/ˈstȯrm/ noun 1. a disturbance of the atmosphere marked by wind and usually by rain, snow, hail, sleet, or thunder and lightning The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. — Matthew 7:25 One early morning I began journaling in the middle of a storm. All around me the rain was pouring, the thunder was pounding, and the lightning was striking disconcertingly close to home. Between the flashes and claps, there were pauses of peace and calm. As the rains came down, and I thought back to the way water cleansed God's people in the desert, I meditated on my desire to live a pure, cleansed life, free from storms. Unfortunately, storms do happen, and more often than not, they pop up suddenly and without warning. The night before this strong gale, I absorbed the most brilliant sunset, painted with God's brushstrokes dipped in magnificent shades of pink, watching in awe as the sun sank into the horizon. |
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There was no evidence of a storm coming. However, in the quick turn of a moment, the storm hit. As I lay awake and journaling, I wondered how equipped I am to weather these storms. How prepared am I for the onslaught of wind and rain coming without warning? Certainly, little squalls cross our path — soaking showers that give way to rainbows and brilliant sunlight. There are also those slow, gray drizzles that seem to settle in and saturate our spirits. Still others erode our hearts with their vicious violence and ferocity. In any case, I want to be prepared and equipped. I want to fortify the banks of my heart so they will stay firmly planted and not be washed away. God promised me, just as He promised Noah — and you — that undoubtedly, no matter the intensity of the storm, He will cause the sun to reappear. He will stop the rain and silence the thunderous claps. He will push the clouds apart and reveal His peace and assurance over my life, if only I will cling to the hope that He gives us in Jesus, and the hope He spells out for us in His Word. When I cling, He quiets. The storms are momentary, but His love and grace for me are eternal. Is there a storm or some sort of natural disaster that's shaking up your life? Today I invite you to find shelter in God's warm, sturdy embrace. Dear God, thank You for calming the storms that assault my life. Thank You for Your promise to quiet the thunder. I ask today that as I brace for the storms ahead of me, I would look to You as my Captain and not be afraid of the lightning above me. Excerpted with permission from Anne Nielson's Angels, copyright Anne Neilson Fine Art LLC. * |
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Has a storm arisen in your life shaking and rattling you to the core? Whether or not you were prepared and equipped beforehand, its fierce violence cannot be avoided now. Are you clinging to Jesus? He is the calm in the storm and He is in control. Don't be afraid! |
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Do your heart and soul need encouragement, refreshment, and inspiration? |
Anne Neilson's Angels: Devotions and Art to Encourage, Refresh, and Inspire |
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| $29.99 $15.00 (50% off) + FREE shipping on all orders $35 and more |
Anne Neilson's Angels is an exquisite, artful 40-day devotional inviting you to experience joy and comfort through an original angel painting, a thoughtful reflection, Bible verse, and prayer. Experience hope and comfort through Neilson's incredible, ethereal angel paintings combined with her poetic voice reflecting on poignant topics such as love, abundance, release, identity, and purpose. This stunning, conversation-starting coffee table book . . . - opens with a generous foreword by Kathie Lee Gifford
- offers 40 inspirational devotions alongside beautiful, original angel paintings
- was selected as one of her 2020 Holiday Favorite Things by Hoda Kotb, co-anchor of Today
- makes a heartfelt gift for family and friends for Easter, Mother's Day, Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or as a memorable housewarming present
Let Scripture, prayer, and the beauty of Anne Neilson's Angels nurture your soul today. |
What Our Readers Are Saying |
"Beautiful book and prayers! The words chosen, the thoughtful content of the each devotion and the beauty of the art help the reader enjoy their devotional time. This book will be a comforting gift for anyone going through a difficult time." — Kathleen S. |
"This book is beautiful in every way. The art and words are inspiring. It is exactly what I needed during this difficult year. I plan to purchase more as gifts. I hope you love this book as much as I do." — Amy W. |
"Love it, love it, love it. Short enough devotionals and beautiful paintings to get your spirit up and going, deep enough that when you take more time to reflect, God speaks. I love it so I gave the book to my daughter and two daughter in laws. They all love them, as much as I do." — Mary S. |
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| Anne Neilson's Angels Guided Journal |
Are you ready to go deeper on your spiritual journey and breathe new life into your faith? Love, joy, wisdom, and hope––these are just a few of the things we all want more of in our lives. Anne Neilson's Angels Guided Journal will give you a chance to engage in these topics while experiencing inspiration from Anne's incredible angel art. Embrace your devotional time with God as you pour out your fears, challenges, hopes, and dreams in this gorgeous journal. |
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| Entertaining Angels: True Stories and Art Inspired by Divine Encounters |
Have you ever had a moment when you were certain angels were protecting you? Or perhaps in a time of need, you've longed for a reminder that God's angels are nearby. Experience amazing stories of the angels among us in Entertaining Angels, alongside breathtaking art that will remind you clearly of the words of Scripture: "Don't forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" |
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That's how the enemy works. If He can win the battle for your mind, then he can win the battle for your life. ~ Louie Giglio You can find freedom from the war inside your mind—if you allow Jesus, the Good Shepherd, to lead the battle. It's time to reject the lies and listen to the truth. Sign up now and join us for the Online Bible Study with author & pastor Louie Giglio! |
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this devotion with someone who needs it today |
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