Sunday, October 14, 2012

The difficulty with clay

About a month ago, I began a pottery class with my daughter.  This has been a wonderful time together, something we have wanted to do for a long time.  We meet in town after she gets off work and my husband joins us for a picnic before class.  We jokingly ask each other what we think we will make that class.  It is a joke because we are so inexperienced with clay that we just hope for something round...ish.  I am always content with the "handmade" look. 
"Yet, O Lord, you are our Father.  We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand."  Is 64:9
Also, in the last several weeks, our Bible study class has discussed gifts.  Sometimes, I want gifts that I just DO NOT have- like singing or public speaking.  I have to remind myself to be content with my own unique gifts.
"There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit....Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good....All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines." 1Cor 12:4,7,11
 
In this paper collage, the circles are unique, mostly round, marked by the creator (that's the spiral in the centers).  Each offers its own color story to compliment the overall piece.   Just a reminder that I am the clay, and thankfully, "He is the Potter" and He has a perfect plan for me.  I just need to stay workable and willing to be on the wheel.
Blessings,
Kelley


Sunday, October 7, 2012

Between the Rains

Last spring, I had the pleasure of participating in a Bible study written by Beth Moore called "Mercy Triumphs" on the book of James.  Her studies are quite in depth and this one amped up the challenge as expected.  One of my favorite "take-aways" was found in the verse:
"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming.  See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains."  James 5:7
A major point was made that between those mountain top spiritual highs, like the rains in the verse, we are to be reminded of God's faithfulness.
So, what do you do when you find yourself in a time when your prayers seem to hit the ceiling or you are going through a time of seemingly endless trials? 
Be reassured that He hears your prayers, He is faithful.  Remember His covenants.  Guard your heart.  Praise Him without ceasing.  Stay the course.  Fellowship with other believers.  Know that the sun will rise tomorrow, and the rains will come.  

 
"So, if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today-to love the Lord your God and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul- then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and oil."  Deuteronomy 11:14 
Blessings, and never forget He is faithful.
Kelley