He's right!

 "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. " Luke 2:10-11

Do you agree with Luke??

I sure do.  BOTH Lukes got it right!  

Thank you, Luke in heaven and on earth for your Truths!  

Thank You, Father!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

hot lips

"May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14

It was a horrible, horrible mistake, and i could not get the burning taste of it out of my mouth. 

Late, tired and in the darkness, i brushed my teeth.  Spitting out the pasty foam, i knew something was dreadfully wrong.  A sensation of hot lava flowing through the craters of my teeth and the walls of my mouth, set my lips on fire.  Quickly i turned on the lights.  There on the counter, were 2 tubes, exact size and coloring, but completely different products.  

The truth was exposed. I grabbed the wrong tube. It was a painful experience, and believe me i have put steps in place to not repeat it.

Yet as much as i dislike pain, i do pray for an unpleasant sensation to happen when words from my mouth are spewing and displeasing to God.  Whether, gossip, unkind, discouraging, mean or tasteless, may such words burn my lips and disturb my soul. 

We live in a hurting world in need of healing. We don't always know, understand or comprehend the actions of others.  When we don't know the complete truth, wrong and painful conclusions can occur.  What we see in others in not always reflective of what's going on inside of them.

Father, if i discourage instead of encourage with my words, please help me put out the fire and remain quiet... and kind.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

Happy Mother's Day

"As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you..." Isaiah 66:13

Comfort is a crucial need in our life. As a mother comforts her child, He comforts us. God uses a mother's love to describe His own feeling... caring deeply for another and sacrificing self for their welfare. It is what God considers an essential element to our peace -- with Him and others.

I miss you, Mother. Yet, i feel you "with me" in things i do and say. You're gone, but you're not. The truth is -- time does not heal loss, i miss you everyday. But for sanity sake, we have to learn how to move on. So, i strive to live each day in a way to honor you. To see your smile again, how beautiful that would be. One day... one day i will. And the angels will sing.

 

Father, if only my arms were longer... i'd reach up to the heavens to hug Mother and whisper Words of thanks.  Please hug her for me, tell her i love her and Happy Mother's Day. May i live to bring her honor and You glory.  When that awkward and lonely silence strikes again, help me remember to turn to You first. You offer wonderous Words of life.  

Hear, Lord, and be merciful to me; be my help. You turned my wailing into dancing...and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever.

The love of a mother... it is special, everlasting and unconditional. Thank you, to the many mothers who spread, share and provide comfort daily.  Whether a mother-by-blood or a mother-by-heart, you are a blessing. And God is smiling at you, His good and faithful servant... His shining witness to comfort.

Happy Mother's Day!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

let freedom ring... and thank you

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

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

classroom rules

 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8

As a teacher, what do you expect from your class?

1.  Pay attention; listen when the teacher is talking.
2.  Be prepared; read your lessons and do your homework daily.
3.  Apply what you learn to your work.
4.  Follow the teacher's directions.
5.  And, if you need help, ask the teacher.

Would you agree that those expectations are building blocks for the success of the student? To help them get the most out of their studies? And, to reap benefits now and in the future?

We, also, are students and are under the watchful, loving eyes of the greatest Teacher of all... our Father.  Since we are in the classroom-of-life for Christ, may we follow the same guidelines.  He has the desire and ability to equip us with wisdom, discernment and power.  Let us listen to Him, read His Word, do as He instructs, and pray... in times of need and praise.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

Happy Father's Day

"Give thanks to the Lord (our Father), for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 118:1

Happy Father's Day to the many who give, guide, share, teach and love all who look up to them.  Your faithfulness lives forever in your loved ones.

Thank You, God, for all the special daddies, of the past and present, those by blood and those by heart. We are thankful to be surrounded by Your love from them. A good father makes for a happy, happy heart, no matter where they are.

"Sing to God, sing praise to His name... A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy dwelling."  Psalm 68:4,5

Sweet God above, a Father for all, forever!

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

 note:

I've been informed by blogger that emails will no longer be supported by on any blogsite.  This means if you receive my devotions by email, you will no longer receive them starting in July.

I am trying to solve the problem by finding what and how I can add a new email server to my blog.  Unfortunately, technology is not a strength for me, I am struggling.  At this point while I am unsuccessful in making an email transition, starting in July you will need to access my blog in one of two ways: 

1.   look up the blog via the website - www.saltshakersforhim.blogspot.com 

2.   access through facebook and like my page - Teacher Devotions

I have downloaded/saved you and all my email contacts from my blog.  If I can locate a new email server and add it to my blogsite, I will reinstall the email feature and resume emailing... just don't know how or how long this will take me.  Pray for guidance for me.  Thank you.

seeing as God sees

"You are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus... there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:26,28

"So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality..." Acts 10:24

"And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth..." Acts 17:26

"But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

It appears to me, God's view of us has nothing to do with our outward appearance.

What matters to God is our heart.  Period.
If you find anything different, let me know.

Meanwhile, may we celebrate and be thankful for our acceptance, unity and love as members of His family.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

 note:

I've been informed by blogger that emails will no longer be supported by on any blogsite.  This means if you receive my devotions by email, you will no longer receive them starting in July.

I am trying to solve the problem by finding what and how I can add a new email server to my blog.  Unfortunately, technology is not a strength for me, I am struggling.  At this point while I am unsuccessful in making an email transition, starting in July you will need to access my blog in one of two ways: 

1.   look up the blog via the website - www.saltshakersforhim.blogspot.com 

2.   access through facebook and like my page - Teacher Devotions

I have downloaded/saved you and all my email contacts from my blog.  If I can locate a new email server and add it to my blogsite, I will reinstall the email feature and resume emailing... just don't know how or how long this will take me.  Pray for guidance for me.  Thank you.

the Root of all

"For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb.  I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139.13-14

For some reason, my hydrangea plant in the backyard blooms in all colors... white, pink, violet, blue... in varying shades.  One plant, one root, but an array of  colors.  It's impossible to pick a favorite, because each bloom is unique and possesses its own personal beauty, meant to be enjoyed and appreciated by all who pass by it.  

One God, one Root, but an array of children... in all colors, sizes, styles.  All His, all beautiful. Each one specifically and specially designed by Him for His purpose.  He loves them each, one and all.

Father, i want to love like You.  Everything and everyone You created is good.  We are blessed by all Your creation.  

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

note:

I've been informed by blogger that emails will no longer be supported by on any blogsite.  This means if you receive my devotions by email, you will no longer receive them starting in July.

I am trying to solve the problem by finding what and how I can add a new email server to my blog.  Unfortunately, technology is not a strength for me, I am struggling.  At this point while I am unsuccessful in making an email transition, starting in July you will need to access my blog in one of two ways: 

1.   look up the blog via the website - www.saltshakersforhim.blogspot.com 

2.   access through facebook and like my page - Teacher Devotions

I have downloaded/saved you and all my email contacts from my blog.  If I can locate a new email server and add it to my blogsite, I will reinstall the email feature and resume emailing... just don't know how or how long this will take me.  Pray for guidance for me.  Thank you.

i promise...

"Not one of all the LORD's good promises to Israel (your name) failed; every one was (is) fulfilled." Joshua 21:45

Her note promised it was the last thing she needed printed... but i knew better.  School is ending soon, and the only thing for certain is changes occur.  I couldn't help but smile at her note because in her heart i felt she knew it was a promise that would likely not stick.  After all, she wrote the note in pencil, not ink, and she sent more paper to me than was required for her print job.  She unconsciously seemed to be preparing for the unexpected. 

Promises... who can keep them? I sure have issues with them.  Time after time, i find myself in the ditch of regret and failure, breaking promises to others.  Yet, my greatest regret comes from promises i make to God. Promises of change, improvement, patience, giving, understanding and more.  How He must shake His ever-loving, wise head with my promises, knowing all my weaknesses and frailties.  Yet, He loves me still.

So, who can keep promises every time and always?  I know of only One. God.  Promises to His children are etched in ink. They cannot be erased, deleted or forgotten. His promises of love, forgiveness, purpose, guidance, strength, eternity, freedom, peace, comfort, hope are unending and rock solid. The Bible actually contains over 7,000 promises from God to His children.  God is consistent, and faithful; He is not changing His plan. 

The promise made to me yesterday was broken within 10 minutes -- not once, but twice. But that's far less than the number of broken promises God has endured from me, and more than the number of promises God has broken to me -- NONE.

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God." 2 Corinthians 1:20

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

what are you doing?

 The LORD says...

"As the heavens are higher than the earth,
    so are My ways higher than your ways
    and My thoughts than your thoughts. 
 As the rain and the snow
    come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
    without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
    so that it yields seed for the sower 
and bread for the eater, 
 so is My word that goes out from My mouth:
    It will not return to Me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire    
 and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:9-11

Reflecting today  on the Truths and Promises of our Father.

He speaks; and He will accomplish what He desires... His good and perfect Will.

  
May we Trust and believe His Word, and discover His Peace.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

no words needed

 "...the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." Romans 8:26

Can't talk about it? Pray about it.
 
The One who needs to hear it most is listening.  And best of all, He doesn't even need our words to understand.

He sees us and knows us in our truest colors.

Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

special delivery, delivers

"Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Proverbs 16:24

Do you believe in them? Do you tell them?

Many who have succeeded in life or overcome difficulties, credit a special teacher who encouraged them. In a world filled with pain, uncertainties and hopelessness, teachers have the power to rescue. They can steer the life of a child with words that create and drive dreams into realities.  

Your words... a precious gift of hope and life.

May our words be wrapped and delivered in shiny silver boxes and not crumpled brown bags. 

When we choose love, we inspire others to shine.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

veneal

Silent Saturday... not.a.sound

 "'Take a guard,' Pilate answered (the Pharisees). 'Go, make the tomb as secure as you know how.'" Matthew 27:65

It's Saturday

All is quiet.  The rush and excitement of the past week is on hold.  You can call it the silence before the storm.  Come Monday the chains will be broken and our freedom guaranteed.  How eerie and dark is the silence.  But not for long!

All silence is not golden, some is torturous. There is silence at the tomb.  Jesus, the Son of God, the King of kings, is dead. His body now guarded in a tomb with a massive stone covering the opening. No one can possibly enter.  But, they forgot to consider the possibility of Someone coming out. Oh, ye, of little faith. There will be an awakening! What a glorious day to come!  Thank You, Father!

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

veneal

Friday's forgiveness... the choice

 "... there they crucified Him, along with the criminals ‑ one on His right, the other on His left. Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.'.. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at Him... But the other rebuked him... Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.'" Luke 23:33‑43

It's Friday

Jesus, weak and nearly unrecognizable from the lashings, could not drag His cross up the rocky path. Help came from a stranger, not His followers nor His disciples. The women followed in tears; the men scattered in fear.
  
Jesus' last walk on earth shook the ground with raw emotions, not with cheers but jeers... the people expected more. But hold on!  The Last Act is yet to come. It will not only bring down the house but will rip the temple's curtain in two from top to bottom!

Even at the very last minute on the cross, one criminal chose to acknowledge and accept Christ. One went to paradise, the other didn't. It's all about forgiveness. It's what Jesus was born to do. It's God's greatest gift and sacrifice to man.

We, like the criminals, are either on the right or left side of Jesus. With our speech and/or actions we are denying or accepting Him.  He humbly gave His all, so we may live. God is willing, waiting, and wanting to receive all into His Kingdom.  May we remember and honor His love for us by loving Him and others.

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

Turbulent Tuesday... cleaning up

 Jesus said --

"... Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world." Matthew 25:34

It's Tuesday
He's rattled the temple, He's called the Chief Priests out, He's comforted the prostitutes. It's fair to say Jesus kicked up dust on the path to the cross. Are you still holding His Hand? It's total turmoil, but with God, peace will fill our soul.

With the number of this year's school days dwindling, we are engulfed with required duties and deadlines. Each day's tasks must be completed in order to wrap up our job on time.

Jesus found Himself with significant life-changing deadlines, His last week on earth. Knowing His days were numbered, He unleashed many lessons --

To His followers He encouraged them to choose rightly and righteously.
To His critics, the religious leaders, He scolded them for misguiding His sheep. 
To the unbelievers, He gave warnings. 
To the believers, He reminded them about being ready and watchful, as He instilled in them the hope of things to come. 

Jesus holds nothing back for He has nothing to lose, and everything to gain... another believer, joining His family for eternity. He did and will do whatever it takes to reach even one more. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

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

He protects.... period

 "God reached down from on high and took hold of ______; He drew ______ out of deep waters.

He rescued ________ from  his/her powerful enemy, from his/her foes, who were too strong for _______.
They confronted ______ in the day of his/her disaster, but the Lord was his/her support.
He brought ______ out into a spacious place;   He rescued ______ because He delighted in ______."  
Psalm 18:16-19

Is there someone, who's name you need to put in the above blank?
 

When physical, emotional or mental distress is present... there is suffering. Some situations develop due to the consequence of decisions made; others just happen. 
I am reminded daily just how very little control we actually have over others and how presenting them to God for deliverance is a powerful and productive action.

TRUST (definitely my Mighty Word for this year) the strength and support for those in need, as well as, the peace of those who love them, is in the Mighty Hands of our Father, the Great Physician.

Where we are incapable, our God IS capable.  
When we are ready to give up, our God IS going strong.

He cares, He can, He will... rest in Him.

Even when i can't see it, Father, help me to believe it... and TRUST You.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

a Mighty Word ~ unity

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, as Christ accepted you..." Romans 15: 5-7

Whether a believer, a leader or a simple servant, we are all imperfect people.  Let's create an endless circle of unity in prayer for truth, obedience and discernment as we pursue God's wisdom and guidance. When we  work together by focusing on what's best for each other, the positive impact made on lives is significant.  May our prayers allow God to mold our hearts into teachable and listening instruments that honor Him while caring for others.

Isn't it awesome to know we serve 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.

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

remember this!

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14

God doesn't make mistakes.  YOU are a spectacular work of art! created by the Perfect Master Artist. He has a purpose with you and in you.  

Celebrating you today -- His design is divine. 

I am blessed to call you my friend and sister/brother-in-Christ.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

strong shoulders

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Oh, how weary and tired Your shoulders must be with all the unrest of our land. Yet, Your understanding, knowledge and strength surpasses any and all the comprehension we possess. 

Did you know shakem, the Hebrew word used for shoulder in Isaiah actually means the neck area between the shoulders where burdens are placed? Divine government rests smack in the middle of the shoulder of Christ for a firm foundation; there is no better place.

Jesus, You are our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  And on You we rely, trust and believe for all the days of our life. May what breaks Your heart break ours; and may we work together to mend and heal the pain and anguish before us in our homes, community, and country.  In You and with You all things are possible.

May we rest in the comforting fact Christ can carry the full weight of all our problems and burdens on His everlasting strong shoulders.  There's nothing better than a piggyback ride on the mighty shoulders of your Daddy.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

can CHRISTmas be saved?

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

"Come here and show her what you did."

Oh no, my heart froze. Now what?  Being the active little fella he was i expected the worse.  I held my breath as i walked around the circulation desk to see the damaged goods.  I pictured Mark holding one of our library books with either a big rip in it or juice spilled all over it. Yet, it was neither.

In his little hands he held a book...

one he made, with his precious drawings.  My heart now felt heavy. Why did i expect the worse from him?  I loved his manger scene. It was so special for CHRISTmas. 

 As i looked through his book at his drawings, he quietly stood by. I wasn't sure why he included a picture of people in the water. So i asked him.

It was then he explained to me it was a picture of him and Jesus... and he was going to be saved this weekend.

So how did he end his story?

...with Jesus in his heart.

For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son... for me, and for you, and for you, and for you... that whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life.

CHRISTmas is because He loves us -- that much.  Thank you, my little friend, for reminding me of this important fact.

So, can CHRISTmas be saved?  Yes!  But more importantly, CHRISTmas saves. And that's reason enough to be JOYful.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live like we believe it,

veneal

Hallelujah!  Praise be to God from whom all blessings flow.