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Restoring Honor to God’s Masterpiece

Richard (Butch) and Carrol Sue Kinslow 1945

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10

I am quite sure that 3 1/2-year-old Carrol Sue would have agreed that she and her little brother were indeed masterpieces. Children have simple faith and a view of the world uncluttered by the opinions of others.

Little children are loved for who they are; each precious, each a masterpiece. Heavenly Father, help us to know and understand that we never outgrow being Your child… Your masterpiece!

Too often I see my reflection in a storefront and cringe. Who is that chubby old, wrinkled, bent woman? My friend’s hair is so cute, why is mine so straight? I wish I had different hair or different whatever.

With the world trying to tell us how we need to improve every part of our being, we can all have down days. If we allow these negative feelings to grow, they will affect all aspects of our lives and the lives of those around us.

Study the phrase above: we (YOU) are God’s masterpiece! That’s a fact! As they say, you can bank on it!

God’s Word says in Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made: your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

For a very good article entitled “What does it mean to be Fearfully & Wonderfully Made”, click here.

Wonderfully made? Really? I don’t feel wonderfully made! Too often I feel like a wreck.

We say believe in the Bible. It’s God’s word; it never changes. We believe God is the giver of life. We enjoy telling little children how God made them special; just like He wanted them to look. Why do we have such a hard time believing it for ourselves? If you want a revival in your heart and soul, read and study Psalm 139 in its entirety. Trust God to do work in your spirit as only He, your Creator, can.

Father, when negative feelings begin to crop up, remind me often that You created me and You have never made a bad thing. You created the hair, nose, and body that I have, and were pleased. (For the benefit of those who need to hear it, I agree that He would have us take care of what He has given us.)

One more commercial on how to get rid of my wrinkles or look ten years younger and out goes the TV! I earned every wrinkle and gray hair. I have stories. And, for your information, I do not waddle when I walk, I’m exercising my legs by pushing my weight from one side to the other.

Seriously, I pray as we enter springtime together, we will enjoy the joy God has for us. Take (MAKE) time to praise God today for His masterpiece—YOU!

Hugs,

I look forward always to your comments and your prayer requests. I pray for you often; and thank you for praying for me.

A Sisterhood of Priceless Friendships

………….Planning April 27 Sisterhood in Christ Ladies Retreat at Olive Point Baptist …………………….. Cheryl, Shae, Diana, Cathy, Carol, Pam, Heather …………

“A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.” Proverbs 27:9

Yes, friendships do refresh the soul. My friendship circle includes family, friends from school, workplaces, and church.

However, if I am not careful, my circle of friends will be only those in my church or community who think as I do. Comfy folk. They will mostly agree with my beliefs and choices in life. Easy, breezy!

To learn more about what the Bible says about friendships, click here.

In the photo above are our Women’s Ministry Director, Cathy VanDruff, and a few of the many ladies seeking God’s direction as we plan our 24th annual DCASB Ladies’ Conference: SISTERHOOD IN CHRIST. I can tell you, it will be the best yet. Please pray for the mtg., for the attendees, and for what God would have you do… help? attend? invite someone?

Being an author and writer, some of my friendship circles include guys and gals who do not have Jesus as their main priority, if at all! Sometimes, the stories they are working on can stir my heart to pray for them quietly. But, here’s the thing. I learn from them. As I get to know them better, I grow in understanding our communities better. Hopefully, I will become not only a better writer but a better person because of their friendships.

God has been stirring my heart lately about the many women who hug and smile in church on Sunday and leave with a heavy heart and no ‘real friends’ to share their deepest thoughts. I realize not everyone will come to a ladies’ conference, but everyone needs to be encouraged. I am asking God to open our spiritual eyes and hearts each day.

So, I have to ask you. How wide is your friendship circle? Are you ready to ask God who He wants you to include? Has He pricked your heart just now with the name or face of one who needs a friend? Please, pray for me as I continue to grow and seek God’s will in all I do. Praying for you, dear friend is a joy. And, I look forward to the day when you call for that friendship coffee. Sending hugs and prayers,

Hugs,

“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falls; for he hath not another to help him up.” Bible: Ecclesiastes

Be Content in Every Situation

Oops! My “Mr.” Kitty’s Surprise – SIX Wee Ones

“… I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every situation… ” from Phil. 4:11-13 NIV

On one of my lowest days, a very tiny, scrawny kitty made his way to the back porch where I was crying out to God. I missed my hubby. I was disappointed in myself. The list goes on…

“Mr. Kitty” was just what I needed; something to take care of and to cuddle on my down days. Well, I should have checked. Surprise! A few weeks ago, MISS Kitty gave me six little bundles of cuddlebugs!

God, in His wisdom, always gives us exactly what we need. I learn daily from Miss Kitty and God’s care for her. Feast your eyes on that momma’s face as she cares for her wee ones under an old rusty wheelbarrow in my front flower bed. Wind and weather never deterred her from her duties. She always meets me at the garage door for a bit of petting and heads back to her babies.

How is your life? Ever had times of discouragement? Is your life not always a bed of roses? Truthfully, each of us at times feels more like we’re rolling in a bed of thorns. My prayer for each reader is that you never lose track of God’s care for you; His love is beyond measure.

Find strength in God’s Word. Click here for encouraging Scriptures.

Here is one of my favorites. “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.’” Hebrews 13:5

Monday, six adorable little balls of fur discovered how to climb onto my front porch. Prayers appreciated!

This week I am asking God to stir my heart as well as the hearts of my readers. “Teach us, Lord, when discouragement comes to look to You. To trust You. To praise You. You, oh Lord, are enough!”

Hugs,

Drop me a note. How can I pray for you? How have you found comfort in God this winter?