The Great Pruning

Funny thing about roses.  They actually love discipline. The more I prune them, the better they look and grow. The more I encourage the ones that haven't bloomed for awhile - the more likely they are to bloom profusely the next season. The more I sweet talk them, the prettier the flowers. The more I nourish them, the better they like me. Still - they are a thorn in my side for much of the season. But I WILL NOT give up! I love them!

We are not unlike those roses. We have a loving Pruner that won't give up on us either. He corrects our rough edges, nourishes us, loves us, and cheers us on until we bloom fully in our destiny calling - colorful and fragrant.

Psalm 139:17-18 - How precious it is, Lord, to realize that you are thinking about me constantly! I can't even count how many times a day your thoughts turn toward me. And when I waken in the morning, you are still thinking of me.

March 13 - Papa is Proud of You!

You may have had some hard things happen to you. You may think you have ruined any chance at a good life. You may even not like yourself much. But God sees it differently. You are a new creation. You are His child. You are a friend. He loves you so and is so proud of you.

1 John 1:3 - See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!

Psalm 139:17-18 - Every single moment you are thinking of me! How precious and wonderful to consider, that You cherish me constantly in Your every thought! O God, Your desires toward me are more than the grains of sand on every shore! When I awake each morning, You're still thinking of me. (The Passion Translation)