Poetry, Prayers, and Encouragement

Man of Many Colors

Redemption
A word
A man of colors
His beaten body
The color of every man

Shredded and torn
A bowed head
Crowned with thorns

No man was ever as this man
Unique
The only begotten Son of God

Redemption has a name
and it is
Jesus Christ, the Messiah.



LOVED

There is a love
Deeper than the ocean
Where you may drown
Yet be born again
Where the Holy Air you receive
Is blown over and into you
killing the old you,
yet birthing a new life within
Where reaching bottom
Is not obtainable
For His love is and always will be
without measure.
3-13-19


KNOWN

Christ's blood redeemed
and covered her
Each sin and shame atoned for.

Even as her mouth declared
I made a mistake
My sins are many
I was wrong.

Do you still love me?
Yes,Christ replied,
You are my lovely Bride.
Though your sins be as scarlet,
They shall be white as snow.
10-19-18



The Wind

The Wind is free
And I a song bird in colors bold
Flying swiftly, catching each faint breeze
Gathering at times, scattering at times
Bearing precious seed
Fly faithful ones
The Wind doth call to thee.
2-20-19


Resurrection

Laughter was heard
The stone rolled away
A crown of thorns laid aside
Beside the puddles of blood
Whereby an abyss
of lost souls had been set free.
Even now the blood of Christ
calls for thee.
9-8-18


Of Salt and Light

A walk on the beach
The sound of gulls
Waves lapping
The pungent taste
Of briny air upon your lips
Bits and pieces
Gathered
Memories stored
Of joy released
And visited anew.



Breath of Life 

There is a love
Deeper than the ocean
Where you may drown
Yet be born again
Where the Holy Air you receive
Is blown over and into you
Killing the old you,
Yet birthing a new life within
Where reaching bottom
Is not obtainable
For His love is and always will be
Without measure.


Sown

May the seeds of righteousness
be dispersed by God.
Planted in fertile soil
and watered by His Word.
Bloom where you are planted
As you are carried by the wind of His Spirit.
3-11-19


Deliverance

Sometimes Holy Ghost boldness
Breaks forth like fireworks
With beautiful colors
and piercing light
in the darkness of spiritual night.
Wait upon the Lord.
11-24-18

Invited

Every man is invited
Go and tell
For you Christ has died
And rose again.
Beautifully Redeemed
Receive the gift of salvation
Today
1-30-19


Prayer

Father God, grant justice to those who have been wronged.
May the cry of the unborn be the joyous laugh of a precious new life
received and welcomed into this world.
In Jesus name.
Amen
Psalm 34:15
3-27-19


Everyone 

EVERY child that is not allowed to be born
Is an aborted purpose that was meant to bless mankind.
God does not make mistakes
Every life matters.
Psalm 139
1-25-19


The Way

Love made a Way.
His name is Jesus Christ.
Sorrow no more.
The King of Glory has risen.
We are redeemed.
Set Free from every prison.
Salvation
Salvation granted to all who would call upon His name.
He who is risen from the grave.
The Messiah, Jesus Christ.
3-12-19


Beauty

Beauty within
only fades as we walk away
from the Light of Christ
that is within us.

Stay the course.
There is light just ahead.
12-20-18


The End of the Matter 

If we kneel
Yet in our hearts
We stand
Standing against the call of His Spirit
We shall fall.
Every knee shall bow
To He who sits on the throne.
And every tongue shall confess to God.
2-21-19


Repentance

The boat abandoned
Yet seaworthy still
A patch to the hull
Made from a tree
Splintered and rough
From Calvary's tree.
12-21-18



As Seen

"Beauty" she said,
I see nothing but beauty.
Amongst the dead.
Evergreen
Growing still
Those who have risen
beyond their own reasoning
And have believed the words which
Christ has said.

The darkness came
Yet, the Light Arose
9-28-18


Youth

She with the golden skin
Bejeweled
Bedazzled
She was blind to our faults
Wrapped her wild hair
In the kindness of others
As we gazed at her from afar.
9-28-18



The Science of Art

A mass of corpuscles
Collide amongst the ebb and
Flow of tendons and muscles
Under the microscope of
Artistic sight.
5-26-18


Silent the drift came in
Rosy red
Parting the atmosphere
Shadowed yet concrete
The imagery appeared
6-12-18



Never Alone 

Love is colorless
Yet God has made a rainbow of people,
The rainbows end,
the treasure found,
Culminating in His Son,
Jesus Christ.

Someday.
Possibly today.
You will look and see,
That you were
NEVER alone.
5-23-18



Prayer - Thank You

Father as the day ends
Thank you for the gift of this day.
Thank you for kindness given
and kindness received.
Thank you for joy and for your peace.
As we lay our burdens down and lay at your feet
May our sleep give refreshment as we rise
With the new mercy given for tomorrow.
In Jesus name.
Amen
5-13-19


Prayer of Blessing

As the sun rises on this new day given.
May your joy double and your wisdom increase.
In Jesus name.
Amen
12-5-18


~Debbie
© 2020 Debbie Turner Chavers



** If you click on the art or parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting. All writing, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2019 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the KJV.  http://biblegateway.com 

Click on these links to read or see more of my work
http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com or http://wordparables.com

God Sees Us Naked

© 1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

All the answers and questions in scripture are for our edification ...our education.
I am reading and pondering two questions in Genesis 3.
As I read the questions being asked, I was reminded of my art parable, God Sees Us Naked.

First question: Genesis 3:9 And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
Second question: Genesis 3:11 And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked?

I think these are great questions for considering eternity.
To be hungry for salvation,"new birth," you need to consider these questions yourself.
Where are you?  Who told you, you were naked?

God is waiting for you. Since you were conceived in your mother's womb there has been a divine appointment and daily fellowship available to you. Don't hide from the presence of the LORD God.
If God says, "Where are you" you need to be able to reply, "Lord, here am I."
If you are hiding because you are naked. He has a beautiful robe of righteousness to clothe you.
So get dressed.
As Adam considered his condition he began to blame Eve, in Genesis 3:12-13.
Don't do that.
Receive the gift of salvation, quit blaming others for your lost and naked condition.
Accept the salvation and blessing of God, the shed blood of his Son, Jesus Christ, the Redeemer.

You are loved and you are wanted.
~Debbie


2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

* click here to read : ABC-A Simple Salvation Prayer



** 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 © 2017 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

I Am Learning

In Christ, Christ in Me

© 2012 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

Daily I am given opportunities to stretch my capacity in understanding and applying the principles of God's word. There is a dynamic shift of thought when I realize and apply subtle adjustments in my daily way of life to His Way. It can be a discarded area of unbelief, a critical attitude, and the list could be longggggg!
Yet these changes give us an opportunity to grow. To grow personally, emotionally, and spiritually in our relationships with one another and the world at large.
A granted opportunity to learn to do well.
It is a beautiful, inspiring purpose to live life as God intended.
I am learning.
Mistakes abound in my walk of faith, yet I don't have to run to keep up, for the Lord's hand is ever present and He never leaves or forsakes me.

I am learning to recognize the pitfalls of my own perception. Every man's way is right in his own eyes. Proverbs 16:2
I have experienced this truth in my own walk.
As I have studied God's word and applied it to everyday life it has illuminated areas of gray and darkness in my own perceptions.
In thought and in deed I was not as grounded as I thought and was too impulsive.
I have been quick to give love yet also quick to judge. Both are out of order without grace and godly discernment.
Therefore, the gift of love is to be weighed, measured and dispensed by the Great Physician.
We are carrying the prescription within us. We must dispense with care and with knowledge.

As a light bearer of God's love, I do not want to shock or jolt others that draw near in fellowship or friendship. Therefore, I (we) must stay plugged in, hiding God's word in my (our) heart and mind to be balanced in a world that can be full of doubt and unbelief.
For it is this people and this world that Christ Jesus came to redeem.
Being mindful, that if I (we) allow offense, pettiness, or carnal lifestyle to manifest it is like a cut or exposure in an electrical line. We must not allow the power of God within us to be exposed to others in a harmful way. There should not be rogue electricity, but stable lines of love and communication.
We must walk in truth and love. The world is watching. We are His own and we are "representing."
God is our source and illuminator in all things. He is light and there is no darkness in Him. I am in Christ and Christ is in me.

"Representing"
~Debbie


Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

John 17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.


** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting.
All writing,sculpture, poetry, posts, art, and photography, copyright © 2017 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

The Safety Pin

The Safety Pin

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

At times, small issues can seem enormous. Life and other people can seem petty.
When this occurs, an adjustment of attitude, some sort of mental hug is in order.

My first inclination during dry spells is to retreat. To spend time alone, or with my husband.
Avoiding contact with others, until I can see the positive in people once again with God's help.
But last week God had a different plan and did not wait long to share it with me by allowing my button to fall off my pants!

This was one of those times in life when my glass was not half empty or half full.
IT WAS JUST EMPTY!! 

I needed encouragement, a mental hug. A renewal.
My hug came through the gift of a safety pin.

After a hectic start on my first full day of vacation, the last thing I needed was a button to fall off my pants! Or so I thought.
This small aggravation left me exposed in my clothing choice and in attitude.
After packing for vacation what would have sufficed for almost any occasion, I still lacked a sewing kit or a safety pin.
What to do now?

My answer came as I approached the sink in the store bathroom to wash my hands.
As I came near the sink, I heard and saw a woman muttering and fussing to no one in general. She stood at the sink watching me in the mirror as I approached.
Noticing that I was still being watched, I explained briefly, that my button had fallen off as I stooped to retrieve it from the floor. She said nothing in return.

Momentarily, I paused to smile at her and turned to leave when I heard her mutter something in my direction.
"Here" she said abruptly, as she extended her hand toward me.
She was offering me a bent safety pin which had seen better days.

It was a small, silver, safety pin.
Yet it appeared jewel like, extended in the hand of a stranger. Just what I needed.
She appeared embarrassed by her offer of help and awkwardly returned my joyful hug as I thanked her.
She smiled and gave me a firm hug back..... no longer muttering.

I had a great vacation with many blessings but the gift of the safety pin is definitely a memory I will treasure.
The act of kindness to a stranger from a stranger helped restore more than my gaping waistband, it helped pin back together my bruised desire to be an encouragement and help others.
From the smallest gift, we can encourage one another to press on. Do not doubt your ability or your gifts to make a difference today.

Being held together by His Love,
~Debbie 

Repost from my Word Parables  blog © 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers 

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 

2 Thessalonians 3:13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

** 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 © 2017 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

Onion Layers

Lately I have been searching for more in my everyday exchanges with the Lord. Many years ago I heard someone say that reading and understanding the Bible was like peeling an onion layer by layer.

This thought stuck with me through the years, so it was not surprising to me for the Lord to use an onion skin to make a point with me.

I look for active ways to live my life in Him to the fullest and yet on some days it all seems pointless....to my flesh.... all my striving to love others as He loves me.

And yet there is that onion thing!

If you reach out regularly to be a blessing to others, you probably get discouraged. I know that I become discouraged! At times it is a real struggle to keep moving forward in my love walk.

Recently someone I love dearly, threw years of love and care away.

I cried, then I got angry, and then I surrendered.

I surrendered the thing I had given and placed it in my Father's lap.

As I sat tearfully before the Lord, listening to praise music, I noticed a piece of onion skin nearby.

An onion skin?

Well, all I can tell you is that God spoke to my heart with that layer of onion skin.

I was reminded that my walk came in layers also and that I needed to peel back another layer to get to the heart of the matter.

I saw that another layer of my walk with Him was to worship Him even as I felt sorrow.

So I perceive that....my walk with God is in layers too, just like the onion.

Because it seems that layers are peeled away as I seek Him and His way. 

An onions odor seems to get stronger as you peel it and get to the core.

I pray that my layers and yours will have the sweet odor(to exhibit the peculiar characteristics ) of Christ as we learn how to live this life, layer by layer.

~Debbie


2 Corinthians 2:15  For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:


New Living Translation
Our lives are a fragrance presented by Christ to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those being saved and by those perishing:


Galatians 6:9
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Galatians 6:10
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

*    Click  to see the original post..This is a repost from my Word Parables blog from 2009.



**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

No Parking

While walking, I saw this sign on the edge of a parking lot for another business that joined the church yard. I was waiting on an appointment and decided to walk for a bit. As I walked around the lot, I continued to think about the "NO Parking" sign that appeared to be in front of the church building and the three crosses.

I am posting my picture of it to remind you of our commission. 

The building that believers gather in is a place to learn and worship the Lord as a group, it is not a place to park. There is work to be done.

Even your sins are not to follow you.
Don't park there.
Leave them.

See the three crosses in the picture?
They are empty!
Jesus did not park there.

He did what He came to do and said "It is Finished."
And He moved forward.

His disciples did not park at Golgotha.
They went to Jerusalem and waited, or temporarily parked until they received power from the Lord by being filled with His Holy Spirit.

Pentecost. 

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Remember, until we go to heaven our parking passes are expired.

Mark 16:15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Moving forward...
~Debbie

*This is a repost from my Word Parables blog from June 2009



**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

Follow Me

The Love of Money

 Is The Root of All Evil

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

I love the heart of John the apostle, but I relate to Peter the apostle on a gut/personality level. Peter appears to have been a sincere, dedicated, boisterous man. On most days I am exuberant with a love of life and people.
There are times when I can easily imagine myself, like John leaning on Jesus' breast, so assured, that I am the "Beloved" one. I am amazed at my own "feelings" as I think along these lines of thought. Yet, I am aware that without a close eye toward my Shepherd and His instructions, I can easily be overcome with my feelings, not the scripture facts.
I can relate in areas of my life with each disciple described in God's Word. Yet I never want to relate to Judas Iscariot in action or thought!
Judas Iscariot reminds me of my Art Parable, The Love of Money Is The Root of All Evil, © 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers.

Each disciple related to Jesus Christ in a unique way in their personal relationship  with Him.
Yet, Judas Iscariot is the only one who appears to call Jesus, Rabbi (Master) but not Lord.
It is not hard to see the choices that Judas made toward the "Follow Me" admonition. Without the saving knowledge of Jesus as his Lord, Judas evidently found it impossible to "Follow Him."
A love of money will warp your thoughts concerning God and people.  Our flesh manifests quickly if our hearts do not call Jesus, Lord and only acknowledge Him as a teacher. All of humanity is a teacher of something. But only Jesus is Master and Lord.

The sincerity of godly love is often misunderstood and mistrusted.  The flesh is suspicious toward sincerity, it appears unnatural to the natural mans mind. Only the Spirit of God can cause love, His love to make sense to our natural minds.
As I studied John 13, I saw that Jesus washed all of the disciples feet.  The all included Judas Iscariot, John, and Simon Peter's feet.
John leaned on Christ, Judas Iscariot would betray Christ and Peter would deny Christ.
Yet..He washed them all. Not just the ones named. He washed them all. He is still willing and able to wash and redeem you today.

Judas hardened his heart toward Jesus Christ, but he loved the bag he was entrusted to keep.
If you do not heed Jesus' admonition to "Follow Me" the Love of money, not actual money, will trip you as a sure stumbling block in your eternal path toward the Father and His Truth.
Consider who or what is your Master.
Matthew 6:24 and Luke 16:13


Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  "Follow Him."
~Debbie


John 13:13  Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
John 13:23  Now there was leaning on Jesus bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
John 12:6 This he said, not that cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was in put therein.
John 13:29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.


** 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 © 2015 Debbie Turner Chavers. Protected by US and International copyright laws. All Rights Reserved. Scripture references taken from the King James bible. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

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

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

Dominion

Power Struggle

© 1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

Have you ever noticed that we are given dominion over spirits and earthly things, but we are not to dominate one another? To enslave others by our choices or lifestyle. We are called to serve one another. Matthew 20:25

The Lord has given us dominion to manage our life here on the earth. We have been given dominion by the power of His name. Mark 16:17 and Psalm 8:1-9, 1 Peter 4:11
Consider the spirit of the gift we have been given (1 John 4:6) versus the spirit of this world. ( Ephesians 2:2).

Luke 10:19-20  Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you: but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

We are to be submitted to God first in all things. We are not to manipulate one another by our own desires. We have been set free in Christ Jesus. We are no longer bond servants to sin, people, or lifestyle choices. 
Each person is responsible to control themselves and answer to God. We were granted self-control (temperance) by the Holy Spirit, not remote control.

Many years ago I found myself in a situation where I had to prayerfully consider if my actions would be as unto the Lord or if I was being manipulated by the situation and people involved. After prayerful consideration I realized that : submission and manipulation were different issues. If we submit unto God then His word clarifies the power struggle and its source. 

~Debbie

1 Corinthians 6:12  All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. 

James 4:7  Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Genesis 1:26-28 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.

Psalm 8:1-9

O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! Who hast set thy glory above the heavens.

Out of the mouth of babes and suckling a hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.

When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visited the him?

For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.

Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:

All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;

The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.

O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

** 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 © 2016Debbie 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

Jesus or "Mr." Jesus

Can Two Walk Together, Except They Be Agreed?

© 2004 Debbie Turner Chavers

Amos 3:3

More than a few months ago, I attended a teaching sermon and made copious notes with reference to who had spoke. Making a lot of notes is normal for me. It is my habit to write the name or initials of the one who spoke. But on this particular occasion, instead of writing the initials of the speakers, I found myself writing the name of the teachers as Mr. And Mrs....instead of Brother and Sister ?.

Once I left the teaching session, I pondered why I had written my notes in this manner.  The teachers appeared to be a brother and sister of mine, in Christ, so I was puzzled by my written note formality.
As I thought on it, I realized that I had verbally acknowledged their kinship in Christ, but mentally, I knew there was not an established relationship between us, which transferred to my notes.

This train of thought led to a further pondering of initial salvation and the formality and informality of our eternal relationship with Jesus Christ and our heart acknowledgement of  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

So...here is my note written on my pondering.
I sensed my initial written formality was similar to my experience at a family reunion introduction.  A gathering where you know that those that are present, are kin to you, but you do not KNOW them.

I noted an initial salvation experience can be similar as we pursue a relationship with Christ.
As we walk out our salvation in Christ Jesus, our initial response might look like my class notes.

Formality exists until we KNOW one another via shared experiences, time spent together, conversations shared. Intimacy is built and moves from formality to informality.

So at first, there is a general acknowledgement of the Savior as "my savior."
A heart response of acknowledgement, a first look at His Beauty, a timid checking Him out.
Which may be followed by the thoughts..I am not sure, but I want to believe... Is He for real?
Will He love me?
He seems to be beautiful to me.
But what about His character?
Will He change?
Can I count on Him?

If we commit, we can make relational progress by lingering in His presence to get to know Him better by reading His word and praying.
Communication is vital to every relationship.
Salvation has occurred, but our knowledge of the gift and relationship received has yet to be understood and proved in reality.
If we choose to linger in His presence, our many questions of His beauty and character become clear.

You will begin to notice the peace, the tangible peace that is always in His Presence.
You note the firm, calm way that He gathers and holds your attention.
How His every move is premeditated. Nothing catches Him off guard or unaware.
Pastor Joseph Prince has said that Jesus Christ is velvet and steel. I love that analogy.
I have found that to be true in my relationship with Christ.

So are you on a first name basis with Jesus or is He "mister" to you?

As you pursue a relationship with Christ Jesus, the level of your affection increases as you realize your needs and His ability to meet them. This getting to KNOW him will bring you from an acknowledgement of "Mr" to all that He is.
The attributes of a loving family, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit become known as he reveals his name and nature to you, as ABBA Father, Counselor, Provider, everything that you will ever need.
As the intimacy of your relationship grows, your love language grows as you learn more of His character response in everyday life.
Your life.

So maybe.....Jesus Christ is still a first name title to you. I want to encourage you to commit yourself to a loving reality of eternal restoration for that which ails you, every unmet need, all eternal emptiness filled.

Step beyond the boundaries of unknown, untested, not wanted, not loved into the fullness of
YOU ARE LOVED.
You will be eternally grateful at the family reunion.

~Debbie


John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 14:7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and ye have seen him.




**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

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

Lights

Be a Light, He Went That Way

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

Whether the time of His Coming tarries or is upon us quickly, we are to labor in the fields until then.
What is your gift?  Where is your talent?  Is it hidden? If so, pull yourself and it from under the bushel and out of the valley. 
The rest of us NEED you.  Show up.  This is not a dress rehearsal, the stage is set and the curtain has torn. The morning star has risen and we wait for His return.

Do not let the world, a religious or politically correct mindset, or wolves extinguish your light. SHINE.

Read Daniel 12:3

Jesus said...
Matthew 5:14-16  Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

~Debbie

Revelation 22:16  I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.  I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.


We ought not to court publicity for our virtue, or notoriety for our zeal; but, at the same time, it is a sin to be always seeking to hide that which God has bestowed upon us for the good of others.  A Christian is not to be a village in a valley, but a "city set upon a hill," he is not to be a candle under a bushel, but a candle in a candlestick, giving light to all.
~Spurgeon



**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 © 2015 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com Protected by US and International copyright laws. Scripture references from King James bible. www.biblegateway.com