Scripture Series: Bought with a Price Card---Our Final Challenge in 2015...Join Us for More Inspirational Challenge at Word Art Wednesday in 2016!

Hello there, Crafty Friends!  First of all, I would like to greet you all a BLESSED AND WONDERFUL NEW YEAR!  So many things have happened this 2015 that I am so grateful for but there's also lots of situations that didn't turn out so well.  That goes for both my personal life and the other---the state  of our nation and the world.  Many people are just concerned with their own lives that they neglect/choose to ignore what's going on around them.  Yet everything that happens to us on a personal level are/can be affected by someone's decision.  Whether we like it or not, we are a part of a whole.  So my prayer for the year 2016 is for everyone who profess the name of Christ and are part of His Body (Church/Ekklesia---Called-out Ones) to strongly unite towards one common goal.  That is to fulfill the purposes of God in their lives by standing firmly on the Word of God.   Each of us have different opinions on issues but to silence everyone to unity, we need to submit to what the Lord says in His Word.  We need to allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with God's divine wisdom and to give us a teachable spirit.  I pray also for those that have been deceived by the doctrines of this world to be awakened and get back to the Way of Truth.  As we await the coming of our Lord Jesus to establish His divine rule on earth, let us continue to spread the Gospel of Christ (His death, burial and resurrection) even in the midst of growing opposition and insanity.  There's still a lot of people out there who are waiting to hear what the Cross of Christ has done for them.  That also means we have to share the Truth of God to our families and friends without compromise.  Tolerance and political correctness are disguised as "love" nowadays but "TRUE LOVE" willingly corrects and points someone to the Truth in order to gain an everlasting reward for both the sinner and the saint.  Among  our biggest reward would be to see our love ones/friends escape the "lake of fire" forever and to be eternally saved  in the presence of God along with many others that believed.  There's only ONE WAY to God's presence---JESUS CHRIST!  No man-made religion can bring anyone to Him.  Only a personal relationship (Born-again, John 3:3) through faith in what Jesus Christ accomplished at the Cross  will take you down that narrow path engineered by no other than God, Himself!  If you want to know God, seek His Word! Jeremiah 33:3 tells us what God wants us to do when we need answers to life's questions, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."

Anyway, we started our final challenge for this year yesterday at Word Art Wednesday (WAW).  We have some wonderful news and changes coming up for 2016 so, all of you that have been joining and leaving us encouraging comments about our work for the Lord will be so blessed as well.  You'll hear of them by next week.  Today's featured Scripture Word Art (you can download for free at the WAW site) came from 1 Corinthians 6:20 which tells us, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."  The context of this verse has to do with fleeing from "sexual immorality. "  Outside of marriage exclusively between one man and one woman, all kinds of sexual desires and actions fall under this category.  I encourage you to read the entire chapter to obtain clarity and therefore find Truth.  I love how my Life Application Bible explained this verse and the couple of other verses that came before it.  I just want to share it with you as it's awesome. It states, "Christians are free to be all they can be for God, but they are not free from God.  God created sex to be a beautiful and essential ingredient of marriage, but sexual sin (sex outside the marriage relationship) always hurts someone.  It hurts God because it shows that we prefer following our own desires instead of the leading of the Holy Spirit.  It hurts others because it violates the commitment so necessary to a relationship.  It often brings disease to our bodies.  And it deeply affects our personalities, which respond in anguish when we harm ourselves physically and spiritually.  What did Paul mean when he said that our bodies belong to God?  Many people say they have the right to do whatever they want with their own bodies.  Although they think that this is freedom, they are really enslaved by their own desires.  When we become Christians, the Holy Spirit fills and lives in us.  Therefore, we no longer own our bodies.  "Bought at a price" refers to slaves purchased at auction.  Christ's death freed us from sin, but also obligates us to His service.  If you live in a building owned by someone else, you try not to violate the building's rules.  Because your body belongs to God, you must not violate His standards for living."  

What an awesome exhortation.  I remembered when I came to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.  I was so lost and desperate.  I have lost the will to live and was asking God to get me out of my meaningless existence.  On the outside, everyone thought I was strong and was doing great yet inside of me, I was so empty and broken.  I called on the One I barely knew and with a leap of faith, I humbled myself before Him and confessed my sins. I acknowledged what Jesus did for me at the Cross and accepted His gift of forgiveness and love.  I surrendered my life and welcomed Him as Lord and Savior.   It was that short yet sincere prayer that changed my life so radically and compelled me to share the hope I found in Him twenty-five years ago to this day.  I SURRENDERED MY LIFE AND INVITED HIM AS MY LORD!  That is the crystal clear Truth that guided my life today... I fully recognize that my life is no longer my own---it's under the authority of the One I gave my life to and He rules and  lives His life inside of me!  I would like to leave you with the following verses to encourage you to hold on to the promises of God no matter what life brings:

"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect." (1 Peter 1:18-19)

"I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.  For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain."  (Philippians 1:20-21)

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform 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."  (Romans 12:1-2)

For this Card, I stamped an image from Prima (Julie Nutting) called "Megan" and paper-pieced the clothes using most of my DP scraps.  The base is a white CS, cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches square card.  I rounded the edges using with my Corner Chomper.  I layered the flowers from Prima and added a pearl brad at its center.  I applied some glitters (Stickles-Crystal) to the clothing as well as the flowers.  Finally, I stitched all over this creation.  I would say---elegantly simple!

                                                 BOUGHT WITH A PRICE CARD:

                                           BOUGHT WITH A PRICE CARD LAYERS:

                                            BOUGHT WITH A PRICE CARD INSIDE:

                                    BOUGHT WITH A PRICE CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:


This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Creatalicious---Soemthing Old, Something New (Old: Flowers, New: Image)
Creative Craft---Add Some Sparkle
Lia Stampz---ATG
Sweet Stamps---ATG
2 Crafty Girls---Winter Blues/ATG
4 Crafty Chicks---Crazy Egg/ATG
As You Like It---ATG
CRAFT---ATG
Cut Card Thursday---ATG
Crafty Gals---ATG
Crafty Creations---ATG
Creative Moments---ATG
DoubleClick Skittles---ATG
Inspiration Destination---ATG
Moo-Mania---ATG
The Paper Shelter---ATG'
Crafty Addicts---ATG
Creative Card Crew---ATG
Deep Ocean---ATG
Lemon Shortbread---ATG
Retarte---ATG
TTCRD---ATG
Tuesday Throwdown---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Love to Scrap---ATG
Our Crafty Corner---Winter/ATG


There you have it friends!  Hope you enjoyed browsing at the pics and reading this post.  Please don't forget to join us at this week's WAW Challenge by linking your "Anything Goes" projects.  You can use the free Word Art in your entry but it's not mandatory.  As long as your creation is family-friendly, inspirational and uplifting, you can enter up to 5 projects to have more chances of winning.  Our sponsors for this week are Verses Rubber Stamps ($20 GC) and Fresh Brewed Designs (3 digi images).  You don't want to miss out on these wonderful prizes so, make sure to join our Challenge.   Have a Great New Year and be safe, everyone!

Love Inspired Series: Once in a Lifetime Center Step Card---Join th Fun at our Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create and Higlighting Simon Says Stamp "You Have my Heart" New Release...

Hello Crafty Friends! It's another busy---soooo busy week for me so this is coming out a day late.  This is going to be a short and sweet post but want to take the opportunity to wish ya'll a BLESSED AND MERRY CHRISTMAS!   I hope you join me in celebrating the true meaning of this season---the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!  Though the exact day of His birth was not specifically revealed in His Word, we all know that He came to bear witness to the Truth (reality in God's perspective) as we see in John 1:18, "No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known."  Because of God's great love for us, He had to send His Only Son to free us from the bondage of Sin and get us back into God's righteousness as stated in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."  No amount of gifts or act of giving and commercialization of this season can come close to the Gift that our Father in Heaven gave us in the Person of His Son---JESUS CHRIST!  So, whatever you choose to do this season, as child of God and saved by His grace (Born-again, John 3:3), we are to share what Christ has done for us in every meeting and get together.  Along with our time with our families and friends across a wonderful meal and fellowship, let Him receive the glory!  Do not allow political correctness and tolerance to reduce our celebration to something worth absolutely nothing. Today, we have hope because the Messiah (Savior) came one faithful day---paid the price for our sins through the Cross and will one day come back to literally rule the world.  Everyone who placed their lives through faith in Him will take part in His rulership forever.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!  Leaving you with wonderful verses as to why we are to celebrate this wonderful season:

"We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life."  (1 John 5:20)

"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors,  but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.  He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.  Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God." (1 Peter 1:18-21)

"And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,  who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory."  (Ephesians 1:13-14)

For our weekly Challenge at 613 Avenue Create, I used a wonderful image from one of our sponsors, Bugaboo Digi Stamps called "Puppy Girl" and colored it with my ProMarker/Prismacolors/Spectrum Noir markers.  The base is a white CS, cut and scored to make a 5. 5 inches center step design.  The DP's came from Recollections, the sparkly gems from Imaginisce, glitters from Stickles (Crystal), the awesome sentiment is from Stampabilities and for added dimension, I added some stitching.  The gorgeous "Heart Banner" is courtesy of Simon Says Stamp who sent me this beautiful wafer die to explore and make awesome projects.  I'm very impressed as it "cuts like butter" with the aid of my Cuttlebug.  All I did was to make 2 cuts using a burgundy CS and adhere them together for stability and strength and walah, an awesome banner for my girly girl card.  In the next few weeks, you will see more samples of this new release as highlighted by their DT's in their BLOG...I am grateful to be given the opportunity to try one.  God bless this wonderful company for their trust and generosity to share their products to avid Crafters like me.

                                           ONCE IN A LIFETIME CENTER STEP CARD:

                                      ONCE IN A LIFETIME CENTER STEP CARD LAYERS:

                                   ONCE IN A LIFETIME CENTER STEP CARD SIDE VIEW:

                                     ONCE IN A LIFETIME CENTER STEP CARD INSIDE:

                            ONCE IN A LIFETIME CENTER STEP CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:


This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Country View---Make a Scene
Crafts Galore---ATG
Crafting Musketeers---Use a Sentiment
Craftyhazelnut's---Patterned Paper
Crafty Time---ATG
Creative Craft---Add Sparkle
CCC---ATG
Digistamps4Joy---ATG
Doodle Pantry---ATG
Lia Stampz---ATG
Petal Lu---ATG
Your Scrapbook Place---ATG (I used a Bugaboo Image)
2 Crafty Girls---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Love to Scrap---ATG
Not Just Cards---ATG
Our Crafty Corner---ATG/Winter
Paper Nest Dolls---ATG
Lacy Sunshine---ATG
Great Impressions---ATG
Allsorts---ATG but Christmas
Crafty Friends---ATG
Inkspirational---ATG but Christmas


There you have it, folks!  Don't miss the opportunity to join our Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create.  There's wonderful prizes awaiting the winners from our lovely sponsors for this week---Bugaboo Digi Stamps, Stamplorations and the Cutting Cafe.  Can't wait to see what fabulous projects you're going to highlight this week.  I hope you have a wonderful week and know that through faith in what Jesus accomplished through the Cross, we have complete victory always! 

Scripture Series: Thou Most High Card---Two Week Long Family Friendly Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

It's Wednesday once again, everyone!  I'm here to bring you one of our final challenges for this year at Word Art Wednesday (WAW) and this one will be up for a couple of weeks so that we can spend the true meaning of the season (birth of our Lord Jesus) along with our families.  That means you have more time to link up to 5 entries for more chances to win wonderful prizes from our awesome sponsors.  Our featured Scripture Word Art (you can download for free at the WAW site) comes from Psalm 9:2 which says, "I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High."  It is believed that David wrote Psalm 9 after a victory over the Philistines.  We recall how David faced the giant, Goliath, and won against him by bringing a sling shot and 5 smooth stones for a weapon.  It took only one stone to bring him down!  

Goliath taunted Israel by all the threats, insults and mockery he spoke against the God of Israel and His people.  This went on for forty days as He over and over again branded Israel as cowards.  He paraded himself to the people of God as a strong, unbeatable man---a seasoned warrior since childhood.  Not one man from King Saul's army would want to fight him, in fact they were all trembling with fear by the mere presence of this man.  Long story short, David (a young shepherd) saw the situation and accepted the challenge from this giant in the midst of King Saul's doubt.  He looked at David and saw him disadvantaged in age, size and inexperienced in battle.  1 Samuel 17:32-37 captured this conversation between both men...."David said to Saul, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.” Saul replied, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth.” But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.” 

And we all know how this story ended---a victory for God's people!  David's undivided trust, dependence on his Lord and willingness to be used made such a difference.  There's nothing in the first part of the story that would convince us Israel would win. It began when God's army started to look at great army, weaponry, the size of their opponent and the bold challenge they heard from Goliath struck them with fear and they were greatly dismayed.  One article I saw online described this intent of the enemy to discourage us.  It says, "In any contest, it's always useful to demoralize your opponent and strike fear in their heart. First, it may keep you from ever going to battle with them because they are so afraid. Second, if it does come to battle they will fight with fear and apprehension and so with your words, you've done a lot to win the battle before it even begins. This is a significant strategy of the devil against believers."  When we start looking at our circumstances instead of the promises of God and what He can do for in our behalf, we will surely experience the same fear and dismay the Israelites felt with the Philistine army.  A true believer does not look/depend at the natural condition of things.  Our physical senses is not equipped to perceive the spiritual things where all things that transpire in the natural originate.  If we are looking for God with our physical eyes, we will be discouraged because John 4:24 tells us, "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."  The only way we can relate to God while on earth is by FAITH (trust, dependence, adherence, cling to, believing).  New Testament saints (John 3:3, Born-again) are so blessed because we have seen and experienced God in the flesh through our Lord and Savior, JESUS CHRIST!  The God who spoke with Noah, Abraham and Moses in the past and Whom they believed through His Word came to dwell among us and showed us how to live a life of total surrender and trust.  JESUS HAS BECOME THE OBJECT, THE REASON AND THE MEANS BY WHICH WE ARE TO LIVE THIS LIFE AND RECEIVE EVERYTHING FROM THE FATHER.  So like David who trusted God in what seemed be an impossible fight, we are to trust Jesus for anything and everything that we face in our lives.  

In these days where all of the earth and our nation are surrounded by many threats including what I can call a modern-day Philistine army in the form of ISIS and similar Islamic terrorists/jihadists groups under the banner of their false religion/doctrine/prophet/god,  let all who trust in the Lord stand up, speak up and go in the power that God has given us.  Romans 8:15 says, "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."  No matter what we see in the natural, know that God always hear our cries and that not one of us, His people, is insignificant in His sight.  We all have a role to play and it's not our own talents and abilities that make us special, it is God's presence living inside of us that makes the difference.  SPEAK, PROCLAIM AND CARRY-OUT THE PROMISES OF GOD!  Do not allow the mockery of the enemy (written or spoken) to define you and strike fear in your heart.  And if you become fearful, rebuke that fear by reminding yourself the promises of the Lord. Flush that toxic fear our of your life by the power of the Holy Spirit and go with the supernatural power that the Cross of Christ has already won for you.  Remember that our life here on earth is temporary and after we run this earthly race, we have an eternal life of love, joy and peace in the arms of our Savior.  Today, I would like to declare the Psalm of David, hailing the victory from the Philistine army unto all the powers that seek to destroy America and threaten our faith and way of life.  I declare it in the spirit and the natural realm---for every people, ideology, false religion, doctrines and fake gods that rises up against the Truth of Almighty God to be annihilated, destroyed to its core and erased from the face of the earth.  I stand like the young David whose trust in my God is undivided and I proclaim that ISRAEL and AMERICA will win the fight against all heinous plots and schemes of the enemy not because of any man but because of the great and supernatural power of the Most Holy God.  So, if you believe in the God of David, let this Psalm be a declaration of victory against the evil armies of our day.  Declare this Psalm and speak it's victory for Israel, America and all nations of the world.  Our God delivers!  Praise be to His Holy Name...

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High. My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you. For you have upheld my right and my cause, sitting enthroned as the righteous judge. You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever. Endless ruin has overtaken my enemies, you have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished. The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Sing the praises of the Lord, enthroned in Zion;

proclaim among the nations what he has done. For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted. Lord, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of death, that I may declare your praises in the gates of Daughter Zion, and there rejoice in your salvation. The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden. The Lord is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands. The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God.

But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish. Arise, Lord, do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence. Strike them with terror, Lord; let the nations know they are only mortal." (Psalm 9)

For this CAS card, I used a few things.  The base is a white A7 card with envelope from Paper Studio, the house border image is from Heidi Grace, the dotted washi tape is from Paper Studio and the crystal gems from Imaginisce.  Each week is so hectic for me as we approach CHRISTmas and New Year so a CAS card is a fine way to finish a project.  I am happy it turned out great!

                                                     THOU MOST HIGH CARD:

                                                THOU MOST HIGH CARD INSIDE:

                                         THOU MOST HIGH CARD WITH ENVELOPE:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Crafting by Designs---Holidays
Crafty Creations---Holiday
Crafty Gals---ATG
Creative Moments---ATG
Fresh Brewed---ATG Christmas
Inspiration Destination---ATG
Paper Shelter---ATG
Crafty Addicts---ATG
Wonderful Wednesday---ATG
2 Crafty Girls---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Craft Your Passion---ATG
Not Just Cards---ATG
Our Crafty Corner---ATG/Winter
Simon Says Stamp---Just a Pinch (A Bit of Washi Tape)
Paper Nest Dolls---ATG
Pile It On----Christmas/Winter
Craft Rocket---ATG
CCC Digi Creations---ATG
Craft Galore---ATG/Christmas
Crafty Time---ATG
Sisters of Craft---ATG
Penny's Paper Crafty---ATG
Simply Papercraft---ATG


Hope you join the fun at our WAW Challenge.  There's wonderful prizes awaiting our blessed winners from two of our sponsors this week, Classy Cards 'n Such ($15 GC) and QKR Stampede (3 Digi Images).  You can choose to incorporate the free Word Art (sentiment) you see in my card for projects you wish to make and link with us though it's not mandatory.  You can submit up to 5 projects (Anything Goes) as long as it's family friendly, inspirational or uplifting.  Can't wait to see what you come up with. Have a blessed week and always remember to take the time to talk to our Heavenly Father every chance we are given, always giving thanks for all the wonderful things He has done. Hugs!

Scripture Series: Rejoice at His Birth Card---Join us for Another Family Friendly Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Happy Wednesday, friends!  It's time for another Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday (WAW).  You may choose to use the free Scripture Word Art I'm highlighting today by downloading it from the WAW site.  Today's Word comes from Luke 1:14 which tells us, "And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.” This verse talks about the the miraculous birth of John the Baptist and how he would be used by God in a special way.  That is to prepare the hearts of the people for the coming of the promised Messiah (Jesus Christ) and to bring awareness of sin among Israel so they could receive the salvation from sin offered by the Savior.

Historically, God's people were scattered and ruled by the ungodly for many years (due to idolatry and utter disobedience).  Each time,  they have picked up the ways, culture and mindset of these people which drove them even farther away from God.  John was given a special task---to call people to repentance and paved the way for the coming of the Savior.  The birth of John the Baptist in itself is an act of God as not only was his mother barren but that both his parents (Zechariah and Elizabeth) were both very old.  This shows us that nothing is impossible with God!  Many of us knew very little about this wonderful prophet of the New Testament and I would like to share what I found online to tell us more about the ministry this extraordinary man of God fulfilled. (Source: gotquestions.org)

"There are several lessons we can learn from the life of John the Baptist. First, wholeheartedly believing in Jesus Christ is possible. John the Baptist could have believed in and worshiped any number of gods available to him before Jesus arrived on the scene. But at some point in his life John knew that the Messiah was coming. He believed this with his whole heart and spent his days “preparing the way” for the Lord’s coming (Matthew 11:10). But the road was not an easy one to prepare. Daily he faced doubters of various influence and popularity who did not share his enthusiasm for the coming Messiah. Under hard questioning from the Pharisees, John shared his belief: “‘I baptize with water,’ John replied, ‘but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie’" (John 1:26-27). John believed in the Christ and his great faith prepared him for hardships, but it kept him steadfast on his course until the time when he could say as he saw Jesus approach, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). As believers, we can all have this steadfast faith.

Second, anyone can be a strong and serious witness for Jesus Christ. John’s life is an example to us of the seriousness with which we are to approach the Christian life and our call to ministry, whatever that may be. We pattern our lives after John’s by first examining ourselves to be sure we are truly in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Second, like John, we are to know and believe that “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21), so we can be fearless in the face of persecution and death. John lived his life to introduce others to Jesus Christ, and knew the importance of repenting of one’s sins in order to live a holy and righteous life. And as a follower of Jesus Christ, he also was unafraid of calling out people such as Herod and the Pharisees for their sinful behavior.

Third, John shows us how to stand firm in our faith no matter what the circumstances. Paul reminded Timothy that “everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). But for many of us who live in freedom, persecution takes on a very mild form. As he lived in an occupied country, John had to be aware that anything contrary to utter devotion to the king or emperor was asking for trouble. Yet his message was unchanging, bold and strong. It was John’s belief, his message, and his continual rebuke of King Herod that landed him in prison. While it is hard to know for sure what John was feeling as he sat in prison, we can be sure that he might have had some doubts about the Lord who tested his faith. In fact, John gets a message out to Jesus asking, "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" (Matthew 11:3). As Christians we all will have our faith put to the test, and we will either falter in our faith or, like John, cling to Christ and stand firm in our faith to the end."

For this Card, I used an old image from Sassy Chery's Digi Stamps which is called "A Dance in the Snow" (Retired)  and colored it using my ProMarker/Prismacolor markers.  The base is a white A7 card that comes with an envelope from Paper Studio.  The DP's I used for paper-piecing are from my scraps from Paper Studio as well.  I incorporated some Liquid Pearls (White Opal) and glitters (Stickles-Diamond) for added dimension and completed this design with regular and fancy stitching.  Another simple yet meaningful creation.

                                                 REJOICE AT HIS BIRTH CARD:

                                             REJOICE AT HIS BIRTH CARD LAYERS:

                                            REJOICE AT HIS BIRTH CARD INSIDE:

                                      REJOICE AT HIS BIRTH CARD WITH ENVELOPE:


This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Fresh Brewed---ATG Christmas
DL Art---Christmas
Crafty Girls---ATG
Crafty Rocket---ATG
Papertake Weekly---Fun, Fun, Fun
Craft Your Passion---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Snowflakes Promise---Winter/Christmas
CCC Digi Creations---ATG
Crafty Sentiments---Christmas Card
Pile It On---Christmas/Winter
Crafty Gals Corner---ATG
Creative Corner---Sparkle and Shine
Inspiration Destination---ATG
Jo's Scrap Shack---Christmas Joy
Sisters of Craft---ATG
Scrap and Craft---ATG Christmas
Crafts Galore---ATG
Allsorts---CAS
Fantasy Stampers---CAS Christmas
Gem of a Challenge---ATG Christmas
Penny's Paper Crafty---ATG
Simply Papercraft---ATG
Creative Card Crew---Holiday Season
Brown Sugar---ATG
Card Mania---Christmas
Christmas Card---Christmas
Crafting by Designs---Here Comes the Holiday
Crafty Creations---Happy Holiday
Creative Moments---ATG/Traditional Christmas
DoubleClick---Snowman
I Love ProMarkers---ATG
Little Red Wagon---Snow Much Fun
Crafty Addicts---ATG/Celebration
Whimsy Stamps---ATG (Holiday)
Your Scrapbook Place---ATG


Make sure you join us at WAW Challenge.  You can use the free Word Art in your creation and link it to our Challenge but is not a requirement.  As long as it's family-friendly, uplifting and inspirational, you can submit up to 5 entries.  Our wonderful sponsors for this week are Flying Unicorn ($25 GC to their shop) and The Cutting Cafe (Digi or Cutting files).  So excited to see what you come up with.  Anyway, cheer up and let the joy of the Lord overtake you today.  We have hope in this world because Jesus has already won the victory.  Praise be to His Holy Name!

Fun/Humor Series: Reindeer Games Doily Card---Join Us at our Neighborhood, 613 Avenue Create, for our Anything Goes Challenge with an Optional Twist!

Hello there, friends!  Here I am again trying to put some order on the things I needed to do after another busy day yesterday.  Though late, I would like to feature the card I made for our Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create with an optional twist.  I know that many of us are so busy this month but despite the crazy schedule, one thing I don't want to lose focus on is my relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!  Days seem to be passing by so quickly that it's easy to lose track of what's important in this life.

As a child of God, our priorities should be different from those whose going through life on a daily basis.  Usually,  people wake up to prepare for work, go to work , go home and rest and do it over and over again.  As a result, many have gotten tired of the routine and could not find anymore meaning to each day.  I thank God that although I went through similar experience/feeling in the past,  it was when I gave that meaningless life to Christ that gave me true purpose and joy.  Surrendering to His Lordship didn't just free me from the bondage of sin and won me an eternal life in His presence but it presently gives me reason to wake up each day and desire excellence in everything that I do.  I hold Galatians 2:20 close to my heart and it says, "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."  Because I'm no longer in charged of my life,  I've allowed the Lord Jesus to take every facet of my being and to use me to do great and wonderful things.  My once limited capacity and abilities are now supercharged by God's boundless capabilities and excellence that utilizes my utmost potential.  It is my primary desire to display the power and glory of the One that lives inside of me.  The circumstances around me may change constantly but planted in the Solid Rock of the Gospel (death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ), I stand secure.

A few weeks ago, God impressed upon my heart that I simply don't have time for mediocre things.  Some of you will agree that there are relationships in our lives that just constantly wears you down.  Some of them may come from family members you live and deal with daily.  Then there are some friends whose negative and passive outlook felt like they're draining the life out of you.  And yes, some  of them professed to be believers!  We must realize that attending a Christian Church does not make you a Christian.  You can sit in one for many years and not understand why you believe what you believe.  What makes a person grow in Christ is his/her willingness to take on God's Word and surrender everything (our thoughts, our ways and things we hold on to) to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.   I have encountered some that withhold from God certain facets of their lives.  When they should have given it all 100%, they decided they can keep a certain portion of themselves locked up inside.  That is why even as believers, we have striking divisions with race, color, political, moral and spiritual issues that the enemy likes to use to further divide us.  Many could not get over the history of slavery, discrimination and they have to attach that to everything that happens to them.  They try to blame anybody and everybody for their situation other than themselves.  Oh my, don't even get me started on the political divide among believers in this nation...But you see, one who truly comes to Christ lets go of all that baggage and instead ask the question, "What does God say in His Word about all of these?"  If we have nothing of ourselves, and let it be all about God, we'd eliminate a load of the problems we're facing in our society today.  The ungodly are seeking to destroy the Church (Ekklesia, the Called-Out ones) by using emotional, political, racial tension among people groups and utilizes the ignorance of many on the Word of God.   My sincerest prayer goes TO THOSE WHO BELIEVE---that we all  rise up and unselfishly carry out the true purpose that God has placed upon our lives based on His Word (His Will).  Our collective mission is found in Matthew 28:18-20, "Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”  

It is due to this that I decided I am not anymore going to waste my precious time mobilizing these people.  I will say and do what God wants me to do and move on.  I will not allow my purpose to be hindered by people who refuses to leave their comfort zones to face today's spiritual battle. Like it or not,  war is upon us (both spiritually and physically)! We cannot teach anyone to be passionate about the things of God unless they be willing to completely invest in their relationship with Him.  For the meantime, I must break away from my association with such people (yet continue to pray for awakening in their lives) in order to move forward to what God wants me to accomplish in this lifetime.  Sometimes, we need to rid ourselves of things that weigh us down so that we can run our full capacity...I want to share the following scriptures to remind us of the costly price for following our Savior.  Yet those who endure till the end shall see a reward valid for all eternity.

"Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their lif^e will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” (Mark 8:34-38)

"No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer. Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained. Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with him,

we will also live with him; if we endure, we will also reign with him. If we disown him, he will also disown us; if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself." (2 Timothy 2:4-13)

For this Card, I used a fun image that I got exclusive from Michael's which is one of the new releases from Art Impressions.  I water colored the image using Le Plume markers from Marvy Uchida which I had for a very long time and seldom used.  I was inspired by the series of Water coloring videos featured at Art Impressions Blog.  I am no expert but I'm satisfied with how this turned out.  I definitely found a new love for this coloring technique that is fun and relaxing.  What a way to give my alcohol markers a break while using the ones I got before they completely dry...LOL.  Anyway, the base for this card is Kraft which was cut with my Cricut using one of the shapes in the Wild Card cartridge.  Oh my, I haven't used my Cricut for ages, I tell ya!  The DP's are from DCWV and Recollections.  The circles were cut using my MS Circle Cutter, the layered flowers from Prima and the sparkly brad from Paper Studio.  I also added some die cut leaves using Fiskars punch and a die from Sizzix for the swirl.  The funny sentiment came with the image and finally, some wonderful stitching all over this creation.  I am extremely happy with the over-all result.

                                                 REINDEER GAMES DOILY CARD:

                                           REINDEER GAMES DOILY CARD LAYERS:

                                         REINDEER GAMES DOILY CARD SIDE VIEW:

                                           REINDEER GAMES DOILY CARD INSIDE:

                                   REINDEER GAMES DOILY CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:


This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Pile It On---Christmas or Winter
Fresh Brewed---Christmas
DL Art---Christmas
Pattie's Creations---Christmas
Crafty Girls---ATG
Craft Rocket---ATG
Papertake Weekly---ATG
Craft Your Passion---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Snowflakes Promise---Winter/Christmas
CCC---ATG
Crafts Galore Encore---ATG/Christmas
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Crafty Time---ATG
Crafty Gals---ATG
Crafting with Dragonflies---Christmas
Creative Corner---Sparkle and Shine (Glittered/Sparkly Brad)
Inspiration Destination---ATG
Jo's Scrap Shack---Christmas Joy
Sisters of Craft---ATG
Scrap and Craft---ATG Christmas
Creative Inspirations---ATG with Sketch
Gem of a Challenge---ATG Christmas
Penny's Paper Crafty---ATG
Simply Papercraft---ATG
Brown Sugar---ATG
Card Mania---Christmas
Get Creative---Holidays
Christmas Card---Holiday/Christmas
Your Scrapbook Place---ATG 


This it for now, guys.  Make sure to join us at our neighborhood---613 Avenue Create---for an Anything Goes Challenge.  If you want to be challenged (like I was), take on the Optional Twist.  But there's really no reason for you to miss it.  Our sponsors---My Whimsical Little World, Inky Impressions and Crafty Secrets are giving away some fabulous prizes.  Can't wait to see what you create. The Lord is with you every step of the way so, don't be afraid of the what the future holds---we are safe in the arms of Christ always.

Scripture Series: His Name Immanuel Card---Join Us for Family Friendly/Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Hi everyone!  This  post is way too late but lots of things happened in the beginning of this week that disrupt the normal flow of things.  Yet, despite of the desire of the enemy to kill, steal and destroy, I have a God that is faithful and true in Whose protection I am sheltered.  I would like to testify of the Lord's goodness to me and my son last Sunday morning.  It happened before 9 AM and we were on our way to our Church, just shortly after we left home.  We approached the first intersection and had a green light to proceed.  I saw a car on the left of the intersection that seemed to be stopped but when I was about to cross, that same car moved, ran over her red light and without even attempting to stop, collided with  my vehicle.  She had enough force that  pushed my vehicle and propelled hers several feet to the right side (my view point) of the intersection.  Stunned in disbelief in what had happened and how this vehicle seemed to appear charging at us, I was relieved that my son and I were not harmed physically that I could tell.  Though I knew my boy felt stunned, fearful and traumatized based on his panicked reaction following.  After all, we haven't encountered such situation before.  I glanced at the green light I had that even after the crash, the light remained green.   Clearly, the driver of the other vehicle violated traffic safety by breaking traffic rules which put me  and my son in harms way.

But GOD is our protection!  I realized it could have been worst and despite the great damage to the vehicle I love so dearly and is a blessing to me by the Lord, His ultimate protection was upon us.  Our trusted mechanic/friend with a garage responded quickly (though they were close on Sundays) upon hearing our need to drop off our towed vehicle for estimate/repair just a few minutes after the accident.  My own insurance took care of us right away and had me in a car rental later that afternoon.  While the  lady driver of the involved vehicle (whose perfectly fine after she hit us) did absolutely nothing to ensure our safety doubled by her insurance carrier (not open on Sundays) did nothing so far but dragged their feet to pay-off and played mind games on us. I know that my God is never going to allow them to get away with the harm this irresponsible driver and incompetent insurance are putting us through.  I know others would say it was a common occurrence in the streets but I firmly believe that everything that happens in the physical came from a spiritual origin.  What went on the mind of that lady as she mobilized her vehicle to collide with us, I may not know but you know what---Almighty God knows!  And being the Just God He is, He will see to it that "justice is served" for His children.  They can pull every trick they have in their books but I declare Isaiah 54:17 over everyone that seeks to come against me.  It clearly says,  "No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and this is their vindication from me, declares the LORD."  I asked for prayers from everyone who loves the Lord and my brothers and sisters in faith that we all agree to paralyze  the wicked spirit and it's minions over our accident.  For every lying spirits attached to it---be destroyed and be fully terminated, IN THE NAME OF JESUS!  I declare that VICTORY IS OURS at all counts!  I believed it and I received it... IT IS DONE!  Glory be to God!

Anyway, I would like to remind you of the ongoing Anything Goes Challenge happening at Word Art Wednesday (WAW) where we feature a new Scripture Word Art every week that you can download for free at the WAW site.  It comes from Isaiah 7:14 which says, "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."  Every year especially during the Christmas season, we see this verse quoted by many in social media, in cards etc.  While many people are busy fulfilling the hustle and bustle/tradition part of this season, lots of them lost the true meaning and significance of why we even remember CHRISTmas!  Oh yes, I am very aware of the pagan origins of this season and I recognize and understand why others would not want to celebrate.  One of the things being questioned, the Scripture did not specify the exact date of Jesus' birth for us to conclude that it's on December 25. Based on scenarios (like shepherds tending their sheep in the field at night) argued that it could not happened in December during cold Judean winter.  Many people have already fought long and hard to uncover  dates and all that  in attempts to convince others to consider their sides in this argument and I am not going to add myself to the mix.  Here's what I know...One faithful day, Jesus (Son of God) was born in the flesh and dwelt among human beings like you and me.  He came to obey the will of the Father---to redeem mankind from the bondage of Sin with his own blood at the Cross!  That in His Gospel (death, burial and resurrection),  all who placed their trust in His finished work are reinstated to their original position of righteousness (like Sin never took place!) in the presence of the Father.  Through a virgin called Mary, the Holy Spirit carried out the will of our Most Holy God which is the most significant thing that happened to humanity and is definitely worth celebrating, especially by those who personally experienced the grace and goodness of God. 

During the whole world's acknowledgment of the CHRISTmas season, we have the opportunity to tell as many people of that Truth.   In this world where the name of Jesus and everything about Him is being removed from the minds and hearts of people, especially our children, this is the time we are collectively seeing and hearing Christ in CHRISTmas.  The lights, the tree, the decorations, the shopping  for gifts and gift-giving and  many of men's tradition may have been used as pagan symbols and rituals which many are opposed to. But why on earth would we allow the devil to claim all the wonderful elements and attributes the Lord has given us and count them evil when we can utilize them to proclaim the Truth and share with others the true meaning of our celebration?  I'm not trying to convince anyone, I am merely sharing why I do what I do...I decorate my balcony with lights because the beauty that these colorful lights create reminds me that we are somehow similar to those lights, different colors---plugged into a Source, and through faith in Jesus, we can shine so brightly for everyone to see.  The beauty and potential of those lights can never be seen till electricity (like the Holy Spirit) flows through them and empower them to shine.  I decorate a tree with lights and wonderful ornaments to remind me of how my plain and simple existence had been decorated by the presence of God through faith in Immanuel (God with us).  To make myself very clear,  I no longer allow the enemy to use the traditions of men to define what CHRISTmas season is for me.  I can even choose to light up my balcony for the entire year if only there are no restrictions  having those lights up after CHRISTmas and if electrical consumption was not an issue...LOL  Friends, it is important to know the motive behind your celebration for God looks after the heart.  As for me, as long as this world still attaches the name of CHRIST to this season, I will tell as many people the true reason for the season.  That Jesus came one blessed night because of His LOVE for all mankind!  I want to share with you the great promises fulfilled by the birth of Jesus Christ through the following verses and how that same Great Promise leads us back to God's eternal glory. 

“For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost. “What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying?  “And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray.  “Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish."  (Matthew 18:11-14)

"And He (Jesus) was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the Gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.” Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him.  And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:17-21)

“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.  “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.  “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.  “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:37-40)

For this Card, I used one of our sponsor's image, Bugaboo Digi Stamps, called "MaryJoseph" and colored it using my ProMarker/Prismacolor.Spectrum Noir markers.  The base is A7 size card that comes with an envelope from Paper Studio.  The panels are just white CS and I used an MS border punch for the mini hearts border.  I used a bit of glitters (Stickles-Crystal) for added dimension on the image and incorporated some white nail head gems from Imaginisce and lots of stitching.  The message of today's Word Art is so powerful and I felt that coupled with the image, nothing more is needed.  I seldom make a CAS card but it sure makes me happy when I get to create one.

                                                  HIS NAME IMMANUEL CARD:

                                              HIS NAME IMMANUEL CARD LAYERS:

                                              HIS NAME IMMANUEL CARD INSIDE:

                                        HIS NAME IMMANUEL CARD WITH ENVELOPE:


This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Quirky Crafts---Anything Christmas
Creative Moments---ATG/Bling It Up
Crafty Gals---ATG
Simply Papercraft---ATG
Crafty Creations---ATG
Snowflakes Promise---Winter/Christmas
Clear It Out---Christmas and Glitter
Craftin' Desert Divas---Christmas
Craft Your Passion---ATG
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Inspiration Destination---ATG
TTCRD---ATG
Addicted to Stamps---ATG
Crazy Challenge---ATG
Not Just Cards---ATG
Art by Miran---ATG
Creative Fingers---ATG
Fussy and Fancy---Words
Morgan's Artworld---Non-traditional Coloured Christmas Cards
Pattie's Creations---Anything Christmas with an Image
PDE Linky Party---ATG
QKR Stampede---Use Some Glitter
Craft Rocket---ATG
Crafting with an Attitude---ATG
Creative Knockouts---"Tis the Season
Digital Delights---Stamped Image(Digi/Rubber)
DL Art---Christmas
Scrap and Craft---ATG Christmas
Star Stampz---Lots of Layers
Doubleclick Skittles---The Beauty of the Season
Fresh Brewed---ATG Christmas
Ruby's Rainbow---Christmas with Metallic Twist (Nail head gems are metal)
Crafty Addicts---ATG/Celebration
Whimsy Stamps---ATG/Holiday
Catch the Bug---Color
Your Scrapbook Place---ATG 


I surely hope you will come and join us at the WAW Blog.  You can upload up to 5 entries as long as it has an uplifting/inspirational message.  Wonderful prizes are awaiting the winners courtesy of our sponsors this week---Bugaboo Digi Stamps (3 Digi Images) and the Crafty Individuals (15 euros GC).  Our Challenge is "Anything Goes" so you can be as creative as you want to be.  I can't wait to see what you come up with.  So, this is it for me today.  Have a blessed weekend and remember, in Jesus, we are in right standing with God. To Him all glory is given!