Roundup: April & May Scriptures & NEW Word Art

For our Scripture Challenge at Scrapbook-Elements we recently used a series of Biblical texts based on the topic of REPENTANCE, followed by GOD'S FORGIVENESS, and then we touched on the subject of  FORGIVING EACH OTHER.  (At the moment we are focusing our attention on the theme of RESTORATION and RECONCILIATION.)

Our natural inclination is to "stand up for our rights" and lash out in retaliation whenever we feel wronged or unjustly accused. Many times we are tempted to work things out for ourselves, instead of TRUSTING GOD. Other times we are filled with SELF-PITY. Our mistreatment at the hands of others allows us to identify more closely with Christ (for example, in Isaiah's image of the Suffering Servant). Even when it seems to go against our nature, we are called to forgive each other. Yes, it is very hard most of the time, but we make this choice not only out of obedience, but also from a THANKFUL heart of being forgiven ourselves by 'n merciful Father, through faith in the atonement of Christ. Charles Spurgeon said: “To be forgiven is such sweetness that honey is tasteless in comparison with it. But yet there is one thing sweeter still, and that is to forgive. As it is more blessed to give than to receive, so to forgive rises a stage higher in experience than to be forgiven”.  And Corrie Ten Boom reminded us that “Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hate. It is the power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.”  

  The 4 pieces of word art that we used during April and May is now available for purchase as "Scripture Scraps #37".  (Remember, you can still download each week's word art for FREE during the run of the challenge, details of which you can find HERE).

This is the 37th in a collection of ornamental scripture word art to aid you in creating beautiful pages for faithbooking, as well as bookmarks, church bulletins, children's worship aids, memory cards etc. This download contains 4 ready-to-use pieces of word art in PNG format and created in 300ppi for optimal printing. Most pieces are embellished and some pieces contain slight drop shadows.

*** SCRAP4OTHERS- FRIENDLY!! ***

Now available exclusively at Scrapbook-Elements:

Here are the layouts I created with these scriptures. They all feature photos of my two kiddos, who are now much older.  As little rascals they played and had fun together, but now in their teenage years they are struggling to sort themselves and each other out, often resulting in impatience, bickering and harsh words. I pray that these scriptures will help direct their hearts to loving and forgiving one another.  (When you click on each picture below, you will be taken straight to the Gallery, where you will be able to find a list of the products used.)

Colossians 3:13

Bear with each other
and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.
Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 

Luke 6:27-28

But I tell you who hear me:
love your enemies,
do good to those who hate you,
bless those who curse you,
pray for those who mistreat you.

1 Peter 3:9

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult,
but with blessing,
because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

Proverbs 19:11

A man's wisdom gives him patience;
it is to his glory to overlook an offense.