More From Verner Guthrie

In my meditation for today, I emphasized the value of Bible study to help us learn more about Jesus Christ. Other people see us in everyday situations. Our actions and responses to situations reflect who we are. If we know Christ, our actions should be Christ-like. It’s a daily struggle to act like Christ. If we start our day with prayer, a devotional or meditation, and Bible reading, we have a better attitude and can face the day prepared for what comes our way.

During the two years since I wrote this meditation, the world has been in a pandemic. Most people stayed home a great deal in the early days of the pandemic. Since I am retired, I made time to renew my interest in painting, which began when I was about 12. I have very little formal training, but I watch television painters, read books, and watch videos to learn techniques. My interest in God’s creation exhibited in nature leads me to paint landscapes and seascapes. When I go on walks, I see things more from the eye of an artist. I observe rocks, trees, water, sky, clouds, flowers, and birds. These inspire me to do a painting.

I use photographs or my memory to paint. Some scenes are of real places, others are imagined. I find that painting has a calming effect on me and improves my concentration. It is a wonderful hobby. I prefer oil painting, but use acrylic sometimes. I enjoy decorating my home and making scenes with my paintings, and give some to friends or relatives. Sometimes, I attach Bible verses to the frame to give joy and inspiration to the receiver. Some of my paintings are shown here.

I painted these and many others over several years.  Each one may represent several hours of work, but not all at once. I paint in between doing volunteer work with my church and community, during rainy days or stormy weather. I highly recommend trying your hand at some artwork. It can remind you of who God is (our Master Creator) and that we are God’s “workmanship created in Christ Jesus” (Eph. 2:10, KJV).