breaking the tension

"A merry heart does good like medicine..." Proverbs 17:22

It was proving to be a stressful week.  While our Book Fair was experiencing high traffic and sales, we were faced with a nightmare in dealing with insufficient inventory and other kinks.  It required hours of extra work from all involved.

Throughout the school, teachers were juggling with the scheduling of not only Book Fair but several other events and projects for the week.  It demanded a mountain load of patience and a detailed time schedule suited for a skilled technical engineer.  So, when Mrs. H class visited the Book Fair, i found myself unable to contain my urge to prank her.

Meeting her at the door i excitedly told her someone wanted to gift her class with a present for all her students. I led her to the "prize" of invisible pens.  We both burst into whopping laughter reminiscing about her student last year who bought one.  He then did his classwork with his invisible pen, so no one could copy his work... nor could she check it.

Laughter, absolutely some of the best medicine on earth created and given to us for JOY and for healing.  Could you use a dose of it today?  May this sharing with you be a good start.   If you are in a difficult season, remember it will not last forever.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

sticky fingers

"YET, the LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!" Isaiah 30:18

It happens, and it breaks my heart.

Covered in the syrup of desire, sticky fingers stuck to and took items they wanted from the Book Fair. Some books contain trinkets, creating an unbearable urge to possess them greater than the desire to be honest. Temptation comes in all sizes, and the pain of falling into it hurts to the core for all affected. 

Is there anything you are moving forward with in life without God?  Anxious to take matters in your own hands?  Tired of waiting for God to answer?  Unhappy or bitter with current circumstances? Mad with the lack of or delay of God's actions? May our desires and wishes not propel us forward without God. 

Father, it happens. I want it, i get it, and it breaks Your heart.  Grow in me the wisdom to seek You in all areas of my life and to patiently wait for Your guidance.  How often have i missed the treasures You have for me because i refused to wait for You?  I want to trade in my pitiful temporary fix for Your sweet divine blessings. Trip me up, slow me down, break my leg; just don't let me miss any blessings You have for me.

What God has in store for us far exceeds our expectations... every time.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

here's the point

"Because Your love is better than life, my lips will glorify You.  I will praise You as long as I live, and in Your name I will lift up my hands." Psalm 63:3-4

Has something extra been added to your plate?  

The pointers at the Book Fair have it right.  We need to keep looking up no matter what is happening in our life.

At the end of the day, God and our relationship with Him is the most significant issue. He will be with us and see us through whatever crosses our path... the good, the bad and the ugly. May we raise our hands and celebrate His faithfulness and unending love for us, as our actions point others to Him.

We love God because He first loved us.

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

my new job

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had..." Romans 15:5

Today i start a new job.  I am not a media assistant this week, but a bookstore clerk.  The Book Fair at our school is a BIG DEAL, especially for our students.  The transformation from library to bookstore is magical -- like someone sprinkling Tinkerbell's pixie dust everywhere.  I'll be ringing up more books on the cash register from the Book Fair than i normally checkout from our shelves... and trust me when i say, "that's a lot of books!!"  

  

Do you embrace change with an open heart? I must admit, i normally don't.  I prefer the comfort and familiarity of routines.  I like knowing what is expected, feeling confident in my task, while experiencing little uncertainty or fear.  But there are times when change is necessary and beneficial.  The excitement on our students' faces is thanks enough for me to keep going... keep adjusting... and keep smiling.  

Come see us.  We want to put a good, forever book in your hands this week.

Father, strengthen us when we face unsettling changes. Many changes can't be altered, but we can change our attitude regarding them. 

Help us start by trusting You with what's ahead and embracing a change in attitude. May it produce sweet results of success, a spirit of unity for the good and peace to our soul.

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

now, go get and read a Good Book,

veneal

no matter the age...

“Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12

 Never, never underestimate the power of your influence on others...

Whether young or old, we can change the world for the good. 

Through kindness, love, truth and example may we teach this to "our" children as we live it. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

who's your hero?

"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... those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40:28-29, 31

Due to personal situations or worldly circumstances an influence to follow or believe a "hero" or leader has a significant pull on our behavior and thinking. Bear in mind when our decisions are based on possible untruths or incomplete information, the result can be less than favorable.

But thanks be to God, there is One True Hero and Savior who has the power, understanding and means to provide us with all we need to accomplish great things in His name. When we BElieve and practice obedience to Him FIRST, we can still see mountains move. However, due to our human hearts and nature, they may not move as quickly or in the direction we desire. In cloudy seasons we need boulder-size faith... as we struggle to rely and trust God's will.

Father, may we remember... you work ALL things to the good for those who love You. Thank You for your faithfulness to us, even when we wrestle with our faith in You. May Your blanket of love cover unsettled minds and bring peace to weary hearts while providing discernment to needed decisions.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

lips to envy

"The lips of the righteous nourish many..." Proverbs 10:21

What creates the most desirable lips?

The biggest and best lips aren't full of Botox, but of love serving many with words and actions.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

a breath of fresh air

"Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." Psalm 90:14

Are you praying for changes in your life?

 
The recent sunshine, warmth and blooming daffodils are a beautiful reminder that thanks to God, nothing stays the same...
 

frigid days melt away to sunny ones

sadness is replaced with hugs

loneliness is erased by laughter

pain is eased by caring hands
 
hurt is healed by kindness

silence is broken from sweet singing
 
darkness is overcome by His Light
 

Thank You, Father for bringing nights to an end and joy in the morning.

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

please DO

 "And as for you, my friends, never tire of doing what is right."

2 Thessalonians 3:13

 
The doing outdoes the telling... always.

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

in love with you

 I hope you have felt loved and treasured this week, because you are the cherished love of My life!  Here's one more letter to wrap up the week.  Just know, my love letters to you are unending.  You'll find them daily in My Word.

 

My dear sweet (your name),

Rejoice! For I have made this day for you!  (Psalm 118:24)

You have been blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.  I chose you before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in My sight.  (Ephesians 1:4)

Trust in Me with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding and I will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Since I am for you, who can be against you?  (Romans 8:31)

Who or what shall separate you for My love?  Shall trouble or hardship? No, never!  (Romans 8:35)

I will tend to you like a shepherd does his flock.  I will gather you in my arms and carry you close to My heart. (Isaiah 40:11)

When you are tired and weary, come to Me, and I will give you rest.  (Matthew 11:28)

Whatever yoke you are under, I will free you from it.  I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment.  You are mine, and I am Your God.  (Exodus 6:6-7)

I will keep you from all harm and watch over your life always.  (Psalm 121:7-8)

It is My prayer that you may grasp how wide and long and high and deep My love is for you.  (Ephesians 3:17-19)

always on your side and for you,

Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

i give up

"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?" Luke 12:25

Unexpected changes and future uncertainties are a rich breeding ground for worry. Do you ever feel you are standing knee-high in a pile of nasty worry-weeds?  It certainly made yesterday's decision on what to give up for Lent easy.  

For the next 40 days, i am committed to give up worry. I am choosing to consciously pull out the doubts of my heart and turn them over to God.  With so much up in the air, i am guaranteed to keep God in the forefront in my mind and heart every hour, every minute by giving up worry.  

I believe this is one purpose of Lent, to give up something that causes us to depend and focus more on God.  I have no answers or solutions to my circumstances but growing trust in God.  He has this not just for the next 40 days... and for my entire life.

If you are still searching for a focus for Lent, below is a wonderful list I discovered this week. 

Have a peace-filled day and Lent season.

God hath not promised skies ever blue,

Flower-strewn pathways always for you.

God hath not promised Sun without rain,

Joy without sorrow, peace without pain;

But He hath promised strength from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying Love.

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

happy Valentine's Day

 How does He love you?

...keep counting the ways.

(your name), My dearly loved Child,   (Ephesians 5:1)

You have been fearfully and wonderfully made by Me.   (Psalm 139:14)

Nothing and no one will separate you from My love! ... neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation!   (Romans 8:35 39)

I will meet all your needs.  (Philippians 4:19)

I will fulfill My purpose for you with an unending love.   (Psalm 138:8)

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you... carry you... and rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4)

I will never forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.  (Isaiah 49:15-16)

As I watch over you, I will not sleep nor slumber.  (Psalm 121:4)

Live with the confidence of knowing who you are and whose you are... My Child.  (1 Peter 2:9)

Keeping looking up, My Child, I am here for you always.  (Deuteronomy 31:6)

forever your Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

Need more affirmations regarding His love for you? Just pull out His Book.   It's basically a love letter written just for you.  Face it...  He's crazy about you!

letter 2: I pick you

Reduce your stress, and bask in the love of the One who loves you best...

Here is the next letter from your forever Valentine.

 

Dear (your name),

As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so I rejoice over you. (Isaiah 62:5)

I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving kindness. (Jeremiah 31:3)

I will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)

I have chosen you to be my treasured possession. (Deuteronomy 7:6)

Do not be afraid, for I will fight for you. (Deuteronomy 3:22)

I will rescue you because I delight in you. (Psalm 1819)

You are the apple of My eye. (Psalm 17:8)

Forever your heavenly Dad

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

found! love letters to you

Some things in life are worth repeating and rereading, like love letters.  Let's take the week to remember, rediscover and reflect on the greatest love of all, poured out freely to all.  

No matter who you are, where you are, or what you are doing, YOU ARE GREATLY LOVED!  May we always remember Whose we are and Who first loved us. Read, receive and believe His blessings for you... His beloved Valentine.

love letter #1... Be Mine

Happy Valentine's Day, (your name), my Child!

Do you not know?  Have you not heard?   (Isaiah 40:21)

I will never take my love away from you.  (1 Chronicles 17:13)

To you, I will be compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love.    (Psalm 103:8)

I will never leave you nor forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.  (Isaiah 41:10)

Since you are precious and honored in My sight, and because I love you... do not be afraid, for I am with you.  (Isaiah 43:4 5)

I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name, you are mine.   (Isaiah 42:1)

I will quiet you with My love. I will rejoice over you with singing.   (Zephaniah 3:17)

And remember, dear Child of Mine,

My love endures forever.   (2 Chronicles 20:21)

Dad

What a Love!  What a God!  What a Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

how are you feeling?

 "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." James 3:17

It's that time of year... nasty stomach bugs lurching in dark corners, hungrily looking for their next prey.  And they're successfully sneaking up and wiping out unexpecting victims.  Not only do they spread through those who are obviously sick BUT even those who "appear" healthy.

Who would fall next? With disinfectant and wipes in hand, we constantly spray and wipe our space to prevent and kill any possible roaming germs.  If we get the bug, it won't be because we ignored it. 
 

What are you passing on to others?  Is it good or bad?  Discouragement, encouragement... rumors, truths... threats, understanding... hate, love... hurt, compassion. 

If it's the wisdom or love from God, please keep passing!  We all need Him.  But if it's Satan-infested germs, pray for a thorough cleansing from our Father and isolate yourself with Him until He heals you from the virus.  Don't let it zap the life out of you and others.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

be the rainbow

"I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth. When I bring clouds over the earth and the bow is seen in the clouds, I will remember my covenant..." Genesis 9:13-14

What helps to break up the clouds and bring HOPE for brighter days is a rainbow.  It's what God chose to remind us of His everlasting love and as seal of His covenant made to us.

We are surrounded by clouds everyday...  clouds of hurt, pain, loneliness, sadness, anger, confusion.  Cloudy days, we all have them.  And sometimes those days turns into seasons.  As believers, we have accepted the role of being a rainbow in the clouds that surround us.  

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.

I pray the beauty of our love and kindness break up the clouds in others, allowing the warmth and peace of God to fill their hurting soul.  

I so love the colors of love i see flowing through you! 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

full hearts

"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:23

It was another masterpiece.  The hearts on the bulletin board reflected what students love about and in their life.

Their drawings were packed with family, friends, school, pets, sports and other activities in their hearts.  But what filled me with the greatest JOY was a visible cross in practically every heart...

and be it as it was, in most drawings their faith, symbolized by a cross, was predominantly and clearly in the center of their hearts.

If you drew a picture of your heart, what would it contain? what would be in the center of your love in life? 

I just love how children think.  I witness their pure love, honesty and boldness every day.  As much as we teach them, they teach us just as much.

Show what's in your heart by how you live.  Better yet, show others.  God loves what he sees in you and your tender heart.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

that fragrance!

"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing..." 2 Corinthians 2:14-15

Anytime i meet Carrie in the hallway, i smile.  The fragrance she wears fill the air with a peaceful aroma to me.  Silly right? But it's true.  It is so true that if at school and stressed, i sometimes seek her out for a quick whiff and sweet moment of comfort. Even if she in not physically present, i detect when i've crossed her path just by her lingering aroma.

As a believer, you, my sisters and brothers in Christ, also emit a sweet aroma in the air... the aroma of Christ.  Keep moving and releasing His sweet love to others. There is a world of hurting people seeking relief, peace and a moment of kindness.  You have the power to share Him by your words and actions, bringing a godly knowledge and hope to others.

Let that sink in as you spread the fragrance of Him today.  Someone near you needs to be filled and touched with some holy aroma.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal 

think about it...

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—

think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from Me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9

What would happen if we dreamed more like children do...

It's my dream we do just that.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

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 often have you said this to a student, only to see them roll their eyes and stomp off in frustration?  And to be honest, i don't like to hear that response either.

There are periods 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 we want, trusting Him is a must.  What we don't know is overcome by what we do know.  God is faithful and just.  He 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, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

proceed with care...

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."  Proverbs 3:5-6

Weather report:  "Possible heavy morning this fog, beware."

Fog can fall upon us in an instant... unexpected bad news, the loss of a loved one, a disappointing test result, a broken relationship, sickness, job loss, family rebellion, dishonesty, rejection.  The fog conjures up doubt, fear, anger and confusion, distorting our vision.  Unable to distinguish between what's real or not, how can we continue?

Whether the density of the fog is like buttermilk or skim milk, we must remember God still cares, and He has a clear vision for us.  As we trust Him with all areas of our life, His Peace calms and diminishes our jitters.  In His perfect time, the Son burns away the fog surrounding us and His glory clearly shines through. 

With God the path to peace is perfectly clear... with or without fog.  Proceed with care... and Him.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

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