhile this weekend.  How about you?

Father, thank you for being with me every step of the way this crazy week. My feet carried me many places, and i pray the footprints i left behind bared the markings of Your Soul.  If not, help me wash away the callouses of impatience, the corns of busyness, the stink of me-ness and other undesirable issues. I want to be Your sweet feet wherever i go. 

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

veneal

South Carolina Upstate Educators...

Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.  
What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!
Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st;  first 100 registrants receive a special gift package worth $20. Register before October 1st for $10 off registration.
Can't wait to see you there! veneal

a Mighty Word ~ peace

Jesus said...
"Peace I leave with you; My Peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27

A godly peace is everlasting built on one solid foundation... Jesus Christ.
A worldly peace is one built on constantly shifting, sinking sands.

Choose God, and be filled with His Peace through all things.

Remembering in prayer today everyone, but especially all families and friends affected by 9/11.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

do you understand?

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5

"Wow. This school really encourages being quiet," the new teacher commented.
"Why do you say that?" Ms. Thomas asked.
"Because everywhere i look, loving PSS is being promoted."

To that Ms. Thomas' laughter could be heard roaring down the hallway.  "PSS doesn't stand for 'quiet' but for 'Pine Street School'!".

Our understanding is limited by what we know at the time.  What a relief to know when we can't rely on our limited understanding, we can still trust God.  His understanding has no boundaries or limits.  He who knows and understands all can maneuver and guide us through any difficulties we encounter.

UNDER God, we can STAND though anything...  understand?

friend, we are loved and chosen by God, 
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ listen

"Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear."  Isaiah 65: 24

Thank You, Father!

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal



Faith, Freedom and Public School conference... see you November 1st!!
veneal

slow, but still good!

"Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come." Psalm 71:18

Postscript from Friday's devotion:

Truly my age was showing, physically and mentally, when the student told me i would not be alive when she became a grownup.  I was caught off my rocker and couldn't find the words to respond -- a common situation with age.  

A day later, with my mind clearer and sharper, i smiled with the confidence and knowledge of how i should have responded...

"Mindy, actually you are wrong.  When you are a grownup (many years from now), i will be more alive than ever before!  I'll just have a new address.  One that is out of this world."

Then, the thinking cap would be back on the student's head.

Yes, as a believer growing older does have it benefits... including eternal JOY.  Let's not miss sharing the Good News with all around us.

Surely Your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal


Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.  
What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!
Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st; 
first 100 registrants receive a special gift package worth $20. Register before October 1st for $10 off registration.

Can't wait to see you there!
veneal

ouch!

"Even to  your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  Isaiah 46:4

I was enjoying the visit from the first grade class, until little Mindy shared her wisdom with me.
"Mrs. Williams, you probably wouldn't be alive when I'm a grownup."

What was it that gave it away?  My hair color, the smile lines, my outdated fashions?  I don't know about you, but there are some things i rather not hear... even when it's true.

Father, it would be nice if all truth was easy to swallow, but sometimes it hurts.  How very thankful i am to know you will carry us, sustain us and rescue us all the days of our life.  This one truth makes all things bearable.  

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal 


Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.  

What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!

Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st.

see you there!
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ come

But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

Father, i pray they see You in me.


friend, you are loved and chosen by God,
veneal


Look forward to seeing you at the Faith, Freedom and Public Schools conference on Saturday morning, November 1st, at Milestones Church, Spartanburg, SC.  

What a great opportunity to learn how to effectively and legally be the Hands and Feet of God!

Register today online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st.

see you there!
veneal

what are you counting on?

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."  Hebrews 13:8

Price of gasoline... unpredictable

amount of milk you should drink... unpredictable

number of eggs you should eat... unpredictable

fashion styles... unpredictable

times of war... unpredictable

lottery ticket... unpredictable

job security... unpredictable

relationship with friends, family, co‑workers... unpredictable

death... unpredictable

In this ever changing world and time, just what can we count on?

Jesus Christ... predictable.  Always the same, always there, always involved in our life, always madly in love with us.  Can you live with just that?  I certainly can't live without it.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

veneal

Have you registered for the Faith, Freedom & Public Schools conference yet? 

Upstate Educators.... Plan to join me on November 1st for the Faith, Freedom & Public Schools event coming to Spartanburg, SC on November 1st at Milestones Church (across from Sptbg. Community College).  Endorsed by Focus on the Family, American Family Association, Christian Educators Association International, Chuck Colson Center and others, this conference is led by Gateways to Better Education President Eric Buehrer of Lake Forest, California. 

Here's your chance to be absolutely certain about what you can and cannot teach in the public school classroom related to God, the Bible, and Christian values.

Watch the 2 and 3-minute teacher testimony videos (scroll down on the website for each video): http://www.gtbe.org/news/index.php/5/27.html and then register online at www.gtbe.org  / Upcoming Events / November 1st.

The first 100 registrants receive a gift pkg. (valued at $20) reserved for them at the event table. 
Hope to see you there! 
veneal