caught in-between

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." Roman 12:12

ah-ha!!

Here we are stuck in the middle of what was and what's to be.  I'm finding this theory applies to practically everything in my life, including church.  Sitting in the parking lot for our church service Sunday, i found it ironic i was in-between the educational building and the cemetery.  It was like being stuck in the middle of learning how to survive today and waiting for my glorious call "home". 

Do you feel caught in-between times of this and that too? When we are use to routines and schedules, it can and is a very frustrating circumstance to be caught in-between. Being still is not our normal preference of activity for our busy-gotta-get-it-done-now generation.  

But didn't Someone much wiser than us say... BE STILL, AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD.  Could it be He is working on our ability to trust and lean on Him with confidence for guidance, instead of following our on personal inclinations?

While i sat and waited and listened Sunday in the parking lot, my soul found rest with His Word. The best solution, now and always, is to sit still, observe, pray and trust God's Hand. Chances are in times of turmoil, and even peace, He is working something in us or out of us... for our good, especially during these in-between moments of our lives.

Father, may i trust and be still more with You.  These times of in-between are opportunities of growth in our relationship.  And in the larger picture, that is what i want. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

permanent shield protection

"But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and He answers me from His holy mountain. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me." Psalm 3:3-5

Do you have a shield?

I've discovered it very helpful to not only use a face mask for reducing my "spray output", but also to use a face shield. Wearing a mask all day produced some irritating issues.  So, having the option of a face shield for a safe break is nice.  Depending on our crowd circumstances in the library, it's beneficial having the flexibility to use both or just one.

These days, it's impossible to have too much protection. Besides the protection of a face mask or shield, we are tremendously blessed, as a child of God, to be covered by His shield every minute of our life. It is a shield of comfort, protection, strength, love and restoration.  It never fogs our glasses, doesn't need cleaning, won't distort our senses, nor cause headaches.  Plus, we don't have to remember to put it on, and He never forgets to have His shield around us.

Thank You, Father.  You cover us when we fail, forget or even resist.  

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

over the moon

"The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing."  Zephaniah 3:17

When the day before you is overwhelming and you feel out of sorts...

may you find joy and thanks in remembering the One that hung the moon, also wants to hold you.

Thank You, Father.   My needs, my concerns, my heart are ever before You.  In Your Arms, i am consoled. Nothing, including Covid and all the circumstances stemming from it, can stop You from accomplishing what You desire.  Please hold me closer to You and calm my beating heart with a song.

Our God is singing even when we can't; He is over the moon in love with you.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

comfort, please

These days we are constantly conscious of the need for comfort in our world.  In the blink of an eye life can take dramatic turns.  The realization that so much in our life is also out of our control can be crippling.  It is then we lean heavily on the One who can provide the comfort, peace, guidance and strength needed.  If you are hurting today, i pray His Truths and love cover and comfort you. 

My Dearest Child,

Breathe, and let me remind you of some of my many promises and Truths to you along with my everlasting love…

At the time it happens, I am there. (Isaiah 48:16)

Remain calm; I will fight for you. (Exodus 14:14)

When you pass through the waters, I am with you. (Isaiah 46:4)

I will not leave you or forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)

I gather you and your loved ones like lambs in My arms and carry you close to my heart, and gently lead the mothers of the lambs.
(Isaiah 40:11)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:10, 13)

I am your refuge and strength an ever-present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

I have captured every tear from your eye. Not a single sorrow in your heart has escaped Me. (Psalm 56:8)

My Presence will go with you wherever you go, and I will give you rest. (Exodus 33:14)

I give strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29)

I am your hiding place, and I will protect you and surround you with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7)

I heal the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds... I am mighty in power; My understanding has no limit." (Psalm 147:3,5)

And remember, My Son, Jesus, told you, "... but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26)

Pray and believe Me,
I AM
Your Loving, Heavenly Father

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ protected

"You need only remain calm; the Lord will fight for you." Exodus 14:14

Not a confident fighter? That's ok. Our Victorious Father is with us, and He will see us through all circumstances.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

sweet as honey

"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Proverbs 16:24

I loved how you solved that issue!

With a cautious eye on our ever-changing, daunting circumstances, teachers, administrators, support staff and all other school personnel are busy as bees searching out the best options for students. Staying calm during this season is challenging but cheering each other on makes is possible.  

Father, as resting minutes decrease and demands increase, please help keep the sting of exhaustion and frustration out of our words and actions.  Fill us with an extra dose of sweetness to help soothe the elevated souls around us.

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

giving to others

"Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38

Found a solution... tell it.

Got a new method... show it. 

Solved a dilemma... share it.  

Got an idea... give it.

Met a goal... celebrate it.

Need a prayer... do it. 

That's what i've seen and heard all week around me. Life in tough times can be positively encouraging, it can be life changing, and it can be good! Many times, it starts with a simple act of kindness.

Smile. Together we finished week one. Take a moment to thank someone who helped you through some hurdles.  Thank you for encouraging me to staying close to our Father. Praying blessings and peace into your weekend.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

feeling seasick?

 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.  Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." Psalm 46:1-3

Have you seen the forecast? Beware, more flash floods ahead.  I don't know about you, but my legs are already a bit shaky from all the tossing we've experienced in this turbulent sea(son)-of-change.

Whatever circumstances are causing the color to drain from your knuckles: 

answers not available
problems not resolved
hearts not mended
bodies not healed
feelings not consoled

No matter the demands, conflicts, heartaches, when God is our Anchor... 
HE HOLDS.
The ride might be wild, but He will safely see us through the storm and into the still waters of peace.  

A furious storm came up on the lake... But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples woke Him saying, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!" He replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" Then He got up and rebuked the winds and waves, and it was completely calm.

If Jesus can sleep on the boat in a storm, shouldn't we? Oh, for a bucket more of faith instead of fear to calm the nerves. Rest, friends; praying for us to be Jesus with skin on.

Thank You, Father for guiding us gingerly through the week.

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

now more than ever

"Encourage one another daily..."  Hebrews 3:13

It's always right...
it's always needed.

Together we can mend hearts, teach minds and  heal souls.

Together we can accomplish more.

Together we can move forward.

Father, i pray and thank You for watching over us.  Protect our children and all of us striving to meet their needs.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

let's do it again!

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26

Who doesn't love the first day of school with all the happy smiles and eager to please hearts? You may even wish for every day to be like the first day. In some places, yesterday was the first day of school for students.  And today, some wishes will come true, as it will the first day again with teachers having a fresh new crew of students. 

Exercising caution, safety and wisdom, a staggered schedule is part of the back-to-school solution for many.  On our first day, i heard lots of positive comments and encouragements. I look forward to a happy repeat today! As always, there were some hiccups, but nothing a little water or kind word couldn't cure.

Father, thank You for the blessings and JOY of first days.  We look forward to more wonderful first days on our schedule.  May You continue to protect, guide, strengthen and provide for us each day.  In You we trust Your ways and Your Will.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty first Word ~ thankful

 "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

First day back on the school front. It's going to be an adventure. Are you ready?

Whatever happens, it will be just fine. Thank You, Father, for the gift of today.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

reign on

"But let all who take refuge in You be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread Your protection over them, that those who love Your name may rejoice in You." Psalm 5:11

The weather, like life, can be unpredictable and harsh. Whether it's showers, torrential downpours, storms, floods, gusty winds, thunder and lightning, shelter is required from the elements. Shelter is also required for the churning storms within our soul. As a child of God, no matter what our day brings, we are under the umbrella of His love and assured of His complete protection.  With God, we have nothing to fear.

Through it all, just hold tightly onto Him.  He has a plan, and it is good. May you find rest and peace this weekend. Singing in the rain is possible, thanks to God. He reigns; we sing.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

just a drip

"'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
    I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
    you will not be burned;
    the flames will not set you ablaze.
3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...'" 

Isaiah 43:1-3

When the work loads or burdens are high, the phrase, "one day at a time" goes a long way to calming scattered, frazzled nerves.  And then sometimes, we find it necessary to breakdown our mental/emotional processing to just "one hour at a time".

And then, there are those days when we feel pushed to the very edge of our sanity.  It is then my friend, Pepper, and i decided to call it for what it truly is "one drip at a time". I feel we are living in a cascade of drips right now. Don't you? 

Father, no matter the chunk of time we are trying to digest... a day, an hour, or a drip... how very thankful i am to know with You we will get through it. I trust all those drips are falling straight into Your loving, understanding Hands. Thank You.

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

a Mighty Word ~ go

"So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith." Galatians 6:10

With all the hardships, changes and questions occurring nonstop, it would be easy to be dismayed, if facing it all alone. But as i watch teachers working together to solve issues, my heart is full and hopeful.

Oh, the places we will go and hills we can climb when we share our talents, ideas, blessings, encouragement, and self with others!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

team work matters

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24

Team work; it's never been more important than now.  Soon students will return to school in one form or another.  Teachers, support staff and school officials are blazing new trails in learning techniques and in operating safely.  With little time left before classes start, working, talking and planning together is the magic glue that will keep us calm as we collaborate and devise how best to proceed. 

I am thrilled to find some team work and assistance with my devotions too.  In  past years my inspirations have come from many different avenues. One of my favorite elements of the devotions is discovering student artwork that speaks to me. I love roaming the halls and find treasures of inspiration on the walls. 

But a seed of disappointment was taking root in me, as i faced a reduction in student art for a portion of this year. Then a friend unexpectedly offered to share her artwork with me yesterday.  I was thrilled beyond words, as her art mirrors my heart reflecting love, kindness, joy and encouragement.  Thank you, Betsy Grimes, for sharing your gift. You injected new enthusiasm, JOY and perseverance in me during a time of uncertainty.

Father, i am praying for teachers and all others in the school environment to find renewed enthusiasm, joy and hope during these unique days ahead.  Bring a "Betsy" to them... and together with You, i am confident this school year will overflow with wonder and blessings.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ light

"You, O LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light." Psalm 18:28

Darkness prevails when we fail to let His Light shine.  And there is a lot going on these days trying to snuff out our/His light.

Praying God's strength for us to keep the Light shining strong and steady by staying plugged into His powerful Sources... His Word and prayer.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

senses impaired

"...whoever is kind to the needy honors God." Proverbs 14:31 

When the requirement to wear a mask first began, i was apprehensive on how it would affect my life. With my mouth covered up, it was reasonable to expect i'd talk less.  Next, i noticed not only did the mask affect my ability to talk, but i also couldn't hear as well. And it didn't stop there; strangely, yet clearly, my vision was fuzzy.  And of course, who can taste, much less smell, with a mask in place.  The mask also served as a alert to not touch others.

Even though all my senses are impaired with a mask, not all is lost with this new necessary garment. I have also been blessed. My excessive snacking decreased, needless chatter stopped, food stuck in my teeth can't be seen, less makeup and hair styling is needed, and no one can detect onions or garlic on my breath.  

But the most positive reason of all for wearing a mask... it protects and respects anyone close by. And that reason alone makes the most sense of all to mask up.  You are important to God and to me. 

May

All

Serve with

Kindness and 

Selflessness

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Phil. 2:3-4

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ fix

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:18

"Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest." Hebrews 3:1
 

Father,
Through the pain through the praise, through the tears through the thrills, through the confusion through the Truth, let my gaze be fixed on You. You are my constant Peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we life like we believe it,
veneal

need a pick me up?

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21

The darkening of the sky only increased my weariness. It had been a long day, and i still had over an hour drive to get home. I desperately needed a pick-me-up.  Then on the horizon i spotted the beautiful glowing orange-pink sign.  I wheeled in for coffee and a donut... well, maybe two... or 6... or a dozen... but wait! They were offering a SUPER special on 2 dozens.  But who needs 2 dozens??

As i examined the varieties, i quickly rattled off my desires... 4 maple frosted, 4 blueberry cakes, 2 chocolate all the way, 2 custard filled, 2 sour cream.  Yikes! 14 donuts.  Common sense said, "put 2 back, a dozen is sufficient."  BUT, there were exciting new flavors and a 2 dozen special.  hmmm...  So, 4 pumpkin spice, 4 red velvet, and 2 chocolate covered (can never have too much chocolate) -- i left the donut store a little dazed and a lot glazed.  I never imagined my pick-me-up would be so sweet.

How is your week going? Can you use a pick-me-up?  Although the donuts were good and sweet, they don't have staying power (except on the hips).  God is the supreme, lifelong pick-me-up choice. What He has to offer us is far greater than we can ever imagine, not just during a promotional event, but everyday.  When we stop and turn to Him for peace, we also find safety, guidance, wisdom, discernment, hope, joy, acceptance, life, satisfaction and more. His benefits possess no end for those who are His treasured possessions... us, His children.

Unlike donuts, we can never, never have too much of God.  The more of God we have, the more satisfied we become.  He picks us up for the good... for good.

Thank You, Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ peace

"And He will be their Peace."  Micah 5:5
  

and mine... 
                   and yours.

Just a quick morning reminder from Above.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

are you ready?

"I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips... I sought the LORD and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."  Psalm 34:1, 4

Storms are on the horizon. Gusty winds of uncertainty are increasing, such as a hurricane approaching land and students partaking a new school year.  Many unanswered questions fill the minds of all affected. 

Will the fallout from the events be manageable? Will proper safety measures be in place? Will people heed to the guidelines set by authorities? Will leaders respond swiftly to unexpected issues? Sometimes the answers don't surface until you are amid the storm, or possibly even after it has passed.

Honestly, i have far more questions than answers this morning about the day ahead as i leave for school. But the peace in my heart is Rock solid because i have traveled unfamiliar, unwanted paths with God before.  And as painful or uncomfortable as some of the trips have been, they ended good.  Want to know why?  Because at the end of our journey, i discover Our relationship has strengthen, my faith has grown, and along the way He revealed unexpected blessings. So, as i prepare to walk out my door, why should i expect things to be any different?  As in the past, i have plenty of unanswered questions for what lies ahead. Yet, is God not still God? Am i not still the apple of His eye? Does He not say He will never, never leave me?  Does He not still walk with me, and at times even carry me on the thorny paths? 

I will trust God for today, tomorrow and each day that follows.  He has proven Himself faithful to me over and over again... and not because of anything i did, but solely because i belong to Him.  Would He just stop?  I don't think so.  When life is most confusing and frustrating, we need to bear in mind, He knows and cares for our complete well being. He is able to present us at any moment with a delightful surprise.

So, are you ready to walk out the door with me this morning to see what the day holds?  Come on, my friend, and may His Light shine brightly in us and through us to others.  Let's step boldly ahead holding tightly to the One who loves us best.

I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under (your oppression), I will free you from (captivity) and I will redeem you with an outstretched Arm and with mighty acts of judgment. I am the LORD your God...

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal