"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
I do not know of a more glorious occasion to celebrate than CHRISTmas. While the birth of Jesus is an event worthy of our daily celebration and praises, most of our celebration culminates during a few days in December. And with that being said, this time of year we can find ourselves totally exhausted and in desperate need of rest.These devotions are to encourage and inspire others in their relationship with our Father. Praying you see, hear and feel His Presence in your life daily... because He's there, for you. blessings, veneal
Friday, December 26, 2025
Thursday, December 25, 2025
merry CHIRSTmas!
"While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying...
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” Luke 2:6-14
Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!Merry CHRISTmas!
we are greatly loved and chosen by God,
veneal
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
silent night, holy night...
“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6
"... and she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Luke 2:7
What makes CHRISTmas so special? The children... especially The One.
Yet, we can easily lose our focus by allowing our preparations and expectations of CHRISTmas crowd out what is most important. The distraction can set us up for frustration, sadness, exhaustion and disappointment. What all we add to CHRISTmas has the potential to rip away our JOY.
Lord, may it not be. I want to be where You are; i want to meet You at the manger first. There is nothing we can do or say to compare to the glorious gift of eternal life -- made possible only by the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus, for the forgiveness of our sins. Thank You.
Let's keep room in our hearts for Him each day and be filled with His Peace.
veneal
what child is this?
“'How will this be,' Mary asked the angel...
'The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.'" Luke 1:34-35What will happen next?
How will we continue?
Whatever the question, the answer remains the same:
When we are weak, He is strong. Trust Him.
God is with us, and He will see us through.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Friday, December 19, 2025
do you hear what i hear?
Would you like to listen to my prayer today? It might be yours too.
Father, i do trust You, but haven't i been through enough?
I've got some rough ends to smooth out in you. We will gain much through these times. Trust Me.
Until you give it all to Me.
I have surrendered all to You.
I am afraid of what's to come.
I love you, Father.
I love you too -- and more than you can humanly understand. Just trust Me.
Thursday, December 18, 2025
recipe for survival
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
It's been 2 months since i posted; even though, practically everyday i jotted down thoughts and feelings, but it stopped there. Since our move in June, i've been out of sync and a routine. Sometimes it easier to give in... yet the constant Voice in my soul, told me it's not time to give up. So, here goes...
My morning JOY of cooking holiday treats for friends and family also stirred some unexpected emotions. Searching through recipes, i found several favorites i made for loved ones now gone. Instead of preparations filled with excitement, i found a bowl of sorry... a cup of sadness, spoon of regret, splashes of salty tears along with some bitter herbs creating for a dish i didn't want anymore... but there it was.
And i know i am not alone. Familiar recipes during JOYful times can find the ingredients in our life altered. Hurt and pain surface from many places, expected or just out of the blue... the loss of a loved one, an unexpected health diagnosis, a hearten heart, financial ruins, misaligned priorities.
While the easiest way to relief the pain may seem to crunch it up and toss it in a dark corner of our heart, it fails to dismiss the pain. My recent holiday recipe search reminded me the main ingredient for all happiness lies firmly grounded in one fact.
When i cleared my table of all the recipes, one card remained. How and when it got there, i haven't a clue. But i know the JOY it restored immediately in my soul. When all is said and done, John 3:16 reminds us to hang in there. The best is yet to come. Jesus guarantees it... for you and me... ETERNAL LIFE. Whatever ails us now will vanish one day, in a glorious moment. And we will be completely healed... no more sorry, no more pain, no more tears. Just endless hallelujahs!
So merry CHRISTmas?? Absolutely!
Thank you for some grace, as i reconnect with you, my family. Yet,what better time to do it than during CHRISTmas. Thank You, Jesus, for another reason for loving You.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
finger pointing
"But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with His finger. When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them,
Friday, October 10, 2025
shine on
"And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4: 30-32
Every October, i am reminded of the tale comparing a Christian to a jack-o-lantern. God personally picks and prepares each of us to do His work. Through continuous love and discipline, He diligently removes the yuck from us. He rids us of the harmful seeds of hate, jealousy, anger, doubt, revenge, fear. Once in the loving Arms of Jesus, His Light shines from within us to draw others to Him.Smile, give thanks and let His Light shine for all to see! With so many dark and painful corners, our world desperately needs more of Him.
Friday, October 3, 2025
growing smaller
"... clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5
Truth can be like an oxymoron.Thursday, October 2, 2025
roots matters
"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19
we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
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 is wet, gray and messy. Whether it's showers, torrential downpours, storms, floods, gusty winds, thunder and lightening, shelter is required from the elements. As a child of God, no matter what our day holds, we are under the umbrella of God's love and assurance of His complete protection. With Him, we have nothing to fear.
Monday, September 29, 2025
important reminder
"...encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone... always try to be kind." 1 Thessalonians 5:14, 15
Every day in many ways, hearts are beating with joy thanks to your encouragement, help, patience, and kindness. YOU matter to me and others. Thank you for by making life better. God is smiling.Friday, September 26, 2025
why am i here?
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
Wondering if you are in the right place?
God has a perfect plan, and we are a part of it. He created each of us individually for this precise time and task.
we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
Thursday, September 25, 2025
heart issues
Father, i don't want to beat to the same rhythm of this world... where priority is on self worth and desires. The continuous pounding for more power, more happiness, more prestige, more titles, more money, more stuff is unending and unsatisfying. We live in a broken world in need of a different beat... a beat that considers the needs of others as more important than self.
I want a permanent irregular beating heart in my life, beating first for You, and then for others... in love, understanding, giving, patience, kindness and gentleness. Strength in obedience to You is the healing i need to truly possess an aMAZing heart. Thank You.
...be wise, and keep your heart on the right path." Proverbs 23:19
friend, we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
thanks for your prayers
"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:3-6
SYATP (See You At The Pole) is today.
Thank you for joining the millions today praying for our schools. Can you imagine the loud rumbling of prayers for all our students, teachers, administrators, support staff, parents and volunteers pounding on the gates of heaven? Glory hallelujah!! Rest assure not a whisper, song, plea, praise or smile will escape our Father's ears. May our prayers be unending, because it's never too late to pray.
Thank You, Father, for the gift of incredible sisters and brothers in Christ. I am humbly honored and blessed to be serving with them in a mission field filled with precious gems... our children.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love, do and pray like we believe it,
veneal
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
be in AWE... SYATP tomorrow!
"Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in AWE of your deeds, Lord. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy." Habakkuk 3:2
“AWE” is the theme for See You at the Pole™ 2025, which is all about students praying at their schools. All around the world in every time zone, students will be praying for their school, friends, families, churches, and communities. This is the 35th year for See You at the Pole™, a student-initiated and student-led event.
STATP has grown to God-sized proportions, spreading around the world. God used the obedience of a small group of teens to start an international movement of prayer among young people. Today, more than two million students from all 50 states and more than 20 other countries participate in SYATP. God has used students at SYATP to impact lives and affirm His power to answer those who cry out to Him in humble dependence.
So, mark your calendar. Tomorrow is the day for See You At the Pole.
I can't wait to meet with you in the morning and pray around the school flagpole.
Monday, September 22, 2025
it's official
"Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons..." Daniel 2:20-21
Although it might not feel like it, with temps still in the hot and muggy 80's, Fall is officially here. The sign below brings a smile to my face, as it reminds me to keep looking ahead, a change is surely coming.
Fall festivals
boots
Saturday, September 20, 2025
life lines
"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6
With tubing and string, the tender, impressionable sapling received strong guidance on how to become a fine shade tree. In due time, the restraints and guides will all be removed. And hopefully when it reaches maturity, the bending and shaping from its younger days will result into a strong, magnificent tree.
Our schools are filled with young students stretching and yearning to grow. Many have a wonderful, solid support system at home. Some are weathering difficult hardships with little to no home support. As we prepare for today's opportunities, may we remember our instructions and guidance might provide the needed life line for some... connecting and anchoring them to a future with hope and peace.
Father, Help me to shepherd the hearts around me with Your love and gentleness.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal
Friday, September 19, 2025
need a hug?
"He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart..." Isaiah 40:11
Teachers are known for teaching, correcting and putting out fires; but i think one of their most admirable and effective qualities is hugging with words and arms.When we love like God, we hug like God.
we are loved and chosen AND hugged by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Thursday, September 18, 2025
feel forgotten?
"...I will not forget you! See I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before Me." Isaiah 49:15-16
Ever felt invisible? Ever felt like the lack of your presence wouldn't be noticed, much less missed? As a child (and even an adult), it hurts to go unnoticed by others, especially by those we know. Whether an oversight or intentionally, nothing knocks the air out of our gut much more than the feeling of being forgotten.While friends, coworkers or family may forget us, we can rest assured, our "Daddy" never, never will... nor will He forget our needs, wants and desires. He holds our heart next to His, and we are merely a beat away from Him always. May our value in His eyes be our sustaining power of Truth in trying time.
Thank You, God.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
who is that?
"... from the beginning God chose you ... May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:13, 16-17
Father, more than anything, i want my portrait to need constant updating. As each day passes may i bear a greater resemblance to You. Less of me and more of You is the reflection i want to see in the mirror. Erase the worries and doubts and keep me known as Yours... with a big smile and a peaceful heart.
we are love and chosen by God,
veneal
Monday, September 15, 2025
do.not.move.
"... stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58
Feel like you are standing in a mess?
No matter the rocks, the dirt, the heat, the trash, the mud, the bugs there is a reason you are planted where you are. God will feed, water, weed and nourish your soul for His purpose. He can work around any obstacle, creating opportunities for His Light and Love to reach others through you.
Do.not.move.
Squeeze your toes down deep where you are in the dirt, and allow Him to work around you and in you. Wait and watch... God's wonders are meant for you too, His beloved child.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Saturday, September 13, 2025
be alert and prayerful
"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people." Ephesians 6:18
Flashback... do you remember your school days as a student? Did you have fire drills? Earthquake drills? Tornado drills? How about evacuation drills? Perimeter lockdown drills? Active intruder lockdown drills? I only remember fire, tornado and earthquake drills.BE aware, BE alert, BE prepared, BE wise, Be ready... and most of all, BE prayerful.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Friday, September 12, 2025
you belong to Him
"But now, this is what the Lord says— He who created you, (your name), He who formed you, (your name);
'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.'" Isaiah 43:1Doubting how special you are? Take a moment to remember how incredible God feels when He thinks of your name...
You are a treasure to God. He knows our name, and each one of us holds a special, unique place in His heart that no one else can fill.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Thursday, September 11, 2025
remembering 9/11
"...This is what the LORD, the God of your father, David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears, I will heal you." 2 Kings 20:5
When the world around you crumbles, nationally or personally, what do you do? First, we are usually overcome with shock, unable to move. Next, fear and/or anger fill our shattered hearts. Then what? Next, many of us turn to God and others for comfort, compassion and strength.As we remember 9/11 today, may we thank God for His faithfulness to us... for sustaining, strengthening, comforting and healing us through storms.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
created in love, by love, for love
"For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I, (your name), am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13-14
God doesn't make junk. You, my friend, are a priceless treasure created by Him for His glory.Don't let a rough patch or a little dirt under your fingers get you down. Remember God uses it all for His glory and our good. Keep going in the confidence God is lovingly working His Hands and Heart in you.
we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
what do you want to be?
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32
Of all the things we can be, may kind be first.we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal
Monday, September 8, 2025
what to do, what to do
Jesus said...
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12It's easy doing what's right if the ones around you do too. When people are making good, pleasing decisions, we feel energized. It's easy to be kinder, work harder and longer, and even go beyond expectations.
But when we stumble on people making unfavorable or careless decisions or ignoring the golden rule, the temptation to mimic their behavior can be a natural human reaction . It's hard to do right when others don't. Why should we bother?
Because God says so. It's the better and right choice, no matter what.
When we face irresponsible or selfish people, we discover greater peace by choosing the higher road and treating everyone right and respectful... no matter what. Being less of what God has created us to be builds frustration, inner conflict and a hardness in the soul.
we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal
Thursday, September 4, 2025
you've got this!
"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheer him up." Proverbs 12:25"
For decades people have searched for a magical, effective weight loss solution, and here it is! A dose of kindness... it's free, plentiful and easy to dispense.Let's spread good cheer to others and lighten up the heavy hearts of those around us.
Below are 50 ways to cheer up and encourage a child -- of any age:
You are amazing!
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
going in circles?
"Bless is the person who trusts in the LORD, who confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream." Jeremiah 17:7-8




























