Scripture Series: Lord, Thou Art My God Card---Join Us for Another Inspirational/Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Good Wednesday morning, everyone!  Here to highlight another card I made for the Scripture Word Art you can download for free at Word Art Wednesday (WAW).  The verse comes from Isaiah 25:1 which says, "O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth." You see, I grew up with some knowledge of God from what my parents shared with me, what my school taught me and what I observed from my friends.  I also became aware of other religions and have heard a bit of their fundamental teachings.  But I can safely say that I knew more of Jesus (and Mary) than any other religions I was exposed to at that time.  I was told that He came  to pay for my sins.  Well, what sins?  That was not explained to me that well.  I was told that Adam sinned and therefore I also sinned.  Though limited,  it was not hard for me to comprehend.  I knew that NOT A DAY WENT BY THAT I WAS FREE FROM MAKING MISTAKES.  I could have lied, fought with my parents/brother or argued with a friend etc... I was not perfect and needed a Savior.  Each time, I would go to the church or get a chance to confess my sins to a priest in-charged, I would feel good.  With a recipe  of memorized prayers, I am supposed to be washed clean.  Yet, a few days later, I would fall short again! It's back to square one again...and again...and again----A VICIOUS CYCLE!  I was completely oblivious of what eternity looks like  and wishfully hoped for God to take me on my "feeling good moments" in order to secure my place in His Kingdom...

Such was the life (of uncertainty) I lived with prior to accepting the Lord Jesus as my Lord and Savior (Born-Again, John 3:3).  It was a life of hear-says and unproven beliefs from people whom I thought knew better.  I realized that all of them held on to what they perceived was true because like me, they got them from their parents/environment.  In many cases, very few dared to prove any of the claims their religions put them through.  We were somehow threatened and made to believe that to question religious doctrines meant "lack of faith" and disobedience/non-compliance meant going to hell.  But praise the Lord---GOD SET ME FREE!  God did not use anybody to convince me or talk me into accepting Him as my Lord and Savior.  He showed me  how it was to live without Him.  It cost me almost everything---I was deeply depressed and hopeless and I had no  one to turn to. Nobody understood the longing inside and that something was missing!  The temporary fix often prescribed by friends didn't work anymore and my life was without meaning.  In that awful state, JESUS STEPPED IN!  It's very hard to explain but one prayer (one night, all alone in front of the TV with God's servant who shared what Christ has done for me in a TV broadcast), God spoke to the deepest and innermost part of my heart.  He instantly healed me of all the pain and gave me a new life---the old is gone and everything made new (2 Corinthians 5:17)---my life was never the same.

Friends, that was 24 years ago...No longer do I have a limited knowledge of my Lord but He gave me a vast understanding of His great love for mankind and the glorious destination of everyone who have placed their trust in Christ.  My future is secured solely from what Jesus accomplished in the Cross, never based on my capabilities or inabilities.  In my good or bad day, I can declare His favor.  I can boast of His righteousness upon my life.  I  USED TO BE A SINNER SAVED BY GRACE BUT NOW, THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS!  I have a place in the Kingdom of God because eternal victory was secured for me by my Heavenly Father.  My friends, it is only by knowing the One True God and Him revealing to you His Truths will we be able to comprehend the earthly and eternal purpose of our existence.  With solid understanding of the revelations of God through His Word and of Himself through Jesus Christ, we will be able to give God the due praise, reverence and worship He solely and truly deserves.  It all starts with a desire to get to know Him.  Jesus said in John 6:37, "All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away."  Here are other verses that tells us Whom we can trust:

"The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you."  (Psalm 9:9-10)

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."  (Matthew 7:7-8)

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."  (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

For this Card, I used an image from Mo Manning Digi Stamps called "Fabulous" and colored it with my ProMarker/Prismacolor markers.  The base is Kraft, cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches square card.  The DP is from DCWV  and I added some Liquid Pearls (Petal Pink) to the image's hair and some Glossy Accents to the image's glasses.  I stamped a couple of images for background from Inkadinkado and Hampton Art.  Lastly, I stitched all over this project.  This card is quite simple as the Scripture Word Art is meant to be the focus.  Hope you like it...

 LORD, THOU ART MY GOD CARD:

 LORD, THOU ART MY GOD CARD LAYERS:

 

 LORD, THOU ART MY GOD CARD INSIDE:

LORD, THOU ART MY GOD CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Ladybug Crafts---CAS
Crafty Catz---ATG
Fairy Tale---Use a Digi
Sister Act---ATG
Crafter's Cafe---Use a Digi
Paper Shelter---ATG
Crafty Sentiments---ATG
Deep Ocean---Summer Colours
Crafty Creations---Just for Fun
Crafty Girls---ATG
Fan-Tastic Tuesday---ATG
My Craft Creations---ATG
Addicted to Stamps---ATG
Divas by Design---ATG
Handmade Harbour---Summer Fun
Inky Impressions---ATG
Simon Says---Summer Celebrations
Crafting at the Weekend---ATG
My Time to Craft---Use Kraft
Suzy Bee's---ATG
Treasured Times---ATG
Art by Miran---ATG
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Oddball Art Stamps---Show Your Coloring Skills
One Sweet Challenge---Color Challenge
Digi Choosday---Lots of Layers
TTCRD---ATG

Have an awesome day, everyone and looking forward to see your wonderful projects linked at our WAW Blog.  It will be nice to see the featured Word Art in your Challenge project but not mandatory.  As long as it's family friendly, inspirational and uplifting, you are free to link up to 5 projects.  Our sponsors for this week are Flying Unicorn ($25 GC) and Craft Classes Online ($25 Online Course).  So start creating and link-up.  You don't want to miss the chance to win any of our fabulous prizes this week.  Just want to tell you how much God loves you and He died on the Cross so that we may live freely.  Get to know Him and be blessed!

Scripture Series: God of my Life Card--Join the Fun in our Inspirational/Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Hello guys...It's time to share another card here for Word Art Wednesday (WAW) Challenge.  There's a lot of things going through my mind---you know just the busyness of life and it's hard at times to just sort out through the clutter and what's really important when it comes to what the Lord wants me to accomplish.  There are many factors that attempts to take my focus off the Lord but I know that God never takes His focus off me.  When I start relying on what I can do, I will surely fail.  I must remember that my relationship with God does not depend on my faithfulness to Him but His faithfulness to me through Christ Jesus.  His Word clearly tells us in Acts 17:28, " 'For in him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are his offspring." Everyday, we make mistakes that can hinder us from fulfilling the work of God in our lives.  The enemy is doing everything he can to severe your relationship with God.  1 Peter 5:8 says, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."  Our enemy knows that there's nothing that can undo what Christ did at the Cross.  But what he can do is play with our minds and make us think that we are incapable of obeying God, are good for nothing and therefore, unworthy of God's love.  I have seen a lot of  people who were on fire for the Lord but left the path of righteousness to go back to their worldly lifestyle and got even worst.  Inside each and and every one of us is a desire for different things.  That is why it is so important to surrender everything to the Lord---I mean EVERYTHING!  When we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior (John 3:3), we dethroned ourselves from running our own lives as we please. We gave up our selfish motives and ambitions and turn our lives to Jesus Christ, Who will make use of us based on the function He has wired us to do when He created us.  Each one of us is unique and only by total dependence in the Lord will we be able to discover who we are and what we can do in this life for His Kingdom.  This is why the statement popularly known as, "You can do anything you want and be anything you want to be, " is not scriptural.  Many have walked that path and ended up getting everything they wanted but felt miserable, ended up destroying their lives.  True success is only found by being in relationship with the Father who reveals to us our true purpose.  So, when I am having such a bad day and  nothing seems to go right, I remind myself of the Lord's faithfulness.  That in spite of my mistakes, my God is faithful as I confess any acts and thoughts that didn't come in line with His Word, He is faithful and just to forgive me and cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).  I may have to deal with the pain and consequences of those mistakes but I know that no matter what, God is with me.  He is there in good and bad times.  I am never worthless in His sight.  Jesus' death on the Cross is more than enough proof of His unconditional love for me.  Oh yes, we can allow ourselves to be deceived by the enemy but despite of what we think or feel, God's Word holds true in Romans 8:38-39 which states, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  Remember that God is not bound by what we feel or think.  Through Christ, we always have the victory no matter how grim our situations are.  Just want to share with you this scripture in Romans 8:1-15.  Be bless...

Life Through the Spirit

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness.  And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you. Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 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.”

Today at WAW, we are highlighting the scripture Word Art (you can download for free at the WAW Blog) from Psalm 42:8 which says, "Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the day time, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life."  This passage tells us of an attitude a believer of Christ should possess.  We are to never allow ourselves to live without hope since we are in a perfect relationship with our Father.  I say perfect because it's not based on us but founded in the finished work of Jesus Christ, our Only Savior.  We are confident that His presence is upon us be it day or night and that everything will be alright.  For this Card, I used a cute image from Sassy Cheryl's Stamps called "Pencil Girl with Glasses" that I hand colored using my ProMarker/Prismacolor/Spectrum Noir markers.  I used Kraft for base, cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches square card.  The DP's and frame are all from Recollections, the layered flowers from Prima and the leaves are a die-cut using EK Success Punch.  I added some glitters to the flowers (Stickles-Crystal), glossy accent to the eye glasses of the image as well as different size brads.  To finalize, I stitched all over this card.  Let me know what you think...

 GOD OF MY LIFE CARD:

  GOD OF MY LIFE CARD LAYERS:

  GOD OF MY LIFE CARD INSIDE:

 GOD OF MY LIFE CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Sisterhood of Crafters---Die-Cuts and/or Punches
Crazy Challenge---Die-Cuts and/or Punches
Fairy Tale---Use a Digi
Paper Shelter---ATG
Crafts Galore Encore---Use Stamp/Digi Stamp
Crafty Creations---Just for Fun
My Craft Creations---ATG
Handmade Harbour---Summer Fun
Hobbybrook---Lots of Circles
Nutcrafters---Summer Celebrations
Digi Designs---Dies and/or Punches
Oddball Art Stamps---Show Your Coloring Skills
One Sweet Challenge---Color Challenge 

I hope you will come and join us at the WAW Challenge.  You can upload up to 5 entries as long as it has an uplifting/inspirational message.  We have great prizes from our fabulous sponsors this week namely The Frantic Stamper (giving away a new "die") and Moonlighting by Mary (3 digi images).  To find out how to win, please go to the WAW Blog.  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 week and remember, in Jesus, we are in right standing with God. To Him all glory is given!   

Good Times Better Shared Card---Come Join Us in Another Anything Goes Challenge with a Twist in my Neighborhood, 613 Avenue Create!

Hi there, fellow Crafters!  It's another Sunday morning and another day the Lord has made.  It's nice to wake up and be grateful for all the wonderful things the Lord has done.  Sometimes, we focus on the significant happenings in our lives but ignore the daily and more obvious blessings.  Take for example, the air we breathe!  Proper combination of gases in the air allows us to breathe without threat to our health.  How about the gravity that holds us in place? Without it, we will be floating in space and die.  Now, what about the magnificent heart that beats inside every one of us?  You know what happens when it stops working, right?  Everything that is inside of us and whats in our environment (essential to our survival on earth) has been created by God to support and sustain us.  The entire universe was made by God to benefit His masterpiece---MANKIND!   Psalm 144:3-4 tells us, "LORD, what are human beings that you care for them, mere mortals that you think of them?  They are like a breath; their days are like a fleeting shadow."  Oh yes, we have to know who we are in the eyes of God in order to understand the depths of His love for us!  In Genesis 3, we've seen how mankind mess up the wonderful plan of God and betrayed the very One who gave him life.  He conspired and  gave the authority (dominion) God has given him to the very enemy of his Father (God).  From then on, we became slaves to Satan!  We did every despicable  and ungodly things we can put our minds into.  Once we were created in the image and likeness of God and possessed every good and wonderful thing that comes from being sons and daughters of Almighty God.  But then, we went so low!  Look around and right in front of you, you'll see the evidence of the destruction we have placed ourselves into.  There was no way out of this slavery!  We're destined to hell as descendents of Adam.  But God knows no defeat!  Before everything came into place, He already provided the Only Solution to Man's deep crisis.  It was demonstrated and accomplished by God's Only Begotten Son---Jesus Christ---upon His death on the Cross and sealed to victory by His resurrection!  Anyone who is Born-Again (John 3:3) through faith in the finished work of Jesus had been free from every kind of bondage.  I want to share with you Romans 5:12-21 and I ask that you meditate on this Truth:

Death in Adam, Life Through Christ

  

"Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come. But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!

Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

It is clear---through Adam, we became slaves to sin and thrown into death (spiritual, physical and eternal) with no hope of ever seeing the glory that we were originally created for.  But because Christ paid the price at the Cross---died and gained victory over death by His resurrection---anyone  who place his faith in Him alone also enjoys the full benefit Christ has won through that once and for all sacrifice. We have every reason to rejoice in the present as well as in the eternal future for He has changed our destiny from death to life.  That is why, no religion (with all their proclaimed gods) can save mankind.  Our problem was/is Adam's sin and the only solution is found at the Cross of Jesus Christ.  This is why it does not make any sense when people claims there are many ways to come to God---it is utter foolishness!  In God's written Word (Bible), He told us what was the problem of man and in the same book, He told us of the Only Solution.  I pray that if you have not allowed the Lord Jesus inside your heart right at this moment, that you do yourself a favor and consider what I shared here.  God is gracious! Each day we wake up is another chance to get to know His Son, Jesus!  No one can force you to believe in anything.  Don't allow your family, friends or love ones to make a decision for you.  You will be standing on your own, face to face with God Almighty (in the appointed time) and must give account of all that you have done.  You cannot put the blame on anybody if you were deceived by virtue of your relationships. This is by far the most important decision you can ever do in your life (securing your eternal destination/future) while you are still alive.  Come to Jesus and allow Him to tell you great and mighty things you know nothing about. He loves you more than you'll ever know.  Please don't wait for tomorrow for it may not come.

On the other hand, I want to share this Card that I made for our Challenge at 613 Avenue Create,  It's always Anything Goes with an optional twist of Party/Celebration.  I used one of the images from one of our sponsors---Oak Pond Creations, called "Love Pets" which I colored with my ProMarker/Prismacolor markers.  I used a white CS for the base, DP's and brads from Recollections, nail head gems from Imaginisce and Washi Tape from Smash.  The stamped sentiment on the pennant is from Studio 112.  The main sentiment below the card is a freebie from Create with TLC (Thanks a lot, Paulette). Lastly, I stitched all over this Card...I think it came our pretty cute!

 GOOD TIMES BETTER SHARED CARD:

 GOOD TIMES BETTER SHARED CARD LAYERS:

 GOOD TIMES BETTER SHARED CARD INSIDE:

GOOD TIMES BETTER SHARED CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Eclectic Ellapu---Pink (Country/Travel)/Purple (ATG)
Great Impressions---Animal Friends
Pile It On---Summer Fun
Scribble and Scrap---ATG
That Craft Place---ATG
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Penny's Paper-Crafty---ATG
Fairy Tale---Use a Digi
Crafts Galore Encore---Use Stamp/Digi Stamp
Handmade Harbour---Summer Fun
Oddball Art Stamps---Show Your Coloring Skills 
One Sweet Challenge---Color Challenge 

I better get going but let me remind you to visit our Blog at 613 Avenue Create and join our Anything Goes with Optional Twist Challenge.  Lots of great prices to be won from our  two great sponsors this week---Oak Pond Creations and Sassy Studio Designs!  Have an awesome day praising the Lord and would appreciate any comment you will leave me here.  If you enjoyed visiting my Blog or found some wonderful inspiration, please consider being a Follower.  God bless!

Scripture Series: Crown of Life Card---I'm Back and Time for Another Inspirational/Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Hello dear friends!  I can't believe it's been almost three weeks since my last post and those days were filled with hard work as we moved to a new place.  There's still boxes and boxes of stuff to deal with but I was determined to make it back to my DT work this week.  My biggest challenge was locating all the tools and essentials I needed to create as they were all in different boxes plus the fact that I was not sure whether I am capable of making anything after those stressful weeks.  But I tell you, God is faithful!  I believe that when He calls us to do something, it is Him Who makes sure the task is completed.  You see, I craft for Him and the only reason why my Blog is staying afloat with many things to share is because the Lord does not stop giving me revelation upon revelations.  There's always something to talk about when it comes to the goodness of God. There's a barrage of trials that tried my faith in those weeks and it was really tough.  But one thing I can say is that knowing Who the Lord is in my life kept me in the right path.  In times I don't have anymore to give---all tired (physically and mentally drained) and all frustrated, I know that despite the horrible feeling, the Lord Jesus will see me through.  Apart from Him, there is really no hope.  So even in hopelessness, He is a beacon of light that shines through---lighting my path.  I don't need to feel Him and get goose bumps all over to know He's there for me.  His Word tells me He's there---to never leave me nor forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:6).   He is a Father who comes to the rescue of us (Born-Again, John 3:3), His children.  So, if trials come your way and everything seem hopeless,  place your faith in God.  He is our Only Source of recovery.  When He's silent, trust in His Word.  I keep trusting until I see the manifestation of His Word in my life.  Never give up, no matter what your circumstances are for we don't have any other option.  Everything outside of God leads to death and we can only turn our situation for the better if we allow God to take over our lives---not momentarily but for always.  Here are verses to remind us of God's promises in trials through Christ Jesus:

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9)

So for my inspiration card today at Word Art Wednesday (WAW), we are featuring God's Word in James 1:12 which says, "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him."  What an encouragement...You see, all trials carry with them loads of temptation.  When things are not going our way, Satan works double time to add fuel to our emotions and make us think all sorts of deceptive things.  We are made to believe that God does not care about us and does not hear our prayers and cry for help.  As we allow our soul life (mind, will and emotions) to rule us, we give in to temptation and before we know it, we are back to the old lifestyle and has gotten worst.  Spiritual deterioration does not come in an instant, it make its way to us step by step till it has taken over us.  That is why we are not to give room for our emotions to lie to us.  Read God's Word and put your trust solely in Christ.  Hide His Word in your hearts so when temptations and trials come your way, you can speak against your situation by the power that is in God's Word.  I know how hard it is---believe me, I know!  But I have to go against my own self and rebuke any emotional hang-up that tries to bring me down.  I seek God's help to accomplish this and I am only victorious because He is with me.  In the future, all of these will make sense as we come to the presence of the Lord to receive the "Crown of Life" for trusting in Jesus at all times with all the rewards allotted for them that overcame.  What a glorious day that will be and something we can meditate on in the midst of a storm.    If you are inspired by this verse, you can download this Word Art for free at WAW Blog to feature in your projects and to join our Challenge.  I used an image from Bugaboo Digi Stamps called "Love Blocks - With Love."  For the base, I used a white CS, cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches square card.  I used mostly my scraps for the CS and paper pieces.  I used two embossing folders from Cuttlebug and embossed two round panels with my Cuttlebug machine.  I stamped a border with my Fiskars clear stamp and stitched all over.  Hope you like my comeback card.

 CROWN OF LIFE CARD:

 CROWN OF LIFE CARD LAYERS:

 CROWN OF LIFE CARD INSIDE:

CROWN OF LIFE CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Crafting by Designs---Use Sentiment
Creative Moments---ATG/Use Flower
Fab 'n' Funky---Feels like Summer
Fresh Brewed---By the Sea/Summer
Moo-Mania---ATG
Penny's Paper Crafty---ATG
Scrapper's Delight---ATG with Cute and Girly
Bearly-Mine---Let's Go Digital
Crafts Galore Encore---Use a Stamp or Digi Stamp
Crafting Musketeers---Summertime
Digi Galore---ATG
Imagination-Crafts---ATG
Just for Fun---ATG
Ladybug Crafts---Summer Flowers
Natalie and Amy---Summertime
Fan-Tastic Tuesday---ATG
TTCRD---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
My Craft Creations---ATG
Paper Nest Dolls---ATG
Sisters of Craft---ATG
Deep Ocean---Lots of Layers
Crafty Girls---ATG
Sister Act---ATG
Crafty Catz---Flowers
Wags 'n Whiskers---ATG
Glitter n Sparkle---ATG
Scribble and Scrap---ATG
Stamping Sensations---Summer Blooms
Crafting at the Weekend---ATG
HIMCR---Use Scraps
Suzy Bee's---ATG
Time 4 Scrap---ATG
Treasured Time Stamps---ATG
Creative Fingers---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 enter up to 5 times this week.  Lots of prizes to be won from our two wonderful sponsors---Marks Finest Papers (Stamp Set) and Yours or Mine Paper Crafts ($10 GC to their shop).  So excited to see what you come up with.  Anyway, cheer up and let the peace of the Lord overtake you today.  I serve a good and faithful God---Jesus Christ!  

Behind the Clouds Card---Join Us at my Neighborhood, 613 Avenue Create for Anything Goes with a Twist and a Blog Hop for Paulette at Create with TLC!

Hello Everyone...I have been MIA for quite sometime as there are many things that needs me and my family's attention nowadays.  I may be out for a couple more weeks after this but once everything settles down, I can resume with my regular sharing and blogging.  The past few weeks, my faith in the Lord was tested in so many different ways.  I've hold on to His promises ever since I became a believer and though with many victories, life can be very hard at times.  Yet, I can look back and see  how the Lord delivered me and my family from difficult situations and it propelled me to grow in faith.  Recently, God impressed upon my heart (accompanied by His Word with many signs along the way) answers to many specific prayers.  If any of you wonder how God speaks, it is primarily through His Word (Bible) or sometimes---a still, small voice.  It could also be through His Holy Spirit speaking in your heart, a Word of knowledge from family, friends or even strangers or by profound signs and wonders.  However, even with a revelation of His blessings and promises in my life, what takes place in the physical realm (earthly existence) seemed to contradict the delivery of such blessings.  I don't know with you but when everything is a struggle and every step seems to be a battleground---one step up to victory is followed by two steps backwards hitting a wall in the process, it compels me to seek God's face and ask  if we are truly moving according to His direction.  I remember having experienced many trials in life but at some point, God steps in and provided victory.  But I realized that as we mature in faith, the degree of trials also increases.  Armed with the wonderful promises of God in one hand yet on the other, burdened by what physical reality shows---IT IS A BATTLEGROUND!  As a Born-again believer, we are confronted daily with a CHOICE---to live for God through faith in what Jesus had accomplished or follow the dictates of our own will which directly reacts to what our five senses perceives/encounters.  Whether we eat, sleep, work or play----this battle (choice) rages on inside everyone of us.  My desire is to do the will of my Father in heaven, ask for His direction in all my circumstances.  But there are times, He seemed to be silent.  Unlike my past experiences, it was not clear to me what road to take and when to move.  Feeling helpless, I cried to Him many times, talked to Him, letting Him know what's inside my heart.  I asked Him many "why" questions and prayed that He give me the wisdom to understand.  I asked for comfort and strength and to be given faith and courage to hold on to His promises.  Though my emotion tries to push me even further into hopelessness,  I know one thing for sure---GOD IS WITH ME (John 14:16-17)!   I may not fully grasp the reason why things are such a struggle but I know that through it all,  Jesus is with me on this rough and bumpy ride.  At times, He may be silent but it does not mean He's abandoned me.  The One Who didn't withhold His Only Begotten Son from death on the Cross to save me from eternal separation from Him is not likely to leave me alone in the danger zone of life after His redemptive work was accomplished.  If anything, I know I can trust His Love for me.  My feelings (emotions) would lie to me and everyone forsake me but my Heavenly Father would not (Numbers 23:19). 

You see, people who are sharing God's Word are not exempted from troubles and pains.  It's easy to quote the Scripture and sound spiritual in the eyes of many but the real challenge is do we live the life we share to others?  We tell others to live by faith but when trials come our way, do we anchor our lives with the same faith we preach?  We tell many of the hope we have in Christ but when we're faced with one huge storm after another, is our life saver only Jesus?  I know I have to be very honest with my God.  I tell Him all my concerns, fears and weaknesses for no one knows me more than He does (Psalm 139).  He can work with me if I give it all to Him---no pretensions nor hypocrisy.  It is in fact because of His work in my life that I am able to share His love to everyone and have compassion for others who are undergoing similar trials.  Through Christ, I count every hardship a blessing because it brings me closer to understanding why Jesus had to die for me/us (Romans 8:28).  It's not easy but I trust in the presence of God in my life.  His Word says that absolutely nothing is going to separate me from His love through Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39).  If you are feeling hopeless at this moment, know that the Lord Jesus wants to meet you in your time of need, to love and comfort you and to ease up your burden.  He's just a heartbeat away.  I would like to share with you this article which will sure help you when facing trials---WHY DOES GOD TEST US?  Take the time to read and you'll be blessed!

Anyway, I created this Card for our Anything Goes Challenge with an optional Twist (Use Pink) for our Challenge at 613 Avenue Create.  I am privileged to use a wonderful image from one of our sponsors, Time for Tea Designs called "Pedal Power" and I colored it with my ProMarker/Prismacolor/Bic markers.  The base card is Kraft, cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches square card.  The DP's are from DCWV and my scraps.  I did some embossing with my Cuttlebug, added some white nail head gems and some glitters (Stickles---Lime Green and Diamond) to the clouds and the image.  Lastly I did some sewing inside and out. 

On the other hand, this POST is very special because I want to dedicate it to a dear friend here at Blog land---PAULETTE from Create with TLC!  She encountered an accident at home which caused her to be hospitalized and undergo surgery.  She's looking forward to better days taking some rest.  However, if you are like me, then you have been a recipient of her generosity through her daily sharing of free digital stamps!  I have a wonderful collection of great sentiments and images from her which I always refer to when I create my cards.  I know I can always find something wonderful that will suit every kind of theme I can think of.  In short, she does not share simple artwork but are in fact, the best sentiments and images one can find at no cost.  She would rather receive thank you comments and that truly makes her happy.  And even those she sells at her store are the most affordable sets one can ever find.  I am blessed to be a part of her Design Team and make projects with her artwork every now and then.   She's truly an amazing lady!  To make her smile today, we (her DT's) have arranged a BLOG HOP to bring sunshine to her cloudy days. 

I AM THE LAST STOP which means you came from HETTY'S BLOG and have enjoyed your time hopping to 10 others before her.   After me, you can proceed back to the main Blog---CREATE WITH TLC if you want to link a get well/encouragement project/s and/or send your well wishes to our dear, Paulette!  I know she has touched so many lives and this is just a small token of appreciation to brighten her day.   I am featuring a freebie sentiment I got from her in today's project and  would like to encourage her with its message.  Hope for your speedy recovery, Paulette!  We truly miss you! 

BEHIND THE CLOUDS CARD:

BEHIND THE CLOUDS CARD LAYERS:

BEHIND THE CLOUDS CARD INSIDE:

 

BEHIND THE CLOUDS CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Addicted to Stamps---Polka Dots
Ditzie Digi---ATG
Lacy Sunshine---ATG
OSAAT---ATG
Pile It On---Kawaii/Cute
Scribble and Scrap---ATG
Corrosive Challenge---Color Me Happy
Squirrel and the Fox---Metal (White nail head gems are metal)
CCC Digi Creations---Digi/Flowers
Divas by Design---3or More Layers
Digi Designs---Lots of Layers
Crafty Catz---Stitching
Sugar Pea---ATG
Creative Moments---ATG/For the Boys
Hambo Hoedown---Summer
Paper Pretties---Summer Fun
Crafty Girls---ATG
Creative Corner---Summertime
Just for Fun---Here Comes Summer
Lia Stampz---Summer Fun
Sisters of Craft---ATG
A Creative Need---ATG
Crafting Musketeers---Stamped Image (Including Digi)
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Stampin Royals---ATG
Paper Crafting Journey---ATG
Sunshine Mail---ATG
Loves Rubberstamps---Spots and Dots
Rhedd and Rosie---ATG
Stamping Chef---ATG


 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 Stamps, Hannah Lynn Art, Lee's Digi Shop and Time for Tea Designs.  Can't wait to see what fabulous projects you're going to highlight this week.  Also, thanks for stopping by my Blog to check what I have for Paulette of Create with TLC and thank you for checking the rest of the DT's Blog. Have a wonderful week and remember that for a believer, Christ is with us and for us, no matter what! 

Scripture Series: Whom Have I in Heaven Card---It's Time for Another Inspirational /Anything Goes Challenge at Word Art Wednesday!

Hi there!  I'm a day behind for my Wednesday post but wanted to share with you this project that highlights another Word Art (you can download for free) at our Word Art Wednesday (WAW) Challenge.  It's taken from Psalm 73:25 which says, "Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee."  I wonder what is going on in the mind of the psalmist in order to utter such words of love and adoration to God.  Obviously, if we look into the minds and hearts of many people throughout history and our present  time, such dependence, trust and faith unto the Lord is uncommon.  If we place ourselves and get lost in what could be going on inside the mind of the psalmist, we'll see that knowing and experiencing the reality of the presence of  the One True God comes from placing our trust in all that God is.  It is the knowledge that Almighty God, the Creator of haven and earth, is with me, in me and is for me.  Because God loves me, I am secured in His arms and there's nothing far more important to me (both now and the eternal) but to be in His presence.  It is that knowledge deep inside the very core of our spirit that God is really all we need in our lives.  This worship and adoration is not forced or taught but it comes from realizing how God so loved us and reciprocating that love wholeheartedly (from one's free will).  God's greatest commandment is spoken in Deuteronomy 6:5-9 which says, "And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.^"

You see, before Man fell into sin,  He enjoyed a close and personal relationship with God.  He was given dominion over God's creation and  would rule the earth as God rules the heavens. His spirit, soul and body (Tripartite Being) only desires what God wills and the very presence of God clothe them. But Man fell into temptation and rebelled against the very God who created and gave them everything.  They were tricked into exchanging the greater glory of God to depravity of the human will---thinking that the created can trample over his Creator.  They assumed the will of Satan (John 10:10---to steal, to kill and to destroy) and have taken up his cause, believing in the devil's lies and promises of false glory.  Truth to be told, every person born on this earth desires wealth, fame, fortune, power and the approval of men.  Unless God reveals Himself to any of us, we only think of OURSELVES! It is because of this that a NEW BIRTH (Born-again, John 3:3)  is extremely important.  We have to die from that old sinful nature and be reborn in order to reconnect with God---like we were in the beginning.  Acts 4:12 says, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."  1 Timothy 2:5 also reveals, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus." Before the law of Moses (Torah),  Man's wholehearted faith in God made Him righteous before the Lord.  We see this in the life of Abraham as spoken of in Romans 4:3, "What does Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness."  Notice that it was not based on his works, his strength, his own efforts and abilities.  Him believing God made him a recipient of God's righteousness.  Only God can place us in right standing with Him.  Apostle Paul, bearer of God's many great revelations in the New Testament had been greatly used by the Lord even though his past life involved persecuting and murdering Christians.  God saw in him what others failed to see---that one day, Paul would give up everything and took responsibility of the task He purposed him to do.  Paul, the Pharisee of pharisees was blinded by false religion and killed many because of his ignorance of the truth.  When the Lord called him, he believed, emptied himself and renewed His mind to the perfect will of God.  What I want you to understand is that there is no other way we can trust and depend on God till we believed that He is Who He said He is and in turn, surrender to His Lordship.  Salvation is by faith alone---before Jesus Christ' ultimate sacrifice---it is still by faith that we can come to God this day through what Christ has done!  Having given myself totally to His divine will, I can utter with absolute confidence the same words as the psalmist in Psalm 73:25.  I declare this,  "Jesus, You are all I have! I desire nothing on earth  and in my life than to be in your presence."  I want to leave you with this wonderful scripture, written by Apostle Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit to encourage you to seek the greater things of God---eternal and unchanging:

"But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me."  (Philippians 3:7-12)

For this Card, I used a wonderful image from Time for Tea called "Polly" and colored it with my ProMarker/Prismacolor markers.  The base card is size A7, the DP's are from Recollections, the ribbon from my stash and the ribbon flower, I made.  I know you are all used to my bright cards but I decided to make this simple and subdued for a change.  I added some regular and fancy stitching to finish this Card.  Turned out really good.  Tell me what you think.

 WHOM HAVE I IN HEAVEN CARD:

 WHOM HAVE I IN HEAVEN CARD LAYERS:

 WHOM HAVE I IN HEAVEN CARD INSIDE:

 WHOM HAVE I IN HEAVEN CARD WITH ENVELOPE:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Pile It On---Use Patterned Paper
Melonheadz Friends---Summer Fun
A Creative Need---ATG
TTCRD---ATG
Sister Act---Any Card Goes
The Paper Shelter---Summer Time
Digi Designs---Ribbons/Bow
Craft for the Craic---Summery/With Flowers
Get Inky---Get Inky this Summer
Fussy and Fancy Friday---Outdoors
Stampavie and More---Summer
Time Out---Summer with Optional Flowers
Card Mania---Flowers
Digitally Sweet---All for Girls
Digistamps4Joy---Flowers, Flowers, Flowers
Creative Moments---ATG/Monochromatic
Crafty Creations---Tic Tac Toe (Flowers/Ribbon/Digi Image)
Creative Romance---ATG with Optional Birthday
Art by Miran---ATG
Stampin' for the Weekend---ATG
Crafty Girls---ATG
Crafting from the Heart---ATG
Inky Impressions---For the Girls
Loves Rubber Stamps---Clean and Simple

Time to go, everyone!  Please make sure to visit us at WAW and link up the projects you make out of our free Word Art although not mandatory.  You can link up any inspiring, uplifting, family-friendly projects, up to 5.  We have a couple of wonderful sponsors this week namely, Docerela Stamps (Stamp Set), Really Reasonable Ribbon ($15 GC) and our Karen Letchworth (WAW DT Coordinator) will have a special prize to give away.  That means three chances to win so, head over to WAW and show us your wonderful projects.  Have a blessed week and remember to put your trust in the Lord for He truly cares for you.

True Friends are the Rainbows Center Step Card---Visit our Neighborhood---613 Avenue Create for Another Anything Goes Challenge with an Optional Twist!

Good morning, Crafty Peeps!  This post is a day late...I hope and pray that every one of you are greatly blessed by God's goodness today.  The fact that you wake up this morning is enough evidence that you still have a purpose in this world and is capable of making a choice to make a difference...To shine the light that God has placed upon your life and to lead those who are blind to the Only Source of Light and Life---Our Savior, Jesus Christ!  God didn't purpose for us to do His work on our own.  He connects us with other believers (Born-Again, John 3:3) to encourage us, to provide help and ease our burdens or simply an ear to listen.  We are to surround ourselves with friends who does not only tell us nice things but that which can tell us the truth (no matter how hard it is to accept at times).  We are to be accountable to each other.  We are imperfect individuals under God's transformation and until the moment we see God face to face, it's very likely we'll commit mistakes from time to time.  Yet God told us in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." God can work with us if we surrender everything to Him.  He has given us free will and if we allow Him total control by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives, He can use us to fulfill the divine purpose He has created us for in the first place.  Friends with the same accountability with God can be used by Him to talk to us and lead us to His path.  While on earth, we are on a roller coaster ride---dealing with many different trials and triumphs. Godly friends are there with us through thick of thin.  They rejoice with us in victories but also remind us of God's grace and goodness in times of need.  If you have trustworthy friends given by God, we are to be grateful for every single one of them.  At this day and time, they are hard to come by.  On the other hand, we are to ask ourselves whether we are also a blessing to somebody's life.  We are to give---not just receive!  When we've gone through difficulties in life and God delivered us from all of them, this is not something we just keep to ourselves.  The testimony of God's goodness can be a beacon of hope to those who are enduring similar hardships.   I don't know with you but when someone comes to me and tells me of their trials and difficult situations, I try to put myself in their place to have a better understanding of what they might be going through and ask the Lord how may I impart hope in that person/friend's life.  Yes, we can give an arsenal of scriptures but without genuine concern, we are missing the target!  Sometimes, it is better to give a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on to demonstrate the love of God to our friends.  I cannot describe how valuable it is when I know that someone is there to devote some time to listen and pray for me and my family.  Each of us can make unwise decisions at a spur of a moment and end up regretting them for the rest of our lives.  Galatians 6:1-3 tells us, "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."  Rejoice in the Lord if you have Godly friends surrounding you.  They are not only there to encourage you with nice words but also to deliver correction and instructions of righteousness when needed.  Anyway, here are important scriptures to guide us in our relationships:

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:24-25)

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (Ephesians 4:2-6)

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other."  (John 15:12-17)

For this Card, I used an image from one of our sponsors---A Random Fan called "Travel Bug" and colored it with my ProMarker/Prismacolor/Chromatix markers.  I also incorporated a sentiment called "True Friends" from our other sponsor---Eureka Stamps.   The base card is a white CS that is cut and scored to make a 5.5 inches center step card.  The DP's and CS' are all from my scraps from many wonderful companies.  I made the border fence by using an MS Punch and created a scallop circle using my Nestabilities.  The circles were cut using an MS Circle Cutter.  The layered flowers were from Prima that I added glitters on using Stickles-Crystal and adhered some ribbon.  You'll also see a couple of brads, yellow nail head gems on the image's headlight as well as some white nail head gems.  Lastly, I did some fancy and regular stitching all over.  I think it came out pretty good.

 TRUE FRIENDS ARE THE RAINBOWS CENTER STEP CARD:

 TRUE FRIENDS ARE THE RAINBOWS CENTER STEP CARD LAYERS:

 TRUE FRIENDS ARE THE RAINBOWS CENTER STEP CARD SIDE VIEW:

 TRUE FRIENDS ARE THE RAINBOWS CENTER STEP CARD INSIDE:

TRUE FRIENDS ARE THE RAINBOWS CENTER STEP CARD WITH ENVELOPE-BOX:

This Card is entered into the following Challenges:

Crafty Girls---ATG
Crafty Little Faeries---Spots and Stripes
Cute Card Thursday---Perfectly Pink
Delightful Challenges---All Tied-Up (Use Ribbon, String or Twine)
Paper Crafting Journey---Perfect in Pink
ScrapbookerPHD---Die-Cuts (Used my Cuttlebug to cut the Nesties)
Southern Girls---Sparkle, Shine with a bit of Bling
Time Out---Summer (Optional twist-Flowers)
Dazzling Diva---Vellum/ATG
Crafting by Designs---ATG
Crafty Creations---It's all About "S" ( I used Stitching here)
Creative Moments---ATG/Monochromatic
Digistamps4Joy---Girly/Feminine
Hambo Hoedown---Here Comes Summer
I Love ProMarkers---Digi Does It
Nutcrafters---Animals/Insects
Paper Shelter---Flower Power
Scrapper's Delight---ATG with a Twist:  Layer It Up
Whimsy Stamps---Tic Tac Toe (Summer/Die-Cut/Sentiment)

There you have it, folks!  Don't miss the opportunity to join our Anything Goes Challenge at 613 Avenue Create featuring an optional twist, "Bestfriends Day."  There's wonderful prizes awaiting the winners from our lovely sponsors for this week---A Random Fan, Vectoria Designs and Eureka Stamps.  Can't wait to see what fabulous projects you're going to highlight this week.  I hope you have a wonderful week filled with the divine inspiration of God's Word and friends to share it with.  Hugs, always!