Friday, November 18, 2011

In Everything, Give Thanks. . .

Pray without ceasing, in everything, give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18


 The Lord instructs us to pray without ceasing and in everything. . .EVERYTHING. . to give thanks. That isn't always our first response, is it? I know it's certainly not mine when things don't go as I've expected. 
Inside
Yet, by the grace of God, after a time I realize that I've been grumbling, complaining and otherwise kicking against the goads. I've not been doing what the Lord has instructed. . .in everything, give thanks. So I start with the simple things. . and soon my attitude has changed, as has my focus. This is part of God's plan: He intends it for my ultimate good. It is part of my preparation and fitting for Heaven. God is still sovereign, He is still in control, He is still working all things together for the good of His children and the glory of His name, and this too is part of His most wonderful, wise, holy and perfect plan. He has promised to never leave or forsake His children. .There is so much for which to be thankful and nothing at all about which to complain! What do I think I deserve anyway? What I deserve is eternal condemnation for my rebellion against an infinitely holy God. Yet, what am I receiving? Blessing after blessing poured out in abundance all because of the Lord Jesus Christ!

CARD DETAILS
Stamps: Stampin Up Give Thanks, Verve
Card Stock: SU Crumb Cake, Early Espresso
Designer Paper: Bo Bunny Forever Foliage
Ink: Early Espresso
Accessories: Bakers Twine, Spellbinders Classic Circles, Scallop Circles Dies, Scallop Rectangles and Mini-Tags, Bic Markers
Technique: Stamping and coloring
Challenges:

Blessings! jme ~ SDG

7 comments:

  1. Hi Jan, your card is beautiful. I love the criss cross of the twine and the leaves are so pretty. Thank you for sharing this on my challenge! Have a great day.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jan, your card portrays the scripture in such a beautiful way. I appreciate the reminder to pray without ceasing, even when it doesn't go our way. Thanks for participating in Scripture Thursday. ~ Abby

    ReplyDelete
  3. So beautiful - thank you for sharing! I love putting scripture into art - and this is such an important reminder!

    ~ Kellie

    ReplyDelete
  4. Lovely card Jan, and thank you for your words - they are timely!!
    Blessings
    Maxine

    ReplyDelete
  5. What a beautiful card...and words to match!! Thanks so much for joining us this week at SSIC~have a blessed week!!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Two gorgeous cards...I esp love the second one, great scripture!!! How true that His blessings are abundant and His gift of eternal life is AMAZING! :0)

    ReplyDelete
  7. What a lovely card! It's just as beautiful inside too. God bless you.

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for your encouraging words! Have a blessed day!