All That's Best of Dark and Bright

My latest painting (the fourth or fifth thing I've tried on this canvas in my kitchen) ...I think this one will stick, as it feels much more "me" than the screaming bright colors of the one before. I had a friend say it made him think of "hope, refreshing, fresh start, and God's glory." So that was a meaningful compliment. Without getting too dramatic, it portrays light and color shining out of darkness, and in the midst of my current emotions, it's a really hopeful reminder.

"She walks in beauty, like the night 

Of cloudless climes and starry skies; 

And all that’s best of dark and bright 

Meet in her aspect and her eyes..."

~Lord Byron

I love that poem, and it kind of fits, so I threw it in!

Anyway, I hope these verses strengthen and encourage you (and me) today:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

“Now may the God of peace… equip you with all you need for doing His will. May He produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him. All glory to Him forever and ever! Amen.” –Hebrews 13:20-21

“This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him.” ~Psalm 91:2
                                                                                            
"You are my hiding place; You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7                                                                                                                                                                       

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” ~Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30)
                                                                    
"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God." -Psalm 42:11
                                                                    
"When I said, “My foot is slipping,” Your unfailing love, Lord , supported me. When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy." -Psalm 94:18-19
                                                                    
“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” -Psalm 139:14

"In just a short time, He will restore us so that we may live in His presence.  Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know Him.  He will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring."  ~Hosea 6:2-3

“We who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” ~Hebrews 6:18-19