need a shield?

"As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.” 2 Chronicles 20:15

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone; and for the most part, it was good. But as i prepare for CHRISTmas 2020, i find my spirit spilling over with mixed emotions of wonder and uncertainty over what's to come. I need a Shield of protection.

Even with all the questions and concerns i possess, there is one Truth i rely on for life... God is in control, and His way is perfect.  As we trust and hold on to our Shield, God will see us through any darkness and valleys along our path. He sees it all, and He knows it all.

Praying His peace into your week as you trust Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

thankful for you

 "I thank my God every time I remember you." Philippians 1:3

Praying you have a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving season.  And, thankful to be your sister/brother-in-Christ. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

do you have a book?

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name." Psalm 100:4

Like these students, may you also have a book filled with thanks to God for His goodness.  If we count our blessings instead of our disappointments, more of His Peace will flow through us.

Praying you have a safe and peaceful Thanksgiving.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

Turkey truths

 "And be thankful." Colossians 3:15

It's a hot job, but someone has to do it; and i'm so grateful it's me!

So far i have cooked over 100 turkeys for Thanksgiving...not nice, plump juicy turkeys, mind you, but the one-dimensional kind.  It's a kindergarten tradition, painting thankful turkeys and then cooking them in the laminator for holiday place-mats.  

The best part of cooking these school-yard turkeys is the opportunity to read the sweet messages and thoughts from students.  They remind me we always have something to be thankful for in our life. And that reminder has never been more needed than this year with changes on how we celebrate necessary.  There's nothing like a colorful, kind turkey to warm and fill a heart with thankfulness. They are rich in love and low in calories. 

Thank You, Father, for our blessings... may we never forget.

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

a Mighty Word ~ thankful

"I remain confident of this: I believe I will see [yet again] the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13

As we prepare for Thanksgiving, (for whatever that means this unsettling year), may we remember the challenges, heartaches and hardships of the pilgrims. Their first Thanksgiving was memorable despite their difficulties. We too still have reason to safely celebrate as we thank God for His faithfulness to us, and for better days to come.

What God knows; God can handle. And he knows it all. Resting in Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

caught in a web?

"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

How can anything be beautiful when you feel caught in a web? Whether it's a web of --

pain

confusion

loss

despair

lies

hurt

sadness

sickness

mistrust

Whatever web you're tangled in, remember God's love will cover you, lift you up and restore hope into your life. He is our shining Star of Salvation, Who can turn our darkest moments into a time of beauty.
                  
Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

field of broken dreams

"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed... 

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised." Romans 4:18, 20-21

Shattered dreams, we've all had them.  And no matter how we finagle or struggle to fit the pieces back together like we want, it usually doesn't happen. Broken dreams come in many shapes and sizes, sometimes they occur rarely and sometimes in clusters, sometimes we sense it and sometimes we are blindsided.  However it happens, it still hurts and can feel more like a feverish nightmare than just a broken dream.  Are you facing any brokenness today?

job uncertainty
financial turbulence
torn relationships
challenging children
aging parents
insensitive spouse
demanding leader
false accusations
physical limitations
health issues
emotional stress
death
worldly pressure

Whatever is going on... we can still be thankful.  In faith, we can trust God will see us through each hardship and trial.  We only have to look back and see God's continuous fingerprints on our lives to remember what He has already done for us.  Our strength and peace will be restored knowing He will continue to sustain us.  

As God picks up all the pieces of our broken dreams and rearranges them, let's keep believing and knowing He has the power and desire to bring goodness into our lives.  

God works all things to the good to those who love Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

today's reminder

"Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Matthew 10:20-31

Finding our worth in the spirit of the season...

As God knows the number of straw pieces needed to stuff every scarecrow in the land, He cares and knows your every thought and need. So, don't be fearful; you are worth more to Him than all the scarecrows, owls, turkeys and birds in the universe.

You are loved.          

You are valuable.

You are chosen.

If you had been the only person in the universe, God still would have sent His Son to earth just to be your Savior.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a peek of what's to come

"Enter His gates with thanksgiving  and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100:4-5

What is that?!

As i stepped out the door yesterday morning, i was totally amazed.  Outside it appeared there was a dusting of snow on the trees.  My excitement soon melted, as i realized the fog had teased me with an illusion.  But for a split second, the sight of unexpected snow was causing my stomach to do happy flips.

Even though disappointed to discover it wasn't snow, my spirit was lifted by being reminded the time for snow would come later.  And in acknowledging that future hope, i also remembered our hope for better days would come too.

Hope for - 

a successful Covid vaccine

improved health issues

a normal school schedule

HUGGING

eating and laughing with EVERYONE

shopping with NO masks

walking side-by-side with friends

care-free traveling ANYWHERE

Like the first snow of the season, we are not there yet.  But, thanks to God i anticipate with a joyful heart the assured hope for snow and for safer, peaceful days in a season ahead.  

He who is faithful is still faithful, even in the moments-at-hand when we are struggling.  Keeping my eyes on God... there is hope in/with Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

who we are

"Know that the Lord Himself is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture." Psalm 100:3

Father, no matter how we look on the outside, let there be no disguising who we are... Your children.  May our heart and actions reflect that we belong to You.

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.

Have a restful weekend!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ peace

"Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."   Psalm 91: 14-15

When the world is harsh and deceit surrounds you, hold fast to the One Truth that will never falter... God is for you, and God is with you.

 We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ...

we are love and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

let freedom ring, and thank you

 "The Lord your God Himself will fight for you." Deuteronomy 3:22

Even though it had to be revised due to Covid, the Veteran's Day Program is one of my favorite programs at school. The respect, honor and dedication exhibited on this day is moving. From the youngest to the oldest, a sense of gratefulness fills the air as we reflect on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice displayed to maintain our freedom.

As we salute the veterans and soldiers who serve, i also extend my hands in thanks to their families... spouse, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. The soldier's family serves an important role of support. Together, they exemplify a unit of love and strength amid ongoing changes and trials. To conquer battles in the field and at home, loyalty, dedication, encouragement, trust, sacrifice and integrity are necessary elements for the soldier, as well as, his/her family.

As believers, we are all military family members. On the heavenly battlefield, our Father and Mighty Defender, sealed our freedom in Christ. ALL our sins were forgiven through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. And as a member of His family, we should celebrate this victory daily by living for Him boldly in Truth, love and peace.

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Romans 15:5-6

Thank you, Veterans and family members. May God bless all your days.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,
veneal

one of a kind

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10

As unique as a unicorn and greatly loved... God created the one you for a specific purpose at this time to bring glory to Him.  No one else can accomplish what God desires from you.

Celebrating wonderful, special you today and thanking God for your sister/brotherhood in Christ.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

i've a story to tell

"He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark." Psalm 91:4

With so much happening at home, school and in our country, an important anniversary nearly slipped by unnoticed. Nine years ago Saturday, i was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As i remembered, i recounted the faithfulness of a God, we sometimes dismiss as distant, uncaring or slack in answering our needs.  Yet, He has saved me not just once (on the cross) but numerous times.  

For those who don't know my story, i want to share it with you now.

As God would have it, while walking my dogs, i took a nasty, hard fall.  A trip to the emergency room confirmed i had a concussion, but also revealed i had a rare brain tumor.  As God would have it, the physicians at both local hospitals admitted they were not the best choice for treatment. As God would have it, the local neurosurgeon spoke of a neurosurgeon in our state, Dr. William Vandergrift, as best qualified for cases like mine. As God would have it, i was whisked to MUSC in Charleston for emergency surgery, where God placed me in the hands of the doctor on call...  Dr. Vandergrift, a truly godly, humble man. Dr. V. led a talented team through 3 critical surgeries on me during the next two weeks. As God would have it, one of my nurses happened to be a former member of my home church, providing additional peace of mind and comfort. As God would have it, i returned home just in time to celebrate Thanksgiving and in time healed enough to return to work. As God would have it, i have not suffered from any long-term side effects, and i am truly a living miracle. My story could have ended differently and that would have been okay.  But as God would have it, He is not finished with me yet... i have a story of wonder and thankfulness, a story to share, a story to remind others His faithfulness is up-close and personal to all!

I don't remember all the details from 9 years ago, but i do remember some significant factors.  Things like, the unending comfort and support of loved ones by my side.  The unexpected visit of a cousin and friend's son, triggering an acute awareness i might actually die. A surgeon discussing in length the seriousness and risk of my condition and surgery. But what i recall most vividly is the complete inner peace. "Peace at a time like that?" you might ask.  Yes -- very strange because i love and cherish my family and friends tremendously.  During those days of questionable health, i couldn't grasp how i felt so peaceful. Having no panic or fear of my outcome, i was prepared to accept whatever fate God deemed right.  There can only be one answer for such indescribable peace... i was witnessing and living God's love, mercy and grace, up close and personal.  It's a peace that can only be contributed to a relationship, dependency and faith in God.
   

So, it's a busy week of remembering for me; and what a perfect prelude for our Thanksgiving season. As God would have it, we all have an abundance to be thankful for daily. Thank You, God, for miracles everyday... large and small.

What's your story?  Someone needs to hear it.  Spread the Good News! And celebrate the moments, because actually that is all we have... and that is okay.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

you are needed

 "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men/women...Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ... 

God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to  be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.  " 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, 12, 18-20

God has created each of us for a special purpose for His glory.  And when all the different pieces/gifts/talents come together, it makes for a beautiful picture. Never doubt or downplay  or dismiss God's magnificent plan and role for you!  You are needed and appreciated!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we love like we believe it,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ united

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:1-4

As the dust and votes settle, my hope is for us to create unity in prayer for truth, obedience and discernment as we pursue God's wisdom and guidance. Like us, our leaders are imperfect people; may our prayers allow God to mold their hearts into teachable and listening instruments that honor Him while serving others.

We have an amazing God who can accomplish anything through willing servants.

United we stand, divided we fall,

But without God we have no hope at all.

"When I am afraid, I put my trust in You." Psalm 56:3

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal 

still counting and praying

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Father, may You be the guiding force and conscience of all elected to serve, represent and care for the welfare of us, Your children.   We pray for Your strength and wisdom to prevail in all issues.  Help us to be obedient to You in respecting and praying for our leaders - of the church, government and other groups.   

One day they, as well as us, will be held accountable for our actions. May it be good.

"Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men/women who must give an account." Hebrews 13:17

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

who will win?

But suppose he wins?

"For the Lord Almighty has purposed, and who can thwart him?  His hand is stretched out, and who can turn it back?" Isaiah 14:27

Can God work through him?

“I know that You can do all things; no purpose of Yours can be thwarted." Job 42:2

God's Will will be done.

This election has been unlike any other... and not in a positive way.  I, like many, will be glad when it's over.  Being so close to the end, i didn't think i could feel any worse, but the news last night changed that as they spoke of pending riots after the elections.  People have boarded up their businesses anticipating the violence in some cities. With all the tension and conflicting claims and promises, who can we truly count on? How will we survive the chaos if "he" wins?  No matter who is elected, i am seeking and resting on the final actions from a higher Source.

Regardless of any uncertainty i have concerning our elected leaders, there is one issue i am completely confident in with our country's elections.  God can and will use whoever is elected for His Will.  We only need to consult His Word to remember He used the godly, the ugly, the enemy, the weak, the coward, the arrogant, and various others to accomplish His plan.  The type of character used might change His method in accomplishing His Will, but when all is said and done, His plan will prevail. There might be a crumbling before a rebuilding. God uses terrible circumstances (or people), as well as, good ones to move His plans forward.  

Friends, God is still in control, and His Will will be done... no matter who we vote into office. And in that, may we find peace and rest. For me, in difficult seasons like now, i am forced to print on my forehead and heart in permanent ink... "And we know that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."  In that Truth it boils down to just one question... do we love God enough to believe Him?

Prayers for our country and for our leaders.  Let us trust God and His perfect plan.   He's got us in His capable, loving Hands.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal