the only one

"Be strong. Be brave. Be fearless. You are never alone." Joshua 1:9

Sometimes, even when surrounded by many others, we feel as if we are fighting the battles alone...

Circumstances can cause us to feel alone, out of place and different. Yet, nothing could be further from the Truth.

For against the odds, the hardships and the struggles there is always One on our side.... One who is with us and for us, One who understands, One who makes us feel complete, accepted and fulfilled.

Thank You, Father.

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

should i be here?

"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work." 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

May we never doubt, neglect or dismiss the gifts, service or work God has woven into our lives.

 He doesn't make mistakes; we are different for a reason.

God has a need, and a plan and a purpose for each of us. We aren't meant to be copycats. As a snowflake, we are unique masterpieces designed by Him for Him and His glory to do His work.

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

yes, we can!

"Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality."  Romans 12:13

Clang those cans, and sing a song of joy!  We've completed 100 days of school!

To celebrate this milestone, our classrooms collected 100+ can goods for people and pets. As the cans stacked up, so did their excitement. Yet, i imagine the thrill in reaching 100 school days and 100 cans by the students will only be exceeded by the thrill of the recipients of these gifts.

Good News, whether in words or deeds, is more fun and fulfilling when shared with others. It makes people feel better, inspires hope, brings healing, creates goodwill.

Can we make a difference? Yes, we can... every day.  When we care, we share... and others are helped.

Father, thank You, for opening our eyes, hearts and ways to the needs of those around us. May the spirit of giving continue the next 100 days, and the next, and the next, and the next, etc.

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

a Mighty Word ~ go

"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

However you do it...  

Strut, walk, trot, run, skip, glide, dance -- there is beauty and JOY in sharing the Good News with others.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it, AND...
Go tell others by our words and actions,
veneal

just wait

"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14

Many times this is easier said than done.  Wouldn't you agree?  How many times have you said this to a student, only to see them roll their eyes and stomp off in frustration?

There are times in our life we don't know what to do, where to go, how to act, what to say, how to feel. Our heart cries out for answers and solutions now. Yet, His Word reminds us that being still and waiting for God is the right response. 

While waiting is not easy nor what i want, trusting Him is a must.  What i don't know is overcome by what i do know.  God will answer, calm, strengthen and guide us as He deems best in His perfect timing.

Thank You, Father.

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

warm winter ways

"The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold." Acts 28:2 

How are you surviving these bitter, wintry days?  Many of us are blessed with comfort and warmth... inside and out.  But some are faced with difficulties that are foreign to us.

As children of God, we need to be the present-day islanders to those facing coldness, hunger and pain.

We should do good to all those around us...
not because we know them,
not because others are watching us,
not because it makes us feel good,
not because someone else does,

but because it's just the right thing to do.

May we bring the warmth of music, joy, love and His Light to a cold and hurting world. 

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

a Mighty Word ~ taste

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him." Psalm 34:8

Have circumstances, decisions, events in life left a bad taste in your mouth? There is a remedy available to wash it away.

Open your heart and mind to God. Nothing is sweeter than our Daddy... nothing. He can bring sweet relief like no other.

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

pushing buttons

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

On any given day, after just five minutes of arriving to school, i average pushing at least 39 buttons.  Mind you, i'm referring to buttons relating to electronics, not people. Yet, is there that much difference?  

We push buttons on electronics to get them going, and the same can be said about people.  In both cases the intention is to instigate a response. But, when we speak of pushing a person's buttons, we normally mean pushing them to their limit... and primarily causing a negative reaction.

Father, i pray to create a godly impact on others.  With my words and actions,help me to push the right buttons for producing positive responses causing them to seek and turn to You.

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

do you have a dream?

"...warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone." 1 Thessalonians 5:14

As we continue to remember the goodness of Martin Luther King Jr., may we strive to live in a way to honor him and to honor God... today and everyday.

Dreams can come true.  

Thank You, Father.

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

following the wise

"But the  wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness." James 3:17-18

Thankful for Martin Luther King, Jr. and all the others willing to do as Jesus would.

May the harvest of righteousness be overflowing as we stride each day to follow in Jesus' steps.

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

may I have a word with you?

"May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.  May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  The One who calls you is faithful and He will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

After going over new material, the teacher asked to see a student... in private.  Classroom instruction is good.  But at times, a word in private is needed.  Whether for extra instruction or needed clarification, discipline or correction of a behavior, or even a word of praise, some things need to be relayed privately.  Wouldn't you agree that sometimes a little one-on-one is needed to accomplish your goal as a teacher?

I believe God feels the same way with us.  As wonderful as corporate worship, Bible study classes, and prayer groups are, do you think its enough?  Yes, God speaks to us and moves us in group situations, but He also desires to speak to us One-on-one.  Make time for just you and Him... there are things He longs to say just to you, His precious, beloved Child.  He's calling.  Can He have a Word with just you now?

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ treasure

"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

A calming and healing Word for all.
Never doubt how much you mean to our Father.

You are greater than a national treasure... you are a Holy treasure. Not because of anything you have done, but because you are loved and belong to the King!

Thank You, Father!

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

it's not what you think

"God is love." 1 John 4:8

For several years we've had a tree in our Media Center decorated throughout the month of January. YET, if i've heard it once, i've heard it a hundred times this week... "Why is a Christmas tree still up in the library?"  Watching Dion stare at the tree, i felt as if i could read his mind. But when i asked him, "do you know what kind of tree this is?", i was the one surprised.

Quietly he responded, "a green tree." Prepared (once again) to defend and proclaim it's a Jan Brett winter snow tree, i was stunned.

Depending on the season, a tree actually can be decorated and called by many different names -- Christmas, snow, Valentine, President, American, Easter, etc.  But at it's true root, Dion was correct.  It is a green tree and will always be a green tree first no matter what is added to it during different seasons.

How would you describe God? Depending on our circumstances, needs and seasons we call God by many different names --  Protector, Defender, Healer, Savior, Shelter, Rock, Deliverer, Friend, Helper, Comforter, Keeper, Redeemer.  But at the root and core of God, He is first Love. No matter what we need for Him to be for us, His relationship with us will always be built first on a foundation of Love.

Thank You, Father, for loving us first.

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

a Mighty Word ~ well

"For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD..." Jeremiah 30:17

No matter how you follow instructions and measure out the choices, life is messy and unpredictable.  In my current season, whether for physical, mental or emotional reasons, this is my most used apron.  

And that's ok, because i know the Physician who heals us from all our wounds, pains and tribulations.  How blessed to know He always cares and is about the business of tending to our needs. No matter our circumstances, our outcome with Him is worthy of our praise.

Thank You, Father!

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

where will you turn?

"Where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD... He will not let your foot slip -- He who watches over you will not slumber... The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121: 1,2,3,8

Going for the goal in life.  It's as simple as skating.  Forward you go... down you go.  For many it definitely looks easier than it is... skating, and life. A few simple guidelines can ease the inevitable bumps and bruises to come for both.

1. stay within the boundaries... there is safety, comfort and peace when staying in the rink and in God's Word.

2. know the rules, have a plan and keep moving... JOY comes in knowing the expectations, doing it and ultimately living life to the fullest.

3.  always get up... whether on skates or in life, we will fall. Don't stay there, our pain will grow and we will cause others to stumble.

4. never do it alone... being next to One who is stronger and loves us unconditionally, assures us we will not stay down. In His perfect timing and way, He will scooped us up and gently led us in the right direction.

Tighten up your laces, and let's get ready to move on with 2020... with God.

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

Your Life Handbook for 2020

“I run in the path of Your commands, for You have set my heart free.” Psalm 119:32

As one year ends and another beings, i find myself winding down from a hectic season of ups and downs. Will 2020 be easier or more challenging?  Am i ready for the days ahead? Now is a good time to reflect, redirect and refresh. In preparing my mind, body and soul for 2020, i find a review of this Life Handbook helpful each year.  Maybe you will too.  Blessings to you this 2020.

HANDBOOK 2020

Health:

1.       Drink plenty of water.

2.       Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.

3.       Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is

          manufactured in plants.

4.       Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.

5.       Make time to pray.

6.       Play more games.

7.       Read more books than you did in 2019.

8.       Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.

9.       Sleep for 7 hours.

10.     Take a 10-30 minute walk daily. And while you walk, smile.

Personality:

11.    Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is

         all about.

12.    Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest

         your energy in the positive present moment.

13.    Don't overdo. Keep your limits.

14.    Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15.    Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16.    Dream more while you are awake.

17.    Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

18.    Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes

         of the past.  That will ruin your present happiness.

19.    Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.

20.    Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21.    No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

22.    Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn.  Problems are

         simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class

         but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23.    Smile and laugh more.

24.    You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

Society:

25.    Call your family often.

26.    Each day give something good to others.

27.    Forgive everyone for everything.

28.    Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of  6.

29.    Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30.    What other people think of you is none of your business.

31.    Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay

         in touch.

Life:

32.    Do the right thing!

33.    Get rid of anything that isn't useful, appreciated or joyful.

34.    GOD heals everything.

35.    However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

36.    No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

37.    The best is yet to come.

38.    When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.

39.    Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

And when all else fails or questions arise, consult the original Handbook on Living… the Bible.  It is a proven and true Source for everything under the “Son”!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ survivor

"God is within her; she will not fail." Psalm 46:5  

I love discovering new truths.  I was not familiar with the verse on my new Bible cover, but i am claiming it for this year.

When in doubt, shout out to God.
He has called us to be victorious in Him, not a victim.

We have strength within because God is in us.
Thank You, Father, for fortifying my heart, my mind and my soul.

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

over? or not?

"...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."   Romans 6:23

We made it through another CHRISTmas.  The wrapping, the unwrapping, the eating, the cooking, the eating, the visiting, the guests, the eating, the decorating, the undecorating, the eating, the cleaning, the eating.  School is back in session and CHRISTmas is over... time to return to business as usual.  Or, should we?  

Much to my delight, a coworker drop off a bag of Holiday blend on our first day back. It  was a perfect reminder to keep celebrating the holiday. As we leave the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, let's do just that.  Leave the hustle and bustle.  But may the true reason and JOY of CHRISTmas, God's gift of eternal life to us, always be in our heart and ways.

So, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed holiday blend, Share some cookies with a neighbor. Visit someone in need of a smiling face. And if you are finished with your decorations, put them up in the attic... but just don't put Jesus up too.  Leave Him out and up front in your life for all to witness His goodness through our words and actions.  His Presence is our daily present -- and one designed for our giving to others.  Let's keep the merry in CHRISTmas going as we keep our eyes and heart on Him.

have a merry‑filled day!
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ new

The Lord says...
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing!"  Isaiah 43:18-19  

Time for a New Year, and a New Thing... are you ready? 
I am. God is good all the time.  All the time God is good.  

Thank You, Father, for returning us back to each other. May we encourage, support and celebrate the days ahead together with You.

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

break not... me

"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you." Philippians 1:3

As our CHRISTmas break winds down, i find myself filled with some regret. Mind you, it's not regret that the break is almost over.  But regret on how i spent some of my time... leaving things unsaid or undone.  While busy with CHRISTmas festivities, i felt it was a good time to break from my routine reading of the Word and writing.  Wrong.

Who would have thought  doing so, would actually increase my stress and anxiety.  Yet, it did.

While CHRISTmas is a JOY-filled season of celebrating Jesus, our Savior's, birth, it is also a  time  when many experience sadness.  Personal memories of  CHRISTmas past can bring sorrow, hurt, pain, sadness, loneliness, regret. The stress to "pull it all together and celebrate"  can actually squeeze the joy out of our soul.

With this in mind, i have 2 thoughts today:

**  Taking a break from God's Word is never good or okay. I am sorry for neglecting the need of God's Word on any day or season, even CHRISTmas.

**  When returning to school, i pray to be sensitive to others, not knowing what emotions filled their break.  Instead of asking "how was your CHIRSTmas?, i think i'll say, "It is so good to be back with you!" 

 

And that, my friend, is the Truth.  I am blessed and honored to be back with you. Your support, encouragement and inspiration everyday help me through many moments.  Thank you.

you are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

love in Him,

veneal