Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #12, Content

Can you believe this is our last study for 2017? It truly has gone by so fast, and I pray you have been blessed whether you have just read along, journaled, or created art. I hope you will be sure to read the end of this post concerning 2018. I would love your feedback. Now onto today's study.

The Study
Are you content? Do you feel like you have to prove yourself to others? Do you always want what everyone else has? Maybe you are never happy with the way you look. Us women truly suffer a lot from that one. After 52 years, I have finally come to terms with my pear shape and thunder thighs. Even when I used to teach strength training and aerobics, my proportions didn't change. I will always be larger on my bottom half. Praise God I have finally come to accept that. It's so freeing. What do you need to let go of and feel the freedom and peace that God wants you to experience? Well, first, to help you figure that out, let's look at what contentment means.

Dictionary.com says "Satisfied with what one is or has; not wanting more or anything else."

Yet, Crown Financial Ministries says "Contentment, contrary to popular opinion, does not mean being satisfied where you are. Rather, it is knowing God's plan for your life, having a conviction to live it, and believing that God's peace is greater than the world's problems."

So for me, I realized that God created me as I am. I can't physically change that I am a pear-shaped woman. Can I tone up and take better care of myself? Absolutely! But doing that won't change the fact that I am a pear though I will feel better and look better. I'm pleased now that God has given me the shape I have. It's me. I am perfectly and wonderfully made!

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

Do I need to compare myself to the tall women with thin thighs? No, because I wasn't made that way. Nothing I do will increase my height or magically give me thin thighs. He created me perfectly as He wanted me. I can now after all of these years be content in that fact.

Crown Financial Ministries also says this "Contentment is so far removed from many Christians that it seems that they will never be able to find it or be at peace. However, contentment is not something that must be searched for and found. It is an attitude of the heart. Once the attitude has been modified and all has been transferred to God, contentment will be evident."

It is a heart attitude! In my heart, I don't want to tell God that He got it wrong when He made me. No, I am wonderfully made. He created me. He loves me thunder thighs and all. How about you? Where in your life do you desire contentment? Will you ask God to help you?

Psalm 131:2 "But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content."

Proverbs 19:23 "The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble."

Matthew 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?"

Matthew 6:32-33 "For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Luke 12:15 "Then He said to them, 'Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'"

Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:11-12 "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

Philippians 4:13 "I can do all this through Him who gives me strength."

Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'"

1 Timothy 6:6-7 "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it."

Journaling

• What do you need to let go of and feel the freedom and peace that God wants you to experience?
• How will you start the new year having a heart attitude of contentment?
• Journal a prayer asking the Lord to help you be content in Him.

The Art
Today I did something a little different. I found a new artist by the name of Andrea Walford on YouTube. Click here to see her channel. I loved one of her pieces so I did a near identical lift of her page. I changed a few things, however. For instance, I used washi tape instead of scrapbook paper, I made it a two-page spread instead of just one page, I created the title circle on book paper, and I used products I had on hand not the same products she used. This was really fun just to do a "lift" of someone else's work. I have been so busy that this really was super easy. If you are new to art journaling, this would be an excellent video for you to follow as she goes super slow and explains a lot of things. I fast forwarded through parts just because I have my own way of doing some things but it's still a great, great video for anyone!

Now here is my take on her piece using the Hebrews 13:5 verse from above. I wanted to use Philippians 4:11-12 but it was a bit too long for my page.

2018 Plans
I am not sure where the Lord is leading me for 2018. I have lots of ideas but I also am not sure if this is something my readers would like for me to continue. What changes would you like? Are you still interested? I have prayed and prayed but still just not sure where I will go with this study for 2018. Feel free to leave a comment about this year's study and what you would like to see in 2018. As always, I appreciate each of you! Have a blessed and Merry Christmas, and to see all of this year's studies, click here. Blessings,

Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #11, Broken

The Study

At our recent Women's Retreat at church, I learned about Kintsugi. Have you ever heard of it? I certainly hadn't so here is what I found on the web about it:

"Translated to 'golden joinery,' (or Kintsukuroi, which means 'golden repair') is the centuries-old Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with a special lacquer dusted with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Beautiful seams of gold glint in the cracks of ceramic ware, giving a unique appearance to the piece. This repair method celebrates each artifact's unique history by emphasizing its fractures and breaks instead of hiding or disguising them. Kintsugi often makes the repaired piece even more beautiful than the original, revitalizing it with new life." — My Modern Met

Look up images on Google and you will find gorgeous pieces like this. Isn't it more beautiful with the gold fractures? Truly stunning and every piece is unique of course.

Now take a moment to listen to 'Mended' by Matthew West and read the lyrics as you listen:

Do you feel broken beyond repair? Do you feel like God has nothing for you? Do you feel like God could never use you or that you will never be acceptable or beautiful in His eyes? I am here to tell you that you are beautiful in His eyes! Just as that piece of pottery is more beautiful showing the fractures, you too are more beautiful with your wounds, scares, and brokenness. He doesn't look at what we have done; He looks at what Christ has done on the cross.

Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

If you are in a particularly difficult time right now or you know that the holidays are going to be difficult for you, ask God what He wants you to learn. You may not see the way out of your brokenness but lift your eyes to Him. Trust Him and rely on His grace to teach you, mold you, and get you through. How exactly do you do that though when you are so hurt or so worn down? Get into His word! Listen to worship music. KLOVE radio is a great place to start if you don't know what to listen to! Find a good Bible teaching church. Let His people love you and be His hands and feet. I love what Charles Stanley says about brokenness:

"Keep in mind that God uses brokenness to deepen your understanding in at least three ways: 

• You gain a new perspective of His mercy and provision and learn to depend on Him more. 
• You develop a more complete comprehension of yourself. 
• Your compassion and understanding for others’ suffering grows."

So, just as that Kintsugi piece above is more gorgeous with the cracks, you too become more gorgeous and beautiful with the fractures and breaks of life as Jesus works through you and reveals Himself to you. Will you allow Him to do that?

Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds."

1 Peter 4:12-13 "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation."

Journaling Prompts

• Share an instance where the Lord brought you through your brokenness? How were you changed by it?
• How do you feel you are broken beyond repair, and how will you ask God to help you?
• How has God used you as you have seen someone else suffering and broken?
• Write a prayer to the Lord thanking Him that grace has won!

The Art

Today I created a Traveler's Notebook page. I am thinking I may do some of this next year so I wanted to give it a try. It's quick, it's clean, and it's different from my normal. But of course, I still had to do some sewing and paint splatters. :)

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Blessings,

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Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #10, Relationship

The Study

Have you ever wondered why you are here on this earth? Why did God put you here? He has created each of us to be in relationship with Him and to glorify Him. We were created by Him for Him. To see my older study on 'Glory', click here. And to see an even older study on 'purpose', click here. 

Colossians 1:16 "For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him."

Let's look at the definition of relationship—the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, or the state of being connected.

How do we stay connected to the Lord? By reading His Word, being in fellowship with the body of Christ, serving Him, etc. The most important relationship we can have is with Him!

Proverbs 23:26 "My son, give Me your heart and let your eyes delight in My ways."

Mark 12:30 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength."

When we have that relationship with Him and experience His unending love, we can then share that in our relationships with others. We are to touch lives on this earth. Your possessions don't matter. Will people remember what the inside of your house looked like, what you had or didn't have? No. The lives you touch on this earth is what people will remember about you. Are you spending time creating and maintaining relationships? Are you spending meaningful time with your husband, kids, and/or family? Or are you too busy doing 'stuff' that you don't have quality time for relationships? I read the following and really liked it but there wasn't an author attached to it. Here is what I found—

"The quality of your relationship with God will directly affect the quality of all your relationships with people. Although life is short, the rewards of loving God, and of letting His love flow through you to other people has infinite benefits that will keep on blessing you, now and forever."

So, if we are created to be in relationship with Him and glorify Him, how can we share Him with others and give Him the glory if we are not in relationship with other people? Listen to this amazing song by Steven Curtis Chapman while you read the lyrics below.

I Will Be Here by Steven Curtis Chapman

Tomorrow morning if you wake up, 
And the sun does not appear 
I, I will be here 
If in the dark we lose sight of love, 
Hold my hand, and have no fear 
Cause I, I will be here 

I will be here when you feel like being quiet 
When you need to speak your mind, 
I will listen and 
I will be here when the laughter turns to cryin' 
Through the winning, losing and tryin' 
We'll be together 'cause I will be here 

Tomorrow morning if you wake up, 
And the future is unclear 
I, I will be here 
As sure as seasons are made for change,
Our lifetime's are made for years 
So, I I will be here 

I will be here and you can cry on my shoulder, 
When the mirror tells us we're older, 
I will hold you and 
I will be here to watch you grow in beauty 
And tell you all the things you are to me 
I will be here 

I will be true to the promise I have made 
To you and to the One who gave you to me 
I, I will be here
And just as sure as seasons are made for change 
Our lifetime's are made for years 
So, I, I will be here we'll be together 
I will be here

To whom can you say "I will be here?" Do you want you and your husband to remember each other when the kids move out? Absolutely! Spend time on that relationship. Do you want your children there for you when you are older? Most certainly. But if we don't pour out into our relationships, will they want to pour out to us later? Did we maintain a relationship with them or did we let it go or get too busy? 

One small example of what we have done is that we have had family time at 7 pm for probably 21 years! Even though our girls are gone for the most part, we still have family prayer time at 7:45 pm every night for those that can attend. Sometimes it's two of us on the phone, and sometimes it's all five of us. We are trying to do what really matters. 

Have I lost relationships with some people? Yes as I am sure you have too. Did I try? Absolutely, but they did not reciprocate. After years of trying to maintain that relationship, I finally stopped. I was reaching out yet they didn't respond. I realized maybe that was not a relationship that should be continued or restored. God has put other relationships in my path that need to be nutured. Relationships are difficult to maintain when there isn't a connection or a nuturing of the relationship by both people. How would my relationship with the Lord look if I only sat down with Him once a year? Definitely not good. He is always waiting but am I doing my part to maintain the relationship? That's the same with people. Stay in contact. Nuture those relationships. Do what's important. Send that card, make that phone call, text a prayer, meet for lunch. It doesn't have to be hours of work each day. The little things count. Share the love of Christ instead of focusing on what's in it for you. Maintain those relationships, and they hopefully will see God in you and be drawn to their own relationship with Him.

Genesis 2:18 "The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'"

Proverbs 18:24 "One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."

Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."

John 15:13 "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."

I love what the Life Application Bible says about John 15:13—

"We are to love each other as Jesus loved us, and He loved us enough to give His life for us. We may not have to die for someone, but there are other ways to practice sacrificial love: listening, helping, encouraging, giving. Think of someone in particular who needs this kind of love today. Give all the love you can, and then try to give a little more."

And the Romans verse below is a great formula for successful relationships—

Romans 12:9-10 "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."

Ephesians 4:2-3 "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Journaling Prompts

• How has your relationship with the Lord grown during this year?
• Share a relationship that is special to you and how is the relationship nutured?
• What relationship needs to be nutured that may be falling by the wayside? How will you do that?
• How has someone shown you the love of Christ in a relationship, and how did it make you feel?
• Where will you step out of your comfort zone in a relationship and watch God work?

The Art

I created another journaling page for today. I have been called to a new relationship that I was a bit nervous about but now I am excited to see what God will do!

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. And may you be blessed as you nuture the relationships in your life. Blessings,

Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #9, Overwhelmed

The Study

Are you overwhelmed? That is probably a stupid question, right? I think in some shape or form, most of us are overwhelmed with daily life at times. We are overwhelmed with things to do, overwhelmed with work, overwhelmed with family, overwhelmed with a stressful situation, etc., etc., etc. Yes, I am sure I could go on and on. Maybe you even feel like David as he describes in 2 Samuel:

2 Samuel 22:5 "The waves of death swirled about me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me."

And I love this by Lysa Terkeurst:

But God doesn't want us to be overwhelmed with life. He wants us to be overwhelmed by Him! David then goes on to say this:

2 Samuel 22:7 "In my distress I called to the Lord; I called out to my God. From His temple He heard my voice; my cry came to His ears."

David knew where to turn. He sings to the Lord when the Lord delivered him from the hand of his enemies. Where do you turn when you are overwhelmed? Other words that mean overwhelmed include defeat, drown, inundate, smother, crush, etc. Those just sound like depressing words. But what about the antonyms of overwhelm like encourage, surrender, yield, etc. When we feel overwhelmed, why not surrender to the Lord? Why not let His word encourage you? Maybe you can encourage someone else that is overwhelmed. 

In a book I am reading for our Sunday School class, the author, Richard J. Foster says this:

"The church Fathers often spoke of Otium Sanctum, 'holy leisure.' It refers to a sense of balance in the life, an ability to be at peace through the activities of the day, an ability to rest and take time to enjoy beauty, an ability to pace ourselves. With our tendency to define people in terms of what they produce, we would do well to cultivate 'holy leisure.'"

When we are overwhelmed, we certainly cannot cultivate 'holy leisure.' We need to take the time to pace ourselves and yield to the Lord in study, in prayer, and in all we do. Watch this video, listen to the words, watch the faces of these precious children, and be overwhelmed by Him.

I doubt you could watch that and think of the things that have been overwhelming you. I hope you felt encouraged after watching that. And I love this part of the lyrics:

"I hear the sound of Your Voice 

All at once it’s a gentle and thundering noise oh God 

All that You are is so overwhelming 

I delight myself in You 

Captivated by Your beauty 

I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You 

God, I run into Your arms 

Unashamed because of mercy 

I’m overwhelmed, I’m overwhelmed by You"

All that He is IS overwhelming! Delight in Him. Run to Him. Be encouraged by Him, and when you are overwhelmed turn to Him and have complete trust in Him.

Psalm 61:2 "From the ends of the earth I call to You, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the Rock that is higher than I."

Psalm 91:1-2 "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

Journaling Prompts

• How have you helped someone that was overwhelmed?
• What promise of God do you need today?
• How has God helped you in the past as you have felt overwhelmed?

The Art

For today's art, I chose to journal one of the questions above. The scripture I noted in my journaling was:

Proverbs 3:24 "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet."

To create the flowers, I used a stencil and watercolors on old book paper. Super, super fast and easy. I then cut the flowers out, glued them to the page, and doodled around the flowers. This took longer to dry than it took to create. :) If you are looking for something fast and easy, this is it!

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. And may you be overwhelmed by Him each and everyday. Blessings,

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Glory {Art} Scripture Challenge #8, Put on Love

The Study
Back in 2012, we did a hymn study on "The Love of God" which led into a study of love. If you missed that study or would like to review it, click here. So, today I wanted to revisit the word 'love'.

Colossians 3:14 "And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

God's word says that love binds all of these virtues together and that we are to put on love. So what does Paul mean when he says we need to put on love? Let's look at these verses first to explain.

Colossians 3:7-8 "You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."

These verses mention how we used to walk in these ways in the life we once lived prior to accepting Christ as our Lord and Savior. Then the passage continues with 'but now' we must rid ourselves of these things because we are a new person in Christ. We must rid ourselves of the 'old me' or the 'old you'. It’s a lifelong process; it’s a daily process. It’s a daily choice to wake up and choose to live for Him each day. This is sanctification. Sanctification refers to the Holy Spirit progressively changing a believer to be more like Him.

So, now we understand that Paul is saying that we need to make a daily choice to put on love. But how do we do that? Sometimes that’s hard to do when we’ve been hurt or things don’t seem fair. But the greatest glory we can give to God is to love and obey Him at all times even when it’s difficult. It wasn’t easy for Jesus to go the cross yet He did it out of obedience and love.

Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

He is our greatest example. God lavishes His love on us. He loves us without limits. His love is immeasurable. And because He lavishes His love on us, we should lavish it on others even when it's hard! We glorify God by faithfully doing what He calls us to do.

1 John 3:1a “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”

There was a lady in Bible study that was an unbeliever. She eventually came to Christ and she was asked about it. Did she come to Christ from doing her Bible study or what was it? She said she came to Christ because of the love shown to her by the Bible study group.

Do you love others as God would love them? Are you showing Christ’s love to people inside and outside of the church? Or are you focusing on the things that bug you about someone? If you are focusing on what bugs you about them, think about the things you do that bug God. I know I do things that bug Him and bug others. We all do! How about people in your church? How are you loving them? We all need to love people inside and outside of church with a genuine love and with God’s love. Can you imagine how much more pleasant today's world would be if more of us could truly put on God's love for people each and every day? If there is someone that you have trouble loving, ask God for His love for that person. He will give it to you! The love we show others is true evidence that we belong to Christ. God considers no one unlovable. Did you see that? He considers no one unlovable. Love is the greatest virtue. Do you desire to love above all things? Love denies self for the good of others. Jesus is the perfect picture of love. Christians love for one another proves that we are related to Jesus. Do people see that you are related to Jesus or to the world? What would your family and friends say?

Journaling Prompts

• How has someone shown you Christ's love?
• How have you been changed by the love someone has shown you?
• How have you denied yourself to show love to someone else?
• How has God helped you love someone you considered unloveable?

The Art
Today I did a quick pocket page in my favorite little journal. I thought it would be great to have this reminder and scripture to 'put on love'. To see a few details on how I created this page, click here.

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. I highly encourage you to read the entire book of Colossians. It's only four chapters but so extremely rich. Will you do that this month? Blessings,

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Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #7, Story

The Study

A couple of weeks ago, God put on my heart the topic for our July study. Then one weekend as I was posting on my Facebook page, I looked at my banner (which I usually ignore because it's been there so long). Anyway, here is what I saw:

Do you see the word 'story'? Wow, God was just confirming our topic today, and I love that! But instead of talking about our story and focusing on ourselves, today I want to remind you that everyone one around you has a story. Let's look at what I mean.

So, at the beginning of June, one of our daughters moved out after graduating college. As we were going to return the U-haul, I called the drop-off location to let them know we would be 30 minutes late in returning the truck. The woman was rather rude with me and bluntly told me that the truck was to be returned the day before. We had just picked it up the day before. How could it have been due back that same day? We had 24 hours. Anyway, she had me confused with another customer. I got off the phone and was rather struck by her rudeness. As we arrived at the drop-off location, I noticed she was bald. She had cancer. As we began to talk, she told me that she had just had a chemo treatment two days prior. Her brain was foggy, she was having trouble focusing on the computer screen, and she was hungry. I was then able to show her God's love and also tell her that I would be praying for her. She was a totally different person after I was able to lovingly talk with her. She had a story that I did not know about when talking to her on the phone. Did that excuse her rudeness? No but it explained it, and I was able to overlook it. Many would have been rude right back to her regardless of her story but that certainly would have closed off any chance to share the Lord. It wasn't about me being angry back; it was about the Lord and showing His love and compassion to her as she was suffering.

1 Peter 3:8 "Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble."

How many people do we encounter each and every day that have a 'story' going on in their lives right at that moment that we know nothing about? Probably most people. We all have an ongoing story. Some of us are in the midst of a very dark and difficult story. Some of us are inbetween stories. Some are in the middle of a great story. But we all have something; all of us! Something that may be easy for you to walk through may not be for someone else. God created each of us differently, and we have different abilities of handling things that come our way. But God calls us to show His love and compassion to others no matter what their story. How can we live out Colossians 3:12 if we don't go out, declare His goodness, and clothe ourselves as the verse says:

Colossians 3:12 "Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

Sometimes, others do need to hear our story but it shouldn't be the first thing we offer. A good ear is always best when someone is sharing their story. However, God puts people in our paths that may need hear our stories. Share it as He leads! You never know how it may help the other person or how it might draw them to Him.

Psalm 107:2a "Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story."

Before we finish this study, here are a few scriptures to focus on as you think about interacting with people each day without knowing their story.

Psalm 37:27 "Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever."

Proverbs 25:21 "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink."

Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."

Mark 12:31 "The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these."

Luke 6:27 "But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you."

Ephesians 5:1 "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children."

Philippians 2:3 "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves."

James 1:19 "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

Journaling Prompt

Here are the journaling prompts for this month:

• How have you loved your 'neighbor' as yourself this year?
• How has someone shown you great compassion and kindness in a situation, and how did it make you feel?
• How can you shown someone great compassion and kindness in a situation?
• Which virtue from Colossians 3:12 do you want God to perfect in you?

The Art

Today I created two pages in my Art {Marks} journal. I used the Philippians verse from above and also used a truth. Here is my journal, and if you would like to make your own, click here to see my tutorial.

These particular pages measure 3" x 3 1/2". Tiny, and I love it!

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. Share your story but remember that everyone else also has their own story too! Blessings,

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Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #6, Encourage

The Study

As some of you know, one of our daughters has officially moved out after graduating college. As a mom, I have been trying to think of ways to encourage her. She has had some down moments, and anything I can do to encourage her in the Lord is what I need to do!

She came home last weekend, and I baked her favorite meatloaf. I cut it into eight equal slices, and then I packaged them for her to freeze so she could have eight dinners over the next month or so. God shared with me the neatest way to encourage her (yes, even with meatloaf). He put on my heart to write encouraging scriptures on each freezer bag so that when she removed the meatloaf from the freezer, she will have His word to draw from.

Some of the scriptures I used were:

Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Psalm 31:24 "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord."

Psalm 55:22 "Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken."

Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

Isaiah 40:31 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."

John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

2 Timothy 1:7  "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."

God's word also tells us that we should encourage others. Let's look at a few scriptures:

Deuteronomy 3:28 "But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see."

Acts 11:23 "When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts."

1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

Who can you encourage in the Lord today? Nothing is too big or small for Him. He doesn't grow weary, and He gives strength. Don't be consumed by the issues but be encouraged by Him!

Journaling Prompt

Here are a few journaling prompts for you to choose from this month:

• Who can you encourage this week, and how will you do that?
• How has someone encouraged you in the past?
• What encouragement can you give your children?
• Who do you talk to for encouragement?
• What scripture encourages you today and why?

The Art

Today I decided to make some Pocket Cards. They are cards of encouragement that I send to people. To make them, I use playing cards cut down to 2 5/8" square. Once the cards were cut down, I covered the cards in book paper with extra paint that I had put on the paper. I have a book full of pages with extra paint. Then I use those pages in my art. Here is what the cards looked like to start:

Then I added tape, tickets, etc.

After that, I created them just like my Scripture Art Cards. Here is how they turned out:

I also used an old, small, square envelope to create a temple to make envelopes for these cards.

On the back, I will write a note to the recipient. I hope these cards bring encouragement to a few people.

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. I pray that you will be encouraged today or that you are able to encourage someone that God puts in your path! Blessings,

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Glory {Art} 2017 Scripture Challenge #5, Attributes

The Study

Today's study may be a bit short as I have been away almost the entire month between my daughter's college graduation out of town, our 10-day vacation, and now getting ready to help our daughter move out for her new job. Though this may be short, we are going to focus on scripture and who God is. We all need that encouragement for sure! Let's look at the study.

Do you ever have those moments where you look around the world and you wonder "Where is God?" "How can this be happening in our world?" "How can my children be doing these things?" "Why is this happening in my life?" I could go on and on with these questions. We all have them at different times in our lives. You may have several of these questions right now. But today I want to encourage you. Don't get down thinking of all of these questions. Look up to the One who is always:

• Eternal
• Ever-present
• Faithful
• Good
• Holy
• Just
• Loving
• Never-changing
• Sovereign
• Wise

How can I say that when you are in the midst of tragedy or craziness? Well, I can say it because it comes from God's Word. Let's look at the scriptures.

Eternal

Psalm 45:6 "Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of Your kingdom."

Psalm 93:2 "Your throne was established long ago; You are from all eternity."

Romans 1:20 "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."

1 Timothy 1:17 "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Ever-present

Psalm 46:7 "The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress."

Jeremiah 23:24 "'Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?' declares the Lord. 'Do not I fill heaven and earth?' declares the Lord."

Matthew 28:20b "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Faithful

Psalm 33:4 "For the word of the Lord is right and true; He is faithful in all He does."

1 John 1:9 " If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Good

Psalm 145:9 "The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made."

Nahum 1:7 "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him."

Holy

Isaiah 6:3 "And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.'"

1 Peter 1:15-16 "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Just

Deuteronomy 32:4 "He is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all His ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is He."

Isaiah 30:18 "Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore He will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him!"

2 Thessalonians 1:5-7 "All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with His powerful angels."

Loving

Psalm 100:5 "For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."

Lamentations 3:22 "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail."

Never-changing

Malachi 3:6a "I the Lord do not change."

Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Sovereign

Psalm 33:11 "But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations."

Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Wise

Psalm 92:5 "How great are Your works, Lord, how profound Your thoughts!"

Proverbs 2:6 "For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding."

Which scripture(s) speak to you today? Write it on a notecard. Keep it with you in your wallet. Memorize it. When you ask those questions of doubt, frustration, or sadness, focus on His word because He is always eternal, ever-present, faithful, good, holy, just, loving, never-changing, sovereign, wise, and so much more!

Journaling Prompt

Here are a few journaling prompts for you to choose from:

• Pick a scripture above and journal what it means to you.
• What attribute of God is your favorite and why?
• What attribute of God do you need to cling to today and why?

The Art

For my art today I needed to do something quick so I chose a verse from above to journal about. The verse I chose was Romans 8:28 because it has always been a verse I love and remember so clearly when I first heard it.

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. I hope that you will remember to turn to Him always in good times and bad. He is there waiting and never changes! Blessings,

Glory {Art} Scripture Challenge 2017 #4, Perseverance

Note: I am posting this challenge a day early since I am sure everyone will be busy tomorrow. I am also praying it is something that may bless some of you this particular weekend!

The Study
This weekend as we celebrate Easter, have you thought about how Jesus persevered to get to the cross? He suffered more than any of us can image. He was hungry, He was beaten, He was mocked, He was tempted, He had no home to call His own, etc., etc., etc. He persevered for you and for me. He gave up His spirit willingly on the cross and died for all of our sins so that we might live and have a relationship with Him forever!

So what is perseverance? Oswald Chambers says this about perseverance "Perseverance is more than endurance. It is endurance combined with absolute assurance and certainty that what we are looking for is going to happen. Then there is the call to spiritual perseverance. A call not to hang on and do nothing, but to work deliberately, knowing with certainty that God will never be defeated." Wow! Maybe you are having difficulties at work or financial difficulties, maybe you struggle with a child at home or even an adult child, or maybe you are suffering with a long-term illness. Whatever it is, think about how Jesus persevered despite all of the persecution He received over and over again. You may not understand why you are in a certain situation or why you have suffered but if you know the Lord as your own and truly trust Him, then there is a reason and a hope to persevere!

Luke 21:19 "Stand firm, and you will win life."

1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

Galatians 6:9 "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Colossians 1:11-12 "being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of His holy people in the kingdom of light."

2 Thessalonians 3:13 "And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good."

1 Timothy 4:15-16 "Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers."

2 Timothy 2:8-11 "Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with Him;"

Hebrews 12:1b-3 "let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

James 1:12 "Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him."

James 5:11 "As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy."

Revelation 2:3 "You have persevered and have endured hardships for My name, and have not grown weary."

And if those verses don't speak to you, you feel like giving up, or you don't think the Lord is "big enough" to help you persevere, then let's look as His attributes. He will not let you down!

The Lord's love endures forever!
Psalm 100:5 "For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations."

The Lord's renown (or fame) endures forever!
Psalm 102:12 "But you, Lord, sit enthroned forever; Your renown endures through all generations."

The Lord's glory endures forever!
Psalm 104:31 "May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in His works."

The Lord's righteousness endures forever!
Psalm 111:3 "Glorious and majestic are His deeds, and His righteousness endures forever."

The Lord's faithfulness endures forever!
Psalm 117:2 "For great is His love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord."

The Lord's name endures forever!
Psalm 135:13 "Your name, Lord, endures forever, Your renown, Lord, through all generations."

The Lord's dominion (sovereignty) endures forever!
Psalm 145:13 "Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is trustworthy in all He promises and faithful in all He does."

Everything He does endures forever!
Ecclesiastes 3:14 "I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him."

His word endures forever!
Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever."

The Lord's throne endures forever!
Lamentations 5:19 "You, Lord, reign forever; Your throne endures from generation to generation."

He endures forever!
Daniel 6:26 "I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. 'For He is the living God and He endures forever; His kingdom will not be destroyed, His dominion will never end.'"

Don't lose heart or give up. Jesus didn't! He persevered for you and for me! His struggles and His enduring love, faithfulness, righteousness, etc., should encourage each of us to persevere! Don't lose heart. Jesus didn't, and we shouldn't either!

Journaling Prompt
For today's prompts, I tried to share a couple that might focus on today's study and a few that focus on Easter. Enjoy your journaling time!

• What scripture above speaks to you and why?
• How has the Lord helped you persevere in a situation?
• What does Christ's sacrifice mean to you?
• How do you traditionally celebrate Easter? Are you doing anything different this year?
• What services do you usually attend during Holy Week and Easter (Maundy Thursday, Stations of the Cross, Sunrise Service, etc.)?

The Art
Today I am sharing a little booklet I have made for a friend. It was a booklet I started as part of Roben-Marie Smith's Snap and Share workshop. I didn't know what I was going to put inside but after writing this lesson, I felt it might be a great encouragment to her. So, I printed the lesson out on graph paper, tore the sheets out, and put them in the book. The first page is a note from me, followed by the study, and then there are blank pages in the back for her to journal. It will go out in the mail on Monday, and I sure hope the scriptures will speak to her and brighten her day!

Thanks for joining me today. Feel free to join us on the Facebook page where some people will be sharing their creations. To see all of the information regarding this challenge and the previous studies, please see this post here. And remember, with Him we can persevere. Have a blessed Easter!

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