are you my friend?

Jesus said, "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you." John 15:14-15

After playing a game together, Millie decided she wanted to go color.  Annie was not ready for an activity change.  She was mad and hurt and let Millie know it in no uncertain terms by crossing her arms and loudly proclaiming, "You are not my friend." 

Millie sadly kept walking away.

I chuckled to myself, knowing how Annie momentarily felt... abandoned and miffed, as well as Millie... abandoned and hurt.  Afterall, don't we all like for people to do what we want and to have things go our way? Yet, in our imperfect world, that is not the norm.  Some flexibility, patience and communication can aid in reducing pain and increasing understanding while restoring a relationship.

Many times, the bottom line in how we handle the brokenness is driven by who or what is most important to us.  Who is helped? Who is hurt?  What really matters?

Father, our selfish human nature can cause unkind words and actions to flood from our hearts and mouths.  Sometimes what we want is for the good of others and sometimes primarily for self.  With Your Spirit may we discern and conclude what is best.  Thank You for Your faithful, fair and righteous friendship to us, one that is unwavering, clear and true. EVERYTHING from you is good and for the good. To be a friend more like You is my daily prayer.

Can we be friends... always?

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

you are being called

  Jesus stopped and said, "Call him."

So they called to the blind man, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you."
Throwing his clock aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.
"What do you want Me to do for you?" Jesus asked him.
The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see."
"Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you."
Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.  Mark 10:49-52

Could you benefit from a revision of the above verses?  Something like this?

Jesus stopped and said, "Call, (your name)."
So they called to me, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you."
Throwing my (troubles, worries, doubts, fears) aside, I jumped to my feet and went to Jesus.
"What do you want Me to do for you?" Jesus asked.
Trembling, i answered, "Jesus, I want (my need)."
"Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you."
Immediately my need was met, and I will follow Jesus for the rest of my days.

He calls, He cares, He can.
Go to Him, and see what He will do for you today.

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

let me tell you my story...

"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

Thirteen years ago, i was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As i reflect on this event, i recount the faithfulness of a God, we sometimes dismiss as distant, uncaring or even 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, it's summarized below.

As God would have it, while walking my dogs, i took a nasty, hard fall that literally knocked me out.  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, who just so happened was 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 13 years ago, but i do remember many other 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, which triggered 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, FOR ME.  It's a personal, godly peace that can only be contributed to a relationship, dependency and faith in God.  It is a peace i will fully rely on and trust for the rest of my life.
   

It's a busy week of remembering for me; but what a perfect prelude for the 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?  Share it; 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, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

beast and the beauty

"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." Romans 8:28

Hurricane Helene was a true beast, wreaking havoc, ugliness and destruction to many.... from life to personal properties.  Yet, important life lessons evolved from this hardship.  Ms. Eagle asked students to collect and bring leaves from their yard to school.  They were then given guidance on creating something beautiful out of a messy situation.

This is a lesson all can benefit from whether the beast is a hurricane, illness, abandonment, death, heartbreaking news or other tragedy.  Our Teacher Above will guide, direct and bring new meaning and life to our circumstances too.  We need just sit and listen and follow His instructions.  He has a plan for us, and it's a good one.

Father, i pray we have patience with and obedience to You.  I know if we follow Your plan we will experience the full beauty in our life You desire. You possess the power to strengthen and lead us in transforming and overcoming the beasts we face.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

thank you for your service

Jesus said...
"Greater love has no one that this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:12-13

Not all sayings are true, but i know two that are... many hands make light the work, and it takes an army to keep our country safe.  Today, Veteran's Day, we stop to remember and give thanks to the many fine soldiers who have sacrificed their time, and some even their life to protect us and our country.

What a joy to be one of many schools recognizing the importance of our Veterans.  A sense of gratefulness fills the air as we reflect through song, dance and verse on the continuous courage, strength and sacrifice by veterans to maintain our freedom.  What wonderful mentors for each and every one of us they are.

Father, Thank You for our soldiers. We humbly give thanks for having these special warriors in our schools today, whether in spirit or body. They represent true citizenship, commitment, unity and love for one another at its best. May Your grace and goodness always be with them.  Bless them and their families... as they have and continue to bless and sustain us and our freedom. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

is it possible?

 "DO  some  most  part  half  your portion  what you want  what's fair EVERYTHING without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life..." Philippians 2:14-15

When climbing the mountains in our life feel insurmountable, and the pain intensifies, tempers flare, reason escapes, fear escalates and the desperate changes we seek feel too distant, remember---

Life is...
not about fairness, but righteousness
not about our way, but God's way
not about conquering, but surrendering to God
not about independence, but dependence on God
not about our glory, but His.

Father, help us keep our eyes on You.  You are our One true Hope, our Way, our Savior, our Protector, our Healer. Because of Your love for us, we will trust and follow You.  Give us strength to keep standing and believing. We desperately need Your Light shining through us in dark, troubling days to help bring healing to our hurting lands.

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

now what?

"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

What now?

“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 is basically over. Now what?

Regardless of all 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 strong, the weak, the coward, the arrogant, the ignorant 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.   We are still inHis capable, loving Hands.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

i know who the True Winner is... do you?

 "The Lord reigns forever;

    He has established His throne for judgment^.
  He rules the world in righteousness
    and judges the peoples with equity. 
The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
    a stronghold in times of trouble.
Those who know Your name trust in You,
     for You, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek You." Psalm 9:7-10

 Pray, vote and trust God.

Whatever the outcome, keep looking to God.  Even if  "the system" is not reliable, our God is.

The One on the Almighty throne can't not be shaken.  Our Savior and King survives any turmoil and disaster and saves all who comes to Him.

He/She will have no fear of bad news; his/her heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding...

And He will be your Peace. 

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

election eve

 "...if My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."2 Chronicles 7:14

Election Eve... finally.

It has been a grueling, bitter battle. Houses, families, friends, coworkers hotly divided on issues and candidates.  Who is right? In reading and listening to the many comments and remarks, one thing is clear, people are passionate about their beliefs.  Our individual fabric is woven and colored by the events and emotions we have personally experienced.  And naturally we side with those whose viewpoints most match and affect us... that's just human nature.  

Tomorrow we will not all vote for the same person.  Yet, i'm at peace; because in the grand scheme of things, i trust God has the final Word. One way or the other, with blessings or discipline, we will witness His Hand on our land.  It's important for us to stay united as we pray to God for truth, obedience and discernment as we pursue His wisdom and guidance. We also need to pray for our leaders to seek God and not to be like a god. Our choices are imperfect people; but may our prayers deliver us a leader with a teachable, listening heart and spirit that honors God.

Pray with all your heart, and vote. Whatever happens on Tuesday (or any day), keep looking up. Let's remember Who is still holding the world firmly in His Grip and give thanks.  God's Will will be done.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

the day after

"Even a child is known by his actions..." Proverbs 20:11

It's the day after Halloween - it will be easy to detect which children had too much candy.

As a child of God, i want to be known by my actions too...

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." Psalm 28:7

I know exactly what i need to survive today and everyday.

JUST GIVE ME JESUS...

If you find yourself coming unraveled at the edges, go to the One who can and will mend you back together.  Just a few minutes alone with God can soothe the soul and restore peace.  Now, that's something to really scream about!!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

once upon a pumpkin

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." John 8:12

There are many who think Halloween is dark. I rather focus on the light it radiates as rendered by a favorite Halloween tale, how believers are like pumpkins...

First, God picks you from the "pumpkin patch". All the outside influences/dirt of our former life must be removed. Old ways are washed away, and all things become new.

Then, He carefully removes all the “yucky stuff” (sin) from the inside.  He changes us from the inside out by the Power of His Word. Seeds of doubt, hate, greed, and fear are removed and replaced with the seeds of faith, hope and love. After Jesus is invited inside, you begin to experience the changing power of God’s love in your life.

Next, He carves a new smiling face.  With Jesus, who is called the Son of Light, lives inside of us, He shines through our life for all to see. Our countenance is changed by the power of His presence in our life, and it's evident to all.

Let your light so shine before men that they may be able to see your good works and glorify your Father, who is in heaven.

Shine on my friends and have a de-LIGHT-filled Halloween.  The world desperately needs to see God by His light in us.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

feeling rattled?

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.  Great is our Lord and mighty in power, His understanding has no limit." Psalm 147:4-5

He who numbered the stars, has also numbered each bone and created each cell in our body.  We may get rattled and even knocked down, but because of Him, we are not destroyed!

Thank You, Father, for keeping me together through all the bumps and shakes in life.  No one understands or loves us better than You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal 

the monster within

"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.... and be filled with the Spirit... Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:15-20

The scowl on her face said it all.  She did not like the teacher's suggestion, even though it was in her best interest.  Practicing math skills 20 minutes a day sounded boring and was stealing her play time.

I

It's easy to let our emotions and personal desires lead us down a dark, ugly path of anger, jealousy, conceit, selfishness, temper, hatred or meanness.  All which can leave a nasty taste in (and out of) one's mouth and bitter look on the face.  Who wants that?

Father, please help remove the monsters within me.  They have no place in serving You.  Instead fill me the sweet fruit of the Spirit... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  These possess the power of healing instead of fright.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

who am i?

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God." Colossians 3:12-17

"Who am i?" or "Who are you?"  

These are routine questions asked this time of year.  Yet, they are imperative year round.

Whatever the answer... daughter, sister, mother, cousin, wife, friend, employee, teacher, aunt, grandmother, neighbor...  all are important and meaningful.

However, whatever we are is elevated to incredible JOY,  LOVE and FULLNESS when we remember FIRST we are a Child of God and belong to Him. It makes all other things possible and even better.

With Him, we are more.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

did you do it?

"Did you do it? We've been talking about it and we think you did it."

"Do what?"

"Put Jesus in the bathroom."

As much as i wished i had, i had not.  Yet, someone mysteriously sat a tiny Jesus on the shelf in the bathroom.  I SAW IT, AND LOVED IT!  A quiet reminder Jesus is always with us.  

While others didn't see Jesus in there because of me, i pray they see Him IN me by my words and actions.  We can't scatter millions of tiny Jesuses everywhere, but we can be the hands and feet and heart of Jesus where we are.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

holding hands

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24

What a beautiful picture of love and comfort.

It always makes me smile... seeing siblings walk in school holding hands. I can just imagine how safe and happy the younger child feels being led by their big sister or brother, as well as the confidence the older child possesses in completing the task.

Do you need someone holding your hand today?

We are reminded in God's Word we continuously have such unfathomable comfort and love extended to us.  Thank You, Father for holding my heart and my hand in all circumstances.  Where You lead, i will follow.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

as we move forward

 Why did this happen?? How could this happen? Where were you, God?

These are questions we all have at some time in our life. Questions, no person can answer. Answers, no reasonable person can fathom.  So, where can we turn for sanity and peace? Consolation and comfort can only come from our Father. Just listen to His Words...

"Jesus wept." John 11:35
The Lord says..."at the time it happens, I am there." Isaiah  48:16
"Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:6

In other words, Jesus cries with us.  He knows and understands all our sufferings.  We are never alone... not for a day, not for an hour, not for a second.  And one day, in the blink of an eye, we will see and be with Him.

Jesus said... "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33
"There will be terrible times in the last days.  People will be... boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, without love,without self-control..." 2 Timothy 3:1-4 
"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." 1 John 4:4

In other words, Satan is active in our world. He knows his days are numbered and is furiously working to snuff out God; but God's victory is guaranteed.

"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." Romans 8:28
Jesus said... "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creations. " Mark 16:14
"God our Savior, wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:3

In other words, God can and will use everything, good and bad, to fulfill His purpose - growing His Kingdom.  He desires for all to spend eternity with Him and not in the darkness of hell. Death is a fact, the only question is the destination.

"The Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express." Romans 8:26
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

In other words, God who comforts us, helps us comfort others.

"And the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

In other words, because of Jesus' birth, death and resurrection, we have the gift of eternal life.  And in the face of tragedy and pain, this grace and mercy of our God restores hope and peace to broken lives. 

Thank You, Father, for the only gift i truly need... Jesus, my Savior.  He has the power to heal the heart, restore the spirit and comfort the soul.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

certain power

"Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him.  For the LORD is your life..." Deuteronomy 30:19‑20

I don't know or understand everything, BUT the God Truths below i am certain possess the power to carry me through each day.  May it be true for you too.

I am certain of the faithfulness of our Father.

I am certain of His goodness, mercy, grace, and unconditional love.

I am certain His promises to us are true... all of them.

I am certain He is aware and cares about every minute detail in our life.

I am certain His will and purpose will be accomplished.

I am certain Jesus died for all my sins... those in the past, now, and the ones to come.

I am certain prayer is answer by God... in His perfect way and perfect time.

I am certain i am a child of God... and not of the deceiver.

I am certain He works in our lives through others.... you, are proof of that.

I am certain that the "Son" is still present even on cloudy days... though covered, He is never gone.

And, i am certain my Mother is home with God, and i will see her again.  

Thank you, Mother, for sharing your faith, love and beliefs with me... not by telling, but by showing. For 15 years, i have missed your sweet presence and face, but i carry you in my heart every second.  Thank you for choosing life in Him, so i may live too. 

The earthly loss of my mother was excruciating. But as God's children we can move forward with a grateful heart. God, our Anchor and Rock and Savior, leads us from the darkness of distress into His glorious Light, while instilling in us the ability and willpower to continue life in joy and in hope.  For the rest of my days i choose to live a life in honor of my mother's gentle, giving spirit and in thanks for God's faithfulness and promises of eternal life to all who claim Him.

Is it easy? No, but with God it is possible... and for those of you who understand, an extra big hug to you.  

They will have no fear of bad news; their heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

He stands

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10

The past few weeks we have witnessed enormous, unthinkable loss and destruction in our beloved Western North Carolina. Yet, the beautiful people in this area exhibit unfathomable strength, resilience, unimaginable peace.... and faith.

How? How can they do it?  How do they keep moving forward and not crumble? I can think of only one way... only God and their Faith in Him -- only by the grace and mercy and trust and belief in God. Their power of faith fueled by the Power and Love of God is what i want to be filled with too.  

Thank You, God for visible signs when we feel doubtful or scared.  May we never, never forget or question Your unshakable Presence in our life.  You stand firm and hold us through all circumstances.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

after the fall

 "Do you not know?  Have you not heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall... 

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40:28-31

Do you ever wonder what happened after the fall of Humpty Dumpty?  We're told all the king's horses and all the king's men could not put him back together again.   But if i were a betting person, i'd bet my last penny God could and did.

After such a traumatic fall and then landing in the healing, gentle Hands of the Master Maker, don't you imagine, in time, Humpty soared higher and further than before by knowing and trusting God for his future?   

We too are vulnerable to crack and break under stressful conditions or a mishap.  When we set our own goals based on human limitations, we risk missing the blessings God has in store for us.  What if instead of sitting on a wall or broken in the valley, He intended for us fly on His wings?  

Father, praying Your Will for my life and for others.  Help my faith soar to new heights.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

beware, obstacles ahead

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4

How do obstacles affect you? They normally churn panic, irritability and frustration in me.  I prefer smooth, clear paths and no surprises.  But lately, i've had to adjust my attitude and way of thinking while sharpening my coping skills. 

Helene left a wide path of destruction everywhere.  Some of the most notable now is road debris, which demands complete attention when driving.  The roads are bumpy with down lines and heavily littered with not just branches but massive tree trunks. Just one distracted moment could quickly end in a crash.  

I'm realizing not all is negative in obstacles. Sometimes they are essential in our wellbeing.  It's easy to become complacent or lazy when life is running smoothly... our mind and actions can wander down the wrong paths, focus on important issues may wane, cockiness or confidence may soar to unhealthy levels.  Obstacles also possess the positive power to keep us alert, focus on what matters and grow a heart of gratitude and thankfulness.  

When the root of our thinking stems from God, it's easier to count it all JOY and to glorify Him.

we are loved and chosen by God, 

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

no time to rest?

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

How are you? Have current situations and demands left you exhausted and depleted of self?  How and when can we rest when so much needs to be done?

REST and then be RESTored.

  

The order of the words and actions are complete truth.  May we follow God to still waters and be filled with His strength.  He is not only a Life giver but a Lifesaver.

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

our survival kit

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

The scrap on her finger was bleeding, and she needed a band aid. When i opened our first-aid kit, i  found it fully stocked with everything desirable except band aids, the most requested and essential item in the kit. Fortunately, a trip to the nurse's office quickly replenished our supply, and her finger got covered.

Where do you turn for help when hurting, suffering, broken or dismayed?  While friends and family and other solutions aid in our healing, they likely are not all we need for a permanent fix. With thanks and JOY, we can rest assured the most crucial component in our survival kit is always in supply.  We never need to fear running out of the love, protection and care of God, our true Healer and Comforter.

Thank you, Father, for Your endless presence in our lives.  Whenever we turn to You, You, You are there and You cover us... and healing happens.

we are loved and  chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

peace... where is it?

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

  

and mine... 
                   and yours.

Just a quick morning reminder from Above.

Whether through the stillness or chaos, no matter what the day holds, hold on to this Truth.  Keep looking up.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

a shakin' and a makin'

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers/sisters." Romans 8:28-29

Is there any value in chaos?

In the storm and now in its aftermath, there is a question still pounding in my heart... what strongholds is God shaking out of us in making us more like Him?

success

power

materialism

conceit

comfort

Our Father uses ANY thing and EVERY thing, including chaos, to move us in a closer relationship with Him and others.

Father, thank You for shaking more of Your sense in my life.  I can only be more like You, if there is less of me.  May I praise You, and not complain in any discomfort when faced with opportunities to transform and aid me in better reflecting Your Son.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal