Tag: grace

Posted in Life Inspiration

Unpacking the warmth of mercy

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chick mercy

PSALM 18 

1I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. 2 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. 3 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

I strummed across my guitar this morning and the words of Psalm 18:2 came to mind. I had been awakened by frustration this morning. Dreams that bothered me, sins recalled, failures always at hand to rehash and reminisce and cause defeat. Satan’s an early riser. But as I brewed the coffee and came into the living room I began to shake off what Satan had laid on my shoulders and though he’s still lurking about seeking to devour my day, I’m determined to get in the mindset of victory. I’m counting on mercy. I don’t deserve it, but I need it. And God is the only one who is worthy to provide it.

I Love Him so

So I love on Him this morning. I praise Him in song. There’s a line in a Claire Lynch bluegrass song that says. “At my last swallow of coffee I’ll just sit here in your presence for a while and let Your Spirit come and move all over me.” And so I did, except its likely not my last swallow of coffee, I’m just getting started. But I needed to tell the Lord that even though I fail Him, I love Him so. And I’m so thankful for that precious, precious Spirit that sits with me this morning.

My Rock

Never moving. Ever there beside me. The world may walk out on me, but from the day Christ walked into my heart He hasn’t move.

My Fortress

Nothing gets in unless He or I let it in. It’s me who has caused the breaches to need repaired as in the days of Nehemiah. I’ve allowed sin or doubt to break down the fortress that God has created for me. But praise God it’s repaired through repentance and dependence on what my God can do.

My Deliverer

Even from my dreams this day the Lord swooped in and removed me from those thoughts. Through His grace and mercy He stands ready to fight my battles and rescues me just as the Prince for which I dreamed of as a little girl. I knew He was real…

My God!

Oh to utter His name brings job into my soul because I know what it was like without Him. I remember what it was like to feel as if I didn’t belong anywhere. Even now I struggle with “belonging.” I need it, and He knows I need it and every time I get that feeling that I just don’t  fit anywhere in this world, my God come by and says, “that’s because you’re not of this world.” And my world is righted once more.

My Strength

I’m as weak as house cat on my own, but through my Lord I have the strength of a mighty lion. Roar!

My Trust

Is in Him alone.

My Buckler

Shielded from those fiery darts that Satan likes to hurl at me. I occasionally like to peek on the other side of the shield just to see what’s going on. That’s when I get into trouble. I don’t need to see what’s going on in the world, I need to focus on the world that God has given me.

My Horn of Salvation

O glory! Like the bull who makes his way through the streets of the city to fight the matador! But Christ never loses a battle and He will pound into the ground the enemy that comes against us. That is the Horn of my Salvation!

He is worthy, and I am safe.

There’s a lot packed into those three small verses. And through my unpacking of them this morning I know my day is covered. I hope that you were blessed by the Word of God… I hope that you praise Him for He is worthy and I hope that you are shielded in His watch care and salvation today.

((hugs)) from the Jesus Chick this morning!

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Posted in Life Inspiration, Peace

But Now… Stop your worryin’

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CHICK NO WORRIES

Child of God or no, there are very few people that I’ve ever met that didn’t worry. If any really? Some call it “concern” and in the spiritual sense I get that. We know that God has this world under control and that nothing occurs without first having His stamp of approval on it. But when you’re in the thick of heartache and trouble, serious “concern” has a way of creeping up on you.

Isaiah 43 is looking at the release of the Jews out of their captivity and looking even further than that to the redemption of them and us through the Lord Jesus Christ. Verses 1 through 7 are filled with great promises for us to cling to when Satan is whispering in your ear… “you’re  goin’ down.”

7  Promises in Isaiah 43

1 – 1But now thus saith the Lord that created thee,

If God can speak the universe into existence, is there anything He cannot do? Yes… lie.

O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for 2 – I have redeemed thee,

On the cross of Calvary Jesus redeemed us, purchased every child of God with His very own blood sacrifice. As the teens and I studied the “Crazy Love” of Jesus Christ in our Wednesday night service a little girl came to know His saving grace. It was one of those nights where you could feel the Spirit moving and had absolutely nothing to do with me. God had shown up and anointed that class room with His presence before I ever opened my mouth. Two thousand years ago He redeemed little Theresa and planned it out so I could be there the day she came to understand.

3 – I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.

There’s something awesome in knowing that God owns me. I belong to the Creator of all the universe and He has plans for me. He called me for a purpose. It’s like having the CEO of the universe ring your number today and say, “Hey, I have a little something for you to do.” How cool is that!

2 When thou passest through the waters, 4 – I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

No matter the troubles we face, we’re going through. They cannot consume us for we are eternal beings in the hand of God. Many days I’d just rather not go through. I’d much rather go around. But I have yet to go through a trial where I didn’t see the purpose when I arrived on the other side. Every heartache and trial I’ve endured has allowed me to glorify God to someone later. It’s not fun, but if we didn’t have the bad times, we NEVER  appreciate the good times.

3 For 5 – I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee.

When the children of Israel went through the plagues prior to leaving Egpyt, a great many Egyptians died. God didn’t take that lightly. He did not want those people to suffer, and He didn’t want the Israelites to forget that their freedom came with a high price and ours with an even higher price, His Son. The Egyptians were rebellious and refused to heed God’s request. Jesus willingly went to the cross with no sin of His own to pay our debt, because those whom He creatare precious in his sight.

6  – 4 Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.

7 – 5 Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west; 6 I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth; 7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.

He’s with us now and He’s going to bring all His children together someday soon. Oh glory!!!! That’s a promise that I love holding on to.

Posted in Grace, Life Inspiration

Whew Doggies…. that’s what grace does!

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chick grace home

This is why I love, love, love the Word of God and teachers of the Word of God who share their knowledge. And it didn’t cost me 19.95 for a CD or download… just sayin’

Perry Noble’s teaching on the book of Acts and brings out this truth…

On the day that Moses came down from the mountain having been given the 10 commandments, he discovers the idiocy of Aaron, whom he’d left in charge. At the peoples request Aaron makes an idol for them to worship (the golden calf). God’s angry, Moses is angry and the people are sorry… a little too late. In God’s anger God gives this order in Exodus 32:27 “And he said unto them, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, and go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbour.”

And they do as they’re instructed and we see in verse 28 that “there fell of the people that day about three thousand men.”

BUT CHECK THIS OUT!

In Acts 2:41

On the day of Pentecost when the believers were filled with the Holy Ghost the scripture says

“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”

When the law was given 3,000 people died, when the Spirit was given 3,000 people came to life!

Whew Doggies that’s what Spirit of God does! It brings to life that which was dead. I couldn’t keep the law… so God made Grace the way. Oh, I am so glad He did!

Posted in Christian Service, Grace, Life Inspiration

Do you know Grace?

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chick grace

The story has been told (and now embellished by me) about Goldie, the church gossip who took it upon herself to be God’s eyes, ears and unfortunately mouth (if only she’d have ask God if that was okay.) Most churches love new folks and encourage them into the fold without so much as a question about their past, knowing we’re all sinners saved by grace, but not Goldie. She scrutinized each new attendee like an FBI interrogation only slyer and watched in their little community for the tale tell signs of a sinners life. The church’s newest member, Sawyer, joined unaware of Goldie Gossip’s tactics until she approached him in the church vestibule one Sunday morning and informed him that she had seen his blue pickup truck at the local tavern and the whole town knew that he was drunkard and womanizer for sure because of where he had been. She assured him that she’d be praying for his heart to become right with Christ but until then, he needed to know, that she knew.

Sawyer smiled but replied nothing in return. A week came and went and on Saturday night Sawyer parked his blue pickup truck in front of Miss Goldie Gossip’s house and left it there all night. Sunday morning he came back to church and sat right beside her.

That’s not a true story of course, but it’s real close. Every church more than likely has a “Goldie Gossip” or a few of them actually. Compound that by living in a community the size of mine, where everyone knows everyone and their sins and transgressions and it can make for some interesting Sunday mornings. We used to have party lines for people to pick up on and gather information but now we have Facebook! O Glory to God if my Mommaw Vada would have had Facebook she’d have thought Jesus had returned because it would have been like Heaven on earth!

Ephesians 4:29

Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

I grow weary of gossip. Sometimes because I come in on the tail end of it and don’t get the whole story! We live in such an “informed” day where you can find out anything with the click of a button, or the touch of a smart phone and secrets are a rare commodity and worse than that is the people who don’t want their sin’s kept secret so they post it on Facebook themselves! And then you have the church folk, who wouldn’t dare make their sin public but they wouldn’t mind sharing someone else’s sin under the guise of “Pure Concern” of course.

The story of Goldie Gossip is fun to imagine and I can’t say I wouldn’t like to have seen that blue pickup truck parked in the driveway of a few self-righteous people that I know; but I better be careful about throwin’ roks lest one breaks my “windor.” The point of this topic today is this… on the day before the Lord’s day, I’d like to see a few new sinners come my way at church in the morning. I’d like to pray for them today, and pray with them tomorrow. I’d like to love on them and remember that I was them 19 years ago this month. Do you know grace? Boy I sure do…

Colossians 4:6 – Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Titus 2:11 – For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

Titus 3:7 – That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Hebrews 4:16 – Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

1 Peter 4:10 – As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Posted in Life Inspiration

But now… News Flash!

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chick mosaic

Psalm 119:67 says “Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.”

Matthew Henry’s commentary expounded on it like this “Prosperity is the unhappy occasion of much iniquity; it makes people conceited of themselves, indulgent of the flesh, forgetful of God, in love with the world, and deaf to the reproofs of the word.” Matthew Henry is far deeper than Shari Johnson. I skimmed the “But Now” verse for today and thought…. “ahhh, he’s right with God.” I missed the part about being afflicted until I read it again; trying to unpack what it was the Lord would have me to understand.

Before I was afflicted…

You know, when all was right with your world. Before you lost yet another job, before you lost that friend, before you felt bad, before your family was hurting, before you were frustrated, before, before, and before again. Dear gussy! Why must it always be that way? Before we keep God’s word, our world is filled with awesome sauce. It’s only when those distresses, dangers and depression come into our lives that we read God’s word and think, “That’s a good idea.”

News flash! It was a good idea before the before. “But now… it’s an even better idea!” Because now we’ve come to realize that without God in the equation of our life we come up with the same answer. Wrong. It is God that makes everything right, even the wrong stuff. Over the 19 years of my salvation I’ve witnessed first hand

  • God move financial mountains like they were ant hills
  • Heal disease without treatment… and with treatment
  • Answer the prayer for healing with “Not on this side,” and provide the peace beyond!
  • Friendships broken beyond repair… and then mended
  • Drunkards find new wine
  • Dopers find the greatest high in life… salvation
  • Prison in people with freedom, and freedom for people in prison
  • Lives shattered and then pieced back together to become a beautiful mosaic.
  • And so much more!!!

That’s how God works! But not by choice. He’d rather we get it right the first time. He’d have rather there would have been no sin in the garden, but now… there’s Satan. And he’s got to stir it all up and see if anything stinks and stink it does. Until we smell the sweet aroma of God’s presence in the room, when He shows up and we say… I think I’ll keep God’s word. It’s the only thing that has ever stayed trued and beyond a shadow of a doubt has kept me through it all.

It’s kept me:

  • In hope when the world said there was none.
  • In peace with the world was in chaos.
  • Together when I was alone.
  • Filled with joy, without reason.
  • Complete, when so many things in my life were missing.

I am that mosaic. A beautiful piece of art fabricated out of all the brokenness and afflictions, and glued back together with His word. It’s such a privilege to have it.

Posted in Life Inspiration, Uncategorized

But now… I get it God

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chick winner

I wish I could say that quicker. Meaning that I wish that I got “it” (the understanding of God’s plan) earlier. I wish that when I was facing a struggle in my life back here, I could see “waaaay” out there and understand why I must go through what I’m going through. If I’d be honest with myself I usually know why; it’s because I’m stupid. I sin, I don’t wait on God, I design my life and then ask for God’s stamp of approval. That’s not how God works. God allows me to go ahead and play house with my life and then He comes in, moves all my furniture out and leaves me sitting with nothing and starting from scratch.

That wasn’t really the case with Job. He was a good man, he trusted God, he prayed and sacrificed, went to church three times a week, gave to the widows fund and bought Girl Scout cookies every time they came to the door. He did not deserve this treatment! I don’t’ want to make light of Job’s issues of life, lest I might face even one of them and crumble to my knees crying for mercy. What Job went through I can’t fathom, nor do I want to. But it still didn’t change the fact that you never assume you’re without sin.

In the final “but now” of Job’s life he gets it. He now understands that he was a part of a bigger plan, one that would still have us talking 4,000 years later. Is that not amazing!

Job 42:5

I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.

I get it God. Not only did Job get it, he gave it.

He gave the repentance necessary to heal his relationship with the Lord. Job was a righteous man, but he was not a sin free man. During his days of despair in the worst of it all, as his wife forsook him, his friends ridiculed him and his body was racked with misery, he questioned God. I would have too and likely worse than that. But in the end Job tells God, I’m sorry. And at God’s urging so did the three Awful Amigos.

7 And it was so, that after the Lord had spoken these words unto Job, the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.

Job had spoken what was right? Complaining doesn’t surprise God, and He’s up to it. But self-righteousness, nope… He’ll have no part of it. Job’s sin wasn’t the complaining, it was that he didn’t think he’d sinned, and he had. The bible is clear that there is “None Righteous.” But we can get in that mode can’t we? We know we’re sinners, but we’re not as bad as “they” are. We’re quick to say when a sinner falls that “we seen it coming.” But when we fall… “why on earth did that happen!”

Maybe because of sin, or maybe because it’s a part of a plan “waaaay out there” that will have us standing in awe of the great things God has done.

I don’t like trouble, aches, pains or heartaches. But it is those very things that usually draw us to God and drive us to our knees acknowledging Who it is that’s in charge of the universe. Just as the abrasive sanding down of a piece of wood brings out the grain of artistic beauty, so does the troubles in our life. Everything we go through now has us in a position to encourage a brother or sister in Christ to hang on, they’ll make it too!

Job’s friends repented, but not until God called them out on it. Learn from Job, go first… God’s first place rewards are way better!!!

Posted in Grace, Life Inspiration, salvation

But Now… that’s not My song

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Chick knows

Job 35:10-15

But none saith, Where is God my maker, who giveth songs in the night; Who teacheth us more than the beasts of the earth, and maketh us wiser than the fowls of heaven? There they cry, but none giveth answer, because of the pride of evil men. Surely God will not hear vanity, neither will the Almighty regard it.  Although thou sayest thou shalt not see him, yet judgment is before him; therefore trust thou in him. But now, because it is not so, he hath visited in his anger; yet he knoweth it not in great extremity:

So today is not about me… again. But I thought it was when I lay in bed this morning arguing with God that I was growing weary of this “but now” series. My Attention Deficit Disorder thought there was likely something shinier I needed to be looking at. Ha! God said. My Word always shines!

So last night I’m sitting at home and I get an unusual call from a fella who’s near and dear to me, but the last thing he usually wants to discuss is church; because he knows I’ll be on him like white on rice. But this time he’s on me. Sunday morning, when I was where I was, and he was where he was, he’d seen a video on one of the cable music channels. He had previously heard this song on a local radio station, but this time it had images to go with it and a purpose; and none of it was good. The song is titled “Take me to Church” and can be found on Youtube by clicking the song title. I don’t recommend it if you’re squeamish, but it was needful for he and I to see it, because God had a message for us both.

I quickly skimmed the song facts before returning my friends call to answer as to “what I thought of the song.” The song was successful in that it’s intended design was to slam Christianity. The singer, Andrew Hozier Byrne, was quoted on songfacts.com

Written in the wake of a breakup with his first girlfriend, this is both a love song and a contemplation of sin, drawing influence from the late atheist writer Christopher Hitchens. Hozier described it to The Guardian as, “a bit of a losing your religion.

I found it odd that he was quoting an atheistic view point, but capitalizes the name of God in his article, as if God were someone. Well, He is Someone. But He’s not who they characterize in the video. The song criticizes the oppression of gay people in Russia and is said by Hozier that it’s not “an attack on faith.”

Well, this seriously isn’t an attack on Hozier, because he’s not the one responsible for that song. He was a tool, and mightily used by Satan himself. The friend who called was not affectionate of gay people. As a matter of fact, you would more than likely find him either telling or laughing at a gay joke. He’s a red-blooded American boy brought up in the heart of the country. But this song struck a chord in him. The chord that it was intended to strike; the one that paints the church as a narcissistic governing body of people that preach hate.

So, I had some explaining to do. Because it is unfortunate that we are portrayed that way because of a few (by comparison to the numbers who don’t preach hate).

So back to the “But Now” scripture in Job that I whined to God about. Elihu, the “friend” of Job is he who speaks the words in scripture. He too touts to Job that it is obviously because of his wrong living that he has landed in these dire straights.

Elihu is not singing God’s song.

Neither are the religious that damn the homosexual. Because as it says in John 3:17 “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” And the gay person is no greater a sinner than the drunkard or the glutton, yet they are all sinners and need redemption.

God does hear vanity, and He ain’t happy

Elihu said that surely God will not hear vanity, insinuating that Job was being self-centered because of his suffering. Really, Christian folk do that? Yes! Every time we fail to hear the cry of a hurting soul because of their sin, thinking that they “brought their suffering upon themselves,” it is we who are vain and stand in the place of God, judging.

Judgment will come… on the sinner and the church folk too

As I said before, this isn’t about Hozier. He needs to know that Jesus loves him. But what Satan meant this song to do is convince him that Jesus hates him, and that’s a lie right out of the pits of Hell. Christian’s who preach hatred will have their day before God. I’m not saying they’re lost, because Christian people make bad decisions and God doesn’t throw them out of Heaven for it. But they will stand before an Almighty and Powerful God and answer as to why they drove someone away from Jesus.

But Now… God’s song is “Jesus loves me this I know.”

Click on the song link and give the Devil his due!

Posted in Grace, Life Inspiration

But Now… an awkward alliance turns awesome!

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broken chick

Joshua 9

12 This our bread we took hot for our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy:

These were the words spoken to Joshua and the children of Israel by the Gibeonites in order to deceive them into believing they were from a far country; yet instead they were neighbors to Israel for whom God had instructed Israel to make no treaty with. Joshua knew enough to talk to God before he went into battle, but what’s the harm in a peace treaty? God loves us to be buddies, right? Ummm… not always. It wasn’t long before Joshua had figured out that he’d been duped, but they had already sworn peace in the name of the Lord, and that’s serious business. So instead of killing the Gibeonites, the Gibeonites became Israel’s servants.

All sounds innocent enough, but Israel had still sinned in that they had failed to seek counsel of God. God may continue to use you, He may continue to bless you, but not to the degree that He would have if obedience had been factored in. But it’s the rest of the story that I love about the Israelites and the Gibeonites. They were not supposed to be mingled in with the children of God, and deceitfully got there. But God’s got a plan and as human as we are we can’t mess it up. God used the humility of Gibeon as a life lesson. They were humbly willing to be servants to the house of God if their life was spared and because of their willingness to serve Him He continued to use them.

After Joshua 9

  • The Gibeonites became servants at the tabernacle, just as Joshua had commanded.
  • Gibeon becomes a priestly city; the Ark of the Covenant stayed at Gibeon often in the days of David and Solomon (1 Chronicles 16:39-40 and 21:29).
  • At least one of David’s mighty men was a Gibeonite (1 Chronicles 12:4).
  • God spoke to Solomon at Gibeon (1 Kings 3:4).
  • Gibeonites were among those who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem with Nehemiah (Nehemiah 3:7 and 7:25)

Isn’t it great what God can do with us when we come to Him in humility and love, willing to be used where ever it is that He sees fit. As Gentiles we were not God’s chosen people, but in His great mercy He allows us to be a part of the family of God, grafted in, adopted in as one of His own. It was an awkward alliance that Joshua made, but because of it Gibeon was saved. Stop kicking yourself because of your past mistakes and rather see if God can turn awkward into awesome!

Posted in Life Inspiration

Boho Vibes: Embracing Bohemian Style with Summer Dresses

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Summer is the perfect season to embrace the free-spirited, relaxed vibe of bohemian fashion and womens summer dresses canada. With its roots in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s, boho style is all about self-expression, comfort, and a connection to nature. It’s a look that’s easy to love, especially when it comes to summer dresses. From flowy fabrics to earthy tones and intricate patterns, boho summer dresses capture the essence of laid-back elegance. Whether you’re heading to a music festival, a beachside picnic, or simply want to bring a touch of boho charm to your everyday wardrobe, here’s how to fully embrace the boho vibes this summer.
1. The Magic of Flowy Fabrics

One of the hallmarks of bohemian style is the use of flowy, lightweight fabrics that move with you. Think cotton, linen, and chiffon—materials that are breathable and perfect for hot summer days. These fabrics drape beautifully, creating an effortless, ethereal look that’s both comfortable and chic.

Why It’s Essential: Boho summer dresses often feature loose, relaxed silhouettes that allow for maximum comfort without sacrificing style. Whether it’s a billowy maxi dress or a breezy sundress, the flowy fabric is key to achieving that quintessential boho vibe.

Styling Tip: Look for dresses with tiered skirts, ruffles, or bell sleeves to add extra movement and texture. Pair with simple leather sandals or espadrilles for an easy, relaxed look.
2. Embracing Earthy Tones and Natural Hues

Bohemian fashion is deeply connected to nature, which is reflected in its color palette. Earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, mustard yellow, and warm browns are staples of boho style. These colors not only complement a sun-kissed summer glow but also evoke a sense of grounding and harmony with the natural world.

Why It’s Essential: Earthy tones are versatile and easy to mix and match, making them perfect for creating a cohesive, boho-inspired wardrobe. Whether you opt for a solid color dress or one with a subtle print, these hues will help you achieve that relaxed, bohemian look.

Styling Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix different earthy tones together—boho fashion is all about creative expression. Pair a terracotta dress with an olive green cardigan or layer a mustard yellow kimono over a white lace dress for a look that’s effortlessly cool.
3. Unique Patterns and Prints

Patterns are a key element of bohemian fashion, with designs often inspired by global cultures, nature, and vintage aesthetics. Paisley, floral, and geometric prints are all popular choices, adding a sense of individuality and artistic flair to your outfit.

Why It’s Essential: Boho prints are typically intricate and eye-catching, making them the perfect way to express your personal style. A printed boho dress is a statement piece that can stand on its own, or be layered with other elements for a more complex look.

Styling Tip: Balance bold patterns with neutral accessories to keep the focus on the dress. A wide-brimmed hat, a pair of oversized sunglasses, and a fringed bag are perfect boho accessories that won’t overpower your outfit.
4. Accessorizing the Boho Way

Accessories are where you can really let your creativity shine in boho fashion. From chunky jewelry to wide belts and floppy hats, the right accessories can take your boho summer dress to the next level. Natural materials like leather, wood, and stone are often used in boho accessories, adding an organic touch to your look.

Why It’s Essential: Boho style is all about layering and texture, and accessories play a big role in achieving that. Whether it’s a stack of bangles, a long pendant necklace, or a braided leather belt, these pieces help to create a rich, eclectic look that’s uniquely yours.

Styling Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different accessories to create a layered, lived-in look. A statement belt can add shape to a flowy dress, while a pair of ankle boots or gladiator sandals can give your outfit a laid-back, festival-ready vibe.
5. Layering for the Perfect Boho Look

Layering is another key aspect of bohemian fashion, allowing you to create depth and dimension in your outfit. In the summer, light layers like crochet vests, kimono jackets, and lightweight scarves can add interest without weighing you down.

Why It’s Essential: Layering not only adds visual interest to your outfit but also gives you the flexibility to adapt your look to different settings and temperatures. A light, flowing kimono over a simple dress can transform your outfit from day to night, or from beach to bar.

Styling Tip: Opt for layers in complementary colors or textures to keep the look cohesive. A white lace kimono over a floral dress creates a soft, romantic vibe, while a denim jacket can add a touch of casual cool.
Conclusion

Bohemian fashion is more than just a style; it’s a way of life that celebrates freedom, creativity, and a connection to the earth. With the right summer dress, you can capture the essence of boho vibes and create outfits that are both beautiful and meaningful. Whether you’re drawn to flowy fabrics, earthy tones, unique patterns, or creative accessories, embracing bohemian style with your summer wardrobe will have you looking effortlessly chic and festival-ready all season long. So go ahead and let your inner free spirit shine through—boho vibes are just a dress away.

Posted in Christmas, Life Inspiration

This Morning’s Gift

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on This Morning’s Gift

DAYChristmas is almost always a bitter sweet time. It’s a time of reminiscing that evokes either fondness or failures from the recesses of your mind. Although I try, I cannot live in my Ozzie and Harriett world and pretend that all is well all the time. I must concede to the fact that life is very real, and not always very fun. But the one thing that cannot be taken from me and puts joy in my soul in the hardest of times is the Christmas verse.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

It’s why Jesus came as a Baby and died as a Lamb. The final sacrifice for us all. It’s the gift that I receive every morning when I awake and realize that God gave me the gift of another day. Who but God can do that?  Santa may have left you a gift worth thousands beneath your tree today, but he cannot give you the gift of another day. Somebody may have handmade you the sweetest gift, but it cannot compare with the gift of a new day that God gave you. That’s where I’m at this Christmas morning; standing in awe that God saw fit to do it again. Now… what am I going to do with it?

I have family all around me that are going through some very rough times. I have to ask myself, “What can I do with this day to help them through?” I can share the last part of that Christmas verse… the gift that never ends. Everlasting life. Regardless of how many days we’re given down here, the fact of the matter is if we know Jesus we will never run out of days. That’s what He did when He wrote that Christmas verse in the scriptures; He gave us one more day. And when that one is through, we’ll have one more day.  And when life ends down here, we’ll have one more day.

I don’t know what’s going on in Heaven today, but I know that those for whom I love, who have gone on before me and knew my Lord and Savior, are enjoying Christmas day. One more day. Only theirs is without heartache, sorrow or pain. No family squabbles and no regrets! Oh glory what a Christmas morning.

What are you going to do with the gift you were given this morning?