Word-filled Wednesday

© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved.

After the hurricane left New Jersey, all the people were talking about it.  And everyone agreed, the worst part was the news reporting.   We heard about it for 2 weeks before it came.   There were actually weathermen who wanted it to be the storm of the century.  "Hello?  We are real people here." 


Sometimes the news can be so frightening, sometimes life is frightening.  It's so refreshing to be able to turn to the Bible and find peace.  God is still in control of the universe.  He can turn our darkness into light.  The light that shines in our hearts, even when the electricity goes out.  I can't begin to describe the many times the world seemed full of insanity.  I've opened my Bible and found peace in God.  This verse promises that He will turn our darkness into light.  Not necessarily in things and a lack of storms, but in our hearts where we can endure whatever happens next.





Challenge sponsored by Katie Lloyd Photography.

Challenge sponsored by Internet Cafe Devotions.

Keeping the peace

This is my first attempt at oils in Corel Painter...  it's fun but more practice would be good : )
© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved.

When we were driving from Seattle to New Jersey to move here, the weather turned very bad.  There were heavy snows in the Cascade Mountain Range in Washington.  Storms were brewing all the way across the USA.  I prayed the whole time.  As we headed over the Cascades we heard about avalanche warnings on the radio.  Then we learned we'd just passed under one.  We weren't harmed, got through in the nick of time.   This could only have been God's hand protecting us.  It was definitely time to stop when one of the cats hung upside down from the roof of the car with his claws.  We made it to New Jersey safely.  Along the road we saw storms all around us, but for the most part stayed in a cloud free bubble.  No worries though, the highest point in New Jersey is 220 feet as opposed to Mt. Rainier at 14,411 feet.  I believe we're safe from avalanches now.  Should I say that out loud?

Here's some more wisdom for today.

Proverbs 17

1 Better a dry crust with peace and quiet

than a house full of feasting, with strife.

I agree with this.  I've lived in some houses full of strife.  I always hated to go home.  I remember looking around at the house and furniture, thinking, "This is a nice house, but why is it so miserable?"  Strife means angry, conflict, or discord.  It wears on people if it goes on constantly.  God's ways are so healthy.  So glad he gave us an Owner's Manual (Bible).

3 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold,

but the Lord tests the heart.

Sometimes peace in our hearts is a miracle.  Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego had a bad day when they were told to worship an image of gold.  I love this story.  They refused and were forced into a fiery furnace.  There's a time to keep the peace, and a time to stand up for what is true.

19 He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual 20 and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. 21 So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. 22 The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, 23 and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace. 24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?” They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” 25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.” 26 Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” Daniel 3:19-26 NIV

Jesus came to rescue them : )  He shows His glory when He brings us through trials.  He tests our hearts- and makes our faith stronger.  He's with us when we need Him most.   Sharing our testimonies with others helps them too.

5 Whoever mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker;

whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.

I guess I just don't think about the Creator when I meet people.  When I see people, I see feelings first and then know how to proceed.  This is saying that anyone who mocks a poor person (financial or in spirit),  by making fun of them, or acting rude to them is actually showing contempt for God.  He created all of us.  When everyone is laughing that is good- including the one who was oppressed.

9 Whoever would foster love covers over an offense,

but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.

I like this verse.  Covering over an offense means to forget it, don't talk about it, keep it a secret.

17 A friend loves at all times,

and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

This one is so true.  If I love a friend, nothing can take it away.  Even my husband, and we've had some pretty adverse times for sure.  I believe being a friend with our spouse is one of the most important things.

18 One who has no sense shakes hands in pledge

and puts up security for a neighbor.

Money can tear people apart.  It makes us competitive, selfish, even hurtful to others.  This verse describes making a pledge to pay someone elses debt if they can't.  Usually a person would do this for a friend who is doing well financially.  But, what happens if they aren't?  A friendship and trust is broken.  What I've learned is to never loan more to someone more than I can do without.  Don't expect it to come back.  If they repay me that's great.  But, if they don't, I gave them a gift in the first place.  No worries.  It's about being wise with money and keeping relationships safe. 

27 The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint,

and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

A warning to watch what I say.  Sometimes it means letting my husband make a mistake because he needs to understand.

28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent,

and discerning if they hold their tongues.

This is a beauty.  It's one of my favorite verses.  There's a time to be silent and not a fool, a time to listen.  Even when I'm a fool : )

NIV

Making plans

© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved.

I have a praise, I finished up my New York Institute of Photography lessons and tests : )  It was a lot of work and included everything from how digital cameras function to shooting perfect building architecture.  It's 6 units that include a total of 43 lessons.  I just need to finish my final photo assignments and I'll be a graduate with a certificate.  So far it's been all A's.  Prayers are appreciated because one of the photos is a glamor shot... Yikes!  I've been in blue jeans since I left office work. Actually they're all tough shots.

My plan was to work on my photography first.  I thought it would be the easiest, quickest way to get into freelancing and earn some money.  Next I'd planned to move on to painting and writing.  I've always dreamed of doing children's books and novels. 

I was reading my Bible one day and was so encouraged.  I thought, "Everyone should know about the Bible."  God gave me a desire to do this blog.  This blog has actually become my favorite to work on.  Would you believe, I'm writing, doing photos, and artwork?    I made my plans but God directed my steps.

Some of these verses are actually in my business plan.  There's so much wisdom in this chapter for making plans.

Proverbs 16

All I can say is Amen!  So many times I've had to ask the Holy Spirit for words to say.   When I do the words come out so nicely : )

1 To humans belong the plans of the heart,
but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.

This is so true.  When I went in to do Nursing Home portraits, my motives were to keep things simple and move quickly with the elderly, to earn some money for our bills.  God changed my heart when I walked in the door.  The faces were so hopeful, so happy to see me.  I fell in love with many of them.  The guy who couldn't stop talking, the flirt, the beautiful 106 year old woman.  Maybe I should listen to my heart and do more.

2 All a person’s ways seem pure to them,
but motives are weighed by the Lord.

These verses support what I wrote in the beginning.  When you commit your plans to the Lord- things often unfold in the most surprising ways.

3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans.
4 The Lord works out everything to its proper end—
even the wicked for a day of disaster.

This verse is a bit challenging.  There were people that didn't like me at work.  Some were jealous, some didn't want to see a woman doing the job I had.  Some even wanted to take my job from me deciding they deserved it more than me.  But, I just realized several made peace with me in the end.  My secret to success?  Faith.   And lots of prayer.
7 When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way,
he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
8 Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice.

Ok.  I confess, in college, I flunked my first Old Testament test.   I'd never read it before.  There were so many people to remember and all the sites!  Jebusites, Hittites, Canaanites, Ammonites... Oy!  I had a group of future Pastors walk me around campus the night before the test drilling me, "Who was Isaiah?  When did Abraham come into the picture?"  I was so confused.  The day before the test the Professor quoted this verse (for full effect think of a Southern accent).  He said, "Don't ferget to study fer yer Bible test, remember..."
18 Pride goeth before destruction,
and a haughty spirit before the fall of man.
Then he added, "I don't want to frighten anyone, or mention lightening bolts if yer considerin' cheatin'.  Especially on a BIBLE test."  Dr. Puckett was awesome.  Sometimes it takes more time, practice and lots of study to pass a test.  Now I'm writing about the Bible, go figure...  35 years makes a difference : )  If you're confused by the Bible, don't give up.

I just like this verse,  it's beautiful and visual.
24 Gracious words are a honeycomb,
sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

True.  How many of us would work at all if we didn't get hungry?
26 The appetite of laborers works for them;
their hunger drives them on.

This is another favorite.  Aging is a good thing especially if we're walking with the Lord.  One day I'll allow my gray hair to shine.
31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor;
it is attained in the way of righteousness.
NIV

Word-filled Wednesday

© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved.

There's nothing like a traffic jam to test our faith.  I've heard some of the great Christian leaders of our day confess, when they're stuck in traffic they've broken one of the 10 commandments...  But there's something else about traffic and obstacles to think about.  Sometimes I make all these plans.  First I'll do this, then I'll do that, and presto!  All my dreams will come true.  But I honestly don't recall things ever being that easy.  If it is easy I wonder why...

What I have noticed is how when I come up with plans some are inspired by God, and some don't make sense at all : )  This verse promises God will direct our steps, and in humbleness we can claim this promise.   A word of caution, always remember God is most concerned about our heart.  Money is no object for Him- He can provide at any time.  But it's our hearts He likes to work in.  So you may accidentally glue your hair to a project.  Or trip while carrying a beautiful cake.  Or even have a dog walk across your painting palette and leave pretty paw prints all over the carpet.  (blush)  We shouldn't give up.

"Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."  Hebrews 11:1

So I'll go ahead and make plans and dream big dreams, but remember He will direct my steps.   There just might be a few traffic jams to move me in the right direction.

This photo is a real New Jersey traffic jam.  I told you it was a jungle here (hahaha).  Actually I shot it at Six Flags Wild Safari Park.  The animals roam freely through the park, unless they are meat eaters...  I chose this shot because the Lord has brought this verse to mind over the past few days.  I was praying about a photo to illustrate it, then traffic jams came to mind.  Then this photo.  I love giraffes, how did God come up with all these animals?  Amazing God- the ultimate Artist and Creator!






Challenge sponsored by Katie Lloyd Photography.

Challenge sponsored by Internet Cafe Devotions.

The soothing tongue

That's about as happy as I can make a tree : )
© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved.

You will be happy to know I'm embracing my inner home-maker.  I scrubbed today...  I WILL adjust to working at home : )  Err "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!!?"  (Phil. 4:13)  Here are some more bits of wisdom from Proverbs. 

Proverbs 15

This reminds me of two ways to answer someone who's chattering, "Let me think about that for a minute," or "Shut up!"  I chatter sometimes so I know.  And, well, there's those who don't take a hint...  When I was doing Technical Writing, one of my biggest challenges with interviewing engineers was being patient.  They are thinkers.  If I interrupted their silence, they'd have to go back and start over working out their answer. : )  We are a funny bunch aren't we?  We're all different, all unique.  Sometimes being quiet is the right answer.

1 A gentle answer turns away wrath,

but a harsh word stirs up anger.

God sees both the wicked and the good.  He is the judge of both.  Sometimes we don't see things the way He does.  It reminds me of this verse,  Jesus said,

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." Matthew 7:1

3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
keeping watch on the wicked and the good.

I have a Muslim friend who is one of my biggest cheerleaders.  When I get discouraged, she always says, "I told you you could do it!"  And then I have a relative who says things like, "Well I hope it will be profitable."  Ouch...  A soothing tongue is huge.
4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.

When I'm around a wise person, their knowledge helps me grow and understand.  I love to listen to what others think.  I may not agree all the time, but I can usually find at least an ounce of wisdom.
7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge,
but the hearts of fools are not upright.

Well, I have seen this before- actually I've been this before...  Afraid to be around Christians or wise people because I knew I was doing the wrong thing.
12 Mockers resent correction,
so they avoid the wise.

Doing good makes my heart happy.  Sometimes the joy radiates through my whole soul.  When I have heartache, I feel crushed.  But faith isn't a feeling, it's a choice.  The Bible helps me find joy again.  And it's good to let the tears out too.  God designed us to have a good cry now and then.  Pain builds up in our hearts and like a tea kettle, it needs to be released.  Then there's hope again.
13 A happy heart makes the face cheerful,
but heartache crushes the spirit.

I'm not one for positive thinking.  I think it leads to a nervous twitch in my eye, and muscle cramps in my back.  Faith in God is the answer for me.  The continual feast comes when I count it all joy.  When I see things as a way for me to grow in my faith, when I surrender and let Him handle things. 

James 1:2-3
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
NIV

15 All the days of the oppressed are wretched,
but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.

This has been repeated from another Proverb.  It's better to have faith and just a little, than the turmoil of great wealth.  Travel light, and enjoy the journey.
16 Better a little with the fear of the Lord
than great wealth with turmoil.

This reminds me of when my husband and I are arguing and we try and eat dinner together, or we've just received bad news.  Last week I had a great meal planned but my heart wasn't in it.  So I called up my husband and asked if he'd rather go get drive-through dinner, no sense wasting a good meal while we're pouting.  We both laughed and agreed.
17 Better a small serving of vegetables with love
than a fattened calf with hatred.

Again, good advice can only come from a wise person.  These are the advisers who help us succeed.  You can sense when someone speaks wisdom can't you?
22 Plans fail for lack of counsel,
but with many advisers they succeed.

Sometimes someone says just the right thing and you know it was inspired!  My prayer partner does that.  So grateful for her, and her prayers.
23 A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—
and how good is a timely word!

I've met people like this too, who have a sparkle in their eye- and a smile.  They are always a joy.  The Lord knows we need good news too.  So He gives us sunshine and rain as we grow in Him.
30 Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart,
and good news gives health to the bones.
NIV

When calamity comes

One of the great things about Proverbs is there's a verse for everything.  A little chunk of wisdom.  Some of these chapters are very long, and I feel bad when my posts are too long.  So I'm pulling out verses that stand out to me, as always feel free to read this chapter on your own to see the rest.   God tends to have a special message for us as individuals each day- so He may have something special for you : )

Proverbs 14

This reminds me of the saying, "You can't really know a man, until you walk a mile in his shoes."  When someone seems overly excited about their success, maybe it's because they've had lots of heartache.
10 Each heart knows its own bitterness,
and no one else can share its joy.

I believe this applies to both men and women.  Tearing down our houses to me, means tearing down those inside it.  Our house isn't a home without someone inside.  It speaks to me about cutting myself down as well.  I am God's, His daughter, who am I to tear down His work?  It's ok to have confidence especially with trust in the Lord.
14 The wise woman builds her house,
but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

This is so true!  I am a little sister.  My big brother taught me so much about not believing everything I hear, or do everything your told without thinking.  Fingers don't belong in light sockets!  He was wrong.  Always have to learn things the hard way...  I laughed so hard remembering that I got tears.  : )  We have two choices in calamity panic or pray- sometimes both.
15 The simple believe anything,
but the prudent give thought to their steps.

It's all perspective, what our motives are.
22 Do not those who plot evil go astray?
But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.

My Grandmother, left a legacy of faith for my family.  It skipped a generation, but not me.  God has been faithful to her after all these years.
26 Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress,
and for their children it will be a refuge.

These two verses speak about the needy.  The "poor" in the Bible are both those who don't know Him, "poor in spirit."  And also those who are lacking money, those who have broken hearts.  These verses tell us to be kind to them.  There was a man a few weeks ago who was sitting alone on a seat at Church.  He usually sat with his wife.  He's a nice older fellow, I've always liked him.  So as I was leaving I walked over and said, "Hi!  How are you?"  He stood up with tears in his eyes and said, "God bless you."  And gave me a hug.  I don't know the story behind what happened, but I prayed all the way out the door.  Sometimes it's good to just be with someone, without words.  "Lord, give me eyes to see those who need a hug."
21 It is a sin to despise one’s neighbor,
but blessed is the one who is kind to the needy.
31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker,
but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

Stress is hard to handle for sure.  You have a medical test, then worry about the results, can't sleep, so you're memory gets weird.  Then you get a headache so you have to take medicine and wonder what that's doing to your body.  Hahaha, sometimes I wonder if tests are all that good for us.  Or maybe it's a faith issue.  Envy?  It makes me completely ignore my own life and focus on someone else.  Such a waste.
30 A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.

The righteous seek refuge in God!  I like that.  Truly though it's not so good to be around someone who gets extremely angry.  The word, "reposes" means put to rest.  By using wisdom and discernment we find peace in struggles.
32 When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down,
but even in death the righteous seek refuge in God.
33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning
and even among fools she lets herself be known.
34 Righteousness exalts a nation,
but sin condemns any people.
NIV

Word-filled Wednesday

© Karen Kyle Ericson, all rights reserved

Focusing on one thing at a time is such a challenge!  Sometimes I pray and say something to the Lord. The next thing I'm thinking about what I'm cooking for dinner.  Then the Lord, then on to how much I really need to dust.  Then what I want to shoot next. Oh!  Back to the Lord.  It's important to learn to focus for sure!  Focus isn't easy is it?  But if we do the road will stretch out smooth before us : )  Everyone likes it when we focus on them while talking.  Especially the Lord.

I tend to want to jump into my work like I did in an office but there's other things to do too. : )  I read a book on Freelancing and learned this is common for creative people transitioning from office work.  It's not at all unusual to leave an office anxious to paint, only to come home and stare blankly at the computer.  We get used to being told what to do. 

One of the things the book mentioned is to turn off the computer when I'm not using it.  It's like TV I get dazed and my attention gets captured.  I jump into the web look for one thing, then another.  Sit back and wonder where my day went!  There are lots of sideshow distractions in our generation.  This verse promises if we focus, and watch what we're doing, God's plan will stretch out before us.

I think it applies to all aspects of our lives.  We can always ask the Holy Spirit to speak to us and help us focus too.

I shot this photo at Ocean Grove in New Jersey.  I thought it would be cool to get an angle shot from the boardwalk up.  And then people started showing up, the only one looking straight ahead is the lady on the left.  The boardwalk symbolizes the road we follow, the plan God has for each of us.  It's right in front of us, but we tend to look in other directions.






Challenge sponsored by Katie Lloyd Photography.

Challenge sponsored by Internet Cafe Devotions.