God has made a world of beauty and drama like the surprise of Red Spider lilies
- flowers I had no idea were in my yard that suddenly popped up then were
gone in two weeks.  How about a sunrise on the ocean or a full moon shining off
a lake.  Or lightening in the sky?   So much better than fireworks!  And I love a
full moon with clouds wisping across it and the crisp scent of burning leaves.  

There is so much beauty around us that we often fail to take the time to see it, much less enjoy it.  
Everyone seems to be rushing, rushing, rushing with no idea where they are rushing to - or why.  
They might say they are living but I say they are missing the best part of life.









BUT the best thing you can surround yourself with is the presence
of God.  Spend time with Him, read His love letters to you, fellowship,
worship, and just enjoy Him.  Leland and I set aside time every
Tuesday to just worship the Lord.  Sometimes the atmosphere gets
so thick in the room, tears flow from the eyes without us even realizing it.

Psalm 16:8-9 point out that when we put God first, our flesh shall rest in hope - resting is a peaceful
term especially when combined with hope.  The original meaning of the word hope is hie for refuge -
go quickly for refuge - to trust, be confident or sure.

When you are sure God has your back - to protect, deliver, provide, prosper, keep safe - you can
rest.  I love the Living Bible version:




My heart, body and soul are filled with joy!  Wow!  Doesn't that just make you want to surround
yourself with God's presence today?




Inspiration Copyright © 2008 Nan C Loyd
All rights reserved. Used by permission.
SURROUND YOURSELF
WITH BEAUTY
Edition #08-37
I heard a quote the other day, "Surround yourself with things that are
beautiful to you.  They inspire creativity."  I can only say, "amen."  
One of the meanings of the word "beauty" is decoration so I believe
God meant for us to surround ourselves with decorations that inspire.
 After all, He did!
This has inspired me to surround myself with things that are
beautiful  to me.  I love candles and scents.  I love tea lights that
can be dotted all over a room, putting off little glowing bits of light.  
I love tube lights and the soft glow of Christmas lights.  I especially
love friends who encourage me, my son who grabs life and enjoys
it with laughter, and a husband who surrounds me with the most
incredible love!
"I am always thinking of the Lord; and because He is so near, I never need
to stumble or to fall.  Heart, body, and soul are filled with joy!"