Challenge #173 - Anything Goes

Welcome back!  The weeks seem to be passing by more quickly than ever.  Thank you for allowing us to encourage you in your Christian walk, and to enjoy the beautiful art you create for our challenges.  We consider ourselves BLESSED to be a part of your lives, and it is our desire that the things we share are enriching your lives, and allowing you to share your talents in a place where they are truly appreciated by giving God the glory for the gifts He has given to you.  Thanks for sharing your wonderful projects with us!

This week's word art scripture is Psalm 1:1, and it says "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful."  What this verse is telling us is that the godly man (or woman) is happy and able to receive the blessings that come from living a godly life.  In contrast, when you walk with sinners and surround yourself with the ungodly, you miss out on the blessings and happiness of the Christian life.  When we walk in the counsel of the godly, we are spiritually healthy and fruitful.  This doesn't mean that we won't have troubles in our lives; but we will certainly avoid the pitfalls that come from surrounding ourselves with those who do not seek after the things of God.  We have SO much goodness and blessing waiting for us when we choose to seek friendships that build us up and encourage us in the ways of God's goodness.  Our heartaches enter when we surround ourselves with sin and people who sin (live godless lives).  We have not only a responsibility to walk in the counsel of godly people, but the privilege of receiving countless blessings and the fruitful life that comes from surrounding ourselves with those who seek after God.  Don't be fooled to think that "you will influence and change them".  You won't.  They will drag you down and cause you to sin.  We must always make the choice to surround ourselves with those who encourage us to live for the Lord and do what is right.  Then, and only then, can we experience the fullness of joy God has for us in walking with Him.  It doesn't mean that we think we're "better than others"; it's just a way of protecting ourselves from faltering where we are weak.  This is yet another bit of advice God has given us so that we can experience ALL the good things He has for us.  So think about those three key words; walk, stand, and sit.  Let's WALK to places where we belong and where we can share God with others.  Let's STAND without having to hang our heads in guilt - be proud of where you are standing; knowing that God sees us ALWAYS.  And finally, let's SIT (not on the couch all the time), but in church, or in places that honor God.  He has SO much in store for us when we follow after Him.

As always, you are welcome to save this week's free scripture/word art file to your computer, but are not required to use it in order to play along in our challenges.   We welcome you share your art with us; remembering that Anything Goes as long as it's family-friendly, and uses an encouraging or uplifting sentiment. This includes any type of altered or digital art (not just limited to cards).  You may link up to five (5) projects each week. The more you enter, the more you increase your odds of winning.  It is our desire that God's Word will be a blessing and encouragement to you each week. If you have any questions about the rules, be sure to read the complete list of rules under our page tab for "Challenge Rules".  Because our ultimate goal is to honor God, we have no other choice but to delete any entries that do not adhere to these guidelines.  Let us know if you have any questions, and thanks for your understanding and participation!

Here's this week's scripture/word art file.

We hope it will be a blessing to you.

 

Here are this week's AMAZING sponsors:

The adorable Shoppe 3130 is offering one person a
mixed media set that includes an assorted wool felt die kit,
a ric-rac trim set, and adorable fabric pieces.  Click here to
browse and shop at Shoppe 3130.
AND

The Cutting Café is the sweetest digi shop with
all kinds of unique SVG cutting files, digital stamps,
and so much more.  Click here to browse and shop
at The Cutting Café.
AND NOW........Our Lucky Winners:

Heart & Soul Rubber Stamps is offering
one lucky person either
2 Mounted or 4 Unmounted Stamps of Choice
from their AMAZING shop to
Lucky Entry #225 - Sarah P.
AND

Deedee's Digis is our Digital Sponsor
this week.  One lucky crafter will win
some of their SUPER sweet digis.
That lucky winner is
Entry #50 - AJ "Art Jypsy"

WINNERS:  Please email Karen THIS WEEK

to claim your prize!  Thanks.

May God bless all our amazing sponsors.
We appreciate them all SO very much!

Here's Some Inspiration to Get You Started

Our March Guest Designer, Ginny Maxam

Candace Pierce

Heather Dennis 

Lori Ulrich

 

JoAnn Atterbury

Laura Lunsford 

Stephanie Wright

Carole Robb Bisson

Karen Letchworth

Using Sponsor Product, Teal Berry Basket

From the lovely Shoppe 3130

Card Using Scripture File

 

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