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

Art Parable: Following the Dragonslayer

Following the Dragonslayer

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Imagery and our response to it can be powerful in its ability to refocus our attention.
For the disciples the sight of Jesus on a cross had to have been emotionally crushing. Beholding the One in whom all their hope of a better life,of healing and freedom was there before them hanging on a cross.
Although Jesus had told them beforehand the details and gave them assurance that it was expedient that He go away.
That it was for their good. It was for our good.
Yet, the imagery of a bloody, bruised Jesus must have been bewildering to His followers.

Devastating, until the third day!

I love that Christ Jesus did not leave that beaten, bloody image as the final one.
He rose again and they were given the gift of seeing Him whole and one day every eye shall see Him.

The art parable "Following the Dragonslayer" is one of the ways I see Him. If you would like to see part of the creative process for this parable click here.
Revelation says that he is the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, yet appears as a Lamb that was slain. ( Revelation 5:5,6)

~Debbie


Isaiah 27:1 In that day the LORD with his sore and great and strong sword shall punish leviathan the piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that is in the sea.
*Read the beauty contained in Isaiah 51-55

Revelation 1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Matthew 16:21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised agin the third day.

John 10:4-5 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

John 10:27-30 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 
And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
I and my Father are one





** 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

Treasure

Window of Opportunity

© Debbie Turner Chavers

I love to search for treasure. I may find a sweet treasure in a most unexpected way. Revealed at times in the midst of castaway piles of the past. Not everyone wants to recycle, reuse, or repurpose.
New is perfect. I too have seasons of that thought.
But there are memories of times gone by that draw us to theses objects, things that might be scruffy, a bit battered, but once were loved.
I love certain old toys because they remind me of the sweet and gentle times with my babies. There is a shared joy with my family and their children as we reminisce of times shared from their childhood. From toy trucks, tea sets, pick up sticks, and the like, we have a common goal to pass on those treasured times.
It has become a lovely past time to find these treasures from our pasts and laugh and share a bit of family history with a newer family member.
We are building and emotionally weaving together the fabric of a new generation as we weave our story.
There are also bittersweet memories of those who are gone and things missing that even a web search can not bring back.

So as the New Year approaches, look carefully at your discard pile in life.
Consider..is there still treasure there?

~Debbie


Ecclesiastes 3:1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven:





** 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

Gospel Gossip



Man Shall Not Live by Bread Alone
© 2006 Debbie Turner Chavers

Have you read what God Said?
For Yourself?
Not second hand verbatim of someone elses conversation....but what "He" said.
Not the gossip of the gospel.
Predigested word.
I am asking you to sit at His feet, dine at His table, EAT until you are full.

I challenge you to to talk to God personally.
To digest His beautiful word.  His word that can comfort and heal a wounded or sick soul.
Feed a starving heart, fill to the full, the deepest hole in ones soul.

Gossip may give you a nugget of information, but face to face with the originator, Creator of ALL things gives you the facts.
The gospel truth that you are LOVED with an everlasting, unfathomable love.
Face to face-get the facts for yourself.

~Debbie




John 6:48 -57  I am that bread of life.  Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.
This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 
I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us [his] flesh to eat?
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 
Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.
For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 
He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 
As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 
This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.


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?

John 13:34  A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
John 15:9  As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.


A beautiful reminder...
Revelation 7:7  For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
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.

Revelation 22:13  I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.



*This is a repost from my Word Parables blog from 2012.
** 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

Paths and Ruts

Going Home

© 1996 Debbie Turner Chavers

Last week-end, I found myself on a road that appeared on the surface to be quite firm.
But I would soon learn that appearances can be deceiving!

We (husband and I) had a break in the weather and after being trapped inside for days, we decided to go for a drive. 

So we drove to the country on the other side of Nashville. 

Hills and valleys, streams and rivers. The country side was beautiful. We finally arrived at a scenic place to get out and take a walk through the woods. My husband began to look for a firm place to pull over and park off the road.
The road bed and the surrounding roadside appeared firm.

No standing water, yet beneath the surface, the clay mixed road bed had thawed, froze again, and thawed again after a hard rain.

Everything looked beautiful in the forest. The evergreen trees were freshly washed from the previous rain. The country road was not dusty and the sky was blue with just a hint of breeze blowing.
Just beautiful.
Until..... we pulled off the road.

Life can be like this at times. The path your on, appears to be just fine. Until you take a moment to pull over. If we had examined our path closely we would have noticed that the road was fairly firm but just inches into the side of the road the land was mush!

Quickly realizing our mistake, we turned the wheel and started moving backwards.
Well, sort of. We actually moved backwards and forwards, and backwards and forwards with much prayer and steady slight turning of the steering wheel.

Going forward into the mush seemed counter productive but the driver hoped to find more solid ground on which to get a running start toward the road.
But we had made a rut.

Sometimes even our well meaning actions to get out of a mess....put us in a rut.

After much effort and many false starts we finally made it back to within a few feet from the road. Not back on the firm ground of the road bed.
But close.
So close....yet so far.
Long story short. We have a friend who lives right off that country road who has a tractor.

We walked down the road and our friend pulled us out of the ditch with that beautiful country tractor. After a bit of effort he pulled us out of our dilemma, for which we are very grateful.
What could have been a huge aggravation ended on a positive note because of the help of a friend when we wandered off the path.

Life is like that.
God has a chosen path for us to follow and yet if we through accident or rebellion wander off it,
He is prepared to rescue you if you will come to Him and ask.

Don't leave your life or your truck in a ditch. Get some help. I am glad we did.

~Debbie




This is a repost from my Word Parables blog,
"Choose Your Path Carefully " © 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers


Proverbs 4:26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.

** 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 for more writing and art.

Countdown to Failure: 1,2-3-2,1 and New Leadership

ARISE: A Call to Prayer and Action

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

Studying 1 Samuel 13 yesterday reveals a countdown to a major change of leadership.
King Saul is in command over Israel.
1 year reign
2 year reign

3 thousand chosen men

2 thousand men assigned to Saul
1 thousand men assigned to Jonathan

And so we begin the countdown...
Saul, a leader and King is given specific instructions and his character soon manifests in negative ways.
Regardless of Saul's less than stellar character traits, God chose him above others. 1 Samuel 9-10.
We are chosen leaders who must lead well.
If we are willing to listen and learn, God is longing to teach you and lead you.
Your leadership can be a positive life changing role in the world today,an example that could stand throughout generations.

Saul was anointed and prepared before his role of leadership was required of him publicly.
You can read about this at 1 Samuel, chapters 9-10.

After ruling over Israel two years, King Saul chose three thousand men. He kept two thousand men with him in Michmash and in mount Bethel and one thousand men in Gibeah of Benjamin with his son Jonathan. The rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

The three thousand men were two to one in number under each man. The labor was divided so to speak.
Jonathan appears to have been a loyal son and beloved friend as you read about him in the Old Testament.

But his dad, Saul...well not so much.
Saul was jealous, petty, a thief of other men's accomplishments. Loyalty appears to be a non existent character quality.
In verses 3 and 4, scripture states that Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it.
Saul announces that all the Hebrews needed to hear that he (Saul) had smitten a garrison and the Philistines were stirred to battle. And the people were called together after Saul to  Gilgal.

1 Samuel 13:3-4 And Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Hebrews hear.
And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal.

*Note: Saul took credit for Jonathan and his men's accomplishment. It is a serious thing to take credit for another persons labor. Do not do it.

This lack of integrity and fear based leadership causes the rest of Israel to be in distress and panic.
(1 Samuel 13:5-7)
A nation or organization without proper leadership will see verse 6 manifested amongst their ranks.

* When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits.
And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.

If and when you blow a trumpet..BE PREPARED to lead and lead well from the front lines.
Disobedience causes fear to manifest.

Throughout Saul's reign he is given many opportunities to step up in obedience, yet each opportunity is met with rebellious resistance to the sorrow of his companions and a nation.
**DO NOT be this type of Leader.

Saul was not only disobedient in his own leadership role, but he also usurped another's role and calling. He stepped into the role of Samuel the Prophet and offered burnt offerings to the LORD.
This was his final undoing in leadership.  The cost was his kingdom and another was given his position.
**Note that Saul blamed fear and lack of peer support for his disobedience.
Read 1 Samuel 13:8-12.

* There is a season and a time for all things under the sun. Yet..each moment is a time to obey God.
* Do not allow a delay to cause you to disobey.
* Stay in step with God's timing. He is never late.
* When popularity ceases...
* Wait upon the LORD.
* Stand obediently, until told to move.

Time=Eternity

© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

1 Samuel 13:13-14 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel forever.
But now thy kingdom shall not continue: for the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.
Saul's actions and failure to listen and obey caused the blessing to pass from him to another.


Remember ETERNITY awaits the choices of today.
~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 Version bible which can be accessed online at http://biblegateway.com
 Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Reborn-Birthed in the Womb of His Word

Reborn- Birthed in the Womb of His Word

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

In the light of God's Word...may you prayerfully consider.


Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.




I was shown this imagery as my husband and I were driving and discussing several known difficult situations. As we discussed them, I heard in my spirit "Wrap your mind around how much God loves you, loves them." The difficulty and the pain associated led the conversation to the conclusion that we needed to process and act, yet not react to them. The problem or the people. This was the verbal conversation and at the same time I was telling my husband and the Lord that I felt the need to cocoon...yet break free all at the same time. I saw this imagery and told my husband what I had just seen and that "I am trusting God's perfect timing." He agreed and thus we arrived at Amen.




These are my notes as I explored the scriptures and asked for understanding. 

Every born again man is a type of Lazarus. One brought to life in Christ. We are redeemed, blood bought, blood covered kings and priests unto our God. We are wrapped in His righteousness, in the womb of His Word.

He carried us to the cross and we are born again in Him and His sacrifice.

The Word Of God birthed us - His shed Blood bought..redeemed us.


We are carried...

Isaiah 46:3-4 Hearken unto me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne by me from the belly, which are carried from the womb: 

And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and I will deliver you.

We are redeemed...

Isaiah 53:4-5 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him: and with his stripes we are healed.

Isaiah 63:9 In all their affliction he was afflicted and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them: and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old.

1 Corinthians 15:35-58  Has a great description of the resurrection of the body.

We must be Born again.

1 Corinthians 15:49 And as we have borne the image of the earthly, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.




Reborn- Birthed in the Womb of His Word

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series 

We are born again...

John 1:12-13 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.

Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of flesh, nor the will of man, but of God.

John 3:3-7 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit; he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.


I realize that for some the imagery might be strange yet wisdom is justified of her children.

Luke 7:35 But wisdom is justified of all her children.

~ Debbie Turner Chavers


Beginning work on the collage

Reborn- Birthed in the Womb of His Word

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

*The egg shape or cocoon is painted red within. It is papier mâché strips of Isaiah 53 and John 3. The painting and sticks have a red painted image representing the blood soaked staining of His beaten imprint. The cross was represented as two wooden stakes. The cocoon or egg shape is hanging from is representational of His bearing us and our sins. The cording attached is representational of an umbilical cord..it is covered in Isaiah 53 also.

Simple Salvation Prayer: Click on this sentence.










All art, sculpture, writing, poetry, posts, and photography, copyright © 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers. All Rights Reserved. Encouragement? http://debbieturnerchavers.com

Scripture references taken from the King James bible.

Jehovah Jireh, God is Our Provider

Today, as I was doing chores my attention was refocused with a scripture that was being spoken as I walked into another room.
The sentence fragment that boomed into my hearing was from the gospel of Luke about the Prodigal.

Luke 15:20  But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

As I heard this scripture the LORD reminded me that life and our walk with Him is a journey.
In the past I painted an Art Parable called  The Prodigal and Family .      

                                                            The Prodigal and Family
                                                        © 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers

When I was younger I would hear people say "We got a ways to go yet" to my questions of arrival or timing.  It may take a while, but keep moving toward the Father.  If you have been overcome with a prodigal mindset or lifestyle choice, keep moving toward God.  Do not run away, move toward the Father.  It comforted me to know that even when the prodigal was still a long way off, the father ran.
So, some days it seems I am a great way off, and yet Jehovah Jireh, my provider is waiting with open arms to meet me where I am and walk with me the rest of the Way home.

                                                                      Going Home
                                                      © 1996 Debbie Turner Chavers

If you are a great way off, Know that He is looking for you.  Wherever you are, look up, move forward, for your salvation draweth near.  

Read over the scriptures below, take time to chew on them.  Consider how much God has provided, consider how much He loves you.

~Debbie


**This is a repost from my Word Parables blog from 2010.

Deuteronomy  31:6  Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

1 Peter 1:3,4  According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

1Peter 2:9 -10  But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light:
Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Psalm 136:24  And hath redeemed us from our enemies:  for his mercy endureth for ever.

2 Timothy 1:7  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

1 John 4:4  Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, then he that is in the world.

Daniel 11:32  And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries:  but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.

Psalm 91:1-16
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, andfrom the noisome pestilence.
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, eventhe most High, thy habitation;
There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Revelation 5:9  And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

Revelation 21:1-8
And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
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.
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Amen


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. Would you like to see what I am currently painting? Click on these links http://artparables.com or http://debbieturnerchavers.com 

ARISE: A Call to Prayer and Action

ARISE: A Call to Prayer and Action

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Water-Man Series

Psalm 118

Psalm 4:8

closeup of Headboard

ARISE: A Call to Prayer and Action

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Close-up of Tucked in Believers

ARISE: A Call to Prayer and Action 

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

I was given half of this Art Parable in September of this year. I knew it was to be an Art Parable by the initial imagery but was not sure what it pertained to at that moment. I started the painting and prayed as I painted, seeking the LORD for His peace that it was complete. As I started laying in the shadows of the headboard and wall. I realized how it was to be finished.
The cities, the highways and the byways, we must compel them to come in.

Luke 14:23 And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

No man knows the day or hour of Christ's return. But Returning for His Own,Will happen.
Be prepared whether the time is short or lengthy.
Be prepared and be found faithfully following the LORD and obeying His call to the whole world.


Jonah 2:10 And the LORD spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.
Jonah 3:1-2 And the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the second time, saying, Arise, go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto it the preaching that I bid you.


I may add more written content to this post but feel an urgency to share now.

~Debbie Turner Chavers




* Posted first at Art Parables

** 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 

Strangers and the Gift of Hospitality

I have been granted a fine time of getting to know an assortment of new people. Everyone comes from somewhere but most of the people I have been meeting have moved to my area in the last year from other states.
At times even with a new job, new church, new school, even extracurricular activities it can be hard to make a new friend. Once the day or activity is over you have spent time but not found the one on one fellowship that helps you overcome the newness of a move.
Maybe you have lived in the same place forever. You know most of the locals and you know just where to go when something is needed. Well, because of this bouquet of strangers I have been given the opportunity to extend a smile and a welcome and sometimes a shared meal.
This has been a privilege, but unusual to my everyday way of life for the past couple of years.
As this influx of strangers kept being put in my path, I began to think about it.

Upon contemplation, the scripture in Matthew 25:35 was brought to my attention in an entirely new way. The scripture states, I was a stranger and ye took me in.
Well, to be honest that has always kind of freaked me out. You know taking in the stranger. From a small child I was warned not to pick up hitch-hikers. Do not accept candy from strangers. And the list went on. Stranger Danger!
I repeated these same warnings to my children. So how could I reconcile my fear with the scripture admonition of Jesus Christ, with my parents warnings ringing in my ears?
Well, God meets you where you are at, even if it is out of town!
He showed me that I was being allowed to take in a stranger by offering friendship and fellowship to those who were put in my path.
I am being allowed to participate at my own comfort level..via friendship to fulfill the scripture admonition. I was a stranger and you took me in. I took them in by including them in my circle of care.
Read over the scriptures below and see how God grants you the ability to live out these scriptures.

~Debbie

Matthew 25:35For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 

Matthew 25:36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

*Repost from my blog at WordParables.com  3/1/2010


** 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

10 Minute Creative

Until a few years ago, I never had the time or privilege of painting for any length of time . I would paint or draw at random moments in the midst of a very busy life during the raising of my three children. In the beginning, I was hesitant to get started on a painting. I never felt that I could manage to paint anything of value if I did not spend an enormous amount of time on the creation of the painting. But desire overcame my self- imposed obstacles. Little by little I practiced creating.

Daily practice is a wonderful way to improve ones vision and technique toward what you are trying to convey to others through painting. I started "practicing" many years ago and I am still learning daily how to convey what I "see".
It still amazes me the varied hues and saturation of color that I see in the world around me.

Once I started painting my world changed as I began to "see" the world as a place of infinite colors.
My initial response toward the commitment of painting on a regular schedule was astonishing.
I started to "see" the landscape, the light on an object, the colors in shadows. It was as though I was suddenly sighted after being blind. Daily practice is a way for you to grow as an artist and to nurture your creative spirit.
The 10 minute start can be used for writing, painting, cleaning, exercising, the list goes on and on.
The point is to develop a habit toward the practice of your given creativity.
So if a blank canvas is intimidating.  Use the 10 minute rule to move forward.
What moves YOU?

Gardening and taking a walk in the woods or listening to the sound of moving water inspires me.
Viewing beauty can inspire me.  The sound of joyful laughter. Instrumental music.
The point is to find what inspires you and use that to move you forward.
A ten minute spark-to jump start you on your journey forward.

If you think you do not have the time to practice, consider trying my quick start process.
Give yourself 10 minutes a day toward giving the world a window into your creative outlook.
Ten minutes may seem absurd, but if you get started you will be amazed with your progress.

Try this schedule for a quick start toward productivity and artistic growth.
Spend the first 10 minutes thinking through your concept of what you want to accomplish.
The second day, a quick sketch.
The third day, choice your media and colors.
The fourth day, apply your first stroke of genius.
Well, you get the picture.
Now show it to the rest of us.

Keep in mind, an oak tree started as a very small acorn.
~Debbie


Rewritten from my article at http://wordparables.com
© 2010 Debbie Turner Chavers





** 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

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

Stirred Up!

Loafing,The Bread of Idleness

© 2005 Debbie Turner Chavers

I awoke this morning with the adjective, lukewarm in my thoughts. Life and living is unpalatable when it is lukewarm. 
Lukewarm is listed only one time in KJV in Revelation 3:16.
One time.
Take heed.

Our marriage bond as the Bride of Christ seems to be going through the motions of marriage, yet without fervor.
Where is the hunger for our first love?
We who have been given eternal life and appointed as kings and priests are to serve God with fervor.  Fervor is sadly missing when we are satisfied with the status quo of companionship.
We should desire and apply ourselves to having a love filled and vibrant relationship with our Redeemer.
Remember John 3:16?
We are LOVED.

When we read God's word our innards are stirred. The fire of hope is ignited and only the in-filling of His Spirit and His love can quench the longing of our souls.
As I think about this process, I am reminded of my swimming pool and its filtration system. The pool has jets which are turned slightly upward to ruffle the surface of the water. This slight water current causes the outside debris in the pool to be carried toward the filter opening, which will be gathered in a basket to be removed. As the debris is filtered through the system, the water will circulate back into the main body of water having been cleared of debris.
The constant clearing of this process also depletes the water level over time, due to the movement and the heat of the sun causing evaporation on the pools surface. The heated stresses of life can evaporate our water levels also. Yet we can be renewed and refilled in our relationship with the Father.
As we study God's word and spend time in His Presence during praise, prayer and worship we can be refilled and filtered.
There is a beautiful stirring that happens in our soul, mind and body as His word and Spirit filter our thoughts and lives. We will find a basket of blessing instead of debris as we apply ourselves to the filtering process of time spent with the LORD.

~Debbie


Ephesians 4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind.

Ephesians 5:25-26 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.

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.

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.

Revelation 3:16  So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spur thee out of my mouth.


*I wrote this in my journal on March 18, 2014, but it is still relevant, so I am posting it today.


** 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

Yield

Yield

© 2016 Debbie Turner Chavers

Photography

I have always liked clouds. As a child I would recline on the grass and imagine that each puffy shape was a larger than life picture board! Boredom was not on the horizon for the view at times would change rapidly. The wind would function as a giant eraser and shape each cloud speckling the sky into new wonders.

As an adult I reminisced of my love of clouds. I wondered why they still drew my attention skyward.  As I gazed out across the great expanse of sky,I heard in my heart, "Because they yield." At that time, I had a quickening in my heart in recognition of a spiritual truth but no current situation to which it applied, until recently.

I was reminded of this heart tug as I spent some time praying about communicating. 

Communication can be a blessing or a hindrance. The tongue is a little member and accusations can be a giant. 

At times I find it is difficult to forgive the words of an errant, mislead tongue. 

Whether it is my own words or the words of one that has risen against me.

Thus my pondering of the subject. As I mulled the mental stew of it all..the LORD reminded me of the sweet word He had shared with me years ago. YIELD was the word and the visual of a sky filled with clouds, each cloud beautifully different in size and  color variations. 

Once again He reminded me that each cloud was in the process of constantly yielding to the wind.

We also should yield constantly to the wind of His Spirit in forgiveness of ourselves and others.

So ponder with me...

What if our service in the army of the Lord is to Yield.

Not to yield to the accuser of the brethren, but to yield to the captain of our salvation, the Lord Jesus Christ.

We never want to be likened to clouds without water.

Consider these scriptures and beware. All of 2 Peter 2:1-22 and Jude 1 in context.

2 Peter 2:17-19 These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever.
For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through muchwantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.
While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

Jude 1:12 These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;

Day by day we are growing and learning to walk in our shoes of peace and the wearing of our robe of righteousness. Our time on earth is not a dress rehearsal..it is the first act that continues toward eternity with our Creator.

After His initial correction of me, it is my goal not to do a repeat. Nor to rehearse the scene over again in my mind or in my actions.
The ghoulish play upon play of SIN. 
No watching of pious reruns of "would have, could have, or should have."
Be done with it.

All relationships thrive with clear communication and boundaries.
So when my Father God says He has cast all my sins into the sea, then it is not the time to practice fishing!

There is healing provided as we confess our faults one to another.
This obviously is easier to "think" than to confess.
Do not tightrope walk on the hard edge of the blame game. 
Let us walk in love with one another.
Yield to the Holy Spirit.

~Debbie


James 3:5-6 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Romans 6:13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members asinstruments of righteousness unto God.

Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

Micah 7:18-19 Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.
He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.

Hebrews 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

** 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
To see more of my work click on these links http://artparables.com or http://lolo-livingoutloudonline.com  

Learning

Choices

© 1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

Joshua 24:15

It began simply enough. A directive followed by a reply, " But I don't want to.."
There was not an argument, nor was there much else to say once the clear direction of a stated intention was made known.
But I don't want to..
The words had been stated emphatically, by one who knew their own mind.
A mind that is still growing, still in the process of learning the effect of decisions.
I had spent many hours of helping, of showing a clear way, of setting a disciplined example, and yet the age old struggle.

The one who was learning a life lesson, taught me something.

A clear course of action had been instituted and many encouragements given.
I had said, "You are not a quitter", "You CAN do this" " Nothing is ever accomplished if you don't try. Just try."

After all of my efforts and encouragement, I experienced a moment of clarity that was delivered with the emphatic reply of a four year old.
She stated succinctly, "But I don't want to", as she threw herself backwards in the chair..away from the goal in front of her.

Ah! I thought, "There it is!"

From a small child to the grave each individual is in the life changing process of choice.
As a child we are generally presented choices that are age appropriate. If a child's "want to" is not matured enough to agree, then there is wiggle room in the choosing.

But all choosers are not 4!

There are adults in our lives who have not matured in their chronological age and are still pushing past all established boundaries with emphatic life statements and life choices of "But I don't want to.."

If after our best efforts are met with " But I don't want to.." My first response personally is prayer and then action.
I have learned that no amount of "teaching" will ever be absorbed by an unwilling pupil.
I don't want to...means "I don't want to..

Gain your life back, take your time back, sow somewhere else.
The world is a huge field of opportunity.
Obviously the majority of us are not teachers by trade.
Yet, everyone is learning and teaching someone and something everyday.
Our lifestyles and our choices set examples and give a witness in this world of who we are and what we value.
So the next time you meet a brick wall of opposition...consider the role you are choosing. Pupil or Teacher?

~Debbie

Ecclesiastes 11:1 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.

Power Struggle

© 1999 Debbie Turner Chavers

1 Corinthians 6:12

Water-Man Series 

** If you click on the art parable painting title you will be redirected to its website for more information about the painting. Click on these links http://artparables.com
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