rest in the nest

"He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." Psalm 91:4

The comfort of a parent... can there be a greater refuge?

I think not, especially when your Parent is God.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

the perfect season (almost)

"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider; God has one as well as the other."  Ecclesiastes 7:14

Like many, i am thrilled winter is over, and spring is here.  I am not a fan of dull gray skies, bare trees and frigid temperatures. But spring does not blossom without its shortcomings too.  Pollen reeks havoc with all ages, and rain boots are a constant companion for the feet.  

But even with its drawbacks, spring provides us with much to celebrate. After all, we can't have the beauty of new life, lush green trees and brilliant flowers without some misery... like a rise of allergies and illnesses due to an increase of pollen and disease-ridden insects, fruits and veggies.

Happy is the heart that can still rejoice in the midst of tough times... just because God is still good. He has the power to bring excellence even out of hard, trying times. 

Love where you are because God is there -- no matter the season.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

rooted in Christ

"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

As you take hold and believe the immense love our Father pours freely out on you, may your roots dig deeper in faith. 
His glorious Sonshine flowing through you is meant for others to see, so they may know and believe Him too.  You are blooming and beautiful.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ FAT

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song." Psalm 28:7

It's still raining, but we are a day closer to Sonshine.

And look! Bursting through the wet soil, flowers are already showing up.  Thank You, Father.

It's all about FAT ... Faith, Attitude and Trust.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

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 harsh and unpleasant. 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 brings, we are under the umbrella of God's love and assured of His complete protection.  With Him, we have nothing to fear.

Through it all, just hold tightly onto Him.  In His perfect time, April showers will end and brilliant May flowers will bloom again.  Singing in the rain is possible, thanks to God. He reigns, we sing.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

whose prints are these?

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

The  damaged library book was an opportune moment to discuss book care.   Ms. B showed the class a book with a footprint on the page and asked, "How can this be prevented from happening?"

Without any hesitation Braden  shouted, "Clean your shoes!"

Although his answer was basically correct, it was not the one desired.

Sometimes when nudged by God, i'm sure the responses i mumble are not what He's wanting...

I'll do it later.
She doesn't deserve my help.
I need more time... more money... more resources.
I don't have enough to share.
I rather do something else. 
But he gets on my nerves.

Father, help me to see my struggles with Your eyes. Clean my soul and heart, for i am often short-sighted, self-centered and hasty in making decisions. Sometimes it's helpful for footprints to remain.  Any prints or handiwork left behind is good, when it comes from You.  

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal

a Mighty Word ~ delivered

"But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength...  And I was delivered from the lion's mouth." 2 Timothy 4:17

Deadlines, no solutions, new problems, ugly threats, unexpected terrors, big teeth....

No need to panic. God is at our side...  ALWAYS.

we are loved and chosen by God,
veneal