Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PALES ROSES"

#834 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x 24")  Completed in June, 2005

"MERRY CHRISTMAS"      

 To ALL

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Joy

Joy is always just a thought away.

Sunday, December 20, 2015

While receiving a gift may make me happy, unadorned joy is itself one of the greatest gifts I can experience. Joy lifts my heart. As I exude happiness, others are uplifted as well.

Joy may be quiet, such as the tug at my heart I feel when I see a child happily playing. It may be boisterous, like shared laughter that brings tears to my eyes. Yet all joy is an experience of the heart—an experience of God.

Joy is always just a thought away. When I am experiencing stress in my life, I stop to remember my many blessings. I think of kindnesses given and received.

My spirits are lifted as I recall the good I have witnessed in so many people and circumstances.

When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.—Matthew 2:10

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE MAGI"

#953 of 1187 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x24")  Completed November 24, 2007

From Unity's "Daily Word"

FAITH

I have faith in God as my guide.

A bird in flight glides on rising air currents and follows its inner navigation to its destination. The bird has learned to let go of fighting the wind. Instead, it harnesses this energy and flies high.

Placing my faith in the wisdom of Christ within, I discover I, too, can soar. I rise above any situation and release any need to know what, when, and how all will unfold. I trust God to sustain me, protect me, and strengthen me along my journey.

Prayer moves me directly into the current of Spirit. As I faithfully use my energy to work in harmony with Spirit, I am blessed beyond all imagining.

I have faith in God as my guide.

For you shall not go out in haste, and you shall not go in flight; for the Lord will go before you.—Isaiah 52:12

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"I WONDER"

#831 of 1186 Finished Paintings / Oil on Linen (5"x7")           May 29, 2005 

"THE ROSE"

#502 of 1186 Finished Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x 30")           September 14, 1998

From Unity's "DAILY WORD" Spiritual Intelligence I am a spiritually intelligent being making divinely inspired choices. I am blessed with intelligence greater than my mental IQ—my spiritual intelligence. This deeper knowing guides me through any situation in life as I continue my life’s journey, growing in wisdom and understanding. My spiritual intelligence reveals itself as intuition. If I am challenged by a circumstance, I say “Thank you, God” because I know I have been given an opportunity to evolve spiritually. I meet doubt or uncertainty with patience and faith, remembering that all fruits ripen in their own time—just as the gift of spiritual intelligence continues to ripen within me. I have a growing faith that is enriched through prayer. I know this because I am a spiritually intelligent being making divinely inspired choices. God gave Solomon very great wisdom, discernment, and breadth of understanding as vast as the sand on the seashore.—1 Kings 4:29

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE BRASS VASE"

#1021 of 1186 Paintings / Completed December21, 2008         SOLD

"ONE FOR LUNCH

#108 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (17"x 19")  Completed November, 1993   SOLD

"This date, December 3, is especially meaningful to me.  My beloved husband, Karl, and I first met in Indianapolis, IN on December 3, 1982."

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God

I freely let go and let God be God in me.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

One of the key words in the phrase “let go, let God” is the word let. Allowing myself to let go means stepping out in faith. If I am accustomed to self-reliance, this act of trust may feel more like a leap than a step.

I take that time now. I relax and allow myself to simply be with God. I let go of the need to be in control. I remember that I do not have to know and do everything. I do not have to be in charge; I can relax and just be. What a freeing feeling! What a comfort to know I do not have to do anything alone.

There is a continuous presence at work in my life guiding me on my way, blessing and supporting every step. I let go and let God be God in me.

Let each of you lead the life that the Lord has assigned, to which God called you.—1 Corinthians 7:17

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE GLORY OF ROSES"

#801 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x 24")  Completed December 3, 2004   SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Release I make room in my world for new good to appear.

Monday, November 30, 2015 To experience greater peace and prosperity, I make a habit of releasing unwanted and unneeded belongings. By letting go of what no longer serves me, I make room for new good to appear. Release makes my world more spacious. It opens the way for the free circulation of God’s infinite supply. Letting go need not be painful. I am free to keep useful, artistic, or sentimental items, and release whatever has fulfilled its purpose. Donating, recycling, or selling unneeded possessions can also create breathing space in my home. No matter where I begin, I ask for divine guidance. I then joyously set into motion the cleansing power of release. For one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.–Luke 12:15

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"EMERALD RING"

 #932 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen (20"x 16")  Completed May 25, 2007   SOLD 

"FRESH ROSES"

#1136 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (16"x20")  Completed June 8, 2010

detail of "THE HAIRCUT"

 #1131 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x10)  Completed May 12, 2010  ARCHIVED

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Inner Peace I am calm, centered, and serene.

Friday, November 27, 2015 Peace emanates from the inside out. Even if I feel like I am in the midst of a storm, I can reestablish inner peace. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.” This verse from the Book of John reminds me that peace is in the midst of me as the Christ Essence, calming my troubled heart. I breathe deeply and focus on my natural state of peace. I let my body relax. Once inner peace is restored, my perceptions and responses are sharpened. I function in the world of activities and responsibilities, present to whatever is happening, yet I am centered in Spirit. I proceed with joy and confidence. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. –John 14:27

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"EMERALD & GOLD"

O

#1106 of 1186 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (8"x8")  Completed January 10, 2010


"FIRE & RAIN"

#1107 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (10"x 10")  Completed January 30, 2010


"RIBBONS OF BLUE"

#1119 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (24"x 24")  Completed March 14, 2010

"APPLES & ORANGES"

#1095 of 1186 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (30"x 36")  Completed December, 2009

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Family I strengthen my family through the power of love.

Sunday, November 22, 2015 A towering pine or mighty oak draws on rain, sunshine, air, and soil to thrive. Similarly, we grow through the comfort, inspiration, ideas, and enrichment we receive from others. Family is a vital part of our spiritual support system. Today I give thanks for my family and others who are important to me. As we gather for special celebrations, I embrace our similarities and differences. When we are apart, I enrich my relationships by reaching out. I strengthen our connection through simple acts of kindness, such as calling or sending a note. Near or far, I bless others with warm thoughts and prayers of gratitude for their presence in my life. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.–Galatians 5:22-23

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"WHITE ROSES"

#760 of 1186 Paintings / Pastel On Sanded Paper  (24"x 18") Completed Dec., 2003

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Guidance Spirit guides me to my highest good.

Saturday, November 21, 2015 Every moment of every day brings the opportunity for new choices. The freedom to choose what I think, say, and do can be a liberating joy. On the other hand, the options for how to live my life may seem overwhelming. Should I go back to school? How can I serve humanity? From everyday events to major life changes, I have choices to make. If I rely solely on my mind to endlessly weigh pros and cons, I may feel lost in a sea of possibilities. Instead, I turn to my internal guidance system. God’s guidance is always available to me. As I contemplate major life choices, I move from my head to my heart. I pray and patiently wait for the still, small voice within. Spirit guides me to my highest good. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.–John 16:13

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"

#1117 of 1185 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20") Completed March 5, 2010

"ORCHIDS WITH CHAKRA BACKGROUND"

#1186 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (24"x 36")  Completed November 12, 2015

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Comfort Divine energy soothes my spirit and I am at peace.

Saturday, November 14, 2015 One of the joys in life is warmth at a fireside. Whether I am taking in the rich aroma of a meal cooking outdoors, or being warmed by the heat in my home, comfort emanates from the hearth. Relaxing into the warmth of home, I let go of all concern and feel blessed and at peace. In the same way, the warmth of my inner hearth is a place of sustenance and calm. Comfort fills my heart, and pain and sadness fade away. My soul moves into the quiet. I feel divine energy restoring my spirit. I am enfolded in the comforting love of God. New hope arises for a satisfying, orderly life. I am comforted, healed, and renewed in mind, body, and spirit. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.—Psalm 84:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GRIEF ABSTRACT"

#1150 of 1185 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas (24"x48") Completed Oct., 2011  DESTROYED

"THE TOURIST"

#1185 OF 1185 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (30"x 24")  Completed October 31, 2015

"I used the photo taken of me in France last year to complete this painting.  Now I'm working on "Floral".  We'll see how it goes."

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Navigation I am guided by God within.

Tuesday, November 10, 2015 Centuries ago sailors headed across the seas without the conveniences of electronics to guide them and often with incomplete or inaccurate maps. Instead they had to rely on the sun and stars to navigate. If the weather obscured their view or blew them off course, they used their own wisdom and experience to regain their direction. Just as voyagers look to the stars for guidance, I turn within to the spirit of God. In prayer my way is made clear. I remember that if I ever feel blown off course, I need only return my focus to the presence of God within. Even in the darkest of nights, I know the sun will rise again, and I will regain my bearings and sail onward. So that they may know, from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is no one besides me; I am the Lord, and there is no other.—Isaiah 45:6

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN ANTIQUE PITCHER"

#410 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x 20")  Completed July, 1997     SOLD

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE" 

#418 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x 24")  Completed August, 1997   SOLD

"These paintings were photographed with one of my early digital cameras and this was the best I could do.  . . . . 

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith Right where I am, God is.

Saturday, October 31, 2015 Life is filled with beginnings and endings. Autumn leaves turn gold and crimson, then fall from the trees. One part of the cycle comes to an end. A period of dormancy is about to begin. My own life is also a cyclical process. I need not fear change, for it is normal. We all experience endings: the loss of a job, leaving a home, or the passing of a loved one. During these times, I turn to God in prayer. I affirm: Right where I am, God is. God is my ever-present source of comfort and strength. Just as I trust new growth will bud on the trees come spring, I have faith new growth will take place in my life. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going.—Hebrews 11:8

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES WITH BRASS"

#869 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 36")  Completed April 21, 2006   SOLD

"DARK RED ROSES"

#1009 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (36"x 24")  Completed April, 2008

"A TRAIN RIDE”

Saturday, October 17, 2015

“You’re on the right track now, rumbling along.

Hear the sound of sing song, sing song.

The rail you are traveling does not have a glitch.

Your train stays on the rail, and won’t go to the ditch.

The cars run behind you, all in a row,

The baggage car last, just let it go.

Supplies are within you, all that you need.

You need never beg, you need never plead.

There is a destination, not to worry about that.

It’s the journey that counts and that is a fact.

Pleasures untold, this journey brings,

Happiness, Love, Laughter and Joy . . . among other things.”

(Below)   From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Forgive I learn from mistakes and give thanks for my growth.

Monday, October 19, 2015 Mistakes are part of the human learning experience. I may say things unskillfully and hurt other people. Others may have made errors that hurt me as well. When I learn to see mistakes as lessons, with compassion and forgiveness, I let go of resentments and move on. I do not allow the error to increase its impact by holding grudges or allowing negativity to fester. I do not condemn or shame others or myself. Instead, I employ the tool of forgiveness as soon as I notice hurt or regret arise within me. I engage in forgiveness by recognizing my feelings, releasing the need to punish or be right, and letting it go. I seize the transformative opportunity human error offers and give thanks for my growth. Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”—Luke 23:34

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES"

#1032 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (12"x12")  Completed May 7, 2009    SOLD

"ORANGE BLOSSOMS"

#1049 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x 12")  Completed in August, 2009   SOLD

"MOTHER & DAUGHTER"

#942 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 20")  Completed July 21, 2007

From Unity's  "DAILY WORD"

Patient I practice patience and take life one step at a time.

Friday, October 16, 2015 When I think of patience, I may think of inventors like Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, and Sir Isaac Newton. They exhibited great patience as they tried repeatedly to create something new. What gave them perseverance? Perhaps it was their faith in the end result. They knew what they were doing was important and they ultimately would succeed. Newton referred to this as “patient attention.” I practice patience as part of loving myself. I relax and release, trusting God to guide me. I give my life and my concerns “patient attention” rather than hurried attention. I take life one step at a time, knowing God guides me each step of the way. I am perseverant and I am successful. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.—Romans 12:12

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BABY SUNFLOWER"

 #1030 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (10"x8")  Completed April 22, 2009    SOLD

"HARP & FIDDLE"

#1081 of 1184 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (12"x 12")  Completed Nov. 14, 2009

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Gratitude Gratitude draws my good to me like a spiritual magnet.

Saturday, October 10, 2015 Gratitude is a spiritual magnet. I put my attention on the positive and draw more of the same to me. Friends, family, the comfort of home, and the beauty of nature bless me every day. I live from a place of gratitude and find an abundance of joy! At times, I may feel less than blessed. I may face financial or health challenges. I may be going through a transition and feeling lost or confused. Then, I refocus on gratitude. I make a list of five things for which I am grateful. As I think about my blessings, my attitude changes. The difficulties do not seem as large as they did just a moment ago. I attract more blessings as I practice gratitude and see life through a new perspective. I am fulfilled. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & BAVARIAN CUP"

 #913 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (5"x 7")  Completed January 22, 2007

"RED GERANIUMS"

#1001 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed January, 2008     SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Knowledge I demonstrate my faith by putting knowledge into action.

Monday, October 5, 2015 As I move through life, I learn in myriad places. In school I gain a basic understanding of our world. I continue to learn at work, home, and in my community. The more skills and knowledge I acquire, the greater my chance of worldly success. Yet there is a greater education offered to me each day. It is a spiritual knowing—a deep understanding. It is knowledge I put into action as I live my life more prayerfully and thoughtfully. I express love unconditionally, I forgive continuously, and I demonstrate my faith courageously. I pray in positive, life-affirming ways. Through my spiritual knowledge, I make conscious decisions and live life to its fullest. If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.—James 1:5

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BOUQUET OF YELLOW ROSES"

#590 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30")  Completed April, 2000   SOLD


"FLORAL BOUQUET"

#507 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x9")  Completed Sept., 1998   Destroyed

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Change I gracefully move through life’s transitions.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015 As colder days approach, trees shed their leaves and animals prepare for hibernation. They instinctively move through the seasons. In contrast, humans are prone to resisting change even though we know it is an essential part of growth. I may notice myself worrying or fighting change. Then I remind myself I am able to prepare and move through any change I encounter. I envision myself shedding old beliefs and ways of being just as a tree releases leaves. Like the hibernating animals, I prepare my mind and body for a time of quiet and reflection. I see divine order in the leaves reappearing each spring. My life also follows a pattern. I emerge from each season stronger, wiser, and more loving. For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A JAR OF ROSES"

#1124 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (20"x 12")  Completed April 9, 2010


"MANDOLIN WITH DRIED FLOWERS"

#567 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 36")  Completed in December, 1999   SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Prosperity I embrace abundant living and give thanks.

Saturday, September 26, 2015 True prosperity is no mystery—it is a manifestation of faith. Jesus gave us a pattern to follow. A crowd of 5,000 who had gathered to hear him speak needed a meal. Taking five loaves and two fish, Jesus turned his attention to God. He acknowledged his Source, gave thanks for what he had, and blessed it. He anticipated an abundance of food and a miracle occurred. I follow the example of Jesus and give thanks in advance for what I desire. I share love with others and love returns to me. I give thanks for my healthy body, nourish it, and use it to serve God. I am vigorous and vibrant. I live in faith and gratitude and I am prosperous. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And all ate and were filled.—Luke 9:16-17

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PEACH ROSES"

#1123 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20")  Completed in April, 2010  SOLD

"PEONIES IN SILVER POT"

#306 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed in May, 1996     SOLD

"BOUQUET OF ASTERS"

 #330 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x12")  Completed August, 1996   SOLD

"RED ROSES IN BRASS POT"

#440 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x36")  Completed in November, 1997

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God I let go and open my mind and heart to guidance from God.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015 I may push myself to near exhaustion. When this happens, Spirit guides me to rest my weary brain and body. As I let go, the wall built from my “do-it-all-myself” attitude begins to crumble. With the first opening, the light of God shines through. The words of Jesus come to me: “I am with you always.” I relax in the awareness of Spirit within me. My breath anchors me and I release my tight hold on challenges and circumstances. Letting go brings down the perceived wall of separation. Divine love, wisdom, and understanding flow in me. I am open to receiving God’s help. By consciously letting go and letting God, I keep the channel open for answers, guidance, and love, assuring me I am never alone. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.–Matthew 28:20