Spiritually and Politically :VOTE

Spiritually
This time in history is a call to action. Passivity is out of the question. Political correctness must be laid aside. We must take a stand for the good of our children, the welfare of our nation, and look to the source from which all our blessings flow.
Our blessings have been bestowed upon us by the Great I Am, the Father and Creator of us all.
Am I standing firmly on the authority of the Word of God. Individually, the question is, have I done all? God's word contains clear instruction pertaining to personal responsibility in regard to all issues.
Opposition is to be met with the Spirit of the Lord.
Passivity and the winking at wickedness must cease. One can make a difference.
The strength of each man is found in what his mind and belly has been filled with.
As a people, what have we digested?
We will eat.
It is time for a new meal.

Having done all, STAND.
~Debbie Turner Chavers

Isaiah 50:10 Who is among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the LORD, and stay upon his God.

Ephesians 6



Politically

I do not personally know Donald Trump or Hilary Clinton. I have gathered as much information and watched the last 3 debates of both candidates. I have read and observed as much of their careers, interviews, etc.. as I could. There are two choices realistically. One for and one against.
My intention is to vote for the Donald Trump/Mike Pence ticket.
There must be a line..a LEADERSHIP Line drawn somewhere and Donald Trump has done that.

For some their lines are erasable..moveable..therefore we have a country gone awry.
Most situations do not fall apart by one decision.
Chaos generally ensues after a multitude of poor choices. This is our country currently.

Your drawn line might be abortion, gun control, the right to bear arms or the right to have life at conception.
There are many lines and many issues.
I understand that mistakes can and will be made by all people.
Yet there is a HUGE difference between mistakes and the proven facts of chosen, blatant evil deeds. 
Each persons conscience is their own to bear.
As scripturally commanded in God's word, I am praying concerning those who are in office currently and those who will have that HONOR.
I am praying and gathering as much intelligent information that is available on both candidates and VOTING.
Now is not the time to be passive.
I know there are many things we can disagree on, yet most ills of society happen because an individual refuses to take a stand.  And take a stand is what we must do, to once again see the right thing done in our country and to protect life and liberty for all.

To not vote is NOT a conscientious abstaining.
It is helping elect who you consider to be the worst of two candidates.

Voting,
~Debbie Turner Chavers



Psalm 16..The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.




** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.
All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James Version bible which can be accessed online at http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com

9 Minutes of Contemplation

I wrote this in July as I pondered a few thoughts..probably for about 9 minutes. Did you know that your snooze button alarms usually every 9 minutes?

The Bread of Idleness

© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

9 Minutes of Contemplation

I am not the best I can be, 
nor will I ever 
on this earth 
be the best I can be. 
I am not stagnant, nor am I finished. 

I am in the process of  becoming...

tuning in to my place in Christ, 

avoiding chords of discord,

attempting to be at peace with all 

as much as is possible with me

I am not the top, 

nor the bottom person.

But a whole person,

a redeemed person.

Not a recycled or a nearly new person.

A new creation, with all the best that He is and has given me.

Beautifully fashioned and all glorious within 

Because the treasure that He is ...

Is within me, gushing forth in a new song, a new language, and a new love

And yet I am not the best that I can be,

until it is Christ Jesus that you see 

revealed in me.

~Debbie Turner Chavers 

Psalm 45:13 The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold.

Psalm 40:3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

Isaiah 28:11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.

John 15:9  As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.







** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James Version bible which can be accessed online at http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Martha, Martha - Time to Refresh

The Sabbath Man?

© 1998 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

As I thought of my daily physical and spiritual activity this past week, I realized I was in need of refreshing. As If my heart and mind were not telling me loud enough...a detector in my home started an intermittent beep followed by a verbal warning that said "Low Battery" every so often.
There is always another task and another place to go.
But let's stay home...and sit at His feet.

So what if...
God really speaks to us in the mist of our daily endeavor? Yes, mist..not midst.
So what if....He did?
Would you pause to listen? To gather your bearings, possibly chart a new course?
Would you begin to unload your cargo...to be still and really listen?

Cast Your Cares

© 2014 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

At times we flounder in our thoughts and life choices. Stabbing at every passing thought with a small movement toward recognition.
We search for patterns in the maze of life. A thread within the tapestry and try not to unravel.
This search for clarity and meaning can only be found in Christ Jesus.

Our heart can thrill when we perceive God's truth in our everyday perspective.
We can bemoan the darkness or we can lean into His light.
It is amazing that when surrounded in darkness that the smallest, tiny dot of light brings relief to an aching heart or weary mind.
We have been given a precious freedom from the present darkness.
Lean into His light, walk toward the light of His Way and His Word.

Refreshing..
~Debbie


Luke 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
Luke 10:39 And she had a sister called Mary which also sat at Jesus feet and heard his word.
Luke 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
Luke 10:41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
Luke 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.



**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

"Father" Me Prayer

Psalm 23-Beside Still Waters

Psalm 23:1-6

© 2008 Debbie Turner Chavers

This morning I awoke with a verse of scripture resounding in my thoughts. It was a morning thought pertaining to a portion of Psalm 23:6.. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. 
A beautiful verse, one which I am in the habit of confessing over my life and loved ones. But this morning in my sleepy condition I said the verse a bit different..which woke me with a start due to my percieved error.

*What I prayed was "Surely your goodness and mercy shall Father me all the days of my life."

As I recognized my miswording of the known scripture, I felt the Lord prompt me to consider what I had prayed. So I did. 
I am asking you to consider my unintentional prayer for your own life also.
What would this manifested prayer look like in your own life? Allow God to be a "Father" to you.

Father God, thank you. I praise and thank you that surely your goodness and your mercy shall "Father" me all the days of mine and my family's life. In Jesus name. Amen.

~Debbie

Matthew 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17  Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace,
Comfort your hearts,and stablish you in every good word and work.

Psalm 23:1-6
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible which can be accessed online http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com

Eye to Eye Friendship

Waiting to Be Filled

© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

Friendship is a sacred trust. Jesus has said we are his friends. He has given us a place of honor, a seat at the bride grooms table. He bids us come and eat and be filled. He has called us Friend. 
Fellowship within the body of Christ is a call to keep our eyes on Christ. In our natural state we surely will disappoint one another. We are to judge fruit..not one another.
No logs or motes are we to see but only remember He is the one who hung on a tree and shed His blood for you and me.
His eyes are ever on us, and as His child and friend we are to honor that sacred trust and fix our gaze upon Him. Eye to eye.
Recently I met someone for lunch and prayed about the intended fellowship and the possible future friendship. I sought the Lord in prayer..talking out loud to Him as I traveled to the destination.
My question was answered. The answer was..Mine the treasure that is within this new acquaintance. The treasure is the knowledge, power, and spirit of the LORD contained in these earthen vessels.
I may have knowledge of many things in this world. But only the treasure of Christ in me will make an eternal difference to myself and others.

Mining can be messy and labor intensive. Friendship can be messy and labor intensive!  Not only can people rub you the wrong way (offense) they can can also help sand down the rough places. The scripture as iron sharpens iron is an apt analogy of the process. Remember there is treasure to be shared and obtained.
We are to be light bearers, vessels of honor, pitchers filled and poured out to the thirsty with His living water.

~Debbie



2 Corinthians 4:5-7 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.



John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:14  Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

John 15:15  Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known to you.


Luke 7:34  The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners! 
Meaning of friend - (philos) Root Form(Greek) -friend, to be friendly to one, wish him well






**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting. 

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Seeking Change?

Word Buoys-Life Preservers

© 2015 Debbie Turner Chavers

Life Lesson: Nothings changes unless you take responsibility for it. Remember your "comfort zone" can become an unproductive "dead zone".

God knows exactly where you need to change. Take responsibility and ask Him.
Studying God's word always sheds light on our path and progress. The Holy Spirit has a way of pin pointing the need for large and  small adjustments in our attitude and life choices. He is available 24 hours a day, no appointment necessary.
If you are struggling in any area today, know that God has promised to refresh you as you seek Him. To enlighten your understanding and to shed His light in the dark places as you seek Him.

James 1:5 states..
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.

Psalm 23:3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

In regard to wisdom..
Proverbs 8:17  I love them that love me: and those that seek me early shall find me.
Proverbs 8:20-21 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgement. That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.

Treasures is described in Strong's as "magazine of weapons" Think of Ephesians 6-  the whole armour of God.
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Change happens first in our thinking and then in our actions. So consider...
2 Corinthians 10:3-6 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

Change can occur if we are willing to seek God and to take responsibility for our inaction and actions.

~Debbie




**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Adopt: A Home For Timmy

Timmy

Picture taken from Rich Faith Rising blog

Today I want to encourage someone to adopt Timmy. Timmy is a 12 year old young man who has an excellent attitude and an interest in art and life. In China a child must be adopted before the age of 14.
Timmy's Chinese name is Taotao and he needs a forever home now. There are funds available to help toward the cost of adoption for Timmy. There is a $5,000 grant available from the Baobei Foundation and $2,000 from the Jeff Knipe family.
When Timmy was asked if he wanted a permanent family, he replied "I would love too but one has not shown up yet."
Is this child yours? Is he the child that is missing at your family table? If he is, he is waiting. Don't start dinner without him.

Those who have worked with Timmy and have helped him are amazed at his perseverance and wonderful attitude.
*Timmy was born in 2003 in the Hunan Providence. He was abandoned shortly after he was born and has lived at a welfare center called Spring Service Center Sunbird Home in HengYang City (湖南省衡阳市春天服务中心太阳鸟之家ICC)  his entire life.
In 2015 Timmy became ill and was diagnosed with a large brain tumor. Since that time he has been operated on to remove the tumor and has regained his many of his gross and fine motor skills. He has re-learned how to walk and talk, functions which were damaged by the tumor. He is now walking around unassisted and he has re-learned how to feed himself, speak in complete sentences, and read and write Chinese well.

Timmy (Taotao)

Timmy's artwork

Picture taken from Olivia's Place blog entry

I am putting the links with more information about Timmy from where I read about him a few days ago. Click on to two links listed to be taken to those pages.

Rich Faith Rising website. Questions about Timmy? Contact Jen via email: cjavellaneda@gmail.com

Olivia's Place Questions about Timmy? Contact Laura via email: laurajeanlofy@gmail.com


Another bit from the Baobei Foundation about Timmy from Feb. 2015

ASTOUNDING! - At Baobei we have seen time and again how genuine love and care can be a critical part of the healing process and can lead to miraculous results. Even so, we continue to be astounded anew every time we see this in action. Shanghai native, Alicia, and her mother spent their Chinese New Year holiday lavishing motherly and grandmotherly care on Taotao and gently supporting him through post-surgical therapy. You may remember only one month ago Taotao was on the verge of death, and only two and a half weeks ago Taotao was largely unresponsive and immobile after removal of a large brain tumor. Now, after ample doses of encouragement, lots of gentle nudging, and endless reading sessions by Alicia, her mom, and other volunteers, Taotao has flourished emotionally and regained much of his gross and fine motor skills. He is now feeding himself, speaking in complete sentences, reading and writing Chinese again, walking around unassisted, and laughing and joking every chance he gets. He has also discovered a new interest--Chinese weiqi.  We have lots to learn from this good-natured, courageous, cooperative, fun-loving, humorous and positive boy who says at each stage of his recovery, "Let me try. I need to challenge myself." Thank you to Alicia, her mom, Liz, Jessica, Jeannette, Brooke, Jingyi, Thomas, Michael and the many other volunteers who have been part of Taotao's remarkable recovery.

Timmy playing Weiqi

Feb. 2015

Picture taken from 

Baobei Foundation website

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Pray and Praise

Dance of Trust

© 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man series

For the LORD our God is able.
In every prayer I am keeping this in mind...taking every other thought that rises against the knowledge of Christ Jesus, captive. My confession is..For the LORD our God is able. My banner of love and His song over me and you.
In church Sunday morning as I was worshipping the Lord, I heard Him say, "Sing until the breakthrough". Oh! I pray this ministers to you as powerfully as it did to me.
Battles are waged as you sing unto the Lord. As you praise Him even in the midst of what looks to be dead or done. It is never over until He who gives the BREATH of life says it is FINISHED. Remember the cross and He who hung on it and rose again in victory, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
I am sure the Spirit of God is reminding you of all the Old and New Testament confirmations of battles where the praisers and praises went before the battle. He inhabits our praises and He goes before us.
Praise Him, He is worthy of ALL our praise.
His Spirit confirmed in my spirit with the Word and then a brother in Christ, Pastor Allen taught on the encouragement I had received.
After we sat down from our time of singing and worshipping, the Pastor shared Acts 16:22-26 in his morning message. Verse 25 and 26 : About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone's chains came loose.
Is it the midnight hour of your situation?
Pray and praise. You might feel rumbling earth movement initially, but press in, press on, pray and praise until those doors fly open and the chains fall off.
Pray for me as I am praying for you. Many midnight situations, but morning light is on the horizon. Be encouraged, for greater is He who is in us than he who is in this world.
We are loved and we are heard by the LORD our God who is able.

~Debbie

Acts 16:22-26
1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 



**This blog post is linked also at Missional Women 
**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Warning! For Real?

The body has many parts. Yet man has the ability to mimic or copy the original very convincingly. Warning! Not all parts are real.
They represent as real when cloaked, or dressed. But when brought into the light of day, the obvious is evident. Fake. A person representing as a member in the Body of Christ Jesus can manifest the same spiritually. Man can appear as one of Christ's own yet in reality be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Do not be deceived.
In modern society, man has the ability to create natural appearing body parts to enhance appearance...looks normal on the outside but closer inspection reveals the truth.  Usually only those close to the subject ever see the truth in the natural body, but spiritual falseness can be identified by all with godly instruction.
Scripture warns us to try all spirits and see if they be of God. Not everyone who appears to be godly or sincere is actually the real deal in reality. Without the light of God's word and His Holy Spirit it is impossible to detect an imposter.
You want to know Jesus and you want Him to know you.
When your part in the Body of Christ is examined or the fruit of your doings in this life come up before the Lord, I believe most will want to hear Him say...
Matthew 25:21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many thing: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

~Debbie


1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

Christ Jesus warned..
Matthew 7:15-23  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.  
Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit: but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Wherefore by their fruits Ye shall know them.

Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
And then will I profess unto them, that I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

1 Corinthians 12-all of it





**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Practice

A Cup of Blessing

© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

An encouragement to practice your God given gifts. To learn to soar with ease on the wind of His Spirit. This past week I had the privilege of watching a nest of fledglings take to the air.
Stretch your wings and learn to fly. The skill for your gift is already in you but you and I must practice. If you have ever watched a young bird learn to fly you will observe that altitude is not achieved easily at first. Very small but insistent Sparrow parents tweeted encouragement from the sidelines. Swooping in and flying away until all had left the nest.
It is hard to watch another struggle to learn how to fly. But just as God has equipped the birds of the air to fly, He has also equipped us to do what He has called and gifted us to do while on this earth.

Our teacher, the Holy Spirit of God is not on the side lines of life. He abides in us. Teaching and leading us to the Father. Stir up the gift of God within you. Pray. Go about doing good. Be about your Father's business. Be Hearers and Doers of the Word. Practice.

Being taught to fly as I practice,
~Debbie


John 14:26  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and will bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

2 Timothy 1:6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.

Romans 12



**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

The Commission

Ye Must Be Born Again-John 3:3

© 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers

 

Ye Must Be Born Again

© 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers

Every cent has been paid, every debt removed. Only sin is bankrupted! We have been redeemed and we say so! Christ followers are not purveyors of selling the Gospel. We are voices raised in the wilderness of this world. Go and tell or Stay and build. But in all give God the glory. We have been redeemed, the price has been paid.
Feed those who are hungry, share the water of life to those who hunger and thirst for His righteousness.
He loved us when no one else would. Do the same. Be about your Father's business.
The gift of one called and submitted made an eternal difference. Be a gift, not a commodity.
In Him, with Him. All things are possible.
We are all on a journey toward eternity. We all travel differently but the destination of Heaven can only be reached through Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is the door.

~Debbie

Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;

John 10:8-10 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 14:5-6 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest: and how can we know the way?
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Mark 16:15-16  And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.










**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.
 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Working Out

Our feelings may not always agree with the facts of the Word of God. But as we exercise our faith and our understanding we will change.
"Let it burn, let it shake, let it change" is the tag my favorite fitness instructor Suzanne Bowen uses as I exercise.
This analogy "Burn, shake, change" tag can also be applied as an exercise for our thought processes concerning our understanding of God's word.
We do not yet know as we ought. We are daily being conformed to His image.
We have been given the mind of Christ, yet at times refuse to walk it out in our everyday life and challenges. Let every man be a liar, yet God be true.

May our faith be solid and unmovable in the truth that the Holy Spirit has revealed in our hearts, minds, and lives, lived unto God.
May that which is unholy, in error, or disobedient within us burn up in the Presence of His Truth.
When our mind, body, spirit and soul are exercised in the Word of God..internal and external shaking will then reveal the solid rock of Jesus Christ upon which we stand.
We are changed as old things pass away and behold all things are new.

Working out my own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12)
~Debbie





Luke 24:32  And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?

2 Corinthians 5:17  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

1 Corinthians 2:12-16 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Romans 3

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of will of God.

Matthew 7:24-27
Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock
And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.

1 Timothy 4:16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear.

**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Line Upon Line

Today as my grand daughter was playing with her blocks she told me that I needed to help her rebuild her block tower. The tower had fallen to the floor as she played near it.
As adults we too build our towers as we live and play in life.  At times our life architecture falls apart. We need to remember that God will not suffer a Jericho or a Tower of Babel in our lives.
Those who are in Christ are built on a foundation in Christ Jesus. So we must take care that what we build has value, eternal value.

I look for moments to remind myself and her of God and His word and His care and provision for us.
As I moved toward the pile of blocks, I reminded her that God loved her and would always help her rebuild when things fell down or fell apart because He loves us.
She replied, "I know" "but I NEED "you to help me now."
The emphasis was on needing me. An immediate tangible helper that she could physically see.
That is the way life is..most know that God can and will help us...but sometimes we need each other to help as well.

~Debbie


1 Corinthians 3:10  According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.

Isaiah 28:9-11  Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.
For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.








**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting. All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible at biblegateway.com

Lunatic Healed-Victory Revealed

1/2 Hearted Obedience, 

Double-Minded Man

© 2013 Debbie Turner Chavers

The Healing of a Devil-Possessed Boy
In Consideration Of Matthew 17 and Mark 9

Matthew 17:15-21  And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying,
Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.
And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him.
Then Jesus answered and said, O Faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him hither to me.
And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.
Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?
And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.



As I read these two gospel accounts in Mark 9 and Matthew 17 of God's grace and power in action,
I looked at them differently. As I read I thought of my art parable "1/2 Hearted Obedience, the Double Minded Man © 2013 Debbie Turner Chavers.

Reading Matthew 17 and the lunatics response to being attacked, I was reminded of another type of parable or scenario in which the water and fire were represented as holy and unholy immersion.
The goal was destruction of the man. He was sore vexed.

A double-minded man at times seeks the water of life and also the fires of Hell.
It is the struggle of the carnal man, the double-minded man who finds himself going backwards and forwards and being held in captivity.

Jesus came to set the captives free. He came to earth, died, and rose again for this very purpose. (Ephesians 4:8-10) ( Psalm 68:18)
All the largess of His earthly and heavenly treasure was freely given to man while he walked among them and after He returned to heaven.
Jesus went about doing good on this earth. He is still doing good.
How much more are the riches of heaven available through his atoning death for you and I even now? Abundantly more than we can ask or imagine.


Help thou Lord, our unbelief. Even as the father of the child with a dumb and deaf spirit besought the Lord with tears.  So we also in our generation call out to the LORD.
Lord, we believe; help thou our unbelief. (Mark 9:14-29)

The disciples asked Jesus why they could not cast the devil out. The father of the boy begged, he confessed his lack of faith/ belief and petitioned the Lord for more belief.

The only one Jesus denied freedom and faith ...was the devil.


Note that in both gospel accounts that Jesus told the disciples their lack of success was not based on :

1. The willingness of the devil to cooperate.
2. It was not based on the ability of the possessed to be free.
3. Nor was it based on Jesus' desire to free the one possessed.

So in consideration of prayer and fasting. Both require effort in our flesh. The end result was that the child was overcome by the wicked one and at this point,  the effort..the belief would be required of those who called upon the LORD in faith for the deliverance of the afflicted.
As the one requesting belief, we are to be led by His Holy Spirit not our flesh.
Remember Jesus said..This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting. (Mark 9:29)

FASTING:
*Fasting prompts a pushing aside of my own natural flesh desire...the works of the flesh..Galatians 5: 16-21.
*A prompting to think on those things which are pure and lovely...Philippians 4:5-8.
*The opportunity to eat the fruit of the Spirit..Galatians 5:22-25.
To experience a purifying of motives and modes of daily operation. A setting aside of our agenda to seek His face, His way.

PRAYER:
Jesus died and rose again to give us complete VICTORY in all areas.
We have received victory through Jesus' shed blood sacrifice.
His Spirit within us recognizes the victory, prayer confesses the victory.

God reveals his word by his Spirit in a way that we individually and corporately can relate to it.
We receive Holy Spirit wisdom by the grace of God for victory in our everyday walking out of our faith in this world. We receive wisdom of God as we seek Him in prayer and the eating, and listening to His Word.
Study and communion.
Fellowship..Relationship with our God and Father who loved us in Christ before the foundation of the world. (John 17:24)
Jesus came to set ALL the captives free.
Trust Him. Believe Him. AGREE with Him.


In conclusion, my understanding is that fasting convinces our flesh ...what our spirit already knows and prayer that speaks it forth.

~Debbie







**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.




 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible..resource at Biblegateway.com

Resting

The Sabbath Man?

© 1998 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

Do you work and live your walk in Christ Jesus..jockeying for position in the kingdom?
Be found faithful, serving Him. Not as men pleasers, but as servants and children of God.
In areas of our ego, less of us and more of Him always equals more in kingdom work.
Allow Christ Jesus in you to shine.
The Sabbath rest that He bought for you is not perceived as rest by you or others when you are self-striving.
Birthing things in the flesh...self-effort is foolish and draining. Rest in Christ Jesus, allow Him to do what only He can do.

~Debbie


2 Colossians 3:22-24  Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye service, as men pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

**Just as a pen can't remember the words written as it was poured out..let us keep no record of wrongs as Christ is writing our story. Forgive.
~DTC





**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible

Maturity Level

I love spending time with my children and my grand-daughters. The Lord often shows me Word parables as I interact in daily life. His wisdom magnified in the hearts of His children. We can learn much by loving observation as they mature physically and spiritually around us.

As my grand-daughter was helping me recently, I found myself directing her in a softer tone of voice.
As I spoke to her, I heard in my spirit "This is why the voice and knowledge we give concerning God's word is presented "age appropriately."
There are levels of maturity, spiritually and naturally.
Those that are mature in the things of God can chew the meat of the word by use.
Those newly born or that are at a toddler stage in their walk with God may still need the milk of God's word.
Be led by the Spirit of God in your speaking to others. Let your conversation be seasoned with the love and knowledge of God. We are all maturing.

~Debbie


Speak the truth in love..
Ephesians 4:15,16  But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
From whom the whole body filthy joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

1 Corinthians 3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.

Hebrews 5:13,14  For every one that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.  But strong meat belongeth to them that are full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.





All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible which can be accessed online http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Car Wash?

There are all kinds of cars and all kinds of people. People and cars need to be washed and detailed regularly.
I have been thinking about Ephesians 5:26 regularly. One of the ways we like to clean our flesh vehicle is to attend church for fellowship, praise,worship and attendance to God's word.
Gathering in groups to study the word of God is similar to going through a drive through car wash. The car is washed but you still might want to detail your vehicle before or after the washing.
Most individuals visit the detail area to do a thorough cleaning of the inside of the car.
In this illustration, detailing represents our individual time spent in His word and in His presence.
I want to encourage you to take time for the detailing.
After all most of us appreciate that new car smell!

~Debbie


Ephesians 5:26,27  That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing but that it should be holy and without blemish.




All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible which can be accessed online http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Water in Season and Out

Word Buoys-Life Preservers

© 2015 Debbie Turner Chavers

I am blessed by the water of the word of God. The ability to swim year round no matter the temperature of life, relationships, or the weather. There is always shelter and safety to be found in God and his word.

In the book of Ephesians we are shown order for marriage and relationships as ordained by God and recorded in His Word. Jesus Christ literally lived it out, died once, and rose again to establish our salvation. I love the mental flesh check of "For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. Ephesians 5:29,30
We would do well to remember His admonition before, after, and during the agreement of  "I do."
As Christ did and does, so we are to do.
Life and our interactions with one another can leave us feeling less than freshly washed at times.
Life, people and situations can come at us with gale force. So if you are feeling unclean, less than fresh, like your drowning or in over your head.
God has word for that.
Jesus.
Jesus, the word made flesh. John 1:14

~Debbie


Ephesians 5:26,27    That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.





**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James Version.

SSMT 2015 with Beth Moore and Siesta's

Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone

© 2006 Debbie Turner Chavers

This past year, I started a year long attempt at memorizing specific scriptures with other women from around the world.  We all joined together online at Living Proof Ministries..aka Beth Moore's website.
It was a joyful journey of dependence on the Holy Spirit to help me remember "in application" and assorted sticky notes visually!
On December 15, 2015 we were to give our 24th verse and to share abit of our journey.  I have included my last post on the LPM blog from SSMT 2015 below.

Psalm 20:7 has been a familiar comfort over the years and it seemed fitting to be the last verse for my year long endeavor.  This week-end, the LPM siesta's gathered together to hear Beth speak, celebrate their milestones, and rejoice in a blessed task accomplished.
I was not able to attend the conference, but I rejoiced in the gathering of all the ladies who were present to celebrate.  I am sure it was amazing to hear the laughter and grateful praise of a group of women who love Jesus.
The paragraph below was what I wrote on Beth's blog.
I find it easy to be reminded of His Word, but more difficult to memorize it.
I rejoice in the fact that as I have read and considered His Word over the years, He has always been faithful to remind me just like He said He would. Like everything else in my relationship with Christ...as I practice, He teaches me.

~Debbie

John 14:26  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.





My online entry at Beth's blog...

Debbie, Tennessee

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.  Psalm 20:7  KJV

The study of the Word always gives me a serious push towards less of me and more of Him. I have suffered life without the gift of God, Living Water, and I never want to be without it again.(John 4:10)

In the natural all things shrivel without water. But Living Water shrivels the carnality of man and refreshes, builds, and strengthens the spirit in man.

I do not know whether I will be able to attend the January gathering but it has been a blessing to gather here on these entries. I was always amazed as I read the entries posted during the same time period as my own. More often than not, the word written before and after my own entry would be a comfort or a word spoken in due season for me. 

Beth Moore, thank you for providing this learning platform for your sisters. Sisters (Siesta's) thank you for the fellowship of Gods word shared in your own journey. It blessed my journey.

We are lifetime learners of the grace of God. As I typed my entry just now, I saw my daily/ year planner in front of me on my desk.

I am going to transfer my scriptures from this memorization time to a single page in my 2016 planner.  Each of these scriptures were quickened to my understanding as a word in due season throughout this past year.

His Word sews up the broken places and knits me anew. And like a favorite sweater, I want to wrap up in the comfort and beautiful tapestry of His Word given, as I continue to pursue my relationship with Him.

A blessed new year to all.

May the LORD bless us, keep us, may His face shine upon us, be gracious unto us, lift up his countenance upon us, and give us peace. In Jesus name. Amen.

~Debbie




** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.

 All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible which can be accessed online http://biblegateway.com Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Freely Receive, Freely Give

1/2 Hearted Obedience

© 2013 Debbie Turner Chavers

Today decide.  Who will YOU serve?  We are to have singleness of heart toward our Redeemer.
All we have and all we are is due Him.  He has paid in Full our Redemption. 
There is a fear in those gathered in mankind of a usurpation. Those that have, which is all, are fearful that someone will take their place.  Rightfully so. For someone has. Jesus Christ has taken and borne our transgressions away.
Men of flesh and bone fear failure.  We cling to our gifts with soulful remorse, knowing and acknowledging little of the value given that is to be shared in this world.
We strive to hang on to our gifting, instead of letting go.  Our heart of pride recognizes the gift within, but quickly shuts the box and ties the bow as though we have not seen His glory.
What are we thinking? What are we doing?
We carefully guard our perceived value, intending to be paid well...for that which we have been freely given. That which was Paid in Full.

We are His children.  A witness of a faithful God in a lost, deceived and dying world.
No man knows the day or the hour of His return.  Be found faithful, be diligent.  He gave all for you and I.  Can we give less? Consider John 10:10.

A house divided can not stand.  We are the tabernacle of God.  The Lord calls us to wholeness in Him. Work and give, while it is yet day.  John 9:4, Matthew 21:28-45

~Debbie



Matthew 10:8  Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
Revelation 21:6  And he said unto me, It is done.  I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.
I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

Isaiah 45:13  I have raised him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he shall let go my captives, not for price nor reward, saith the LORD of hosts.

Behold the Man, The Word Became Flesh

© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

Hebrews 9:11-14  But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;
Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.
For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot  to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Acts 15:16-17  After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up:
That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.



**If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting. All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible