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

not all lost

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

When students returned to school after being out for over a week, one fact was abundantly clear, not all was lost.  The library was overwhelmed with students turning in books for new ones.  By 8:09am our LARGE return bin was overflowing and the line to check out new books snaked across the room.  The heavy flow of students continued allll day. I had to take several deep breaths to keep my sanity. Truly not all was lost during Helene, some things continued with no issues.  

The students clearly reminded me not all was lost or negative due to Helene's wreckage.  The love of reading continued and even books previously lost were found, board games were pulled out and family time gained.   

So, when we stop to think about it, much was lost, but not all was lost.  I pray your time out brought some unexpected blessings to you too. Like --

Gathering with neighbors... we never have time for during our regular schedule

Meeting and helping a stranger

Connecting with an organization in need

Creating special family time

Talking in real conversations instead of texting

Spending time with our Father

However you utilized your time, i trust it unearth blessings.  God works in all things.  Nothing is lost with Him or in Him.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

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 deep into 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