curate and celebrate

AWAKEN AND RENEW

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

Photo taken by my sister

TWEAK AND NOURISH

SNACK TREAT: HEAVENLY HUNKS. When I'm not in the mood to whip up some energy bites, I just grab a pack of Heavenly Hunks from Costco. I like most of the ingredients, but not all of them, so I figured I'd make my own version of this somewhat healthy snack. I threw roasted chickpeas into a food processor, then added rolled oats, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, toasted almond flour, peanut butter, dates, coconut oil, toasted unsweetened coconut flakes, sesame seeds, peanut butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, and mini chocolate chips. Blend it all until it's clumpy. Spread the mix into a pan lined with wax or parchment paper and press it down evenly. Pop it in the freezer for 30 minutes or longer to firm up, then cut it into whatever size and shape you like.

My version of Heavenly Hunks

CREATE AND EVOLVE

SEWING AND EMBROIDERY PROJECTS: TRAVEL POUCHES AND SACHET

REFOCUS AND DELIGHT

A CALL TO AWARENESS AND ACTION: THE COURAGE WITHIN US. The scriptural text in Isaiah 41:10 conveys God's instructions and his promises: Don't be afraid , for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. What comforting words from our Heavenly Father!

David's words in Psalm 23 remind us to not be afraid because of God's protection. Psalm 23 New Living Translation:

The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need.

He lets me to rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along the right paths, bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.

Furthermore, we can find reassurance in Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 NLT:

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.

What do you need courage for this week?