Renewing Your Mind

A new year should start off with new thinking, don't you agree? I read some great new books last year, all designed to give me a more positive and hopeful life outlook. There was Beth Moore's, "Get Out of The Pit," John Bevere's, " Bait of Satan," Warren Wiersbe's, "Be Mature," and, of course, the Holy Bible, which I read as if not read before. Amazing how each time you open a book you learn something new; if you're looking. Hopefully, once we read and learn new things, it changes the way we live our lives. With that in mind, I began looking for new ways to live what I learned.

I love to create; cards, crafts, quilt blocks, cross-stitch; you name it. Imagine my joy and delight to discover a world of ladies who love creating and love the Lord. I start off the new year immensely blessed by those of you who have chosen to share your talents and your faith with others. I shall enjoy following your sites and learning from you. There are many whom I hope to bless by sharing my new-learned creations, including family, friends, those in hospitals, nursing homes, shelters - after all, He blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others.

Don't Forget to Forgive

I discovered a new word this week; 'hate.' I didn't think that word was in my vocabulary. Oh sure, sometimes people might 'iritate' me, or I might get 'annoyed,' with someone. I mean, it's not a sin if I choose to "never speak to someone again;" or is it? In reading the many Biblical accounts, we find that it is a short step from; say envy, or jealousy, or hurt feelings; to a bitter resentment that turns into' yes, hate. Any unresolved bitterness or long-held offenses are the beginning of the road to hate.
So I'd like to remind you, as I was reminded this week, "Be honest about those feelings, forgive quickly, and love unconditionally." This is truly the circle of life and God is in it.

Scripture Challenge 2010

I chose the Scriptures 1 Peter 3:15 and Romans 5:5. This is my first ATC, and I dove right in (after thinking about it for two days). The bottom figure was my first attempt, but I decided the red was too severe a contrast, so I went for softer colors on the second side. I think hope is like that, soft and subtle, yet sustaining. I cut the dogwood from a specialty paper and used a Martha Stewart border. The hearts were punched and the Hope "flowers" stamped. I liked the idea of printing the scriptures on vellum, but couldn't quite get the overlay right. I might try this again. I enjoyed the study.

God Sightings

It is not a good thing to, even before you open your eyes, begin listing in your mind the myriad of chores, duties and responsibilities you anticipate will consume your day. Instead, try considering the opportunities and possibilities for "God sightings." I first heard this term in a book by David Mains, called "Tales of the Kingdom." You should read it.

It is indeed a shame to miss those wondrous gifts that God sends to help us keep our balance; to keep us from becoming overwhelmed. Remember all, in order to keep your balance, you should give at least equal time to giving thanks for God's gifts as to worrying about this worlds concerns. I would love for you to share your "God sightings" with me and others. We can all use the inspiration.

TripleScrap's inspirational ideas for 2010 have given me another opportunity for "God sightings." She is an answer to prayer. Thanks.