Praying Mantis

Day 311:  Today my boy and I decided to sit out on the front porch and enjoy the nice weather.  The air was warm and a bit still, so I turned on the fan and sat down with my electronic book and a cup of tea.  As we were chatting, all of the sudden from overhead a long leaf lands in my lap!  I was shocked, but even more shocked when it started to move!  I spilt my tea, started bleating, and jumped up as fast as I could without provoking the moving leaf and spilling more tea in my lap.

It was a praying mantis.

Now, I love praying mantis'.  They are cool insects, can swivel their heads 180 degrees and can see about 20 yards.  They also are pretty cool predators, slight in size, but can blast some large insects, and have been know to take out a frog, lizard, or small birds. Needless to say, we let Rambo have his space on the loveseat as we just kind of watched him.  He would turn his head side to side, looking at each of us as if to assess if he should teach us a lesson. We watched him in his praying stance.  Isn't it interesting, that this insect appears to be so devout, but he is really a viscious predator?

How many times has someone used the cover of devout piety to mask their evil intent?  Jesus warns us about false teachers, and not to be fooled by their feigned humility and devotion.  So, how do you know if someone is genuine?  For me, its the love, the conviction, and Godly discernment.  I'm a pretty horrid sinner, and though very strong in my devotion to God, I am certainly not the poster child for piety.  But I know I am heartfelt in my love for Jesus.  I fall short, but the Lord continues to coax me along to reach farther.  I certainly hope that my genuine faith comes through my many, many shortcomings.

We eventually encouraged Rambo off the porch...his predatorial gaze was making us nervous...

Please, God, bless!

"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.Thus you will recognize them by their fruits." MAtt 7:15-20 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Lovebirds

Day 310:  A shout out to my sweet husband, just because.  Love you!

Please, God, bless!

"Let marriage be held in honor among all..."  Hebrews 13:4a ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Dancing Antics

Day 309: I seem to entertain my son, sometimes, with my antics of goofy parent.  Like singing all opera-like about cleaning the counter.  Or asking him to take out the trash in a crazy accent.  I don't do these things to entertain him as much as I do it to entertain me.  Sometimes you just have to have some fun, even in the necessary, mundane things.  I believe that is just as much a service to God as it is to do something charitable.  Why?  Because the rote activities offer more reason to complain than sing, whereas being philanthropic offers the heart a jolt of joy in compassion.  Sometimes you have to work at joy, and when you do, I believe it is appreciated.

So, next time you are vacuuming you can try out your best dance step with your sweeper-partner. That will get the kids staring wide-eyed!

Please, God, bless!

"Let them praise His name with dancing; Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre." Psalms 149:3
Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Music of the Rain

Day 308:  This evening it started to rain...I mean REALLY rain.  It rained and poured, and rained some more.  At some point my son and I ended up sitting on the front porch watching the downpour. There is something so lovely, so soothing about a crisp, consistent rain.  We sat out there, I doodled a fast sketch, and he read his book.  Then we both just sat there.  Thinking I suppose. There is joy and refreshing in the music of the rain,

Please, God, bless!

" You will show me the path of life; In your presence is the fullness of joy; At your right hand are pleasures forevermore."  Ps 16:11

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Arcade Fiends!

Day 307: I know, I know...the critics panned the movie.  It was awful, horrible they said.  Sandler ruined Summer.  Well, I don't think so.  Me and the fam, +1 friend went to see Pixels, and I have to say, the story line was utterly ridiculous, preposterous, and very far-fetched--I mean really, the Mall Cop is the President of the US?  But....it was campy, silly, nostalgic, and just SO MUCH FUN!

The kids thought it was a blast.  For us adults...well, I suppose, if you were an arcade-kid like we were, you know, the age of Atari, the movie has a special vibe. Me and the hubby had lovely time identifying all of the game characters....Joust, Donkey Kong, Pacman, Paperboy, Qbert, Dig Dug, Galaga, Centipede, Frogger, Space Invaders, and more.  Hall and Oates make a guest appearance, as does Max Headroom.  It was a nice jaunt down memory lane.

As we were leaving, the kids spotted an arcade.  Can you guess what was in it?  Ms. Pac Man and Galaga!  Needless to say the kiddos watched us old peeps in awe as we easily slammed out 70,000 points--and we are both VERY rusty-not to mention tired....too close to our bedtime!

Forget the critics.  They probably didn't hang out in the arcade.  And if they did, they likely stunk at the games.  Sure, its not a sound plot, and hugely unrealistic.  But, who cares?!?  Its not a bad thing to reminisce sometimes, catch that feeling of when you were a kid and you're biggest issues was running out of AquaNet or quarters.  And, let's face it....who wouldn't want to have a light cannon and kick some butt on a massive centipede barreling down at you?

Please, God, bless!

"Let his flesh become fresh with youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigor’;" Job 33:25 ESV 

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Grey Wolf

Day 306:  At Busch Gardens, my gal pal and I stuck around for the Wolf show.  What beautiful animals!  And BIG!  We were both in awe of their beauty.

Grey wolves are largely social creatures.  They find a mate, and mate for life.  They aren't particularly fast, but they rely on their sense of smell and hearing.  They will track their prey for days in order to obtain the prized meal.

So, what to I draw from this?  I see the parallels to my Christian walk.  My walk is not strengthened by my own might, but from patiently waiting to hear the Lord's instruction. Then, taking the time to pursue Him with all I have, methodically, always checking to make sure I'm on the right track.  And when the time is right, I will be rewarded, given the prize only He can give.

Please God, bless!

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. " 1 Corinthians 9:24 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Enjoying the Garden

Day 305: Another fabulous day at Busch Gardens.  At least 5 back-to-back rides on the Griffon with NO WAIT, a few Verboltens for good measure, and wine tastings around the park were the highlights of the day.  As always, so much fun to share with chosen-family.  And who knew???  You can buy a bottle of wine at Busch Gardens and walk around with it, set yourself down in a shady spot and wine and dine as you people watch!  Pretty cool!

Since the boy slept all the way home, and I-the chauffer-did not....here is my sketch for the day so I can hit the hay!

Please God, bless!

"Now may God give you of the dew of heaven, And of the fatness of the earth, And an abundance of grain and new wine;" Genesis 27:28

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Coasters!

Day 304:  Fun day at Busch Gardens.  Can you guess what our fave coaster is?

Quick doodle so I can get to bed.  Thankful for a fun day with great chosen-family!

Please God, bless!

"A joyful heart is good medicine,"  Prov 17:22a 

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Green Gables

Day 303:  My son is working on his summer reading, and I decided I would read along with him.  So far I've read Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and tonight I finished Anne of Green Gables.  I was surprised to find out that there really is a house that served for the inspiration of Green Gables.  It is on Prince Edward Island, and it is just as lovely as you would imagine.

If you've seen the Green Gables movie, you will be pleased to know that it follows the first book very closely.  There is something endearing about it.  Maybe its because Anne is a redhead who talks way too much, and thrusts herself headlong into extreme highs and lows.  ;)  Or, it could be the lovely scenic views painted by the author.  In any case, it is a lovely tale, and I now appreciate the integrity of the movie.

The Bible is a book of complete integrity.  Many have tried to dispute its validity and accuracy, but the fact is the book IS the reality.  Thank God for that!  Too bad no one ever makes the movie without a ton of ridiculous artistic license.  Stick to the book!

Please God, bless!

"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Happy Dragonfly

Day 302:  There is beauty in the most interesting of things. Sometimes we just have to stop and realize its there.

Here's a happy little dragon fly for fun!

Please God, bless!

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." Ecc 3:11

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Sleepy Kitty

Day 301:  I had a great time staying up all night with my cousins and getting goofy.  It's inevitable with a bunch of Jersey people!  My hubby laughed at my Jersey-girl accent.

I love visiting family, but I just LOVE coming home.  There is something about being back in your own bed that makes it that much more comfortable.

Speaking of bed......mine is calling me to come and catch up on sleep! Just like this 15 min doodle of a cute little kitty in a blanky!  I couldn't resist!

Please God, bless!

"Then my people will live in a peaceful habitation, And in secure dwellings and in undisturbed resting places;" Isaiah 32:18

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

The Swan

Day 300:  It has been a very nice time visiting with family. I got to hang with my cousins whom I don't get to see very often.  We all laughed alot, and the next day the gals all went shopping.  Dresses and new shoes...what's not to love?

A lot of the wedding pictures have been posted, and what I really appreciated was that some were so very lovely, but then there were several that were intentionally goofy and fun.   But tell me, isn't the best seeing the transformation of the bride?  For some reason, I tend to think of a swan. Just a bird, but when they come into their own they are graceful and beautiful.

It is the same with the believer.  Just a man (or woman), and then by the power of God, transformed into something lovely.

Please, God, bless!

"Who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself."  Phil 3:21

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Weird Bird

Day 299:  Another busy day with the fam. So, here is a weird bird.   I hope you have a fun filled day!

Please. God, bless!

"..and the ostrich and the owl and the sea gull and the hawk in its kind,"  Lev 11:16

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Fox and a Wedding

Day 298:  Went to a wedding today, and hang out with the fam.  Given its a late night, I doodled a critter with a tie...maybe a fox having a bad hair day?

Blessings to the happy couple!

Please, God, bless!

"Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards, for our vineyards are in blossom.” My beloved is mine, and I am his; he grazes among the lilies."   Song 2:15-16

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Cow Selfie

Day 297:  It was suggested that I do a cow taking a selfie as a doodle today.  A cow?  A selfie?  Funny.  Maybe even moo-ving.

Please, God, bless!

"...on that day your livestock will graze in a roomy pasture."  Is 32:23b

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Another Tree

Day 296: Came home from a long day to a neighborhood gal hang out--with the husbands!  Woohoo! Break out the wine, beer, and good company!  So, what do you doodle when you have no time?  A tree!

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.--Joyce Kilmer

Please, God, bless!

"Please let a little water be brought and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree;"  Genesis 18:4

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Balloon

Day 295: A late day, and I had not idea what to doodle.  Hubby and I watched a show where this kid is standing with a balloon, and someone comes up and just cuts it loose.  People's reactions were shock, some seemed horrified even!  Of course, it was a prank, but it was definitely an interesting study of people's reactions. In any case, he suggested I doodle a balloon, so I did.


Please, God, bless!

"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ? "  Matt 6:27

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Lost Nation

Day 294:  Iranian Nukes.   Beheaded Christians. Americans killed. Antisemitism. Tax Burden. Trans-"fill in blank". Terrorist threats. Marriage redefined. Polygamy Rights. Gender neutrality. Sexual obsession. Sex trafficking. Perpetuating Pornography. Raped girls. Molested boys. Muslim extremists. Denying Visas. Abandoning Israel. Immigrant criminals. Children killers. Lying Leaders. Law-creating Courts. Constitution-defying Administration. Voting fraud. Shredding evidence. Shameless lies. Grandstanding narcissism. Useless Congress. Racial divides. Inciting riots. Burning Flags. Recreational "medicine". Sex-Ed Kindergartners. Community indoctrination. Intolerant Tolerance. Satan Worship. Remove Commandments. Underpaid soldiers. Overpaid Politicians. Celebrity worship.  Genetic tampering. Aborted infants. Abandoned babies. Abused toddlers. Hungry children. Molested teens. Teacher predators. Beaten elderly. Desperate people. Lifetime Welfare. Massive Unemployment. Forgotten Vets. Wounded Soldiers. Rampant Sickness. Right to die. Natural Disasters. Selfie syndrome. Distracted driving. Virtual reality. Robot companions. Broken families. Mass corruption. News-less news. Media Deception. No privacy. Unwarranted offenses. Viral stupidity. Engineered food. More stuff. Less charity. More Gods. No God. Inflated prices. Citizen spying. Disaster Prepping. Adulterous spouses. Neglected animals. Prison escapees. Gang beatings. Shooting innocents. Lost generation.  Kidnapped women. Secret videos. Senseless dialogue. Lack of civility. Evil abounds.

     Loss of words.
          Bitter tears.
                 Grieving heart.
                         Mourning soul.
                                 Lost hope.
                                          Constant fear.
                                                   Continued Anxiety.
                                                               Desperate measures.
                                                                          Senseless life.
                                                                                       Lost Nation...

                                                                                                    ....
                                                                                                           ...Please Pray.

Please, God, bless!

"For if we choose to go on sinning after we have learned the full truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but only a terrifying prospect of judgment and a raging fire that will consume the enemies of God."  Heb 10:26-27

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Melissa

Day 293:  Today I remember Melissa.  She is the daughter of one of my closest friends, but is my friend as well. One year ago today, Melissa went home to Jesus.

There are many wonderful things I could say about her.  I could tell you about her sharp wit, dry sense of humor, and crazy-funny stories.  I could tell you that she and I could talk for hours about different concepts for managing complex IT projects. I could tell you how much she loved and adored her nieces and nephews.

Instead, I want to tell you what I learned from Melissa...

...I learned that regardless of trials, lack of understanding, or any pain I may face in this life, one thing will always remain True...

...Jesus Loves Me.

Regardless of how sick Melissa was, or how awful people could be to her not understanding her illness, she never doubted her Jesus.  She didn't need to study apologetics, or memorize verses to strengthen her position.  Amidst all of her trials, she was secure because she knew her Hope. She knew that Jesus loved her...that was good enough.  Because of her simple faith, Melissa had a very strong ministry. It was natural for her to let people know Jesus loved her, and He loved them, too. Her faith touched the lives of the many doctors and nurses that cared for her.

I wish I was so bold....

I can make my faith so complicated.  I can articulate all of the logical reasons for my faith.  I can have a good discussion on how to live out my faith.  I can talk about Bible verses, Hebrew context, appropriate transliteration, Biblical precedent and types, and how all of that is important.  But the truth is, faith really is simple. It's about love.

...Jesus Loves Me.

This is one doodle I wish I had a whole day to work on so I could have done her justice.  I know she has been freed from what so constrained her on earth, that she is full of joy and life. I'm so blessed to know I will see her again! And when I do, I will tell her that I tried to follow her example.  So, to anyone who takes a minute to read this, please know...

 ...Jesus Loves You.

Please, God, bless!

"So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Birthday Hike

Day 292:  To celebrate some birthdays today, we went hiking with chosen-family, and then hit a winery. I really do enjoy hiking, probably for the same reason I used to loved running.  It's just you and your surroundings. No pretense, no impressions to make. Just you and the outdoors, time to think, ponder, and be in wonder at what God has made!

Here is a quick doodle of this butterfly who decided to stop for a drink by the falls, and then sun on a rock. It was almost like he stopped in to say hello!

Please, God, bless!

"But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind."  Job 12:7-10 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Weeds, Weeds, Weeds

Day 291: Weeds. We have had so much rain, that when the sun finally came out they were invading my flower bed in the front yard. I spent a while pulling the pesky foliage out and my plants once again had some room to breathe, to grow, and not be crowded or choked.  As for me, I ended up with a slight rash as I tend to be allergic to weeds. Fortunately, a long shower, a little lotion, and its clearing up pretty quick.

My weed experience today reminded me of the parable of the sower and the seed, when the seed was sown in the thorns (more weeds), they were choked.  Or the vineyard that was overgrown by the thistles in Proverbs.  Or the wheat and the tares in Matthew, when the weeds grew alongside the wheat, and were thrown into the fire.

What are the weeds that try to choke our faith? I know for me busyness comes to mind. Or little, daily annoyances.

When does our vineyard begin overgrowing with weeds?  Days when I'm too busy for prayer or devotion comes to mind, when I don't prioritize my time with the Lord.

How do we view the weeds of the world around as?  Do we mistake them for fruit-bearing plants, Do we tangle ourselves in them and thus feel the heat?  Gossip, lying, sin.....getting too cozy with the world, with our things, with our comfort.

My takeaway is this.  Take time to clear the weeds.  Take time to care for my spiritual garden, that I may bear fruit. And only God can remove the weeds of the world that quickly multiply and crowd me. Stand firm in my faith, knowing I will be saved from the fire.

Lastly, sometimes I have to pull the weeds.  It may not be pleasant, and it may even be painful, but it must be done.

Please, God, bless!

"For wickedness burns like a fire; It consumes briars and thorns; It even sets the thickets of the forest aflame And they roll upward in a column of smoke. By the fury of the LORD of hosts the land is burned up, And the people are like fuel for the fire; No man spares his brother." Isaiah 9:18-19

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Anniversary

Day 290: Today I celebrated the day I married my sweetheart. So, here is my quick doodle for the day so I can back to spending the day with the husband God gave me. Happy Anniversary, Danny!

Please, God, bless!

"Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her," Eph 5:25

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Portobello Tacos

Day 289:  I had an interesting lunch today.  A gal pal and I took off to enjoy an afternoon meal together.  The waiter came over and told us about the daily specials.  Grouper, blah.....crab cakes, too much food...portobello mushroom tacos....hmmm, I can get with that! Not too light, not too heavy, just right!

As my lunch was served, I noted to my friend that these were some strange looking mushrooms.  As I ate it I noted it didn't really taste like a mushroom.  I was trying to describe what it tasted like, something familiar, and when I was about 2/3 of the way through it dawned on me...the waiter said pork belly not portobello! No wonder I tasted bacon! Egads!  It was good, so I'm not complaining, but it was a lot heavier meal than I was expecting for lunch. Note to self, always double check the recited specials when in a loud restaurant.

My portobello taco incident reminded me of how careful we need to be about what we hear, and I thought it a lesson especially relevant in regard to God's Word. Rom 10:17 says:

"So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ."

If we want our faith to be sound, we need to ensure that what we think we heard was really what was said.  I tell my son, the Word ALWAYS agrees with the Word. Those who say otherwise are just skimming the surface...kind of like looking at a calm peaceful water and thinking it is safe to swim in. Meanwhile alligators lurk beneath the surface! When we find an apparent contradiction, that means we should dig deeper, and see what lies beneath the surface.  We will find that what we thought was a contradiction was a treasure of Truth.

Be wary of attempts to rationalize away minor details that don't seem to fit with the Word.  After all, it only takes 1 degree to set a boat off course.  A false faith can still be a really strong faith. But if what we heard is false, then we are living a lie and we don't even know it! Don't accept a fit for 9 out of 10 verses. If you do, you may be setting yourself off-course!

Be a Berean...always, always, always seek the Truth.

Please, God, bless!

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Just Smile

Day 288: Some days are so crazy, you just have to smile......yyyyyyuuuup!

Please, God, bless!

"A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health."  Prov 15:30

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Don't Complain

Day 287:  My hubby amazes me sometimes.  He isn't really the complaining type.  Especially when it comes to work or a task he needs to do.  When he's on the job and has to do grunt duty, he just rolls with it. I remember years ago he had to work job control, and do the work of 2 people while the other staff member took leave without pay to keep her benefits, and worked another full time job.  He wasn't happy about it, but he didn't spend all day, every day grumbling and complaining about his unfair working circumstance.  He just did it.  When drama is swirling all around him, he just does his thing, refusing to be a part of it. I made sure to tell my son of his example, in hopes he will be more like him.  

Please, God, bless!

"Do everything without complaining or arguing."  Phil 2:14

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Be Kind

Day 286:  Some days it just makes sense to show someone an act of kindness.  Maybe you know someone's struggles.  Maybe God just prompts your heart to act. In any case, listen when hearts cry out for encouragement, comfort, or forgiveness.

Please, God, bless!

"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Ephesians 4:32 ESV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Just Turn on the Light!

Day 285:  Another devotion inspiration from Anne Graham Lotz.

"Moths, in the midst of the darkness, are not attracted to more darkness. They are attracted to the light.

People today, living in the midst of “darkness,” are not attracted to more darkness; they are attracted to the Light. So let your Light shine! Lift it high! You don’t have to have a clever presentation to your witness or learn evangelistic formulas or take a course on communicating to postmodern man. For heaven’s sake, just turn on the Light!"  --Anne Graham Lotz

Copyright © 2015 AnGeL Ministries, All rights reserved

Please, God, bless!

"You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light." Eph 5:8, NKJV

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Pray for Our Nation

Day 284:  

Happy 4th of July!

Please, God, bless!

"...if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." 2 Chron 7:14

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Our Declaration of Independence

Day 283: Tomorrow is the 4th of July, the day when we commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  In this revolutionary document, our nation's founding fathers' cited the grievances against the King of Great Britain.  So, while we enjoy the festivities normally associated with the holiday with a light heart, it may be wise to take a moment to recall the reasons why America became a free nation.

"Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness of his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these states
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people."

Please, God, bless!

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Cor 3:17

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

Finally Caught The Show

Day 282: Today I was 14 again, as I FINALLY got to see a band I didn't get to see in concert at the time.  It was fun to rocket back in time, to the days of my big hair, and get to have that experience, even tho it is decades later.

Please, God, bless!

"Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth."   Ecc 11:9a

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.

A Guide in the Jungle

Day 281: From Anne Graham Lotz's "Joy of my Heart":

"During the Vietnam War, a story was reported about a paratrooper who had been air-dropped into the jungle and couldn’t find his way out. A native guide had to be sent into the jungle to find the lost man then lead him safely to his base. The guide became the man’s way to safety-his “way home.” In the same manner, Jesus is “God’s Guide,” heaven-dropped into the world to lead lost sinners safely “Home.”"

Copyright © 2015 AnGeL Ministries, All rights reserved.

Please, God, bless!

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

John 14:6, NIV 

Inspired by "365: A Daily Creativity Journal: Make Something Every Day and Change Your Life!" I decided I should be more conscientious of my creative side. I chose to modify this one year challenge (9/23/14-9/24/15) to create something each day that would also force me to focus my perspective on a Godly world-view.