Grace Honor Strength

Happy New Year, 2024!

Hi! You haven’t heard from us since June, so I thought the beginning of the year would be a nice time to give you all an update. My last post in June was after the beautiful time in Cabo at the Uncaged Event. We were so excited to see the outpouring of love and generosity for Uncaged. The future of the Sanctuary in Romania for the girls who have been saved has a huge a future of Hope. It is there these girls will be restored with Grace, Honor and Strength.

These three words, Grace, Honor and Strength are the founding core values for Peony Market. These words are powerful and have meant so much to me personally. At the beginning of 2023, We sold my parent’s home of 20 years because my mom needed more help with my dad with dementia. So, my realtor, Tammy Weaver and I got the home updated and sold within days. I had a garage sale with the help of neighbors who were wonderful. This was so hard to see and let go. There were so many feelings. Then, I moved in them into a beautiful assisted living close by me. Shortly, thereafter my mom fell and broke her arm and hip. While at rehab, we found out she had colon cancer. My sweet mom, 89 had to face big decisions. We choose together to fight the cancer and go to chemo and radiation. Before mom started treatment, I put together a birthday party with the help of Carla, her former neighbor, and we celebrated mom’s 89th and dad’s 90th birthday with their former wonderful neighbors, family and friends.

We went to her treatment together for six weeks. She was so strong.. She showed me Strength!! Then, after rest in the fall, she agreed to surgery. Her surgeon was amazing, Dr. Marion Shirtzer. This is where Honor came in. Dr. Shritzer also cares for her mom. She displayed an incredible heart for my mom and Honored her. I gave Dr. Shirtzer the biggest hug after surgery. God moved through her hands and she was able to get all the cancer. Praise the Lord!! It is a blessing to honor mom and dad.

God’s Grace and prayers from my Bible Study, Family and Friends got me through this season!! Somewhere in the middle of all the visits to the hospital, I celebrated my 60th Birthday with a small gathering of family and friends. The gathering lifted my spirits of turning an age that quite frankly I wasn’t ready for. But, the love I experienced gave me Grace, Honor and Strength to accept and be grateful for all that God has done in my life, and will do. Mike and I got away to Montana and experienced the rest and reflection I needed. I think I have a little cowgirl in me that made me come alive there.

Now you might understand, why no markets or updates. As far as future markets, we have paused because of life circumstances. Peony Market is dear to my heart and I want to see how God leads me to use this platform to help Uncaged and minster to the women in my community as well as those that read from afar.

We have remaining inventory that we would like to sell at a discounted percent at a future gathering. We will keep you posted when and where. I am so thankful for each one of you as Marilyn, my partner is too. Peony Market gatherings are an opportunity for me to offer each sweet lady that walks in Grace, Honor and Strength.

The scripture, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the lands that the Lord your God is giving you.” Ex. 20:12 is an imperative statement. God’s word gives us the grace and strength to Honor others as well as ourselves.

Thanks for reading the update and I wish each of you a Happy New Year, filled with Grace, Honor and Strength. Turning 60, isn’t so bad, ha ha!!

By His Grace,

Sharon

Restore Empower and Prevent

Hello Friends, It seems to be the perfect time to share about our Uncaged event back in June in Cabo. It was anointed by God and so much to share. About twenty or so couples gathered to hear the updates on the ministry and how we as simple American citizens can help. Well, we were overcome with the Spirit moving there. We learned how we as God’s people are able to be a part of something bigger than ourselves.

Restore, Empower and Prevent these beautiful girls and boys from ever experiencing the trauma of Human Trafficking.

Restoring these precious children is part of God’s plan for us. Human Trafficking is one of the World’s Greatest Evils. As some of you have seen the new movie, Sound of Freedom, it is a true story of a government agent who rescues a little girl and boy representing thousands of trafficked children in real life. We have the opportunity through Uncaged to be a part of rescuing women of all ages in Romania. Uncaged has built its team, with Beni, a Romanian national, at the tip of the spear, rescuing and empowering survivors, and educating the Romanian citizens of the evil that is happening in their country.

Empowering the Romanian citizens of what to look for and teaching them how to prevent human trafficking, Uncaged is engaged in helping stop the perpetrators from exporting victims into other countries in Europe. 78% of victims in Europe are Romanian. By providing Uncaged with resources, both financially and through prayer; we can be a part of the solution. Beni, a Romanian lawyer, (among his several degrees), is on the ground floor rescuing these women with his team. He says, “ If nothing changes nothing changes.” Don’t we want to be part of the team that helps prevent Human Trafficking at the epicenter of Romania?

Mike and I, as well as my Peony Market partner, Marilyn and her husband Tony, were able to witness the Spirit of the Living God provide abundantly among those gathered in Cabo. We were educated and brought into the family of knowing the problem and how we can pray and offer our gifts. If you would like more information; please read https://www.uncaged.org and/or email Maggie.ryan@uncaged.org.

Through partnering with Uncaged, we can help Prevent this modern day slavery and bring Restoration to the girls, leading them home on the Freedom Highway in Romania. The Freedom Highway is a safe passage back to the Sanctuary. There at the Sanctuary the girls are offered Trauma informed therapy, choice based therapy, gardening, art, horse therapy and future training at Uncaged’s very own Training Academy. There we hope to offer many opportunities for learning new trades such as art, hairstyling, nails, cooking and other skills. Our desire is to be a part of making this happen.

We witnessed a full moon rising over the ocean while at the event.

Mike and I would love to meet with you in Atlanta as well and share our love for Uncaged and the founder Kim and her husband, Bob. Please email me at sharon@peonymarket.co. We would love for you to be a part of the family of Uncaged.

With Love,

Sharon

Peony-Beauty In All Forms

Peonies are perennial flowers, and they come in unique shapes and colors. Peonies draw us in towards their beauty with their various colors and forms. God makes all beauty. When I chose Peony to be the name of the small business it seemed perfect. Women have been a big part of my ministry of discipleship. Women come in many shapes and forms of beauty. All of the colors of peonies bring different meanings to us just as women in everyday life. Mike, my husband came up with ‘Market’ to go along with Peony. I loved it, Peony Market. We would curate gifts that would by unique to purchase and bring beauty.

Peony Market began in 2018 and we hosted our first market in November in Brookhaven. I want to thank everyone who supported the market. It was truly so much fun curating the gifts and hosting the markets. The gatherings were energetic with friends who came from near and far. We had beautiful fellowship and were able to give back to Uncaged. Uncaged will always be a ministry that we support personally to help bring freedom and healing to women. The sanctuary in Romania is a beautiful refuge for women to come and have the proper therapies, gardening and healing to be free from bondage.

Mike and I will be attending a conference in June to learn more about what is happening in Romania and how we can help make the sanctuary everything it can be. The next posts for Peony Market via Instagram and Facebook will be focused on current status of the sanctuary, encouragement, and highlights of remaining market products,

Personally, this next season is going to be a sabbatical of rest and spending time with family and friends. Life is flying by and I am turning 60 in the fall. I believe everyone needs to take time to pause, rest and dive deeper into your spiritual journey and enjoy the people that God has placed in your life. At various seasons of your life, take time to evaluate your relationship with God, your journey and don’t miss diving deeper with God and experience all that He has for you in this life. God has led me on my journey with Peony Market and I am grateful for all who helped it succeed. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.

I appreciate Marilyn, who came and jumped on board to help with the bookkeeping and enjoyed all the trips to the market to displaying/tagging all the unique products for market. We both are going to the event for Uncaged soon and we will keep you updated on their progress and prayer needs. I thank my friend, Lynne, who never missed a market; she helped in every way. Again, thank you to all my friends and family that came to help, and shopped at Peony Market. You all were so important to bringing awareness to Uncaged and experiencing beauty at each gathering.

Peonies are a tangible gorgeous flower to remember that beauty is intricate with lots of petals that make up its bloom. Let’s help each woman whether through supporting Uncaged or the women in your life go from a bud or broken bloom to a full bloom of beauty. Peonies are my favorite as well as helping women be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is our job to plant the peonies in full sun, help water, fertilize, break off dead blooms and attend to the plant. The same is true for the women in our lives .

I look forward to sharing pictures and information from the Uncaged conference in June in Cabo, Mexico. If you are interested in learning more about Uncaged and want to be a part financially or through prayer; please contact Kim Westfall, https://www.uncaged.org/the-solution

Keep following along on instagram @peony.market and Facebook @Peony Market. Our online store will be accessible as well and 10% of your purchase will go to Uncaged.

Faith Of A Mustard Seed

Jesus is our Waymaker giving us hope as we believe and trust Him!

We may have faith as tiny as a mustard seed, but that faith can move mountains. Walking in faith this Spring for newness of Life will bring huge blessings. Christ offers the Way; look at the blossoms of the trees, shrubs and flowers. Little by little more buds, more foliage until Spring is in full bloom. The blue sky is the perfect backdrop to highlight the hues of Spring. .

The picture of Spring on this side of Eden mirrors our lives as we step toward faith in God. Walking with Jesus, the Waymaker, He moves us to great things for Him and others. When we listen to His prompts and move in the Spirit we bear buds and blooms for Him. The more we deny ourselves and let the Waymaker have His way the greater array of beauty.

My husband and I are in a season of preparing our hearts for Easter. We started a little later than Ash Wednesday to begin Lent, but God sees our hearts to give up something to focus on Him more fully. The Waymaker wants full attention and less distractions. Sometimes, giving up something helps us to depend on Him making the Way and trusting Him fully. We are asking God to pour new wine in new wineskins for us and help us hear God clearer and brighter.

“Faith as small as a Mustard Seed Can Move Mountains”

Matthew 17:20

Peony Market can only bloom fully as Marilyn and I believe and trust God to move mountains in our lives personally and for our business with helping fight Human Trafficking. We will be offering a Spring Market at my home on the 14th and 15th of April after Easter and Spring Break. Our products will represent Faith, Hope and Love. Mark your calendars and find gifts for Spring and Summer babies, graduation, Mother’s Day and items to brighten your home this Season.

We are looking forward to seeing you this spring! Let’s take time each day to prepare our hearts for somber death of Jesus and celebrating His glorious resurrection! In my Bible study, we are reading New Life Rising. Click the book and order your copy if you would like.

In Christ,

Sharon

Giving Back Love

Happy New Year!! It was a great month celebrating with family and friends. Gathering with loved ones, remembering Christ’s birth and bringing in the New Year reminds us that Jesus and relationships are what really matter. The two things that will last eternally are relationships and the word of God.

Scripture speaks of the word; “So the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his gory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14 “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of God endures Forever.” I Peter 1:24-25

And Relationships - John 3:16 “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever. believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life.”

Knowing these truths we get excited to encourage one another on our journeys here on this earth, making new relationships and honoring God with our gifts. Peony Market embraces Christ as the giver of all good gifts- Relationships and Christ’s Word. It is an honor to say that we gave back to Uncaged $830.00 January 5, 2023. Our products are a means to gather and give back.

Pictures from our gathering this December!

We are helping sweet ladies gain freedom and safety by supporting Uncaged as they rescue these ladies from darkness. Oh, what an honor it is to be a part of God’s work. We will keep you posted on upcoming news that is taking place in Romania’s Sanctuary.

Pray for Marilyn and I as we go to mart next week, choosing new items for our gathering this Spring. We always want it to be special for Mother’s Day, baby gifts, graduation and new Spring home items.

As we move into the new year of 2023, let’s remember to give back love as God gave us two special gifts, the Word who is Jesus and relationships. It is our opportunity to give back love and help others see His love by helping his children.

Enjoy this beautiful season of renewing and restoring in these cool months to bring forth new growth to benefit others!

Much love!

Sharon

Path Of Light

Light draws our souls to a source that is bigger than the universe. We witness it in nature through the Sun, Moon and Stars. Light illuminates the skies. We witnessed a beautiful full moon in Italy on our 35th Anniversary trip. It was magical!

There is a greater light than these magnificent lights; the designer of those lights, God of the Universe. Over these past few months, I have specifically been seeking the Light, God, to illuminate the path for me personally and with our business, Peony Market.

You haven’t heard from us for awhile, because we have been waiting on the Lord to reveal His future plans for Peony Market. I believe it was important to step back and check our motives and business vision, seeking God to illuminate His ways for the past several months.

It has been exciting to see God answer prayers and reveal His path. While seeking God through prayer using the Circle of Prayer with one of my mentees, God led my husband and I to move back to our old home. Yes, God opened the doors for us to move back to our old home where our children were raised for half of their lives. So, we have been busy relocating as well as seeking God’s plan professionally. The young ladies I mentor and myself are currently doing the Bible Study, Experiencing God- Knowing and Doing the will of God. It has been an awesome way of rethinking and looking for where God is working and go! It is through His word and prayer where we encounter the Living God who illuminates our path.

in regards to Peony Market, we feel called to continue to curate products related to theme of Isaiah 61. The gatherings and “pop ups” will be a way to support and give back to Uncaged and other organizations that fight human trafficking. We are having an informational gathering in November with donors and hopefully future donors to understand more about Uncaged and the Sanctuary in Romania. Peony Market will also have a “gift shop” gathering at my new home Friday, December 2nd and Saturday, December 3rd. You will all be invited to shop and find those unique gifts for those you cherish this Christmas. The gathering is named, “The Light of the World” to remember God is the true light. We look forward to seeing you!

“ I am the Light of the World whoever follows me will not walk in Darkness but will have the Light Of Life.

John 8:12

So, mark your calendars and join us at my home December 2nd or 3rd to purchase some of your gifts for Christmas while giving back to Uncaged.

Grace and Peace,

Sharon

Peony Market’s Lights to bring to illuminate your space

God's Love Blooms

The season that breathes life.. the vines and limbs that have been hidden under the snow or leaves are now brought to life.. Bright green.. oxygen… life.. who gives life other than the breath of heaven? .. God .. Yes , God is the source of life.

Easter is the climax of Spring. The dogwood with its symbolism of Easer. The green foliage of new life. The blooms on all the new beauties of Spring. My peonies, the buds that are about to burst forth.

Seasons are a beautiful metaphor of our own lives. Spring is a season of love.. the birds are chirping, meeting with their mates in the garden as we celebrate new babies and marriages.. It is all so beautiful.. Can we take it all in? We can, as we linger in the garden, with God, in conversation, with our loved ones, celebrating newness with a beautiful floral arrangement in the kitchen, and family surrounding our tables.

Christ paid it all, believe He did, accept the gift of love that lasts eternally and let His love bloom in your heart like the peonies in my garden from last year.

A stone that was quarried from Ephesus with the inscription, He Is Risen to remind us “It is finished”.. His work on the cross is complete.. We are forgiven and made new with Christ.

This season is a beautiful metaphor of how God desires His love to bloom in us where we are living. Peony Market has unique gifts of love to share with your mom for Mother’s Day as well as the friends and neighbors in your life. We live not without hope, but Christ is Risen! And, we have also “risen” as new creatures in Christ. He paid the price. Celebrate your freedom and give love without reservation. He forgave us. How can we not live free, letting go of things that don’t bring life? Today is the gift.. Give a gift that inspires and brings life and joy..

Here are are a few gifts of love we offer for this season.

A nature photo by Susanne Wren capturing peony petals- A special card to write a special message to your mom or special friend.

Cedar Brush and Oil Set to shed the old skin and renewing the skin

An organic body butter to nourish your skin the makes a nice gift with our cedar brush and other body oil products

Organic oil to renew skin’s vibrancy

We have beautiful candles, such as the lavender rosemary and wood house to complete a gift to someone you cherish including yourself. Check out our website and enjoy Spring’s blooming love…

Spread His aroma, leaving refreshing fragrance to those around you!

Blooming Love,

Sharon

Be Still + Know

Winter is a great season for our roots to be nourished like the trees that are bare. They are being nourished from the depths of their roots. Our souls are similar to needing that time to soak up all the nutrients to make it bloom for the Spring. This week we are in Vermont for fun and its spectacular array of beauty. The snow blankets the ground. The air is crisp, silence is heard in the woods. It is calling me to Be Still and Know.

We need the silence to hear God’s voice and HIs desires. His voice gets drowned out by the noise. Winter is a visual reminder that our soul needs to be still.. Quiet.. just the wind I hear in the woods like the Holy Spirit within us. It is always there , but we don’t discern the Spirit’s movement because of our business.

This past week we enjoyed the stillness of the woods, the quiet of walking and listening. To be still and know are crucial to know God. I hope this week, no matter where you are in this beautiful winter season, you all spend time alone with God.

We offer a beautiful simple necklace that reminds us during the day to truly “Be Still And Know”, listen to the Holy Spirit letting the Spirit move us. Enjoy some of these photos from our trip and let them take you to a deep place of stillness and rest in His nature. God’s nature always takes me into another place and brings me peace and joy.

“Be Still and Know That I Am God”

Have a beautiful week!

Sharon Moye

Perfectly Woven

Happy New Year! 2022 is here.. Are you ready to step into the New Year? New beginnings are always exciting for myself. New agendas, calendars with beautiful pictures; and freshening the desk by cleaning out the old. It feels so good to begin the year with a fresh start.

But you know, with God, it is a fresh start everyday. His mercies are new every morning. God’s mercies are new every day and he is full of grace and love. To know that God meets us where we are each day is a gift that is eternal.

“ The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning, great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “ therefore I will hope in him.”

Lamentations 3:22-24

God designed us and has created His own Masterpiece. He knitted us together in our Mothers’ wombs. He is the designer, having woven us into His story. Yes, we are in His story.

Your hands made me and fashioned me; Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments. Psalm 119:73 NASB

God being the designer, he has woven us in the story of now. So we have the opportunity to open our Bible and read the story that came before us. The Story of how God provided a rescue plan through His son, Jesus. A helpful resource to read is the book, Woven, by Angie Smith. Her book highlights important people and events. The book helps us see the whole picture. We are offering the book online; just click the picture below.

Let’s begin this year reading His word, receiving His mercy each day. Everyday is a day in His story…..enjoy it and relish His goodness.

Delighting in His Word,

Sharon

The Gathering Table

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

“Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness. Come into his presence with singing!

Know that the Lord, He Is God! it is he who made us, and

we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name!

For the Lord is good: His steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. “

Psalm 100

Thanksgiving arrives this week, a special time of year where families gather and commune. Smiles exchanged, as we gaze at love around the table. Many will have traveled miles, children returning home from school, grandmoms and grandads, great grandparents, new babies and children, siblings, friends and those we invite. Families of all different sizes gather. Hands and hearts give thanks as conversations paint memories; laughter will be heard and fullness of life will be felt.

This a picture of what heaven will look like when we gather at the table of the Lord. There will be a great feast. It will be better than we can postulate. Even now we have the supreme opportunity to invite all to the Ultimate feast- the gathering of God’s chosen.

How do we do that? By beginning at the table this week.. By breaking bread and drinking wine together, loving those that are around us sincerely. Being intentional in our conversations by listening to those at our table; demonstrating God’s love. Move towards those at your table this Thanksgiving…

This is a beautiful time to enter His courts with thanksgiving and to share His love. People can know Jesus by our Love! Remember this gathering is a small picture of the big gathering at His table. We can invite people in by our love…..

Light the Candles, Break the Bread and Enjoy the Wine!

Gratefully,

Sharon

Gather at your Table and home with our beautiful Gather Candle, Charcuterie Board, Wine/Water Decanters

A beautiful red wine decanter to serve your best wine to your family and friends..

The communal table, the feast of Thanksgiving, and family traditions. Notes of nutmeg, amber + vetiver

Enjoy an array of cheeses and fruits on these gorgeous charcuterie board..

Mouthblown glass carafe for water or wine. The elegance of glass vessels at your table adds a beautiful touch to serve those you cherish.

Adorned With Beauty

Fall is such a beautiful season with the trees adorned by color. Each leaf is like a jewel on a branch.  The leaf shimmers in the sun as the beams of light sift through it.  God has a way of beautifying His creation in nature. As the leaf burns bright, so also God adorns His Bride, The Church.

Yes, as believers in Christ, we are His Bride And He is our Bridegroom.  In verse 10 in Isaiah 6, our trademark verse, the Word of God describes the Lord clothing His believers with garments of salvation and a robe of righteousness.  Isaiah, the author, describes a bridegroom that decks himself like a priest, with a beautiful headdress, and a bride, adorning herself with jewels.

My daughter, Rachel and my new son in law, Chase

What a beautiful picture of Christ, the bridegroom and Believers as a the bride. We are adored by Jesus and we look forward to being restored, gathered together at the wedding feast. Until that day, we are to shine and bring Him glory.

Catherine Pearl Necklace

“ I will greatly rejoice in the Lord: my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 61:10

Pray Necklace

As believers we are to share the Good News! Our mission at Peony Market is to have beautiful gifts to share; gifts that demonstrate our love for those we care about. Peony Market’s jewelry line is a sweet way to give a perfect gift for those you cherish, including yourself!  Enjoy the shop on our website and share our journal to encourage someone you know.  Also, mark your calendars for November 11th and 12th for our Fall Market!

Live each day knowing that God loves and pursues you.  Each day is an opportunity to live intentionally by reading His Word, Exercising, and Serving and Shining for Him. Know that you are Adorned with Beauty, His beauty as Believers in Christ; therefore, Go and Share God’s love.  

Remember, as believers we are his Bride Adorned With Beauty!

Gratefully,

Sharon 

Oaks of Beauty

Happy September! This past August, I had the opportunity to travel to the Golden Isles of St. Simons with my parents. oh, so many sweet memories of my childhood. My mom was at peace as we entered the Island saying, “These oaks are just so beautiful, I love it here.”

The oaks bring such peace and tranquility. They are stately and beautiful. The oaks have seen so many generations come and go, having been a part of so much life.

Isaiah refers to God’s people in this way as “Oaks of Righteousness, the planting of the Lord would be glorified.” Isaiah 61:3 These oaks are a picture of how God sees you and me. “The word oak, like the word pillar, connotes both strength and stability. “(sermonwriter.com)

He has planted us where we are in the world to stand tall, offer beauty, bring strength, lifting arms like branches praying for our neighborhood and world. The beauty of a tree stands the test of storms and relishes as the Sun and Rain nourish it. We are like the tree in that we are nourished by the God’s word . The word is the living water and God, The Son and Holy Spirit is what causes us to grow in beauty and strength.

God has planted me in Brookhaven and given me and Marilyn a business to grow. We desire this business to bring beauty to those near and far. The products we offer reflect the components of Isaiah 61. The heart of the passage is to bring restoration to God’s people.

God has placed Uncaged on our hearts to help free these precious women in Romania from the horrendous crime of human trafficking. A portion of each purchase from Peony Market provides funds to help these women obtain freedom and to thrive through healing programs at the Sanctuary in Romania. We are currently curating gift packages for business owners to offer their clients or employees. For example, we can curate a gift package for real estate agents to show client appreciation at closings. So, please contact us at sharon@peonymarket.co with any individual needs. We can design a unique gift for you, so you don’t have to shop for a gift card or special gift. Also, please mark on your calendar Nov. 11th and 12th for our Fall Event. Join us in supporting Uncaged by shopping with us giving these women a chance to grow into beautiful well watered Oak Trees.

Here are some of our Oaks of Righteousness products:

A Charcuterie Board Offering Your Favorite Things

A Gorgeous Wine Decanter Letting Wine Breathe

Oil And Vinegar Decanters With Our Greek Olive Oil And Vinegar Paired With A Dipping Bowl

Please tell us how we can help you with gifts this season and in turn help women at Uncaged become beautiful Oak Trees!

Grateful,

Sharon Moye

Oil Of Joy

Oil of Joy

The month of June Peony Market is focusing on God’s presence. In his presence is joy!!

Jesus came to save us from any sort of addiction, bondage and our sinful ways.   He desires to lavish us with His love giving us a beautiful headdress instead of ashes and the oil of gladness instead of mourning.  This is His free gift- Joy in the Lord.

I have been a believer now for 47 years. I accepted Christ in 1974, but have been earnestly walking with Christ for about 35 years.. In my twenties, I found myself sincerely desiring God. As a result, I poured myself into studying God’s word (the Bible.)  God’s word is the start of being sanctified daily.   In my flesh I run to everything other than God.  God offers it all but we run to approval, power, comfort or control; empty substitutes for His power and glory. 

As believers, we are misguided to pursue anything but God’s glory. Timothy Keller states: “ The greatest nightmare of the approval addict is rejection; of the the power addict, humiliation; of the comfort addict, suffering; and of the control addict, uncertainty.” In other words, our addictions to temporal pursuits only lead to nightmares!

Why do we do this… isn’t God enough?   I think at times we run to one of these for our self worth.  Unnecessary, when God has offered us Himself.   He patiently waits as we pursue junk instead of being in His presence where there is fullness of Joy!

“ You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11

Where do you run?  For me it is approval. When I recognize my mistake and turn to His presence, my soul settles and I find true joy..  Only God can satisfy. 

“To grant to those who mourn in Zion- to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes The oil of gladness instead of mourning” Isaiah 61:3 

Stay in His Presence and find the fullness of His Joy!  Open up the Psalms each morning and reflect on Him.  In Him you are loved and filled with His Joy!!  

I hope you will enjoy some of our products this summer and pamper yourself and someone you cherish!! We offer luscious soaps, bath bombs, oils and body butter.  A daily routine of using our dry brush to increase circulation, and our apothecary products will keep your skin moisturized this summer skin.  Not only will you nourished on the inside with staying in His presence but your skin will be glowing on the outside as well!!

Enjoy this summer in His presence and Be Filled with Joy! Share your comments!

Sharon

Bring Comfort + Love

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms today!! May you feel the comfort and love of Jesus, your family and friends this weekend. We all have the opportunity to bring comfort and love to the special women in our lives this Sunday as well as consistently throughout the year. In the book of Isaiah 61:2, Isaiah prophetically speaks of the Messiah and his ministry of comforting those who mourn.

“…to proclaim the year of the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance our God, to comfort all who mourn.” Isaiah 61:2. Later in the book of Luke 4:16-22, Jesus reads Isaiah 61 from a scroll and He said, “Today this scripture is fulfilled.” Isaiah shares that the Messiah is anointed to bring good news, bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn..”

Jesus’ ministry is listed in Isaiah 61 and that is Peony Market’s desire to follow after God’s heart and ministry. HIs heart is about Restoration and we want our products, gatherings and life to reflect God’s heart. Our past gathering was beautiful seeing new and old friends. We tried to take the time with new friends and share our story of Peony Market and partnership with Uncaged. Our new products are reflections of each of the ways Jesus modeled and spoke of His ministry to the world. One of our customers shared with us, “We love Peony Market and the ‘better than shopping anywhere else’ personalized, beautiful environment shopping experience.” This is what we hope for each person to experience in person and online through the messages!

Today’s message we are highlighting the ministry of bringing comfort and love. There is no better time to bring comfort and love than to your special mom and women in your life this weekend. Let us share a few with you!

Some of the products we offer for comfort and love are the Tea Gift Set, Blankets, Tea Towels and Plants. The tea set includes a handmade pottery mug from North Georgia, Glass Tea infuser with an adorable glass jar of loose tea leaves and ginger cookies. You can purchase the set or individual items. The tea towels are beautiful for your kitchen or guest bathroom. We love the soft colors this year, drawing you into God’s gentleness and beauty in nature. The blankets are soft and cozy with a splash of color for any room in your home. The planters contain an annual plant for your someone special to plant and bloom this Spring. These planters are not online, but you can email us at sharon@peonymarket.co.

Let us know how we can help you bring comfort and love to those you cherish! If you are in the Atlanta area; we can deliver your gift!

Have a beautiful week!!

Sharon

Setting The Captives Free

What a beautiful time of year to be reminded of the only one who can truly set us free. God alone. Easter is less than a week away, when we have the opportunity to rejoice in Jesus. He is Alive and He paid the price for us so that we can experience true freedom in Christ. He took the heavy cup of the world’s sins and bore them on the cross in order for us to have a life with God Forever. There was no other way for us to have relationship with God, without Jesus being obedient to His Father.

We try to experience Freedom without God, but we fail every time. Genesis describes the Fall with Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit -seeking to be their own god, Exodus describes the Israelites, who were slaves in Egypt, being led out of Egypt by Moses to the Promised Land. But the Israelites still sought after other gods, not following the One True God. They witnessed God’s miracles time and time again, but still choose to follow other gods. Then, after going into the Promised Land, the Israelites demanded Kings like the surrounding countries. They thought they would be better, but were only obedient for a short period of time before inevitably going their own way… The same is true with us today. Without the cross, we definitely go astray. We want our own way, to be in control, and to be our own god, worshipping things that do not give life.

“All we like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way. and the LORD has had laid on him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6

God had a plan..

God knew we would not be obedient. He knew we would need an anointed one to bring good news and “Proclaim Liberty to the captives and freedom to Prisoners.” As Isaiah was a prophet filled with the Spirit, he spoke these words; and then 700 years later, Jesus relates these Bible passages to Himself. (Luke 4: 14-21)

“The Sprit of the Lord God is upon me, Because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted: he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1

A Savior that would save us from ourselves and take our iniquities and give us Freedom in Him Alone. The New Testament completes the Old Testament by giving us Jesus, forgiveness, grace and appreciation for the completed work on the cross.

We truly rejoice in the Lord who completed the work on the cross . It is finished, “Tetelestai”… the work is done. Those in Christ have true Freedom and desire all to know about Christ and help those that are in bondage to seek Freedom.

“All we like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way. and the LORD has had laid on him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6

.This is where Peony Market and Uncaged want to come together to help women in bondage.. This weekend, Marilyn, my business partner, went to the Uncaged’s conference to learn more about its mission. Here are her words from the conference,

“I was incredibly blessed to recently attend a ministry event highlighting the work of Uncaged, founded by Kim Westfall. She has followed God's calling and resources to fight against the organized crime network of Sex Trafficking at it's European epi-center in Romania where children are trapped and literally kept in cages by developing an all-encompassing sanctuary center to bring these rescued young girls all aspects of help they need to become whole and healthy again. Kim has come alongside another ministry, Selah Freedom, who has a heart for the same issue, just here in the United States, so all 40,000,000 victims of this global crime can begin to have hope that help is on the way. They are now putting together "the best of the best" to combat this huge issue. As they presented their work, I became fully convinced and excited that they are attacking this epidemic problem at its many root levels with a combative force equal to the dark side who have been ahead of us for so long. It is no coincidence, I think, that the same Scripture, Isaiah 61, inspired Uncaged as well as Peony Market's gifts and vision to open the prisons of the captives. I couldn't be more excited to bring our lovely gift boutique as a resource to make all of our gift purchases work as double blessings. Our gifts to those we cherish can not only reflect the beauty we have as those made in God's image, but they can also fund Peony Market's donations of all sales to help fund these amazing ministries on the front lines. We are starting with 10%, but we can't wait to see this grow and increase our percentage so this becomes a vital part of their support. Read Isaiah 61, and come join this vision!”

Our Spring Market will be April 29th and 30th from 10-7 at my home in Brookhaven. You should have all received an invitation! Please mark it on your calendar and email me at sharon@peonymarket.co if you didn’t receive your invitation! Come see all our new products representing Isaiah 61 and give back to Uncaged.

Our theme for Market is Setting the Captives Free, featuring our Signature necklace for Uncaged - Set Free. We are elated to execute God’s plan of bringing Peony Market and Uncaged together for Kingdom work. Peony Market is honored to partner with Uncaged and to offer products that give back to a ministry empowering girls to experience safety and healing from their abusers.

“The Sprit of the Lord God is upon me, Because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted: he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.”

Isaiah 61:1

Our signature Set Free Key Necklace will be featured at our Market:

Enjoy this Easter weekend and embrace the love of Christ! He is the Key to Set All Free!

Freedom in Christ,

Sharon Moye

Binding The Broken Hearted

While Spring is just a few weeks away, I have enjoyed the cozy mornings with a blanket on my lap and with a warm cup of decaf or tea.. It brings comfort each morning to open God’s word wrapped with warmth and sipping on a warm drink. The comfort we receive from the gifts of a blanket and a hot beverage are similar to the comfort Jesus desires his followers to give back to others.

As I have mentioned in the last journal, Isaiah 61 is our foundational verse and we are curating our products from this verse. Jesus quotes this verse in Luke 4:38 in the beginning of his ministry. Surely he did this for us too to use for a model of how we should love and care for others.

Let me refresh our memories with the beginning of Isaiah 61:1 “ The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted…” These are the words I want to highlight in this journal, ”…to bind up the brokenhearted…”

What does….. “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted….” look like for us? As followers of Jesus we have His Spirit upon us to bind up the brokenhearted and point them to Jesus who saves and heals. To bind is to wrap something around tightly. Whether it looks like swaddling a sweet baby, or offering a friend a cup of tea and comforting words, or supporting young women who have experienced trauma due to human trafficking; All of these are ways of binding- holding close to our hearts and offering ourselves to deliver love and peace. Another form of binding could be offering prayers standing in the gap, praying and releasing prayer into the Father’s hands. We can intercede on behalf of others and Speak God’s word over them.

As Peony Market curates gifts for this season, I want to share a couple of gifts that fit the theme “…binding the broken hearted.” We have a cozy mug, “Fully Known and Wholly Loved,” to give someone who you want to share love and peace with this season. We can package it with organic tea and a new tea diffuser that is coming soon. Along with the tea, we have a new devotional called “Speak His Name” that pairs well with the mug for someone you want to encourage. I personally love the devotional with its beautiful illustrations that draw me into His beauty.

As for beauty, there isn’t anything more precious than seeing a baby swaddled in softness and wrapped in soft organic clothes. We have the sweetest baby ensemble for this season. The blanket, onesie and hat are all organic with no dyes or chemicals, and with a soft heart appliquéd on each piece. I can’t wait to see my own grand babies wear these soon!!

Who can you bless with these gifts of love and comfort? Binding broken hearts is sharing love and comfort, and offering love and comfort before hearts are ever broken; ..Establishing relationships in life so we can be there when hearts are broken, because we all will have them.

Each month we will unfold the words of Isaiah 61 for us to consider and embrace. Be blessed this season as we anticipate Easter and the newness of Spring!

Love and Prayers,

Sharon

Presence and Deliver

January began for us with a great retreat to pray, reflect and properly plan for 2021. The words “presence” and “deliver” came to us as we centered our retreat around Isaiah 61. Peony Market was birthed from this scripture. We want to stay true to the vision by offering quality products with unique beauty following the Isaiah passage. Through the gatherings and collaborating with Uncaged, Victoria”s Friends, House of Grace and others God leads us to, a portion of the proceeds will support these ministries. We will also support these ministries with prayer and with tangible ways to know that the women are seen and cared for by Peony Market. So, as you support us, you are part of the ministry of Isaiah 61.

“The Spirit of the Lord God Is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.” Isaiah 61:1

Isaiah 61 calls for us to be present with God… to be still and know that he is God. Filling us with His Spirit to enable us to go out to his people delivering the Gospel of love, hope and grace.

Being present, being still, asking God to fill us with His Spirit as we began our retreat… In His presence..

Be still and Know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations.” Psalm 46:10.

We began with a prayer walk seeking His face for our nation, ourselves, family and for our business. During our retreat, we asked God to lead us, fill us and show us what He wants this year to look like… As we were present with God, the words “presence” and “deliver” came to us as I mentioned earlier. In Isaiah, it says the Spirit is upon me because the Lord has anointed me…As believers in Jesus…this is our calling…. to be filled with His presence and be present with Him in order to fulfill our calling. Without the time spent with our God, we lack direction and His leading.

So, as we start this year being Present with God, we will overflow with His love and compassion to be present with others, giving them the good news of hope and love, binding up the broken hearted and proclaiming liberty to those who are captive physically, emotionally and spiritually. We long to be used for God, for His Kingdom and to truly help women be set free from human trafficking and other forms of brokenness.

Through our gatherings and support of Uncaged, House of Grace and Victoria’s Friends, we desire to deliver the hope of the Gospel. Through the scripture of Isaiah 61, we desire our products to reflect the good news. It is our mission to offer quality products with unique beauty following this passage. Here are some examples of how we are relating Isaiah 61 to our products to deliver hope, love, and grace, and for sharing the good news of the Gospel of Jesus.

Bind Broken Hearts… Cards, Vessels with flowers and plants

Open Prisons….. Key Necklace

Comfort Mourners.. Devotionals, Cozy Mugs, Candles.

Beautiful Headdress… Baby headbands

Oil of Gladness… Dry Brush and Oil, Lotions, Oil and Vinegar, Soaps, Candles

Garments of Praise… Blankets, Wraps, Baby Onesies

Oaks of Righteousness… Wooden Products, earrings, Bowls.. tree Art

Priests of the Lord…. Devotionals, Scripture Blocks, Jesus Storybook Bible

Food- Wealth of the Nations- Corporate gifts - Oil and Vinegar, Coffee, Tea, Wine and Dark Chocolates, Picnic Baskets, Cookbooks

Planting of the Lord… Vases, Planters, Gardening and Flower Books,

Bride’s Jewels… Jewelry

These products are some of our ideas for 2021.. So as they unfold, you will see them online and at the Spring Gathering in April. We are ready to begin the New Year by spending quality time with God in His presence so we can be present with you delivering the hope of the Gospel…

As we prepare and purchase products for our next gathering, pray for God’s leading…. we look forward to gathering this Spring!!

These scripture stones can be found online. Keep one located where you see it and pray to be Present with God in order to be Present with others, and to be a Deliverer of the Good News!

Love and Prayers,

Sharon

Reflection Brings Renewal

Happy New Year!!

2021 holds lots of possibilities! It is helpful to self reflect from the previous year in order to make necessary steps and changes for the following year. Journaling your thoughts brings awareness and truth to different areas of your life. I have listed below some examples of areas to journal:

•Make a 2020 gratitude list

•Accomplishments for the year

•Relationships nurtured

•Ministries served

There are many more, but some important areas to reflect on. The idea of journaling brings your mind and emotions together and seeing progress as well as areas that need attention. Through this reflection you are engaged in your emotions and aware of your role in the world. Joni Erickson Tada said it best in her 2021 planner that I am using, “God is looking for cupbearers like you!” Nehemiah, was a cupbearer for the king in Persia. He asked the king for permission to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls and city. His passion was lead by prayer and fasting.

What is our heart for 2021? God desires to use us!

What a great honor to be used by God to be His cupbearer!

As we reflect, it brings brings a renewed sense of desire to know what is important to us. Then, being filled by His spirit we can go and move forward into 2021 with renewed heart and vision. Peony Market is so grateful for this past year. My business partner, Marilyn, and I will go on a business retreat this month to Reflect and be Renewed by His Spirit. This retreat comes at a perfect time of year as we plan for the gatherings, products and collaboration with Uncaged, Victoria’s Friends and House of Grace.

Our heart and desire is for Peony Market to be a cupbearer for the King of Kings. All that we do we want to bring God glory , help bring change to women caught in human trafficking and making our gatherings a platform to provide special gifts that will give back to these organizations. The gatherings are a beautiful environment to enjoy one another’s friendships and provide products for those you cherish, giving back to those in need.

In 2020, Peony Market gave gifts to Uncaged to help provide gift baskets. Uncaged hosted a Trauma Informed Retreat with 12 women from Wellspring ( a ministry in Atlanta that helps transform lives of those at risk or victimized by sexual exploitation). Their retreat was an opportunity for the ladies to experience the therapies that Uncaged will be providing for their rescued women in Romania. We are hoping their Romanian Sanctuary will be built this year! We will keep you posted.

The beautiful framed piece of art pictured below was painted by one of the ladies in their art therapy workshop.

This is just one of the many therapies Uncaged will be providing in their future Sanctuary in Romania. Please follow Uncaged www.uncaged.org on FB and uncaged_org on Instagram to keep up with news.

It is these organizations that move our heart to continue to ask God to use Peony Market to truly help women be transformed and healed from the trauma of human trafficking.

The possibilities are waiting us! it begins with Reflection. As we enter 2021 and go on our business Retreat and you engage in the New Year, lets begin with Prayer!

“And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:31

Enjoy Peony Market’s wonderful soaps and oil www.peonymarket.co as you Reflect and Renew this year!!!!

Reflecting,

Sharon

Grace and Gratitude

The Fall is moving along briskly. Oh how we love this season of colorful leaves, brisk air, and energy! Then, comes gathering around a table with those we love most.

God gave us our precious families who we love deeply. And by Grace, He gives us the opportunity to love and believe in the best gift we could ever receive- Jesus. Knowing these two wonders of gratitude and grace, our company agrees that God is the giver of these most amazing gifts!

At Peony Market, our events and products are offered to reflect our love for Jesus and the value of connecting with both friends and family.

Gratitude for the Thanksgiving season and for the gift of cherished friends and family

Grace for the Christmas season, for the gift of Jesus, and the offering of grace He gives freely.

Grace and Gratitude

Please check out our website and enjoy the gifts to give this season. We look forward to our next gathering this Spring and possibly in December. My partner, Marilyn, and I will have a retreat after these seasons of celebrating Family and Jesus. We will pray, set goals, creatively plan and determine ways of collaborating with sex trafficking ministries, designing future gatherings and curating gifts for those you cherish.

As we move to the Holiday seasons, let’s keep these two words at the the forefront our minds..

Grace and Gratitude

May you be filled with His Love, Grace and Gratitude for the gift of Jesus and Family,

Sharon

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Celebrate Differences

September is here and just knowing fall is around the corner makes me want to put a cozy sweater and boots on! I love the fall with new activities, delicious soups, returning to Bible studies, college football, pumpkins and the brisk breeze both in the morning and evenings.

For Peony Market, we have some new beginnings and we are celebrating Marilyn Amburgy who has been with me from the beginning helping with all of the accounting. I have been so thankful for the differences we bring to the table. We dined at Rays on the River with our spouses and signed the operating agreement. I found it humorous and interesting that Marilyn wore a white dress and I chose a black dress to celebrate the occasion. It was a true picture of our differences.

Differences are crucial to making businesses, friendships, relationships and marriages work. We bring unique gifts to the table which makes them all thrive. We are made for working together and not missing out on how others add beauty to our lives. I am grateful for the addition of Marilyn who is an intelligent, creative, godly woman who loves deeply and cares about women who have been through traumatic situations. She is a gifted individual with accounting and business skills. She loves helping women find their true identities in God. Marilyn and I share a heart for ministries such as Uncaged and Victoria’s Friends both of which care for women in need. We look forward to collaborating with these organizations to give back to the beautiful women they serve. The gifts we curate are to bring beauty while encouraging women in all walks of life. Peony Market’s vision is to curate unique gifts to love and cherish those in our path.

In order to make that happen we will host a gathering October 15th and 16th. You will be receiving an official invitation with details soon. So, mark your calendars for the day that works best for you! The gathering will be held inside and outside of my home. We will have a lot of sale items as well as new items for you to consider. We look forward to seeing you and are grateful for your support.

Gratefulness is discovering the differences in your relationships and the unique gifts they bring to the table. I am truly thankful for the relationships God has given me. They help me by their encouragement, prayers, support, talent and enrich my life.

Before the next event, I have a suggestion. Write down those you are so grateful for and and bring your lists so you can find gifts to say thank you for being in my life. This will be a good opportunity for early Christmas shopping and even gifts for your home!

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” Psalm 133:1

Grateful,

Sharon