what will you be today?

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever."
1 Chronicles 16:34 AND Psalm 106:1 AND Psalm 107:1 AND Psalm 118:1 AND Psalm 118:29 AND Psalm 136:1

Some days i feel like a princess...

and some days i feel like a witch...

At times we mask our true emotions, and at other times they show out in full living color.  How thankful i am to KNOW, God loves me through all my moods, all my fits, all my outbursts, all my highs and lows. With Him, there is no hiding of the Truth.  He loves us... period.

How can we be sure of this unconditional love? Because over and over again, His Word reminds us His love is unending... no ifs, ands, or buts. No tricks, just treats from Above, today and everyday.
Thank You, Father.

HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER, not because i am good, but because HE IS GOOD.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ fear-not

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

He who knows us best and loves us best, always, always has His Hand on us.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

how do we continue?

"The entire law is summer up in a single command... 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Galatians 5:14

Again, the ugly face of evil has showed itself, this time in Pittsburgh. Understandably, troubles arise when we turn our back on God. But many troubles occur because there is pure evil in our fallen world. It appears evil is rampant. And whether it's because of the ability of technology to inform us or a true surge in horrific events, we are in the midst of a battle. One of the fiercest battles is for our heart and mind. How are we to respond or act?

It appears we have 3 choices when faced with evil:
1. Retaliate with the same anger and hatred as the ones destroying innocent lives.
2. Allow feeling of desensitization or hopelessness to penetrate our soul, and do nothing.
3. Do what Jesus would do... keep loving, no matter what... for the love of God and for the love of others... all others.

It is because of sin and our need for a Savior, God sent Jesus to us... to save us and to demonstrate how we are to live in a fallen, sinful world. Jesus taught, and more importantly showed us, we are to love and not to hate... love the Lord with all our heart, mind and soul -- love our neighbor as ourselves -- love our enemy - even the deplorable unlovable. It is His way and the way we must choose in order to rise above the chaos, and make a difference in a world so full of horror and turmoil. Our loving as Jesus did, can possibly change the life and way of another -- and possibly make a change for eternal life.

We all have an opportunity to make a difference in the mission field before us. Hatred, anger, hurt, abuse, discrimination, ridiculed, alienation is as close as our class/work door. We walk among damaged goods daily. What difference could an act of kindness, understanding or love make to the outcast in our presence? We only have to look to Jesus to know and remember, it can and did turn ruthless, harden people into ones with hope and a future. We don't have to experience a severe circumstance to be used by God. We just need to be ready and willing to do what Jesus did, love in spite of what we see. Stand up against hatred. May it not engulf or numb us, instead we are called to allow the love of God to be the source of strength and healing for broken hearts.

Father, do not let us be found as callous children, unbothered by growing evil. Instead i pray we adopt the Truth; pure love from You has the power to overcome all obstacles. To ignore the opportunity to serve with love... wouldn't that be a sin too? Father, help us.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live and serve others like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ restored

"He leads me besides still waters, He restores my  soul..." Psalm 23:2,3

Before we can be restored, we must rest first...

REST and be RESTored.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

seeing red...

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Philippians 4:8

In a season of Fall and orange, this week RED is the predominant color and a call to action.  The Red Ribbon campaign blankets schools across the nation promoting drug-free lives.  This year's theme, "life is your journey, travel drug free", reminds me we need to continuously be cautious of the decisions we are making. 

Father, may the fun, inspiring Red Ribbon week promoting positive behavior be a source of strength and wisdom for all... today and the days ahead.  And when we include You on our journey, we are better equipped to maneuver past the weakness and temptations along the way. 

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

this seal holds forever...

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through Him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come." 2 Corinthians 1:20-22

With report cards going home soon, Ms. Deere sent envelopes down to laminate. She wanted the report cards protected and safely kept. Instantly, i was impressed with the choice of stickers used.  Each child carefully decorated their envelope, clearly displaying their unique style and message.  Then i noticed a common thread in all of them.  They all contained a cross!  

Well, it really wasn't a cross, but a special closure designed by the teacher.  It sealed each student's report card securely and safely in the envelope.

Doesn't that remind you of our heavenly Teacher?  We are all uniquely designed with various talents, desires and passions. And as a child of God, our Teacher has promised a special seal for preserving us.  God has provided the means of eternal life through His Son, Jesus. And as a believer, we are marked in Him with a seal, the Holy Spirit, showing we belong to Him and guaranteeing His promises to us.  Wow!  I don't think i can ever look at a report card again and not smile.

Can i get an AMEN??

Thank You, Jesus! 

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

WHO can love me now?

"By day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me— a prayer to the God of my life." Psalm 42:8

WHO loves you through the day and serenades you through the night?

WHO loves you every day... every minute... every second, forever and always... no matter what??

Hands down, without a doubt, and without hesitation, it's our heavenly Daddy.  
God loves us no less on our worst day, than on our best day. 

Thank You, Father.  

we are loved and chosen by God, 
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

out of options?

"I call on You, my God, for You will answer me; turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer." Psalm 17:6

"What to do? What to do?"
Ever have this tune spinning around in your head, as if an endless loop??

When life or circumstances go awry, and 
                            it appears the answers are not clear and 
                                                        you are running out of options, 
it's usually true. 

It's then we realize our One true option and answer is the same... 
                                                                                   give it to God.

Father, why is it that even when i know turning each situation over to You is the right answer, i am so stinking slow and stubborn in doing it.  Actually, i know the answer.  It's that dirty arm of pride and control showing itself.  Clean me of selfish ways, so i may cling to You from the beginning.

we are loved and chosen  by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

the race is on!

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of faith." Hebrews 12:1-2

Our school's fund raiser event ended with students dashing around the track, determined to reach the goal of 35 laps. Their lap pledges created donations for multiple programs/needs for our school. The best part of the race was when all the cheering stopped and the dust cleared, all were winners. Now, that's my kind of race.

How thankful i am, our Father has designed such a race for us too.  Thank  You, Father, for Your Word, for Jesus and for the encouragement of others to keep our focus on what really matters.  May all we do and say bring glory to You and draw others into Your loving Arms.  How glad i am there is enough room for all of us at Your finish line.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

do you hear me??

"He answered their prayers, because they trusted in Him." 1 Chronicles 5:20

The playground was filled with activity, shouts and children. And miraculously in the midst of it all the hustle and bustle, a small, single praying mantis was noticed by Mrs. Green.

Doesn't that remind you of God?  

No matter the size of the person or the size of the prayer, or what else is going on in the world, He is not distracted.  He knows and is aware of all things. Through the crowds and noise, God still hears each of our cries and answers them in His perfect time and way.

God, give me patience to wait on You and peace in Your response.  May my prayers to You be as faithful as Your answers are to me.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

restoring order

"I call on you, my God, for You will answer me; turn Your ear to me and hear my prayer." Psalm 17:6

When it feels like your life or situation is in shambles, and you can't even spell your name....

Turn to God... the foundation and strength of our faith.  When we are anchored to Him, He restores and puts order to our days.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ hello!

"Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up." Proverbs 12:25

"Hello!"

Such a simple act... carrying the power to change a person's day for the better.

And when it's served with a smile -- the blessing blossoms.

"For in Him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge—" 1 Corinthians 1:5

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

falling for you

"The Lord did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous (more important, more powerful, wealthier, smarter, prettier, funnier, etc.) than other peoples... but it was because the LORD loved you..." Deuteronomy 7:7-8

Through all your up and downs...

rights and wrongs...

celebrations and heartaches...

Who could possibly be falling for you over and over again.... 

no matter what.

Father, thank You for loving me unconditionally and continuously.  You, alone, are enough.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

safe or not

"You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety." Job 11:18

How are you weathering all the current storm situations?

*Did you lose power?
*Were trees down around you?
*Did turbulent, flood waters cover your path?

If you answered yes to one or all three, let's say a prayer of thanks as we remember these Truths...

*The Power of God never flickers, expires nor abandons us.
*When our roots are in Christ, we experience an unshakable faith foundation.
*Being filled and overflowing with living water, we have the joyful assurance of  knowing eternal life is ours.

Father, i am so grateful You are in all our storms.  May we keep our eyes on You, because You are our hope, our peace and our future.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ secure

"See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me." Isaiah 49:16

No matter how scrambled up our life might be, rest assured that in the Arms of God we are always safe, secure and loved.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

in a moment...

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

Normally, i don't judge a book by its cover.  But there are times when a cover tells the story... or in this case the Truth.

This week i noticed a bulletin board in the hallway filled with book covers designed by students.  The headline, If I were a book, my title would be..., highlighted the students various talents, interests and thoughts.  One cover sailed to the top of my reading list as a best seller because i heard God speaking through it.

Refreshingly, i was reminded that's exactly what our life is.  It is a continuous collection of moments -- good, bad, funny, sad, shocking, joyous, numbing, thrilling --  and that made me breathe a sigh of relief.

If you are having a bad one, hang on; prayerfully the next one will be better.  And may our desire to thankfully celebrate the good moments grow, making them even sweeter.  

God alone knows what is next.  He is the One Stable Constant in our life... and that is Good News for ALL the moments in our life, ALL the time.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

need a day?

"Yet I am always with You; You hold me by my right hand... My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:23, 26

Overworked?
Stressed?
Confused?
Complicated issues?
At loose ends?
Broken?
Answers incomplete?
Just plain tired?

Maybe a day off is needed for you and for me.

So thankful God understands... and even more thankful God never needs nor takes a day off.

Thank You, Father, for being Ever-Present and Ever-Ready because i am ever in need of You.

we are loved and chosen  by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

dancing with the stars

"Let them praise His name with dancing and make music to Him with timbrel and harp." Psalm 149:3

There's a problem with Summer Break... the dreaded Summer Slump.  When students break from their reading routine, the brain wanes. To fight the slump and encourage Summer reading, a Fall dance party for our Summer reading stars has proven to be a fun stomping celebration at school.

Father, life can be hard and difficult, and at times down right ugly.  But it doesn't stay that way.  I am thankful for times we can break from routines or stressful times and celebrate.  To laugh and move with a joy-filled heart is pure medicine for the soul.  May we continuously look for occasions to celebrate ...and may we remember daily our greatest reason for celebration is You and Your gift of eternal life.

Shake a leg, swing your head, 

sing a song and thank God!

Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you shining stars.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it! 

veneal

is that the truth??

"let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance—" Proverbs 1:5

"Mrs. Williams, we've got some sad news.  Sara's dog chewed up her book."
I only had to glance at her book to believe her.   

The dog ate my homework... 

and he ate my book.
Sometimes it's just a tale, and sometimes it's a genuine doggie tail.

Father, when questioning situations/statements before me, please help me discern, acknowledge and believe the Truth.  Shake my spirit or soothe it.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it -- and the Truth,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~tell

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace,  who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" Isaiah 52:7

Go tell it on the mountains... and wherever your feet carry you.

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

we are loved and chosen by God.
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

the cat did it

"...fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience." 1 Timothy 1:18

Barry, you have a book that is a month late."
"Um... how long is a month?"
"Usually 30 days."
"Well, 30 days ago my cat went in my book bag and took out my book and some papers and hid them."
"Your cat hid your book??"
"Yes."

... and my dog ate my homework.

Move over 'lil doggie, you've got company on the "they-did-it" wagon.
Shifting blame never solves the problem, but a humble, honest heart produces respect.

Father, in a world so quick in refusing to accept responsibility for wrong, help us be bold enough to admit our faults and grow stronger from them.  The act will not define us, how we handle it will.

we are loved and chosen by God -- even with our faults,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ remember

"Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always. Remember the wonders He has done, His miracles, and the judgments He pronounced." 1 Chronicles 16:11-12

Reflect and remember... 
when life is questionable, He is not.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

do you THINK?

"Friends, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Philippians 4:8

In class, at home, within our community their are many issues being debated, doubted and discussed.  In the heat of a tense moment or in a fit of exhaustion, we run a high risk of our tongues rattling too quickly and harshly.
Before we speak, i pray we THINK:

T - is it True
H - is it Helpful
I - is it Inspiring
N - is it Necessary
K - is is Kind

Thinking before we speak will likely spare unnecessary hurt and bring healing to a broken situation.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal