In writing I have tried to be genuine, humble, and open to listening and learning from God. I also try to put the advice into practice by God’s grace and power. As a reader I hope you approach these notes the same way. I pray they bless you and inspire you to become all God has designed for you to be and to do for his glory. He believes in you and wants the best for you. So do I. The most valuable gift I can give is to build you and others up and to help you draw near to God through Jesus. In time I hope God becomes your closest friend, your brightest future, and your deepest love.
Your friend and teacher,
Greenelsh
136 Learn from the Best
If you follow this podcast/blog you know that I teach visual arts and a few other subjects to high school students. In my lessons I often refer to other artists’ work or tutorials as examples of a particular technique. I enjoy learning from artists. In fact, I enjoy...
135 Dwell in the Right Shadow
This morning I was encouraged as I read Psalm 91 in the Bible. The book of Psalms contains songs, prayers, and poetry proclaiming the magnificence of God along with our need for him. It beautifully describes how God created and reigns over the universe and yet wants...
134 Take Responsible Risks
As you reflect on the turbulent year of 2020 and look toward 2021, what do you hope will happen? Do you have any new year's resolutions? Whatever the future holds, I'm sure it will involve risk. Whether you are reacting to circumstances or proactively trying to foster...
133 Be in Christ
At the end of a year like 2020 it might not seem like there is much to celebrate at Christmas, but there is. Despite difficult times we are still incredibly blessed. At Christmas we are reminded of God's greatest blessing—the gift of God the Son, Jesus, who...
132 Fight Fatigue
As 2020 comes to a close, do you feel worn out? Has this year taken a toll on you and your loved ones? Maybe you are looking forward to next year being better. Perhaps you're waiting for a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine or a change in government. Perhaps you...
131 Model Integrity
In the United States the results of our recent election are uncertain because tragically there appears to be widespread, organized fraud and corruption. To preserve our democracy we need to expose any wrongdoing that prevents a free and fair election now and in the...
130 Live Gratefully
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because it brings people together for fellowship, fun, and food. Also it focuses people on giving thanks to God for his bountiful blessings. During difficult times it might seem awkward or foreign to offer thanks, but every...
129 Intercede
Sometimes when you are bombarded with discouraging news, feel pressured, experience stress or trauma, it can be overwhelming and paralyzing, especially when it seems like no end is in sight. I teach at risk high school students. Unfortunately, several of them are at...
128 Declare Victory
Have the events of this year, worn you out. Do you feel fatigued from false news, worried about election integrity, restricted by the pandemic, unsupported by work, disillusioned with the government, divided by social unrest, or distanced from family? You can find...
127 Promote Peace
During national unrest, uncertainty, and stressful times it is alluring to focus on the negative, complain, look for scapegoats, and escalate disagreement. Don't wallow in that toxic swamp. It's unhealthy and unproductive. Instead give thanks for what's good, unite...