We’re in a spiritual battle and it’s a fight right to the end.
In Matthew 24, Jesus recounts the signs of the coming end days and it’s a rough time. There will be false messiahs deceiving people into believing that they are saviours when they are not. There will be wars, famine, and earthquakes. Believers will be persecuted and killed, and this will cause many to fall away from the faith and betray one another. Wickedness will abound and this will make it difficult for us to remain loving as commanded.
He says, in verse 22, that if those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened.
But, He also promises that those who endure to the end will be saved. And we can endure because He gives us strength and courage in His presence.
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.
Deuteronomy 31:6, 8
Process and products used:
This page in my NIV Journal the Word Bible features the following stamp sets by Creative Worship Stamps. These are affiliate links, please see the Privacy Policy for details.
I started with the Funky Textures 3 stamp to highlight the verse, as well as create a background in the column. Then, I used the Mindful Magnolias stamps to add more detail to the background. I also stamped one of the blossoms and leaves, from that stamp set, onto mixed media paper in plum and green inks. I coloured them using a brush and the inks with a bit of water. After they dried somewhat, I fussy cut them out by hand but there is also a die cut set that could be used for that: Mindful Magnolias die set.
I stamped those same florals on the page then layered the mixed media florals on top of them. I used the Mini Marks 2 stamp for the oval dots in black ink. The word “trust” is from the same Mindful Magnolias stamp set, and the “I’m here for you” is from the Hope Blooms stamp set. Lastly, I used a black Tombow Fudenosuke marker for the title, then finished with a prayer of thanks and a date stamp.
Be encouraged
Your Love ~ Blessing Offor
Knowing that God is with us gives us the strength and courage to do what He calls us to. The battle is His and victory is assured. Remain in His love, beloved. Adjust your expectations according to His word and ask for His help to press on.
