“Times And Seasons”
BLOG BURST
“Well, just in case you didn’t realize it September is upon us. This weekend brings Monday’s “Labor Day”, a time of reflection and paying tribute to the American worker for their achievements and contributions. Wow, take that in light of the mess we are in. Blame this and that, he or she or even them and the truth, the real truth is there. Nobody really wants to watch PBS’s account to really understand who was in charge, who made the decision and just maybe who got paid off. But, please pass the blame. The workers that we honor, we allow to bear the brunt of borrowing, giving the money away to cronyism and solutions that didn’t have a possibility of succeeding and then finally making the workers of America pay it back. Like I said what a mess!
It’s all times and seasons, as we move forward to what is coming, and people don’t want to hear that either. In our “feel good” society the choice is always about “me”!
What’s up with your Labor Day, getting together with family, friends, old customs or new traditions? Please, you may want to reflect on those who lost everything after the most recent storm or just weeks ago the most recent fire, or the most recent shooting, or the most recent tragedy, or even what you may not see coming.
Times and seasons still demand we spend time with Him, pouring ourselves out about all that concerns us. It does require the right relationship and the right standing.
Spend some time, get right and ask, seek and knock!”
POETIC PONTIFICATION
“Seasons come and seasons go; time moves more than day to day
What are you longing for, what care burdens you, what will you say
We never know the day or the hour or the true cause of events
But we sure don’t think a lot when we go off and when we truly vent
Where’s your joy where’s your peace have you just settled in
Are you at all concerned about how you are to live for Him?”
“True artist painters are a rare breed, living out a journey. They are often totally maligned and misunderstood. Sometimes it takes a lot of work and time to create something worth showing to others. Have a great week!”
"Find my painting or may my paintings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“See Beautiful Paintings”
BLOG BURST
“Week after week I consistently say to you, “Find my Paintings or may my Paintings Find You!
"Find My Paintings"
This week just click the link above and be taken to a new and exciting place and make that come true. It’s not quite finished yet, but I’m excited as there are so many changes about to take place that it should really be a special year. All the negative baggage has gone and we’re back on the positive way once again. With God’s direction and His Almighty favor it will be an exciting ride. Stay Tuned. I have a new announcement soon."
POETIC PONTIFFICATION
“We spend years listening to those who have no clue
They have all kinds of things for us to say and do
And yet they’ve followed the world moving to the end
All they know is diamonds are a girl’s best friend
Yet they forget His wonderful mercy and awesome grace
There is just no experience like truly seeking His face!"
"Paintings can move you, capture you, and take you beyond your expectations, but they lose value to viewers who never truly see them for what they are. Have a great week and stay positive!"
“Find my Paintings or may my paintings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“Open My Eyes” (public domain image)
BLOG BURST
"The eyes are amazing creations of Almighty God.
Nothing comes close or will ever come close to God’s creations. Not even Leonardo could make a real Lion; only one that walked and was built of wood. Think about it, that was back in the 1500’s. Soon the new iPhone will be out with a very special camera and great new features. Today was the launch of a unique video player. This afternoon millions upon millions will watch videos. Hundreds of millions will be fixed to the HD Television and billions will be on smart phones. On and on it goes as man continues to invent and refine the way we see and what we see.
God has His time table and the entire planet and all things that are on it are in motion to that end. The biggest problem right now is not the technology but it’s man’s vision and man’s heart. He neither sees what is going on around him, nor looks for the miracles God performs on a daily basis. He has no relationship to God, he’s chosen his own way. An artist painter must become an observer, a researcher and an experimenter to create a painting of any worth. Yet, 99.9 percent of every human being doesn’t see God at work. In fact they don’t even acknowledge Him and the works He has already done in which man takes pleasure.
How about you? Do you know Him and have a relationship with Him? Are you going through some things that seem to have no answers? Have you chosen your own way instead of what He had for you?
He’s waiting; He’s willing; and He’s available! Just ask Him!"
PONTIFICATION
"Each day we get up work and struggle along our way
Never fully seeing or asking what should we do today
Where would You have us and what should we do
Never coming to Him clean asking Him to show anew
He’s always there, He’ll never, never turn you away
Time is moving fast don’t put off what you should do!"
"The painting will never get done if the artist just goes on with life and all its interruptions. Time to get in the real game, don’t wait! Have a great week!"
"Find my painting or may my paintings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“His Word Is Truth” (public domain image)
BLOG BURST
“Vision is all the rage right now, in fact did you know we are actually in “The Visual Revolution”? Mobile devices seem to be changing every aspect of life. The old ways of doing business aren’t acceptable any more, in fact hundreds of thousands even millions of business have recently suffered tremendous setbacks due to Google and Facebook.
Pinterest is knocking it out of the box with its wish list and share shopping visual network. Calls on webcams and Skype are moving beyond imagination. Sharing everything with everybody is a norm and no one’s really looking at who is looking at them. Big Brothers now has plenty of Big Sisters and she’s taking over.
Why is this all happening? The book of Daniel describes some unbelievable things. A lot have come true and more are coming true each and every day. People once thought that TV was the thing that would usher in The Lord of Host, but will everyone see the two witnesses in Jerusalem on their “Mobile Devices”?
Well, we know it’s coming and we need to “share” but real time and with real effort because it’s “appointed for man once to die and then Judgment”.
Inventory time and lots to think about and be thankful for!"
POETIC PONTIFICATION
"Great God you are far beyond our mortal thoughts
Most of the time we’re all tied in our own knots
Help us to speak a word and tell another about new life
Help us make peace and live effectively for Christ
Keep us close as we don’t see all that is around
Let us live in joy and thankfulness, let love abound!"
"Spend some time looking at real art and real painting not just something that matches a pillow and you might just find a ”visual concert” for your heart. Have a good week!"
"Find my paintings or may my paintings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“Opening Ceremonies The Olympics 2012”
BLOG BURST
“Did you see the opening ceremonies? Wasn’t that something? Think about the world and what a production that was. So many people ,so many parts, so many prompts, so many special affects, so many rehearsals, so much exactness, and so many so many’s. The administration of that was just unbelievable.
And then, the parade, it was almost from every tribe and nation. Let the games begin and so they have. Some people are flat out fixed to the TV and iPhones watching ever second and the other extreme doesn’t have a minute or a care about them. Then there are those on both sides of the middle and plenty in the middle. Lest we forget, there are still areas of the world wouldn’t have a clue what I am talking about let alone a TV or smart phone.
All of this to say what a glorious wonderful day when life changes completely and, as 1 Corinthians 2:9 says: “However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him".
Ready? Or are you living contrary to Scripture or don’t even know who He truly is? I pray God will reveal Himself to you.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION
“Go with each day You reveal your wonder awesomeness
We so don’t focus on what You are doing in our weakness
We don’t give You credit or walk according to Your will
We shamefully think its life alone that offers every thrill
But You are kind, merciful, and loving beyond our view
Come now Lord Jesus hold us and guide us in what we do!”
“Artist painters can never capture the true awesomeness of God’s creation. They can however, remind us of His truth. Have a great week!”
“Find my paintings or may my paintings find you!”
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“Where Are You”
BLOG BURST
"Every athlete, every soldier, and a lot of people realize consistency and repetitions are necessary to performance and daily living to its fullest. Many don’t have that insight or enjoyment. Many are suffering in so many ways. Many have been burned, maligned, and mistreated to the point that hope is nothing but a distant flicker. This affects Christian and non Christian alike in the world in which we live.
Many Christians don’t know what it is to rest in the hands of God. Many don’t actively look for what He is doing in their lives. Many have walked away, taken another path, another direction, and aren’t even remotely in communication with Him. But, for those individuals who are, and for you I hope, they see His awesome movement and orchestration of events and circumstances for His purposes happening right before their very eyes. As they see these things and bear witness to the facts that are unfolding, those same eyes are filled with tears of praise and joy!
What an experience, what a joy, what a spring board from the pulling of the world there is when you not only know Him, but see how much He cares for you and your life through His direct actions. I pray you are seeing it and truly know what I am talking about.
It’s even better than when a painting brings you to tears!"
POETIC PONTIFICATION
"Jesus when You come so close I cannot breathe
All You have and are doing how can I perceive
Every day events and circumstances that come to be
Life has no meaning without You allowing me to see
Stay close, let me remember when ever the world is near
Help me to guard my heart until you make it disappear!"
"Painters sometimes get blinded by the light that really isn’t there, until they work through it and see the real gold that does appear. Have a great week!!"
"Find my paintings or may my paintings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“Choices” BLOG BURST:
"Watching a video on painting a few weeks ago was quite revealing. As you know life is fast paced in a meism and self focused generation who can’t wait for the next tweet. The narrator was doing a self portrait and as he was demonstrating he was talking about young artists not in terms of age, but in terms of experience and expertise. He said it this way, “only after you have mastered the craft and have earned the right can you experiment”.
You’ll need to ponder that statement to really get all it has to say. With all the mistakes I made I’ve thought about it a lot.
We live in an upside down, inside out world that overwhelms us with untruths that we believe completely. Most of the children and adults of this generation are sold out to experimentation before any mastery of any kind, instant gratification. It doesn’t matter what choices we make and what actions we take as long as they make us feel good or we get what we want. We could have made all kinds of promises, statements and displayed exactly what our foundational beliefs were and then throw them away over someone who treats us nice. Our security, our life as well as our eternal beliefs are now wrapped up in money, position, looks and material goods. No thought of tomorrow and certainly no thought of anyone to whom we made commitments before God or man.
We’ve mastered nothing and as a society we have an insatiable appetite for experimenting with everything under the foolish thought that it will not only last, but meet our needs. Not only have we told ourselves that all rights are ours, but we deserve and own them.
If you’re on the wrong side of that, see, have or are experiencing all that that brings to your doorstep each day, to the best of who you are, forget about the past, trust Him for your next breath as well as your future. The Righteous Judge is still on the throne. Think about the truth, as someone reminded me lately, that we don’t know the consequences of all our actions or our choices. Be assured, He who judges each individual is not mocked and He will in His perfect infinite wisdom and timing demand and get whatever He has seen to be the appropriate judgment.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Oh God, please forgive me for all I have done
Place it all under the blood of Your dear Son
Give me wisdom and understanding of Your will
Let me walk forth in step with You and let me be still
Show me the path, for its is You who know my way
Then take me home to be with You eternity to stay!”
“Paintings live out the hearts of artists who want to keep them with them all the time, but know they were created for those whose hearts needed what they give. Have a great day!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXII Auld, Ltd
“Dennis Breezes” BLOG BURST:
"Wow! Christmas is over. New Years is over. Even the Clearance Sales are pretty much gone. Politicians are in full voice and some are dropping like flies. Congress is back loading their muskets looking for someone across the aisle. The News is reporting every single bad thing that happened in the biggest and smallest neighborhood in America, let alone the world. School buses are running and people aren’t looking. Whatever the weather is and wherever it is, there is always someone unhappy about it. We’re right back where we were just before “Peace on Earth and good will to men upon whom His favor rests!”
As I had coffee this morning before painting, I was pondering the light coming through the trees. Earlier, I awoke to the light ushering in reds and yellows coming through one of my windows. This week I just so happened to see a documentary on the “Birds of Paradise”; you know those particular birds that people everywhere have suggested fly up your nose. They are the most beautiful birds in the world. They were shown in all their beauty and color, all doing their dances, and showing off. They all were looking to get hooked up. What an unbelievable thing.
We get all wrapped up in stuff and ourselves. All around us is example after example of God, who in His infinite wisdom, created all things for the pleasure of man under a perfect system, His. What have we done is sin and act for ourselves and our own temporal pleasure. No thought for what we are doing, what we have done, and what we teach or confirm to our kids about who we are and what we believe and truth. No thoughts about our actions, deeds or promises. Especially, we have no thoughts about whom we serve and whose we are.
What about you? What about your thoughts and your actions? I know this struck a cord about how far short I have fallen and how great a God we serve. I hope it gives you some thoughts to ponder as well."
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“We are so fortunate to have breath each day
All too often we don’t even take time to pray
We run through life concerned about daily stuff
Before we know it, all we had will turn to fluff
What truly matters, what do we really believe
When called to answer will we be ready to leave?”
“Paintings can move our very souls! They can lead us to a place where we see with our hearts eyes and prepare our hearing for the voice that really speaks truth. Take some time. Don’t let yourself get settled in. Remember it’s truly about Him. Have a good week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“New Years 2012” BLOG BURST:
"Happy New Year”!! Many say that with the hope of tomorrow. Many say that because they are done with 2011. Many don’t know why they say it at all and give no thought to where they are, what they have done, or what they will be involved with in the future. Where do you stand?
Artists paint with a concept or vision in their mind, a driving force within them to create that visual expression that will satisfy the need to express and create. Most learn from the past and transform their learning into a new or repeated discipline. There is a time and a space where their mind’s vision and their execution don’t exactly line up. All of that seems to be part of the process.
We’ve seen, experienced and gone through the brushstrokes of the past. Some are filled with great high points and some are filled with things we’d soon forget. We don’t know where the future will take us and for many that creates anxiety.
For a true follower of Christ, one who has a personal relationship, understands that it’s about Him and not about you, and living to do His will and not one’s own, there is no fear. God has everything in control. He allows everything in our lives to make us conform to His will and to be used and to grow to what He ultimately has for us both here and in eternity.
For the follower of Christ who has a personal relationship but has decided that they know best and it’s their own will over Christ’s, there may be a lot of apprehension. Some of these individuals have a relationship, but that’s where it stops on their part. Know this, that’s not where it stops on His part.
For those who have no relationship, are following the world and the prince of the power of the air, that dreaded dragon, knowingly or unknowing, life comes and goes. Their pathways will ultimately work to the place that was prepared for their master.
With the New Year, 2012, instead of a resolution, why not some soul searching?”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“We think we know; when we have no real clue at all
We speak, act and live never thinking we could fall
We worry so or we fret over this or over that
Sometimes we end up on our feet; sometimes we end up flat
We make choices for us and do everything to conform
Forgetting that through peace with Christ should be our norm
Seek Him first, honor and glorify the living Christ who gave you life
This year thank God and ask Him to make you more like Christ!”
“Paintings lift our spirits and help us take time to see. Looking at life and who we really are can make a difference in the brushstrokes that lie before us. Follow the Master for yourself in 2012 let Him paint your way.”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“The Christmas Gift For You” BLOG BURST:
"Story upon story, carol upon carol, gift upon gift, shopping upon shopping and so it goes. We love to look forward to so many things going on and the traditions that the season brings: Happy times, happy memories, all with a euphoric state of mind.
We don’t really look deeply into the depth of the day, the time, or the season. This past week I had a brief conversation with the wife of a friend, a brilliant man, who has seen and is still experiencing many days of pressure and anxiety that only Job seemed to have faced. When I asked her what she was getting him for Christmas, she said that a few years ago they talked about changing and instead of exchanging gifts and adding more stuff to their life’s collection they would adopt a Salvation Army Family for Christmas. This provided food and presents to make a truly needy family’s Christmas memorable. I was so taken back by what she was saying because I know just how little they actually have and how much of a struggle this wonderful couple has gone through. She’s stuck by her husband through thick and thin. She didn’t just throw him away for her own self interest. What a testimony, what treasures in Heaven!
I wanted to display pictorially the real Christmas so I worked the above painting together to visually demonstrate the true meaning and wonder of Christmas. God in His awesome wisdom and grace provides Himself for the sins of Adam and Eve and the rest of the human race. He is born lowest of the low to include and give opportunity to every human being. He lives. He ministers fulfilling all Scripture and He goes to the cruelest of deaths and pays completely for the sins of each and every human being. He is raised from the dead, defeating death and seen by hundreds. Just like when Moses lifted the snake when the Israelites were bitten and they would be saved if they would but look and believe. God offered and still offers new life, life eternal, and reconciliation with Him. He adopts into His family all those who come to the Savior, confess with their mouth and believe in their heart (Romans 10:10) that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. He is the One who sets men free, breaking the chain of death, Satan and the world to usher men into a new relationship with God Eternal. What joy, what wonder, what amazement and most of all what truth as it witnesses in each believing heart.
Where do you stand? Do you see yourself at the cross? Do you know Christ as Lord and Savior? Do you need to reconcile? I truly hope you will celebrate Christmas in a whole new light.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“How is it possible to know, to see, to walk with the Creator
He provides every means; He shows each and every indictor
He took it all, He paid the price, He made the ultimate sacrifice
He came as a babe to give himself that we may have new life
What a difference, what a change to follow and do your will
What joy, what a blessing, Praise God, Oh my heart be still!”
“Paintings can lead one to a life changing experience. Merry Christmas and have a wonderful week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“SubtitlesOfSnow” BLOG BURST:
"For the “Northeast” that season of the year is upon us. It’s not all about snow, but it’s about the time. With any good painting time is an important element. Sometimes, time is short and it cracks. Some time it’s too long in finishing or finished before it’s truly started. Sometimes the painting shows a time and a place that take us to somewhere special. Sometimes it takes us to a place we’d rather forget. A painting can initiate an emotion or memory or a reaction that can cause us to think. Something we often don’t have time to do. At this season of the year we don’t often think a lot, we just try to get through it. Many people say this is their favorite time of the year. While others say they wish the season never happened.
There’s so much going on! With be here, be there, commitments, people visiting, people in need, people entertaining, children fantasizing, children wanting, relatives, friends, co-workers, programs, gifts, ordering, wrapping, mailing, on and on and on, we just don’t have time.
Often when people are busy they forget to look at any paintings. Often people forget about the past, their roots, their heritage and even their beliefs, especially when it’s this season.
The one thing to truly remember is the “reason for the season” and what’s “truly important”. Jesus is the reason for the season and your relationship with Him is most important!”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Things come and things go in life; some good some bad
Some leave us happy and other things truly leave us sad
We’re so wrapped up in it all being about ourselves each day
We often forget who we are and don’t even take time to pray
Spend some quality time reflecting and thinking about your life
You have or can have it eternal because of the love of Christ!”
“Paintings lead us to places deep in the memories of our minds. Find some time and take some time to ponder God’s will for you. May you have great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“Go and Inspire” BLOG BURST:
"I was very fortunate to have many gifted teachers who both taught and inspired me. I was also fortunate for a period of time to know someone who was very gifted in this field for many years. I saw them from the time they did student teaching to becoming a seasoned professional. Over many of those years I heard the anger over and over in their voice as they said they were in a job they hated.
I was extremely fortunate to be at a ceremony that was dedicated to award winning, outstanding teachers. The person I previously discussed was one of those being honored. I was so proud of that person. Standing close to me while observing was an individual who saw the tears in my eyes and said you must be very proud. I said to her, “You’ll never know how much!”
I work and spend time with a number of gifted school teachers and Biblical teachers and this year I painted this message (see above) that I have been carrying around for a number of years. For the past couple of years I have been inspired by this meaningful phrase, “The artist is nothing without the gift and the gift is nothing without the work!” It takes a lot of extremely hard work usually under extremely hard pressure for a long time to consistently produce something truly meaningful from the gift you were given.
If you are or ever have been, or have been affected by a great teacher then you will understand the meaning in this painting. Thank you teachers for all you do and have done. You may never know or see any results personally, but thank you! Thank you God for your indescribable gifts!”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Somehow we lose track of those who made a difference in our life
Many stern, many kind, and many understanding but all with advice
Countless times they opened our eyes and nurtured our seeing
They invested themselves within the walls of our heart and being
Each day has a piece of those who gave and made you who you are
Because of them the road isn’t so long and the journey not so far!”
“Paintings can pay tribute and bring positive recall. Let the artist provoke your understanding and broaden your scope of your thinking. Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“Peasant Woman by Van Gogh” BLOG BURST:
" Having had a couple of bouts with the influence of artistic medium I’ve pushed through and made a number of changes to correct living to likely with toxicants. I was wonder how many artist have been affected by contact with many of the materials of the trade. Not too many people talk about it.
“Vincent Van Gogh was born 158 years ago. A lot of the world has changed since he developing his craft. From the home of minister to studying with the Impressionist, he encountered and became affixed to the warm light of southern France. As he grew as an artist his works became brighter and brighter. He suffered from mental illness and was hospitalized on many occasions. His loneliness and health contributed to his suicide in 1890. His works are famous worldwide.
Many people suffer from many things some curable and some not. Living life everyday to its fullest and knowing that the God of the Universe is in control of all things can go a long way to reassuring us to enjoy the moment we have.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Some choose to be doctors, lawyers, teachers and alike
Some don’t have a choice others think it’s their right
Many are suffering because of the greed of political hacks
You know many are only interested filling their own sacks
Watch carefully and be aware each and everyday
Find the wisdom you need to understand what people say!”
“Paintings tell us what the artist wants to express. Listening with more than your ears is a lifelong process. Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“External & Internal” BLOG BURST:
"Oil Painting begins with the knowledge of three rules: “Fat Over Lean”, “Thick Over Thin”, “Slow Drying Over Fast”. Risk the rules and your paintings will reveal cracks, eventually be of no value and your time spent worthlessly!
Why is it that we think we can mock God and take His essential “rules” for partnership and marriage and overrule it for our feel good emotions? The family you grew up in more important than your spouse, kids a priority over your partner, the advice from siblings overruling God’s eternal word, talking and communicating with the world more essential than communicating with each other and making your feelings the priority of your life will all lead you to disaster. All of them together you don’t really have a chance and you don’t even see it coming.
Adultery is adultery and breaking the covenant you made with God isn’t a position you want to hold.
Today’s Christian re-marriage is a joke. After you demonstrate to your children how you would rather destroy a relationship that was put together by God and how to face and handle difficult marital situations, you watch them line themselves up for all you were a part of. Congratulations! Don’t read and study God’s word, listen closely to worldly advisors and find someone who tickles your fancy treats and makes you “feel good” and you’ll soon be on your way down the aisle for a “good” Christian marriage. This is especially true after you’ve taken responsibility for your part in the failed marriage and moved on. We no longer see the scarlet letter as we once did.
Forgive me Oh God! Forgive us Oh God! Wake up my Christian brothers and sisters and take a good look at what’s happening to us and our world. We’ve forgotten that we serve Him and He doesn’t serve us. We’ve forgotten that we’re supposed to glorify Him and do His will. We’ve crossed out that we are just travelers passing through to another kingdom. We’ve made “our” choices, settled in with our siblings and the rest of the world, to be mastered by our sin and that old dragon, the deceiver. How does that apple taste now?
Cracks don’t always show immediately as oil paints take a long time to dry. They do and will show up! You’ve made your choices and you’re happy. To coin Jonathan Edwards it’s not a pleasant thing to fall into the hands of the angry God.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“I never thought these days would be as they are
Parted, separate ways not even talking from afar
But you and yours wanted this for a long, long time
Not satisfied, outside the clan, changing of your mind
So good bye my love, I will not be with you again
We lost, we lost, so much we had for Him to win!”
“Oil paintings can say so much to each of us when time and care is applied properly from conception to framing. Have a great week. My thoughts are with you!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“It’s More Than About You!” BLOG BURST:
"“Sorry!” but “…..in every circumstance give thanks for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thes.5:18) That’s a lot to think about! Think about some of your circumstances, what you are going through and what you’ve been through.
John MacArthur speaks about it this way, “In everything, verse 18 says, give thanks, in everything. It's in the Greek en pante(?),it has the idea of in connection with everything that comes along in life. It's just very, very broad. It has no limits. It has no confines. No matter what it might be give thanks. Anything that isn't sin...obviously sin falls outside the purview of that command as it does in rejoicing. We certainly “always rejoice” wouldn't rejoice in sin and in everything giving thanks “wouldn't give thanks for sin”. But apart from that, everything else should precipitate an attitude and an expression of thanks to God. As we saw in Romans 1:21 thanklessness is a characteristic of people who are outside the Kingdom of God. In fact, in 2 Timothy chapter 3, you probably should add this expression of man's fallenness, they are, according to verse 2, lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, etc., etc., treacherous, reckless. In all of the litany of what defines unregenerate people, right in the middle is thanklessness.
There's a driving foolish philosophy today, you hear people say it all the time, you can be anything you want to be, you can do anything you really want to do. Which isn't, of course, true at all. But this sort of garrisons man's mind against fatalism which is the idea that the reality is you can't do anything you want to do, you can't have anything you want to have, you can't achieve anything you want to achieve. It's not the way life works. But rather than deal with that kind of fatalism, we believe a lie and launch off into a fantasy world believing what down in our hearts we know is not true. “
I believe a lot of those that claim they are “His” are no different, chasing their own will over the “will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” Rather than it be a happy week of eating, watching TV, seeing friends and family, being on the net, or talking on the phone incessantly, maybe it’s time to reflect on your own position on giving thanks and the will of God for you and your obedience to Him!” (Happy Day Lyrics)
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Forget what’s in the past, take ownership then move away
So its “Happy Thanksgiving” let everyone have their say
But in your heart give thanks for everything for it is His will
In good and bad He’s in total control, be silent and be still
Have a thankful attitude before the people the worldly kind
Do His will and you will have peace and understand His mind!”
“Paintings express the thoughts and mind of the artist’s heart and they can transpose your views to help you see and check the truthfulness of your own heart. I’m thankful you visited. Have a great “Thankful Week”!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“Thank You For Your Sacrifice” POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“The Country called, duty cried out, the need came to pass
From all over this land men and women answered the task
Not knowing the outcome or answering with an outward fear
They gave and give not looking for single personal cheer
They went to other lands some near and some far away
Giving themselves to duty and honor with any price to pay
Do we fathom the sacrifice of those who suffered for us all
Do we understand how precious freedom, not letting it fall
Do we grasp how little we give, yet enjoy all that was done
Truly knowing what was given up by each and every one
How many mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, families gave
How a life time of heartache on so many roads were paved
Have you ever seen rows of crosses lying endless in fields
Each a representation of a life or lives to duty they did yield
We’re all been caught up in meaningless things we say and do
All pales in contrast to those who paid the cost for me and you
Cry out and thank them and theirs for what’s been done
Ask God to heal and be with them with Him becoming one
Ask Him for forgiveness and to heal and help our land
Ask Him to bless those who gave and hold us in His hand!”
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“EyesDon’tSee” BLOG BURST:
"The affect of “Light” on the subject, the intensity, the color all play a great part in a painting. One of the most important elements in a painting is how light penetrates. Its use can dramatically alter the appearance, the meaning, and the mood of any created work. It allows the artist to convey his or her expression and the painting to be viewed properly.
Men are more careful to do things that are right, act more properly, and be more careful when light is present. Darkness and shadow leave room for things that are not lawful, not right and for a thought process that falls far short of what we are called to do and to be.
Often we don’t even see the darkness we participate in for many reasons. We’re caught up in ourselves, we’re not listening to whom we should, or our focus is in the wrong place.
The Bible tells us that Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 Also in John 3:19 it states, “This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.”
The world, men and all of us need more light because the world, what it says and what it preaches is still evil and what it does affects and influences all of us. Following it is wrong, no matter if you think it makes you happy. You can change the rules and tell people how wonderful things are, but light will always uncover darkness.
“Oh, Happy Day, when Jesus washed my sins away!” (Happy Day Lyrics)
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Tick tock, tick tock the world treads slow but is moving still
We pick and choose what we want not considering His will
We don’t want criticism or truth to stand before us to say
That we have danced with darkness and chosen its way
But apples and fruit are already bursting forth from the tree
For that which is born in our children doesn’t make them free!”
“Seeing the light and its power in a painting can help us grasp the truth and how important it is to live it out daily. Hope there is more light in your life and not just temporary feel good situations. Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“ModigFromTheTouristwithNecklace” BLOG BURST:
"A few weeks ago I wrote a Burst on artist Amedeo Clemente Modigliani, who was considered after his death an artistic pioneer in depth, 3D, depiction of form and color, especially as a follower of Cezanne. While he is mostly known for his “nude” portrayals of his elongated mask like faces and rounded simplified shapes, he painted many of his clothed models with some classic clothing and a few timeless necklaces. Having watched “the Tourist” again, lately, I decided to put together one of my portrayals of the three beautiful women I characterized in the “ModigThree” which I painted and put on this blog earlier (plus painting listed by Google under “Modigliani woman” under images). This time I would paint her in character of one of the stars of the movie, a type of “Modigliani woman with a necklace”.
As I was doing this rendition, I thought about that scene in the movie where she entered the Ball and everyone there seemingly couldn’t take their eyes off her. Dressed to perfection she was stunning. I continued my thoughts with how most people want everyone to notice them. How that 15 seconds of fame is so big in our country and how kids turn into totally new characters when a video camera is pointed at them.
Having recently viewed a YouTube video on Adrian Gonzalez’s Testimony I was confronted with the truth of the world and the truth of the Bible. Adrian Gonzalez is the first baseman of the Boston Red Sox who signed a seven year $154 million dollar contract. In the video he talks about how important it is to have a personal relationship with Christ and what that relationship means in light of everything else. Money, position, relationships, security, and more can all be lost in a heartbeat, but Christ will never leave you or forsake you. A true relationship following Him brings true joy and can make the complete difference in your life.
As an artist I know that your mind travels and it travels to many areas, past, present, future, real, surreal, and imagined.
Spend real time immersing yourself in a painting that captures your heart. Ponder its meaning and engross yourself until your thoughts are truly occupied by where it takes you.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“People we know or are related to don’t have all the answers
Many offer up advice from words that have the spin of dancers
Seeking what others have or greener grass won’t truly satisfy
Focusing on showing others who you are may make your words die
It’s so hard to step back and see, to take a whole new gaze or view
Some things are made to die and others are to be born anew!”
“Paintings release details and thoughts of the viewer whether realized or imagined. Seek His choice rather than your own. Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“FallRoadsToTravel” POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“The Roads all come before us till Heaven or Hell
The choices that we make time will surely tell
If we truly know Him and seek to do His will
He will never leave us or forsake us, what a thrill
What we see and do along the way He knows
He asks us to stand strong against the worldly foes
Living daily for Him isn’t easy, but it’s the only way
Especially when you realize the price for you He paid!”
“Paintings can en”lighten” you to the twisting roads and colorful, yet temporary surroundings. Seek First! Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
“The Viewing Seats” BLOG BURST:
"In a complex, complicated world many are driven every day by pride, greed, money, self gratification, meism, and relationships that are all about them. Marriage, dating, and human interaction has turned into a “till I decide to throw you away”. Once having meaning vows and commitment are only useful in “words” in an outward ceremony where appearance is the end all and be all. The truth is we live in a time where the heart is desperately wicked.
Sometimes simplicity and truth are the hardest to find. When we do find them they can be the hardest to follow. The ugly head of pride always shows up to combat any sense that our actions were wrong and that we actually played a role in some wrong outcome. When others don’t meet our standards, rather than forgive them, we add it to the volumes of accusations we’ve collected to prove our own “rightness’.
Times and thoughts like these are often best put aside to look long and hard at all the surrounding circumstances and situations and visit things in their simplest forms. Complexities and complications brushed away, one needs to spend time looking for simplicity.
Matisse, considered one of the most important artists, became passionate about art. So much so he and a group he was involved with were called “fauves” or “wild men”. Matisse quest was to simplify art into its purest form. He died at 90 years of age still working on his life’s mission.
You can find simplicity and the truth. You must however be willing to accept it without pride, prejudice, or control. You must act on it for it to be truly meaningful. Otherwise, you will remain “the god” on the throne of your own heart.”
POETIC PONTIFICATION:
“Today’s life is more complicated with each and every day
Often both words and deeds obstruct choices along the way
Pride and self are always at the doorstep hindering the view
We settle in, self satisfied we’ve moved on afresh and new
But who can totally forget true love pushing it utterly aside
Because of what He did you know where peace abides!”
“Paintings can stir the soul and move us to go beyond what we think we are capable of. Hope you find your simplicity and truth. Have a great week!”
"Find my paintings, or may my paint-tings find you!"
Douglas Auld
Copyright MMXI Auld, Ltd
