Modern, Original, Christian Artwork

Ya'll, it's almost MARCH! That means it's almost SPRING!!! (my favorite time of the year, btw)...

So, I am working on 4 paintings right now - 2 of which are something I've always wanted to try, but I was worried it would look too cartoony, so I had never given it a go. Before I started to paint, I would draw - still do - and whenever I'm bored, if I have pen and paper, I always doodle faces and eyes... I've always liked eyes - not sure why - and I've always wanted to incorporate my drawing into my painting, but I didn't want it to look like a cartoon - too childish. I can't draw lifelike images - things like portraits - not my thing. Not for a lack of trying... I've tried and they end up looking like a bad caricature. But, I decided to try it... I don't have any pictures yet b/c they are in the very beginning stages, but so far, so good... and as long as I don't get carried away - something I've been known to do - I think they will turn out quite nice... so be on the look out!

On my way home today, I was listening to a preacher on the radio - I forget the program, not one of my usuals, but he was talking about how, as believers, we WILL go through trials, like it or not... As usual, this particular message pretty much hit the nail on the head, where my own life is concerned right now, and there was a scripture that was used - one I've heard before, but never really considered... I think most scriptures are ones we've heard before, but you don't REALLY consider what it's actually saying - even if it's black and white, cut and dry - no mystery about it - until it applies directly and specifically to what you are going through at that very moment...

Psalm 34:19: Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

I trust God, I do. But, when I'm in the middle of a storm, there are many many times that I feel completely alone. And I believe God's Word when it says:

Hebrews 13:5b: God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

But anyone who has ever gone through anything that left even a small scar on your heart, you know, there is a difference between knowing what the Bible says.. and actually believing it.

So, point being, when I heard Psalm 34:19 today, I was comforted. Prior to hearing that, I was very, very anxious. God's Word, at the right time, has a way of calming and comforting like nothing else can.

And then the preacher read from Isaiah - it's a verse I've used on a couple paintings, but another one that I had not even thought of in a long time - probably close to year:

Isaiah 43:1: But now, this is what the LORD says--he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine."

I LOVE the last 3 words of that verse. YOU ARE MINE! That makes me feel bold and I can't think of anyone better to belong to.

Ok... so those are my discoveries from today... and now here are my OCD pictures of my dogs and cats ... and the wounded bird, which I took to the sanctuary on Sunday - his wing was broken, but the joint was not, which means after he heals, he will be able to fly again. Nice lady, the bird lady. Glad to know she's there - my cats bring home so many 'prizes' in the Spring and Summer... and, when I'm able, I try to save them... If I'm too late, they become cat snacks.

(ALL these first set of pictures were taken under and around the dinner table last night - you would think we're starving these animals with how much they beg...)

On our way to the sanctuary - the bird was not happy with me - he kept turning his back and giving me the evil eye...

Dustin attempting to calm Jasper down - this dog never ever tires... he's like a full grown puppy - I'm going to be so happy to see him calm down when he goes to obedience classes this month...

And the kitties - Evander in the bed Grandma got him and Tyson with his teddy bear (MY Big White Bear that I've had since I was 10 years old - his name is Big White - I know, creative):

And, that's it for this evening... I'm gonna work on the new paintings some tonight and tomorrow - I'm really hoping to get them listed on Ebay tomorrow - Thursday at the latest... I'll post pics on here, too, though...

Happy Tuesday! (Dustin's FRIDAY!!!)