{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #26, Represent

Challenge Word #26: Represent

Have you ever sent your children off to camp, a church function, or even a birthday party? Do you wonder how well they represent your family? Are they doing all of the things you taught them, and are they representing your family well? As parents, we want them to do as we have taught them, and of course, we want them to represent the family well. God is the same. As our Father, He teaches us through His Word, He expects our obedience, and He certainly wants us to represent Him well everyday and in everything.

Most of us will be around family and friends this week as we celebrate Christmas. Think about how you represent Christ to those around you this Christmas season. Do you stand up and proclaim His name in love or do you keep Him “hidden” because you are scared of what they will think? Do you speak in kindness and love or in impatience and rudeness? Each person you come in contact with should see Immanuel, God with Us, as you represent Him. If you haven’t been doing that, now is the perfect time to begin representing Him well as we celebrate His birth. Everything we do and say should show everyone around us Immanuel, God With Us. What we do and say as Christian’s matters! As a believer, who do you represent most days of the week? Is it God or the world? What is your desire? As His representative, glorifying Him in all we do should be our greatest desire. Luke 9:23 reminds me that I need to take up my cross daily and represent Him well each and every day.

Luke 9:23 “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’”

We cannot do this on our own, however. Believers are filled with the Holy Spirit, and we need to rely on the Holy Spirit to help us represent Him as we should. As Paul said in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 “Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.” So, are you representing Him well and standing firm in Christ? Are you relying on the Holy Spirit within you? Oh how I pray you will represent Him well this Christmas season and in the year to come. Nothing breaks God’s heart more or turns people away from God than when we look just like the world and represent the things of the world instead of representing Him. How will your represent Him today, tomorrow, and in the days ahead?

For my page this week, I used both scriptures referenced above. I also added butterflies to remind me that I am a new creation in Christ, and I need to represent Him not myself or anything else. I also added the calendar tissue tape to remind me to represent Him each and everyday as I should not just when I choose or how I choose. Then I used the Our Daily Bread Designs Wood Background stamp behind the Luke 9:23 verse to represent taking up my cross daily. Okay, yes I went over board on the symbolism here today. :)
Papers: Basic Grey Curio, KI Memories lace paper, Creative Memories cement cs
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Wood Background
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink pumice stone and old paper
Embellishments: Tim Holtz tissue tape, Martha Stewart scalloped dot border punch, Maya Road chipboard butterfly, Ranger black enamel accents

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here.

And lastly, I wanted to thank each of you that has followed along this year either by journaling, creating pages, etc. While I LOVE when you participate, God loves it even more because you are in His Word and becoming closer to Him. That's the best and most exciting part!!! And if you missed the news about next year's study, be sure to check out the ABC Scripture Challenge details for next year here! You don't want to miss where God will lead us next year. I will see you on January 2, 2011, with our first study!! Have a blessed Sunday, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge #25, Worth

Challenge Word #25: Worth

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “worth”? Do you think of someone that has wealth, natural beauty, or a higher education? People think that their worth in life is based on how much money they have, the house or cars they own, the college degrees they have earned, the outward beauty they may have, or the recognition they receive from their accomplishments. What if you do not have any of that? Does that make you less worthy? Absolutely not! The world looks at what we have done or accomplished to determine our "worth,” but God looks at our heart. 1 Peter 3:4 says “Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” God created you perfectly as He wants you. You are worth everything to Him because you are His not because of your degree, money, beauty, or lack thereof. We are all of equal worth to Him. Psalm 139:13-14 says “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.”

Now, what if you do have some or all of these things? What happens if you lose them? Would you still feel worthy? We need to place our lives and worth in His hands not in what we have or have accomplished. All of our worth should be in a relationship with Him not in someone or something else. As believers we know that the world cannot make us happy. No person will truly fulfill us. No experience, no possession, nothing will fulfill us like God does. Proverbs 11:4 says "Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath but righteousness delivers from death." In whom or what are you placing your worth?

For my page this week, I chose Ephesians 4:1-2 "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." I also used Romans 8:31b "If God is for us, who can be against us?" How so very true! I am Christ's representative here on earth. I need to place my worth in Him, live as He has called me, and let others see Him in me. My worth should be placed in living for Him and nothing else.
Papers: Webster's Pages Waiting for Santa & Sweet Season
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Flower Frames, Our Daily Bread Designs Scripture Collection 3
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink forest moss
Embellishments: Paper Trey Ink spiral notebook page die & rustic twine, Zva Creative pearl flourish, Hero Arts flowers, Maya Road small organza rose ribbon & mini tag, Making Memories tiny alpha stickers

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with our last study for this year on December 19th.

And lastly, I wanted to let you know that as I prepared for this study today, God has given me insight on what He wants me to do with this study for next year. So, be watching for details in the next week or two. I pray you will join me and invite others to join in too so that they may know the Lord, live for Him, and know that their worth is in Him and nothing else! Have a blessed Sunday!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #24, Help

Challenge Word #24: Help

Friday of this week, I learned I have a big task before me that will happen just after Thanksgiving. My first thoughts were—oh my, I am so swamped. We didn’t have Christmas decorations last year because my husband was so ill. Now I won’t be able to put up the decorations Thanksgiving weekend. I have Christmas cards to do, presents to wrap, design work to do, etc., etc., etc. All selfish thoughts. Then God woke me up at 3 a.m. Saturday with a song by Casting Crowns—“Praise You in This Storm” which is actually from Psalm 121:1-2 “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

God knew this was coming. He has prepared it for me. When He prepares something for us, He enables and helps us through it. As believers, we have the Holy Spirit living in us that gives us the power to do things He brings our way. He is our help. John 14:15-17 says “If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows him. But you know Him, for He lives with you and will be in you.”

How amazing is that! The power of the Holy Spirit lives in me and in all believers. We can rely on that power. He is our help in all things. And when God calls us to a task, He will enable us to do it—not by our own strength but in His. Are you relying on “self” for help and failing, or are you relying on the Holy Spirit within you to complete the task He has given you?

Now the “task” may be a difficult road but we can trust that He is our help through it! Now this doesn’t mean we can run around and do as we please. If we are just running without an intent purpose in following His will, we can lose that closeness to the Lord because we are running and not listening to or following Him. He is there to help but we must be in His will too.

What difficulty or task are you facing right now? Is it a medical situation? Family issues? The craziness of the holiday season? Where are you turning for help? Do you turn to complaining thoughts like I did? Do you turn to friends to voice your frustration? Do you turn to the internet to get other’s advice? Or do you turn to our precious Lord and ask for His help? He is our Creator. He is always watching over us, and He is all-powerful. We certainly should not turn to anyone or anything else for help. Give it all to Him and turn your eyes to Him. We can depend on Him for our help. Psalm 54:4 says “Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”

For my page today I used two of the scriptures listed above—Psalm 54:4 and Psalm 121:1-2. I also used Psalm 124:8 from the Our Daily Bread Designs Scripture Collection 3 stamp collection. I also loved this pink paper from Webster's Pages. This soft pink is my absolute favorite color, and I need to remember to stay in the background just as this pink paper is behind the scripture. I need to allow Him to lead me and help me. I am not in control; He is! And praise God for that!
Papers: Webster's Pages Postcards from Paris
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Scripture Collection 3
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink aged mahogany
Embellishments: Tim Holtz journaling tickets and type charms, Hero Arts flowers, Paper Trey Ink buttons, sewing machine, misc. twine and lace

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on December 5th. Have a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge} Free Books & 2011

Happy Tuesday everyone! Today's post is in lieu of a "Tuesday's {Tip}" post since this does contain a tip but not of the papercrafting nature. LOL!

Anyway, I have to share what happened late yesterday afternoon. I think most of you saw the Scripture Challenge post on "assurance" on Sunday. If you missed the post, please see it here. Well, I struggled with posting it; however, it was truly what God wanted me to post this week, and I am so thankful I followed His leading. Then yesterday I got a notice for a free Kindle book titled "Can I Be Sure I am Saved" by R. C. Sproul. Unfortunately I noticed it is not free this morning. Sometimes these free books are only free for a few hours so grab them when you see them. But it was such a confirmation from God to me that I shared what He truly wanted me to share. I was just full of such joy yesterday as I saw that!! I did grab the book while it was free ysterday but certainly haven't had time to read it yet! LOL!
And I encourage you to check the free book site because there are some great free Christian books offered (both fiction and non-fiction). There are actually several free books and discounted books today that you may enjoy. You do not have to have a Kindle to get the free books. You just have to have an amazon.com account. You can download the Kindle app to your computer, iPhone, Blackberry, iPad, and Android. Be sure to scroll through the entire blog and even to the next page (older posts) because sometimes they are still free, and it doesn't hurt to check them out! I have almost 50 books now that I have gotten for free!! But please be forwarned that some of the free books are books I would never read, and I don't even like looking at the covers. This free site lets you know about free books of all genres not just Christian books!

Scripture Challenge 2011
Next I wanted to address the Scripture Challenge for 2011. I have not felt God leading me yet on what to do for 2011 or even if I should continue. I am praying about it. I know there are many of you that read but don't create pages, and that is awesome! It's about learning to live for Him each day and growing more like Him not creating pages. The pages are just fun and will leave a faith legacy for my children and grandchildren. So, what are your desires for 2011? What would you like to see? What would you partcipate in most? I would love to hear any and all ideas. You never know how God may use you to speak to me. And I truly thank those of you that have participated this year and done so each and every week! You are a blessing, and I pray God blesses you for the time you study His Word.

Well, I would love to hear from you today. Let me know your thoughts. Have a joyous Tuesday, and thanks for stopping by!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge #23, Assurance

Challenge Word #23: Assurance

This week I saw a thread online asking how we know that one religion is right and the others are wrong. How do we know that believing in Christ is the only way to eternal life? The thread broke my heart as I read the many different responses but it also made me think that we need to look at this issue. How do we have the assurance that we belong to God? How do we know that He is the only way to have eternal life? This is not a popular subject, and I hesitated even writing about this today. I even tried to work on another word and failed. God keeps bringing me back to this topic so I will obey, and we will see where He takes me.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Do you know in your heart that you belong to Him? Do you question whether or not you truly are His? Do you have that assurance? What is assurance? Dictionary.com says that assurance is “full confidence; freedom from doubt; certainty.” Are you confident that you belong to God forever?

First, you must believe that the Bible is God’s true word and that it is without error. If you do not believe the Bible is true, how do you pick what is true and what is not? What if you pick and choose what you want to believe, and I pick and choose what I want believe out of God’s Word? Who gives us the authority to do that? No one! And if you believe one part is false, doesn’t that make the entire Bible false? Our assurance is based on the authority of His Word. God Himself has given us the Bible through human writers. It is truthful and authoritative. His Word alone has the power to save. If we don’t believe His entire Word or the power of God, it will lead us to faulty thinking and wrong behavior. John 5:24 says “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” In your heart, do you know His Word is absolute truth?

Second, we must understand that our salvation is not dependent upon works. God’s grace is a gift to us—the utterly undeserving. We don’t deserve to be saved. There is nothing in us that causes us to deserve anything from God. He sent His Son to die for our sins as a gift to us because He loves us not because of anything we have done. Ephesians 2:8-9 says “. . . 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." And Romans 11:6 says “and if by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.” God as our Creator has the right to say how we come to Him. He has authority over all of His creation—not just some but all! He has an absolute claim on us. Are you trying to assure your way into Heaven through works or do you know with full confidence that His grace is sufficient? 2 Corinthians 12:9a says “My grace is sufficient for you.”

We must also understand the truth about sin. Jesus paid the price for my sin and your sin. He has forgiven our sins. The sin debt has been paid through Jesus. This certainly does not mean we don’t continue to sin, and we should strive not to but we all mess up daily. As we sin, we must confess it because we cannot approach a Holy God with unconfessed sin in our lives. I loved this quote from our BSF Teaching Leader “Believers aren’t perfect but are placed in the Perfect One.” Isn’t that wonderful? So do you look different and obey God, or do you look like the world and people cannot see Christ in you because you look like everyone else? Are you picking and choosing what constitutes sin and what does not? Only God’s true Word can tell us how to live, and what is right and what is wrong.

So, if you believe God’s Word is true, you have accepted Him as your Lord and Savior, and you know that your salvation is through grace alone, then why might you be feeling like you do not belong to Him? Do you know that Jesus is yours? Maybe Satan is giving you doubts. Ask God to give you that assurance that you are His! He would love to whisper to you “child you are mine”!!!!! You may not know the date of your salvation but that’s okay. Some of us, like me, don’t have that life changing moment that we remember but as we grow in Him our assurance should be evidenced by—

**Obedience to Him—we can’t help but to try to obey Him because we are filled with the Holy Spirit.
**Having a joy for reading His Word and knowing with your whole heart that His Word is true.
**Having a great love and passion for Him.
**Having a great love for others—even when you don’t like someone, the Holy Spirit give us His love for others.
**Feeling the indwelling Holy Spirit guiding you each day.
**Grieving your sin, and asking for forgiveness.

Oh there is so much more that could be shared but this has already gotten so lengthy. Nothing in life is assured but we can be sure of our salvation in Christ! For my page today, I chose this verse:

Hebrews 10:22-23 “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful."

I designed my page first by writing out my scripture. Since I knew it was a long one, I needed to write it out, and then design around it. I used lots of distress inks, Basic Grey papers, and the beautiful corner stamp is from Our Daily Bread Designs--the "Let Us Begin" set.
Papers: Basic Grey Oliver, Paper Trey Ink kraft cs
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Let Us Begin
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink old paper, peeled paint, and pumice stone, Ranger clear ep
Embellishments: Tim Holtz Journaling tickets, Deluxe Designs chipboard, hand-dyed seam binding, Stickles patina, Hero Arts flowers, Prima flowers, sewing machine

I pray that if you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, that you are assured of your salvation and that you belong to Him. If you have not accepted Him, will you make that choice today? Feel free to e-mail me if you have questions. When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on November 21th. Have a blessed week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #22, Serve

Challenge Word #22: Serve

For those of you that have been following my blog for a while, you may remember that we looked at this word back in 2008. If you missed that study on "serve," please see my post here. I hope you will read it because the truths there remain the same, and they are important. Well, during our pastor's sermon last week, I really felt God wanted us to look at this word again. There is certainly more that can be learned, and I want to share the new thoughts God has brought to me.

Do you feel like you must have an extra-ordinary talent or be able to teach to serve God? Do you feel you were not meant to serve? Do you think you don't have any ability to serve? Well, God's word clearly tells us that He has created each of us to serve Him for His purpose and for His glory. 1 Peter 4:9-11 says "Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." Each one of us has abilities that are to be used for Him. Are you using your abilities for your self-satisfaction or are you serving as God calls and allowing others see Christ in you?

One lady in Bible Study Fellowship shared how she has served her church by washing and ironing the linens each week. Have you ever looked at the altar in your church and wondered when/how the linens are washed and ironed? Have you ever thought that could be a way of serving Him? It is! There is also a lady in my church that is a hairdresser. She felt it was just a "job" and a means of supporting herself. Well, God turned that job into a service for Him. For the past two years, she has gone on a mission trip with our youth to El Salvador, South America, where she cuts the hair of the children in the orphanage. She said at first she felt isolated from the rest of the group from our church. She wasn't out there repairing buildings, doing construction, or anything "big." But guess, what? She was doing something big. She was serving those children and shining the light of Christ as she cut their hair. These precious children have never gotten a "real" haircut. The first year, it was the girls that were excited to have their hair done. The second year, even the boys were lined up waiting with excitment to get their hair cut. She now views her "job" as a special service to Him. It is no longer a job but a joy and blessing. What could God be calling you to do that you think is just an "ordinary job." Could it be washing linens? Could it be washing the sheets and burp cloths in the nursery each week? How about driving an elderly church member to service each week? Oh, there are so many "ordinary" opportunities out there that God will use for His glory! Ask Him how you can serve Him this week and in the months ahead! How exciting it will be to see where He leads you!

For my page this week, I used two ODBD stamps--the Brocade Background (stamped in VersaMark behind the Scripture) and the Cross from the Living Bread set also stamped behind the Scripture. I also did not have flowers the correct color so I used 3 different colors of distress inks to color each flower. Definitely an easy way to get the color you need. The verse I used was: 1 Samuel 12:24 "But be sure to fear the LORD and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you."
Papers: Webster's Pages WonderFall, Paper Trey Ink kraft cs
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Brocade Background, Our Daily Bread Designs The Living Bread
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink tea dye, faded jeans, and tumbled glass; VersaMark
Embellishments: Hero Arts flowers, sewing machine, hand-dyed seam binding, Basic Grey brads, KaiserCraft pearls, hemp from Hobby Lobby

How are you serving in the name of Christ? I pray you will look at the "ordinary" things in your life and pray about where God might have you serve Him with those gifts. When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on November 7th. Have a blessed week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #21, First

Challenge Word #21: First

When you hear the word “first,” what do you think of? Do you think of a crowd of people and being first in line? Do you think of climbing the corporate ladder to be in that number one position? Do you think of competitive sports or music and being first in the league or first chair? Is it all about you, your child, or grandchild? Or does God come first in your life? Is He the first thing you think of when you wake up, when you make a decision, when you speak, etc.? 1 Kings 22:5 says “. . .First seek the counsel of the Lord.” In all things, we need to seek Him first—in our decisions, choices, purchases, use of our time, etc.

As we seek Him, He alone is to be first and above all. As followers of Christ, we are to humble ourselves so that people see Him and not us. If we are trying to be first in all we do or teaching our children that being first is most important, than the focus is not on Christ but on ourselves. Yes, we may reap earthly rewards and get praise from others but is that what we really want? John 12:42-43 says “Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue, for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.” Do you hide your faith at work, around certain friends, etc., because you are afraid of what they may think or that you may be “put out” of the group? John 16:18 says “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” As I tell my children, "if you are the only one standing up for a certain decision, if it is what God says is right, then stand there alone! That's what's right and where He wants you!"

Instead of reaping earthly rewards, how about reaping those eternal rewards! Do you want to know that God is pleased with you and that one day you will hear “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Matthew 25:21 says “His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!’” We may be in last place for choosing to follow Jesus but in eternity, we will share in His rewards and happiness! And I don't know about you but I would rather be in last place with Jesus than out front alone!

For my page this week, I used the 1 Kings 22:5 and John 16:18 verses (both noted above). These verses makes me realize I need to seek Him first in all things and not to worry about what the world thinks. I also used Sketch #145 from Sketch Inspiration.
Papers: Memory Box meadow cs, Basic Grey Pyrus
Stamps: Tim Holtz mini cirque alpha
Stamp Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink vintage photo
Embellishments: Hero Arts flowers, Stickles cinnamon, KaiserCraft pearls, misc. trim, sewing machine

So, this week, will you think of Him first thing as your feet hit the ground as you get out of bed? Will you focus on Him and put Him first in all things in your life? When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on October 24th. Have a blessed week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #20, Content

Challenge #20: Content/Satisfied

As I have studied Isaiah 2:7-9 this week and looked at how the people of Judah were filled with treasures (possessions) like silver, gold, horses, and chariots, it made me think about how most of us are so very blessed yet we still are not satisfied with what we have. Even in today’s economic times, we still have homes larger than most people in the entire world. We have indoor plumping. We have clean, running water. We have multiple cars. We have multiple Bibles that we can read freely. I could go on and on. We “have” yet we seem to never be satisfied. Sure we may be content for a moment but then we find something else we “need” or want to change.

Everyone on this earth wants to feel satisfied thus we are always searching or filling our homes and bodies with “stuff.” We try to satisfy ourselves. When we feel sad or down, we turn to food, shopping, etc. We see what our neighbors have, and we become dissatisfied and jealous. The only way we can feel content is to fill ourselves with the Lord! Our earthly treasures (cars, money, jewelry, homes, food, drugs, etc.) will never fill us; only the Lord can! Oh if we could only learn to turn to our precious Lord in all things. The joy, the satisfaction, the filled heart, etc., that we would experience would be incomprehensible.

Patrick Morley in his book “Walking with Christ in the Details of Life” spoke about a teen that was visiting the United States. As the teen was getting ready to return home after 6 weeks, he spoke at a farewell dinner. The teen said “I would like to thank you so much for inviting me here. I have really enjoyed this time in the United States. But I am also very glad to be going home. You have so much in America that I’m beginning to lose my grip on my day-to-day dependency on Christ.”

Ouch, what a statement and so true. I know I don’t want to lose my dependency on Christ. I know my heart’s desire but I also know where I fail miserably. I encourage you to make a list of your blessings—yes, even down to the indoor plumbing that you have. Then ask God to help give you a heart of thanksgiving. Then in return, you will begin to feel content.

For my page this week, I used bright colors along with black. The black denotes my selfishness and my discontent. The bright colors denote how satisfied I can be when I depend on Christ in all things. The scripture I chose was Hebrews 13:5 which says “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.’” Oh, I love that scripture! I also used Sketch #143 from Sketch Inspiration.
Papers: Memory Box key lime cs, Bazzill cs, Bo Bunny Noteworthy Loose Leaves
Stamp Ink: Memento tuxedo black
Embellishments: Pink Paislee green artisan tape, Creative Café buttons, Prima jewel flourish, Paper Trey Ink rustic twine, Dymo labeler

I pray that you will turn to Him and be content with the blessings He has given each of us. When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on October 10th. Have a blessed week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #19, Priority

Challenge Word #19: Priority

Do you keep a ‘to-do’ list? Do you struggle getting through your list? Think about it—you have things you want to do, things you need to do, and things you should do. What comes first? How do you get through it all? And how about Mary and Martha? Luke 10:38-42 says “As Jesus and His disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to Him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what He said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Him and asked, ‘Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’”

Look how Martha becomes distracted with all of the preparations. I know that certainly happens to me when I look at my ‘to-do’ list. I get distracted, overwhelmed, grumpy, you name it! Looking at what each of them did—Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet and Martha running and getting dinner ready for the family and guests—these are certainly all important tasks. BUT, which should be our first priority? John 15:5 says “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” We must keep Him our first priority in all things. As the scripture says “apart from Him we can do nothing.” Our lists will fail, our days will feel stressed, our attitudes will become less than desirable, etc. Remind yourself to pray before tackling that next task on your list. Pray before every task! Make both Him and prayer your priority, and see how much smoother everything in your life will become!

For my page, I chose the John 15:5 scripture. It’s just perfect for me, and I love the reminder that without Him I can do nothing. Nothing!! The papers, stamps, and pearls are all from Memory Box. I thought the stamp was perfect and looked a bit like vines which goes along with the scripture I chose. And for fun, I used a sketch from Magistical Memories. I thought it looked fun so I decided to use it.

Papers: Memory Box Enchanted, Memory Box robin's egg cs
Stamp Ink: Colorbox Fluid Chalk dark brown, SU creamy caramel
Stamp: Memory Box Budding Branch D1360
Embellishments: Memory Box frost blue pearls, sewing machine, 7Gypsies journaling card, Rose Moka letter stickers, Paper Trey Ink rustic twine, misc. twine, American Crafts buttons

So this week I hope you will look at that ‘to-do’ list and see what God would truly have you do. Is it something He really wants you to be doing at that moment, or is it something you have chosen on your own to do? Take one day at a time. Don’t worry about what you didn’t accomplish yesterday or what you have to do tomorrow. Seek Him, and do what He would have you accomplish today, right now. He is “. . . the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Revelation 22:13). If we put Him first and seek Him in all things, everything else will fall into place.

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on September 26th. Have a blessed week ahead!

{Scripture Challenge #2} Challenge Word #18, Compassion

Challenge Word #18: Compassion

Are you so caught up in your own struggles or busyness that you fail to see the needs of those around you? Are you sensitive and compassionate towards others or are you selfish? Or on the other end of the spectrum are you feeling as though no one cares or is insensitive to your needs? Do you need some compassion right now? If you feel like that, I am sure there are many around you that feel that way too.

Compassion is meeting people where they are in life, spending time with them, not judging them, and most importantly loving them as God loves them. You can show compassion to anyone even to people you do not know—to the cashier at the grocery store, the bank teller, your postal carrier, a passerby in your neighborhood­, anyone! When God brings someone to you whether a stranger or a friend, show them the compassion that Christ showed to everyone around Him. (See Matthew 9:36, 14:14, 15:32, 20:34, Mark 1:41, 6:34, and 8:2.) Today He could be using you to accomplish His task. Are you sensitive to His leading and to those around you? Are you reaching out, meeting people where they are, and touching them? As we look to God in all things, our compassion grows for others. Showing that compassion and unconditional love draws people to Christ! How awesome and amazing is that?

As I shared today’s word with one of my daughter’s, she immediately said "Mom, that reminds me of the song 'Mighty to Save.'" I know God used her in that moment and knew I had to include the first verse of that awesome song which is sung by many artists. The first verse says:

“Mighty to Save”
Everyone needs compassion,
Love that's never failing;
Let mercy fall on me.

Everyone needs forgiveness,
The kindness of a Saviour;
The Hope of nations.

Notice how it starts out “Everyone needs compassion.” Yes, everyone!!! Not just the people you like or the people you have time for but everyone. Over and over the Bible talks about the Lord's compassion. There are too many verses for me to quote them all but just a few include:

Nehemiah 9:17b “. . . But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.”

Psalm 111:4 “He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and compassionate..”

Psalm 116:5 “The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.”

Psalm 145:9 “The LORD is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made.”

Isaiah 30:18 “Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!”

Lamentation 3:22 “Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail.”

He is our perfect example thus we need to have compassion for others too. Colossians 3:12 says “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” And 1 Peter 3:8 says “Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.”

For my page this week, I used Memory Box paper and Our Daily Bread Designs stamps. I also pulled out my Copic airbrush system and airbrushed the Martha Stewart lace tags to make them the color I wanted. I think I might need to do that more often. :) The verse I used was the 1 Peter 3:8 verse noted above.
Papers: Memory Box Jubilee Cherry Picnic, Bazzill cs, Paper Trey Ink kraft cs (used for stamped images)
Stamp Ink: Colorbox Pigment Ink chestnut, Ranger clear ep
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs Don't Worry
Embellishments: Martha Stewart lace tags and layered arches border punch, Copic E59 (airbrushed), Ellen Hutson yellow lace, Basic Grey milk chocolate chip alpha, Jenni Bowlin journaling card, KaiserCraft pearls, sewing machine

This week, will you look for someone that needs a listening ear? Will you show that unconditional love and compassion towards them? When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on September 12th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #17, Prayer

While we were on vacation, God really gave me time to sit and listen to things He wants me to share with each of you. I grabbed my pencil and a notebook and wrote furiously because my mind doesn’t remember things for very long. LOL! Anyway, one thing God gave me was the word “prayer.” I actually posted a study on prayer back in March 2008. You can see that study here. Well, I kept thinking “God, I have already done that study.” However, He had more for me to say so today we are going to look at prayer again, and I also hope you will reference the 2008 study as you read and study on your own. Let’s look at:

Challenge Word #17: Prayer

Have you ever stopped praying because you feel like God has never heard or answered your prayers in the past? Have you given up? Do you feel like He doesn’t hear you? Or maybe you see answer to prayer, have experienced His amazing power, and you want others to have the relationship you have? Or are you somewhere in the middle and you feel like you are on a ‘prayer rollercoaster’? And what is prayer exactly, and how should we go about praying?

First, God knows all things and is intimately familiar with the details of our lives. (See Psalm 139:13-18). Prayer is communication with God and a way believers experience a relationship with Him. Any relationship you have or want to maintain with someone involves communication (both talking and listening). If you have ever lost communication with someone that has moved to a new town, etc., you see that relationship dwindle when the communication is not maintained. Being in prayer and maintaining a relationship with the Lord changes us forever, helps us to know His will for us, and gives us that desire to live for Him each day.

We need to pray because it pleases God, and He loves to answer prayer! Psalm 50:15 says “And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” And Psalm 147:11 says “the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” He does hear our prayers, and He delights in our fear and reverence of Him. It is a privilege to pray, and it helps us to trust His decisions and desire for our lives.

There is no magic formula to prayer. Sometime during the day you may have a lengthy prayer in your quiet time modeling what is in this study, and other times during the day you will need to shoot up those quick prayer requests. The Holy Spirit will lead you, and the more you pray and develop that relationship, the easier it becomes, and your desire to pray to Him for others and for all things (big and small) will increase. Philippians 4:6 says “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” And 1 Timothy 2:1-3 says “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.”

In our prayer time, we need to worship Him and praise Him for who He is. The Book of Psalms is a wonderful place to learn words that describe God (see Psalms 86 and Psalms 145). Pray His attributes back to Him. We need to thank Him for what He has done. And then comes the hard one—we must confess our sins and realize that it is hard to be in His Holy presence with unconfessed sin in our lives. After that, then we can share our specific requests (for ourselves and others) with Him. After you pray, listen for His direction and expect an answer. Psalm 27:14 says “Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.” But notice the word “wait.” We must wait for His perfect timing and His perfect answer (which doesn’t always line up with our desire). Ask Him to give you a desire to pray powerfully in His name. Jesus is our perfect example of prayer. I encourage you to read John 17 which includes Christ’s prayer for Himself, His Disciples, and for future believers. It is an amazing and encouraging chapter! Praying also gives us that desire to share Him with others. Prayer is a powerful resource. Turn to Him in prayer first in all things!

For my page this week, I had trouble finding a scripture because there were SO many great ones I could have used. I had to control myself even in this lesson because I wanted to reference so many passages! Anyway, I decided to use James 5:13-16 “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.”

My page uses papers by Pink Paislee. Since my verse was so long, I really loved the Pink Paislee flip notes because I was able to journal that very long passage. And I used a "prayer hands" charm I had but it doesn't show up very well. Oh well! :)
Papers: Pink Paislee 365 Degrees
Stamp Ink: Memento tuxedo black
Stamp: Provo Craft
Embellishments: Basic Grey Boxer buttons, misc. bakers twine, Pink Paislee 365 Degrees flip notes, Deluxe Designs chipboard flourish, prayer hands charm from A Charming Place, Bazzill alphabet card, felt lace unknown, machine sewing

I pray you leave today’s study knowing that He loves you, He desires a relationship with you, and He delights in spending time with you. He is there. He is listening. He knows every detail of your life. Give it all to Him in prayer. Seek Him, and be blessed as He fills you with His joy and peace. Psalm 62:8 says “Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.” Will you pour out your heart to Him, trust Him, and live for Him?

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on August 29th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #16, Worship

Challenge Word #16: Worship

What is worship? When you think of worshipping God, what do you think of? Do you think of going to church to worship the Lord once a week? Do think of singing hymns and worshipping Him? Worship is that and so much more! Merriam-Webster defines worship as "a person of importance used as a title for various officials (as magistrates and some mayors); reverence offered a divine being or supernatural power also an act of expressing such reverence; a form of religious practice with its creed and ritual; extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem (worship of the dollar)." Notice how in the definition it mentions a divine being and money all in the same definition. We need to be careful what and who we worship! So as Christians, what should our worship look like?

Worship is about living life for God every day. We need to show Him reverence. We need to be thankful. We need to glorify Him in all things showing His power in our lives. Everything we do should be an act of worship to God. Not just one day a week in a corporate setting but every single day no matter where we are, who we are with, or what we are doing. Yes, even doing the dishes, the cooking, the laundry, cleaning, etc.

Romans 12:1-2 says “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Our bodies are to be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to Him! True worship leads to a surrender of self. It’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s about Him, doing as He calls, serving Him, glorifying Him, sharing Him, etc. Worship involves a sacrifice of some sort whether it be time, money, emotions, etc. He created us, and therefore He has authority over all His creation. Nehemiah 9:6 says “You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.” And Psalm 100:3 says “Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His . . . “

Evelyn Underhill said "If God were small enough to be understood, He would not be big enough to be worshipped.”

I love that quote! So how do you openly express your worship to God? We need to think about what He thinks not what others think. What does your daily worship look like?

For my page this week, I used Sketch #134 from Sketch Inspiration. The papers are mix of Webster's Pages and Basic Grey. I also embossed the white base because it looked too plain without it. :)
Papers: Basic Grey Olivia, Webster's Pages die cut kit, Paper Trey Ink white cs
Stamp Ink: Colorbox Fluid Chalk dark brown and chestnut roan
Embellishments: Cuttlebug Victoria embossing folder, Paper Trey Ink buttons, Paper Trey Ink spiral notebook page die, Basic Grey piper milk chocolate chip alpha, misc. twill, Paper Trey Ink rustic twine

The scriptures are two of the ones I mentioned above--Nehemiah 9:6 and Psalm 100:3. They both really spoke to me, and I wanted to have them displayed on this page.

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link to your creation here using Inlinkz! I pray that with the Holy Spirit, you will see daily how to be that living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to Him. To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on August 15th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #15, Fear Not

Challenge Word #15: Fear Not

As a child, I was very scared of the dark. I remember sitting at the top of the stairs at our home in England crying my eyes out as I waited for my sister to come to bed. Yes, we shared a room. She was a night owl; I was not. But I would not go down that dark hallway to that dark bedroom alone. I did not know the Lord then, and I was completely paralyzed by my fear. Fast forward many years, and on occasion I still find myself “halt” in the darkness but now I have One that I cling to as I get that “fearful startle.” I cling to my precious Lord.

One night after Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) I was cleaning up, and I had to put something back in the sanctuary of the church. The lights had already been turned off, and I didn’t know where the switch was. So, I took my very tiny flashlight that I keep in my bag and armed myself with prayer and hymns. God was right there beside me. I knew He was. It was the most awesome feeling. I wasn’t paralyzed as I had been as a pre-teen. I made it through the dark with Him holding me up and giving me strength and peace. Every time I find myself in a fearful situation, I remember that He clearly tells us to “fear not.” He is there with us. Isaiah 43:1 says “But now, this is what the LORD says—He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.'" And Lamentations 3:56-58 says "You heard my plea: Do not close your ears to my cry for relief. You came near when I called you, and you said, 'Do not fear.'"

Who do you cling to when you are fearful? Do you do as the scripture says and “fear not,” or do you allow Satan to run with that fear and paralyze you? God is waiting for you to hold onto Him and not let go! We are to have a fear of the Lord (a reverence or respect for Him) but we are not to live in fear or be fearful of things. Health and marriage issues are scary. Every day things such a bugs and darkness can be scary. Raising children in today’s world is scary; however, we have a God that is Sovereign and in control of all things. We have a God that loves us, protects us, and gives us a peace that only comes from Him. Are you clinging to Him and allowing Him to protect you and give you that peace? Isaiah 41:10 says “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Let Him strengthen you and help you in all things! Ask Him; He will!!!

The scripture I chose for this study was perfect for me. There were so many passages that spoke to me but this one was perfect for my fear of the dark:

Psalm 91:4-6 “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday."

And for my page, I used the Memory Box Soaring Bird stamp. It was perfect for this passage as I thought of Him covering me with His feathers and taking refuge under His wings. I also chose the colors black and white for "light and dark."
Papers: Creative Imaginations pp, Paper Trey Ink off-white cs, misc. black cs
Stamp: Memory Box Soaring Bird C1366
Stamp Ink: Memento tuxedo black, SU basic black, Ranger clear ep
Embellishments: Cuttlebug Victoria embossing folder, Ribbon Retreat satin ribbon, Hero Arts pearls, Zva Creative pearl flourish, Pink Paislee chipboard button, misc. cross charm, DMC floss, Rose Moka letter stickers, sewing machine

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link here using Inlinkz! I pray that the next time you experience that "fearful startle" that you will cling to Him, not let go, and then give Him all of the glory! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on August 1st. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #14, Forgive

I actually had another word picked out for our study this week but God kept bringing this word—forgive—to my mind. So, in obedience to Him, we are going to look at:

Challenge Word 14: Forgive

Have you ever been hurt so deeply that you feel you cannot forgive that person? Maybe you were lied to, rejected, taken advantage of, or even worse. How did you react? Did you hold onto it and become angry and bitter? Are you still holding onto it? Do you feel like it’s eating a hole right through you as the bitterness festers? Is it then causing you to gossip and speak ill of that person? Well, the Bible tells us that we are to forgive as God forgives us. Colossians 3:13 says “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

How did Jesus react when He was rejected, lied to, beaten, and crucified? He responded by praying for them, asking for forgiveness for them, and loving them. As Jesus was being crucified, He still prayed for those that sent Him to the Cross. He didn’t get angry with them but pleaded with the Father to forgive them. Jesus says in Luke 23:34 "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

You may ask, how did He love them? He loved them by going to the Cross for their sins. Blood cleanses sin. Without the animal sacrifices of the Old Testament, there would not have been forgiveness of sin. Hebrews 9:22 says “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Jesus was the ultimate and final blood sacrifice. His blood covers all of our sin and thus giving us forgiveness and eternal life with Him if we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. If Jesus can love us and give us such a tremendous, immeasureable gift, how much more should we forgive and extend grace to others? Jesus is our perfect example. We are not only to forgive those that wrong us but we are to pray for them and love them as Jesus did. And instead of letting those wounds fester and eat at you, experience the joy, happiness, and relief as you truly forgive.

For my page this week, I picked a scripture that truly spoke to me! God doesn’t stay angry forever but He delights in showing mercy, and He hurls our iniquities into the depths of the sea. How amazing is that?

Micah 7:18-19 "Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea."

And for my page I used the amazing Memory Box Jubilee papers and fun jewels! I added the Cross charm to remind me of how He forgave even on the Cross. The leaves/vine symbolize to me that as I obey Him and forgive others, I grow and thrive in my walk with Him. Papers: Memory Box Jubilee, Bazzill cs
Stamp Ink: SU creamy caramel
Embellishments: Memory Box pistachio green jewel stickers, My Mind's Eye journaling card, misc. cross charm, Basic Grey Kioshi chip alpha stickers, Hero Arts light green pearl and flowers, hemp from Hobby Lobby, misc. leaf trim, sewing machine

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link here using Inlinkz! I pray that you will ask God who it is you may need to forgive, and ask Him to give you a joy and a peace as you move forward in doing that. To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on July 18th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #13, Father

Challenge Word #13: Father

“Father.” What comes to mind when you think of “Father”? Loving, provider, protector, comforter, compassionate, teacher? Or maybe those are not the words that come to mind. Maybe you were raised without a father. Maybe you came from an abusive home. Whatever type of earthly father you have or did not have, all of us that have accepted Christ as our Lord and Savior have been adopted into God’s family. He is our Heavenly Father. Our earthly fathers may fail us but our Heavenly Father never will.

Galatians 4:4-7 “But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.”

He sees our smallest need. He knows our every struggle. He knows our desires. He created us, and He loves us beyond measure!

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

I love that word "lavished." He has lavished is love on us! Wow! How do you demonstrate your love for your Heavenly Father? Do you live to obey His word or do you go out and "do your own thing"? If we claim to belong to Him, we must follow Him. Your love for your Heavenly Father should cause you to want to obey and follow Him. Do you talk about Him all of the time? It may wear your friends and family out but it will never wear the Lord out! What does being called a "child of God" mean to you, and how does it effect your thinking and your actions?

This week I was unable to get my page done. I was very disappointed because I had a great idea for a page but with VBS this week and Father's Day today, I just never was able to get it done. If you want to study more about your Heavenly Father, feel free to read all of the studies from last year's challenge when we studied God's attributes. You can find a list of each study here.

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link here using Inlinkz! I pray you enjoy learning more about your Heavenly Father! And to see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on July 4th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #12, Grow

First, I want to let everyone know that I am at a Copic Certification class today so I will announce the RAK winner in a post later tonight or Monday morning! :) Thanks for waiting patiently for me! Now onto this week's challenge!

Challenge #12: Grow

Would you call your faith—growing, stagnant, or disappearing? As you have studied these past 24 weeks, do you feel you are growing in your knowledge of who God is? Are you growing in your love for Him and in your desire to live for Him daily? Or are things the same or maybe you feel like your faith is disappearing. Nothing in our lives should be wasted. We should learn and grow from each experience (good or bad). Romans 8:28 says “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.”

As parents, we see our children grow not only physically but we train them and watch them grow into mature adults. God as our Heavenly Father also trains us so that we can grow into mature Christians living for Him and serving Him. Think about when you first accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior. If you accepted Christ at a very early age, this may be harder for you to remember. However, I did not accept Christ until I was 33. I clearly see how He has grown me these past 12 years. I can see how He has grown me through this study this year. How about you? Do you see spiritual growth in yourself?

1 Peter 2:1-3 “Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”

We must read, study, and apply God’s Word to our lives so that we can grow spiritually. And as we do that God increases our understanding thus we continue to grow. If we do not do this, our spiritual growth will be stunted. I know if I had not studied and applied God’s Word to my life after I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, I certainly would not have grown to the place where I am spiritually right now. And growth should never stop. We should always be reading, studying, applying, and growing until He calls us home.

Colossians 1:10-11 “And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully.”

For my page this week, I used flowers, a picket fence, and a pearl flourish--all to denote growth and "flourishing" in Him. I used the new Basic Grey Cappella papers. You may have seen them on this card I did yesterday for ODBD. I am loving these papers! I didn't do any stamping on this page. I was trying to get it done quickly before leaving for my trip. And because I was in a hurry, I found this sketch to use for my page today. :) Papers: Basic Grey Cappella, Paper Trey Ink cs
Embellishments: Martha Stewart Picket Fence border punch, sewing machine, Spellbinders Lotus die, Prima flowers, Hero Arts flowers and pearls, misc. leaves. Zva Creative pearls, Basic Grey Piper microchip alpha stickers

The scripture I chose is Colossians 1:10 that I posted above. I couldn't fit the 11th verse on my page so I stopped at verse 10. :)

So, where do you need to grow spiritually? Get rid of something this week that causes you to sin and replace it with something that will help you grow spiritually. Ask God where He wants you to grow. He will show you, and be ready to learn from any experience He brings your way.

When sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link here using our new link system by Inlinkz! I pray you enjoy your time studying and applying His Word! To see all of our previous lessons, please visit this post here. I will be back with another study on June 20th. See you then! Blessings,

{Scripture Challenge 2} Challenge Word #11, Purpose

Challenge Word #11: Purpose

Dictionary.com defines purpose as “the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.”

So, what is your purpose in life? Is it to glorify God in all you do? Do you know God’s purpose for your life or are you constantly searching for something? We are to bring glory to God in all we do thus leading others to Him. God will use every person for His purpose and to display His glory. He will use our obedience and our disobedience. Think of how God used even Pharaoh to display His purpose and power. Exodus 9:16 says “But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” As God sent each of the plagues, His power was displayed and His name was proclaimed. If you have time, I encourage you to read Exodus 9-12:30.

We can plan all we want. Some of us would even love to see God’s billboard that tells us His purpose for us but as Proverbs 19:21 says “Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.” Are you a planner? Do you know where you are going each day? Are you seeking His purpose or are you busy, busy, busy but not really getting anywhere?

And how about suffering? Even in our suffering, He has a purpose. Do you look “up” when you suffer or do you turn to the world? Do you seek His purpose for the suffering or do you wallow in self pity and complain to others? There is no doubt that suffering is painful but it is temporary, and the delights of God’s glory will last forever. Romans 8:18 says “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

God has a purpose in everything He does and in every life He creates. He gives each of us gifts, talents, and abilities. We are to use them for His purpose and His glory. Are you doing that? Will you ask Him where He wants to use you in the days and months ahead? Ask Him to help you follow His purpose for you. He will do that; just ask! Philippians 2:13 says “For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”

For my page this week, I used several different paper companies (Webster's Pages, October Afternoon, and Paper Trey Ink). I also used three different stamp sets from Layers of Colors--Butterfly Collector, Flutterescent, and Creative Flourish. I used Versamark to decorate the PTI cardstock with the Creative Flourish stamp.
Papers: Webster's Pages Seaside Retreat & Garden Gala pack, Paper Trey Ink kraft cs, October Afternoon Thrift Shop
Stamps: Layers of Color Butterfly Collector, Layers of Color Flutterescent, Layers of Color Creative Flourish
Stamp Ink: Versamark, Tim Holtz Distress Ink vintage photo, SU creamy caramel
Embellishments: Stickles platinum, Melissa Frances lace, Basic Grey Piper microchip alpha stickers, Hero Arts flowers, SEI rhinestone brads, sewing machine

For my scriptures, I chose Proverbs 19:21 and Philippians 2:13 (both listed above). And if you have read this far, then you will be excited to know that for this challenge I am giving away a RAK! For anyone that completes a page for {Challenge 11, Purpose} and uploads it via Inlinkz below by Saturday, June 5th, at 11:59 p.m. CST, you will be entered in a drawing to win the following goodies:
This might be your first week joining in on the challenge or it may be your third year following these challenges. Whatever it is--awesome! Just upload your page for this challenge, and be entered to win!

Now remember, when sharing your page for this challenge be sure to use Keyword SCRC210 when posting in galleries. Also, please leave a link here using our new link system by Inlinkz!

I pray you enjoy seeking God and His purpose for you! And remember to see all of our previous lessons, visit this post here. I will be back with another study on June 6th along with the name of our RAK winner! Joyfully in Jesus,