Posted in Evangelism, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Praise

What if we believed the Extreme Possibilities of God?

2 Chronicles 7:1-3 KJVS
Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house. [2] And the priests could not enter into the house of the Lord, because the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s house. [3] And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the Lord upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

I cannot imagine the spectacular site this would have been. Can you imagine sitting in a modern day church service where the power of God comes down in the form of fire, strikes the altar and the sparks fly! In this pyrotechnical world where every thing must be bells and whistles to get our attention, I have the feeling that when God does a fireworks display, it’s way more exciting! And for certain nobody is complaining at the end saying… I’ve seen better. Yet that’s what happens in many church services. People show up more concerned about the thermostat than the thermal power possibilities of the Lord. There’s nothing or nobody at the altar for God to send a fire upon.

What will bring the fire down?

When Solomon had made an end of praying the fire came down from heaven. What a prayer that must have been! I heard a preacher once say that most of our failures are prayer failures. Prayer is the conduit for which our relationship with God flows. But prayer for many (or perhaps I’m the only one) that has a prayer life consisting of more “Dear God I’m stupid” prayers than ones that start out with, “Oh, God….”

I’ve had those prayers. But I’m here to confess it’s been a while since God and I have had any conversations that caused me to step away from the altar with singe on my shoulder. A conversation where I was so touched by the moving of the Holy Spirit that I could physically feel His presence, that joy welled up in my soul because I had seen the sparks fly in the form of revival fires and I felt consumed by His love and power. Yes, it’s been too long.

I fully believe that the only way those moments happen is when there are people at the altar, standing there with a sacrificial heart, prepared to do something. Someone who just had a conversation with God that stirred Him when He seen the desire of His child’s heart was to worship and serve. Oh God, how I pray that’s me! Let my relationship be a consistent conversation where I am so focused on your desires that my petty thoughts have been burnt up.

What will bring the Glory of the Lord?

The priests didn’t enter the house of the Lord because the glory of the Lord filled the temple. There was nothing in the temple but God. What is in the churches across America this morning? I have a feeling it’s more than God. There are some that I’m not so sure God’s even in them at all. I’m not judging, I’m lining up what scripture says with what I see. If you go back to 2 Chronicles Chapter 6 and you read through Solomon’s prayer, this man who had it all, wisdom, wealth and all the delights of his heart, you will not see those things mentioned. But in four verses I felt that I witnessed some of what brought God’s glory down to that house of God.

2 Chronicles 6:30-33 KJV
Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according unto all his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children of men:) [31] That they may fear thee, to walk in thy ways, so long as they live in the land which thou gavest unto our fathers. [32] Moreover concerning the stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, but is come from a far country for thy great name’s sake, and thy mighty hand, and thy stretched out arm; if they come and pray in this house; [33] Then hear thou from the heavens, even from thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to thee for; that all people of the earth may know thy name, and fear thee, as doth thy people Israel, and may know that this house which I have built is called by thy name.

Solomon’s understanding of “Who” God was, his concern for not only Israel but the stranger, the Gentile that would have come into their country to worship “their” God, God honored the heart of Solomon by allowing Solomon and his people to experience His glory. I have to wonder, what would God do if the leadership of our nation, with a pure heart of concern for the people and for the desire to be in the will of God, would pray to God this morning? What would He do in our churches if today His altars were full of people concerned about more than the daily drudgeries of life? I believe we have to start with our own hearts and work our way up. Imagine if one church as a whole got fully committed to serving God and ministering to the people in their community. Then that community got saved and on fire for the Lord and took it to the State Capitol. We look at that as impossible task, but is it?

I know I’m a cockeyed optimist but I believe every word of God from Genesis to Revelation is there to teach us of the extreme possibilities of God. If for nothing else that we never lose sight of the hope of Heaven and how big the God of Heaven is.

Verse 3 of our original text in this post says that when ALL THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL saw how the fire came down and the glory filled the temple they bowed on their faces and worshipped and praised God. ALL of Israel. What would it look like if ALL the church were at the altar this morning. Not out of obligation, not be cause the Pastor said, “Let’s gather at the altar and pray.” But because the conviction of almighty God drove God’s people there with a burden for our nation and our communities and they started praying as Solomon did in 2 Chronicles 6:4 KJV – Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, who hath with his hands fulfilled that which he spake…

It was a different day when God spoke to the leadership. He now speaks to the heart of every child of God and we are privileged to be in a place that few were in the days of Solomon. And yet we’re not listening. That’s a really scary statement. We’re not listening to the God of the Universe Who keeps our earth together. I’m pretty sure our nation needs to pray “Dear God I’m stupid…” this morning.

But back to my optimistic ways. It’s Sunday. It’s a new day that we have the opportunity to go to church and worship and pray and meet with God in His house with His people and pray for His glory to come down. Let’s do it!

Love ya all, hope you find your way to church today. – Shari, The Jesus Chick.

Posted in Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration

How to Find Hope in a Today’s Reality

I spend much of my day searching for news in an attempt to grow The Ridgeview News. I also spend a lot of time listening to national news because it’s of great interest to me. But the news that I love more than all is the Good News of Jesus Christ. It stirs my soul, it encourages me and gives me hope. I’m not sure how anyone who doesn’t know Jesus Christ as their Savior survives. I remember clearly my days pre salvation. I think it’s important to remember the days of no hope, because the days of hope become that much sweeter.

My question for today is how do we share and enjoy the hope we’re given in the face of reality?

I have friends who do not watch the national news. I’m not so sure they care for my news, and I totally get it. Reality can suck the life out of you. Knowing it can create anxiety, there’s usually no answer on a local level, and little we can do about the national level. So why am I so drawn into it, and feel it’s necessary for my life? Why do I tell other’s about it? Do you want the bad news or the good news first? Being that you’re not in my living room to answer this morning I’ll start with the bad and then we’ll end on a good note.

Everyone Needs a Reality Check

That’s exactly what bad news does. It’s also what drives me to share the truth of my neighborhood, my nation and my Lord. It’s not always an easy decision and doesn’t always make me popular. Usually quite the opposite, I mean… who wants to be around a negative nelly. I try not to be, but reality is considered a negative subject. It’s also a relative subject and less appreciated when it’s about people we have a relationship with. But knowing the truth should be what we desire. But it’s not for most people.

I cannot help but think of the prophet of Lamentation and Woe, Jeremiah. You know people crossed the street to avoid him. He never had anything good to say. And yet, he’s got his own book in the Bible, so obviously God approved of what he had to say.

Jeremiah 1:1-10 KJV
The words of Jeremiah the son of Hilkiah, of the priests that were in Anathoth in the land of Benjamin: [2] To whom the word of the Lord came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in the thirteenth year of his reign. [3] It came also in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the end of the eleventh year of Zedekiah the son of Josiah king of Judah, unto the carrying away of Jerusalem captive in the fifth month. [4] Then the word of the Lord came unto me, saying, [5] Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. [6] Then said I, Ah, Lord God ! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. [7] But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. [8] Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord. [9] Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. [10] See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

From the beginning of Jeremiah’s life (which was before he was born) until the end of his life, God had a plan for him. It causes me to wonder how many aborted babies would God have done an amazing work with if only they were given the chance. I also have to consider how many chances we’ve been ehgiven and failed to use. Jeremiah didn’t ignore reality and he didn’t fail to sound the alarms on the bad news of the day. How else can people be prepared?

Reality has Bad News

The reality of this world is, if you’re not saved you cannot prepare for what’s coming, your mind could not possibly comprehend the evil that will be on the face of the earth when God calls the church home. And if you’re saved, you should know what’s coming and be able to warn your people. But at no point did God say give up. We have job to do until He calls us from this earth and understanding the Prophets who foretold the reality of the future is a very important part of our life’s work.

So lets talk about reality for one paragraph and then I’ll move onto the good news!

There is so much I would like to say, and if I thought you’d read my paragraph for hours perhaps I’d tell it all, but I’ll abbreviate it for now. The majority of the people I talk to do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ (even those who are saved) in which they converse with Him and study His word. They do not discuss the fact that Jesus is going to come back anyone not saved will be in a literal hell on earth. They do not discuss the fact that there are people in our schools, workplaces and even churches that are not serving God’s agenda, but Satans. And by allowing those people to have their say without a response from the children of God is basically saying it’s okay to indoctrinate the people you care about with lies that can send them to Hell. Nobody wanted to hear what Jeremiah had to say, and nobody wants to hear what an outspoken Christian has to say, but it didn’t stop Israel from facing judgement and it won’t stop America either.

Reality has Good News

But you have to embrace the truth of it all. There were people in our community hurt recently because people spoke truth about politicians and it was viewed as contempt. That my friend is a lie of the Devil. He loves it when good people get upset about the truth because for certain they won’t share it, and if anything they degrade it until people don’t listen. Yes politics is ugly. And I long for the day that politics won’t exist. We’ll have one King, Praise God, and there will be no division. But that’s not now. We have people serving a Heavenly King (Jesus) and we have people serving an earthly king (Satan) and even if it’s in positions that don’t seem to matter in the scope of eternity, it does. Because these people are influencing our people. The Good news is that for those of us serving King Jesus, we are given the opportunity to share the truth of Jesus Christ and be honest about the truth of others. If I say “so and so” is a good person and good for a job, and it is know that that person is a scoundrel, why will anyone believe what I say about the Lord? And in the same line of thinking, if I warn you about someone who could do your community harm and it’s proven, will people not take my word when I warn them about the return of Christ? Is there human error on both sides, of course!

James 4:17 KJV
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

Living in Reality would Make News!

Jeremiah 52:28-30 KJV
This is the people whom Nebuchadrezzar carried away captive: in the seventh year three thousand Jews and three and twenty: [29] In the eighteenth year of Nebuchadrezzar he carried away captive from Jerusalem eight hundred thirty and two persons: [30] In the three and twentieth year of Nebuchadrezzar Nebuzar-adan the captain of the guard carried away captive of the Jews seven hundred forty and five persons: all the persons were four thousand and six hundred.

Jeremiah’s prophesy came to reality. And so will that of the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. For those of us who know Him as Savior, that’s going to be a great day. We need to do more to help people understand that the reality of this world is wicked, but the hope and glory in the Heavenly Kingdom is a reality far beyond what we can imagine here. God put us in this world with purpose, just as He did Jeremiah, let’s live in it!

Start with church on Sunday that is where you’ll find hope for living in today!

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration, Political, Word of God

Riding the Struggle Bus to Meet the Political Train

Y’all know I ride the struggle bus to work every day. Even though I work from home. I struggle not with what is right and what is wrong. God’s word lays that out pretty clear. Thou – shalt – not. That’s clear enough! But when it comes to the decisions of what I should involve myself in and with that is not always so clear. I can listen to one sermon and a preacher will say one thing, I can listen to another sermon and another preacher will say something totally different. I can respect both preachers opinions because it’s what they believe, but is it what God wants for me? That’s where I’ve been lately. And so it is that God and I have been talking politics.

Should I listen to the World’s News?

I’ve always loved the news. I have to take the occasional break from it and be very careful of “what” news I watch because it messes with my head. But I want to know what’s going on and I’m pretty sure God wants me to know. Ignoring reality doesn’t change it and it might get you called on the carpet before God some day.

Romans 13:1-14 KJV
[1] Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

The Commentary of Charles Spurgeon says this on the matter: Government is Ordained By God, vv. 1-2. Paul calls for submission to authority three times in this passage (verses 1, 5 and 7). In the first of these, Paul states the command in a very straightforward manner: “Let every soul be subject to the higher powers.” This is then followed up with the key rationale for this imperative: “For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” This is our Father’s World! As Daniel said while in captivity in Babylon as recorded in Daniel 2:20-21, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: God is Sovereign! This belief is the foundation for what Paul is saying in these verses. If God is completely in control of all things, then obviously whoever is setting on the throne is there because God put them there. The implication of this declaration is spelled out in verse 2. To resist the authority of government is to resist the authority of God and will result in judgment (both now from the civil authorities and in the future from God).

But today is a much different day than that of Charles Spurgeon’s, but not so much different than the Apostle Pauls. We know this to be true because when you read the instruction left for us by the Apostle to the Gentiles in the books of Romans through Philemon, the Apostle is speaking to people that are every bit as messed up as we are today! He speaks to them about the sins of the church, heinous sins… He speak to the churches of the false doctrine they’re teaching that leads men astray. He lines out the leadership of the church regarding their roles. He encourages and he jerks a few knots in some of them. The powers that be want him dead and until his dying breath he does not cease to expose the mystery that God had given to him to reveal. He has divine appointments with powerful leaders and he never backs down.

Acts 26:28 KJV
[28] Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.

He didn’t persuade Agrippa, but what an impact he must have made on those around him!

Would to God I could make that kind of an impact, but there is a part of me that says…. “Please Lord, don’t let me lose my head in the process.”

Should I Consider the World Views?

Paul tells the Roman’s in Chapter 12:

Romans 12:2 KJV
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

The theological definition of renew is “to make new; to renovate; to transform; to change from natural enmity to the love of God and his law; to implant holy affections in the heart; to regenerate.”

There’s a difference between considering and conforming. To consider something is to weigh it in comparison to the Word of God. Does it align? To conform is to ignore the word of God and go with ideals of man. Should this not be our method in politics? Not to view politics in a worldly method, but view it with the mind of Christ. If only are “so called” Christian leadership both nationally and locally would do that, we’d live in a much different world. So what is the child of God to do with regards to politics? Ignore it? God doesn’t want His children ignorant. Ignorance will get somebody hurt.

Listen to Paul’s words as he tells those in Rome (for our edification as well) that God ordained government to protect the innocent. Do they always? Certainly not. But for us to step away and allow evil to take over every facet of government would not be the mind of Christ. We may not always be able to make change, but we can make a difference.

[3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: [4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. [5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

Should I Not Pay my Dues?

[6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. [7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due ; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. [8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. [9] For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. [10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. [11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. [12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

God is so good! Remember my comment about know the “Thou-shalt-not’s” of the Bible earlier. That was before I even read verses 6-14. And yet God knew I love a good outline! He just cracks me up! Paul tells the Romans not to hate Government, but to pay them what they’re worth because they are the ministers of God. He allowed them to be placed in their position. But it is our job to be the children of Light. Shining the light of Jesus Christ into the darkness of this world so that they can see the truth. And then walk in it. There is far too many again, “so called” Christians walking in the dark and conforming right to it. We need people willing to pay their dues by being involved in shining the Light of Christ and protecting those who need protected. We can’t save them all, but like the starfish on the beach, we can save the one’s we take the time to throw back in the water.

I’m so grateful for the word of God. Thank you! Jesus for shining the Light on me in 1996 and bringing me out of that dark place I was in.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration, Praise, testimony, Word of God, worship

How to live a life that’s Pleasing to God

I sang at the Long Term Care Unit in Grantsville on Monday, and it was such a privilege. To sit across from them once again and sing and converse, which had all but stopped in the Covid era, and should now not be taken for granted. We are called to minister to the sick and aged, and the church as a whole is failing them. Collectively we fail the young and old. We fail to disciple the young, minister to the aged and encourage all others. O’boy. That’s not very encouraging is it. Please hang on, I promise I’ll get there.

How’s Your Walk?

Paul told the Church in Colossians 1:10-29 KJV
[10] That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; [11] Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

Worthiness is not something that I often feel. It’s a good thing my worthiness is not dependent upon my performance, but rather my standing in Christ. My standing is the fact that I am saved by the blood of Jesus, no more no less. But do I please Him with my walk? That’s a good question. When I think of walking with the Lord, that’s an action outside the church building. Are we being fruitful in good work outside of the building? I know in my own life that gets so busy with earthly minded things, the Kingdom of God isn’t high on my list of priorities. Just being real. Ridgeview News is wonderful, I absolutely love it, but it has taken it’s toll on my time with God and my work for God. My walk’s a little lame.

How’s Your Praise?

[12] Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: [13] Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: [14] In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

I had not had a serious praise session with Jesus until I attended “David” in Lancaster, PA. When I say serious praise, I speak of a hand raising, tear streaming, glory to God moment. That makes me very sad. Those sessions have never been every day, but they used to be far more frequent that of recent times. The reason? There’s several. But for certain I need praise in my life with Christ and to Christ. Should we not take the time to praise Him when we think on what He has saved us from and “translate us to?”

Twice the word translate is written in scripture. Here in Colossians and again in Hebrews when the writer speaks of Enoch: “By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death, and was not found, because God had translated him for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.”

Wait…? God took him home because he pleased God by the way he walked? Interesting, is it not? I guess I know why I’ve not disappeared. Enoch was translated; taken into the very presence of God because his testimony pleased God. A portion of our testimony has got to be praising God for His deliverance of our souls out of the hand of the demonic forces of Satan on this earth, and into the Heavenly Kingdom where He awaits our arrival. We have reason to rejoice friends. We need a good praise and worship time in our life!

How’s Your Purpose?

[15] Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: [16] For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: [17] And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. [18] And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. [19] For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;[20] And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. [21] And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconcile [22] In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: [23] If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

That’s a chunk of scripture to swallow at one time, but every time I went to end what I would use here, I could not for it would change the meaning of what I needed to say for God’s glory.

When I ask myself “how’s your purpose?” It stings. I’ve always known, even as a child, that I had purpose. That sound arrogant and believe me there’s nothing but humility in the statement. But as early as nine, I recall conversations with God, though at the time I only knew enough to be dangerous. Now I only know enough to be slightly less than dangerous. But I knew God had a purpose for me in this world and I knew it was to speak and write. I did not know how, but I knew it to be the case. So when I think about how God got me to where I am today, I realize that I do not take that role near serious enough. I was created for God’s purpose. You were created for God’s purpose. Are we walking in it in a way that pleases God? That is the question of the day. I can answer for myself with a firm “No.”

I need to do better.

How’s Your Confidence?

Paul had great confidence that God had set him aside with a purpose so mighty that the was willing to walk away from the life he lived and die for the life Christ gave him.

[24] Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: [25] Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; [26] Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: [27] To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: [28] Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: [29] Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Paul had such confidence in what Christ was doing in him and through him. He knew he was called to the Gentiles. To deliver a mystery to the church. Who doesn’t love a good mystery? But what’s even better than the mystery, is being the one that that is given the answer to it! that’s us! God has given us the answer to the great mystery among the Gentiles, in that we are a people of purpose. Just as the Jews had purpose as God’s chosen, and will again. We have purpose now on this earth to lead souls to the almighty knowledge of God, given to us through the word of God. Oh glory!!!!

For me today that’s such a reason to rejoice. That in these fingers, in this tiny house, in this tiny State, God gave me a purpose for the massive Kingdom. And that purpose is to encourage the believers. Glory! I pray I’ve done that for you, because this word has certainly encouraged my own soul today.

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Evangelism, Faith, Family, Life Inspiration, Peace, salvation, Uncategorized, Word of God

The End is the Beginning of a Great Life!

As I read Romans 10, Paul’s words pierced my heart for my family. Those are the first people that came into my mind when I read “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.” It’s such a simple statement, yet such a hard task to accomplish. Such a simple process, yet it seems the most difficult decision. That was Paul’s desire, yet his ministry ended up not being to the Jews, but to the Gentiles. And what an impact he made there! What can I glean from Paul’s words to make my life more productive for the Kingdom?

The End of What you Know

Romans 10:1-21 KJV
[1] Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. [2] For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. [3] For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

I have people that are so stinkin’ smart, they’re too smart for their own good. They assume they’ve got life figured out. They make more money than I can dream of, have all the “things” that supposedly make their life complete, and yet eternity is nowhere in their scope of concern. They’re good people, or so they think, they don’t realize that their goodness does not enter into the equation of salvation. The same was true with Israel. They thought their goodness was enough, they’re name as God’s chosen was enough. But it was not. They had not submitted themselves to the understanding that they would never be good enough to go to Heaven. There wasn’t enough righteousness in their entire family combined to go to Heaven. It is only through what Christ did on the cross that one can be saved. Their self made theology fills the world today, they need to get out of their own head, and into the mindset of God.

The End of the Law

[4] For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. [5] For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. [6] But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above : ) [7] Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

Moses said if you think you’re good enough to get to Heaven, you’ll line your life up by the law. All 613 of them and stand before God without failure. Can you do it? I can’t live without breaking one of the Ten Commandments. There is no way under the sun that I can live without breaking 613. Nor can anyone else. That’s why Christ had to go to the cross to pay the penalty of sin for every single man and woman on earth. Because there are none good enough. It is believing by faith in Christ and that work on the cross that allows you to enter in. It is His righteousness, the One who never sinned and was the only worthy sacrifice for man kind. The end of the law is your beginning of faith.

The End of the Difference

[9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. [11] For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. [12] For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. [13] For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Paul’s desire was that Israel, his Nation of people was saved. He had been a man of the law, serving in the highest of office in their religion, calling men and women out for being Christian and even killing them. No one had lived any more zealous than he had lived for the Lord and was wrong. He had walked by the letter of the law as a Jew, God’s chosen, but now he understood that it was for nought. He too was now saved, not by what he’d done, but because he believed. He believed because he had a personal experience with coming to know Christ as His Savior. “Christ ask him on the road to Damascus

Acts 9:5 KJV
[5] And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Pricks (goads) was an instrument used to guide livestock. The guiding principals that Paul had lived by were no longer in play. He would have to walk a whole new way, and believe in what he had fought against. Is this not what has to happen to each one of us as we come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Suddenly, we realize that there is no difference in us than anyone else. We’re all sinners. Even the vilest of people that we loath is as good as we are. The Jews lived by their zealous righteousness, that they were above the Gentiles, all other people. But because of God’s grace, he took the difference out of the equation. Everyone stands even at the cross, and it is only those who kneel to it that can be viewed as worthy through the blood Christ shed for them.

The End of Excuses

[14] How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? [15] And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

For many in my family and yours too likely, there’s 101 reasons not to go to church on Sunday morning. This is the greatest of tragedies for the people of God. Many of them may be saved, Christ does not say, “Thou shall go to church.” But while we are no longer under the law, the law is not void. We’re forgiven, but we’re not excused to sin. As a Baptist it’s often said of us that we can do on Monday, what we say is wrong on Sunday and be okay. No… that’s not how grace works. While grace offers forgiveness, if you are a child of God, you’re not excused to live without accountability. There are consequences for stupidity. And one of the stupidest things God’s people and the unsaved do, is their thinking that they don’t need church.

Church is one of the greatest gifts that God gave His people. It is there we build our relationship and understanding of the word of God that allows us to live in peace. The very thing that everyone desires, and few have. They don’t have it because they have no relationship with God or His people. Victory Baptist Church did not save me, Christ did that, but it for certain has shaped me into who I am and has afforded me a peace that I never knew prior to salvation. By attending church I receive the word of God from the man of God. I have friends that lift me up in prayer and give me opportunity to do the same for them. I have the sweetest fellowship that is not in the world. You may have friends… but not friends like those in the Lord. As a child of God I have the desire to be in His House, in His word and with His people. He puts that desire in everyone of His children and we are without excuse for not following it.

[16] But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? [17] So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. [18] But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. [19] But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you. [20] But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. [21] But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

God knocks on the heart of everyone and asks them to believe in what He’s done. He’s stretched out His arms to a world begging for love and peace and offered it to them, but they’ve rejected it, both Jew and Gentile. It’s not easy to be humble. But it is so worth what you receive in exchange. There’s no excuse for not being saved. You have the opportunity today if you’ve read my blog. I’ve written it in love, in hopes of new kinfolk. Let me know if you’d like to join the family of God, I’d love to share with you how you can be apart of His life giving, love feeling, peace knowing family.

Posted in Christian, Christian Service, Eternity, Evangelism

Are you a Biblically Correct Child of God?

It’s almost midnight, and I’m struggling to sleep. A rarity for me. I’m usually out before the lights go out.  But I have a heavy heart tonight. I’m not only struggling to sleep, there are some things that I struggle to understand. 

People without Ears to Hear

Mark 4:1-41 KJV

[1] And he began again to teach by the sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship, and sat in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. [2] And he taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, [3] Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow: [4] And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. [5] And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth: [6] But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away. [7] And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. [8] And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred. [9] And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 

There was a multitude of people listening to God Himself. Can you imagine. Sitting on the banks of the sea while God shares His heart with you. But He has to do it in a way that He might “sneak” the word of God into their hearts. So He’s teaching by parables. A story that has a hidden lesson, because they can’t handle the bold truth. 

Are we not living in those days again? People cannot handle the truth, even good people. They’d rather be told stories that skirt around the truth, rather than just hear it straight. So Jesus tells them the story of the farmer. But they don’t understand it, because they’re not in a spiritual mindset. And such is the case with many churches today l fear.

Am I judging? No, because that’s God’s job. But I’m witnessing Christians outside of their churches  without so much as one seed to sow. They have nothing to say about the salvation of Christ. And then I stress. 

People desiring to Hear

[10] And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. [11] And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: [12] That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. [13] And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? [14] The sower soweth the word. [15] And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. [16] And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness; [17] And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word’s sake, immediately they are offended. [18] And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, [19] And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.

So Christ explains the parable to those with a desire to learn. Both the people and the disciples asked Christ to explain the parable of the sower and the seeds, and so He does, telling them “Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God:” The first time the word mystery is used in scripture. But not the last! The mystery of the life giving seeds being sown was the salvation of Christ and the promise of everlasting life. But those who left, not wanting to understand more, didn’t know the mystery; but rather were likely following him to see another miracle. Again, mirroring the world today. The churches that are filled with hype, and feel good messages are also full of people. But a church that is founded on the truth of God and believes in a life mirroring that, will likely be few in number. 

Biblically Correct People

[20] And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

“These are they,” the ones who go beyond just seeking to understand, but to take what they understand and share it with others. You don’t plant a garden inside your home and you don’t plant a church inside the church house. It is unfortunate that the world we live in is a rejecting, God denying and angry society that is offended by anything of faith, but it still does not mean we are not to share the gospel with them. There’s plenty of Stoney ground and thorns that will rise up and choke out the messages we share. But like my skimpy little garden, there’s some good ground that’s growing watermelon and cantelope that have blooms and evidence of future potential because the ground is good. It is watered and cared for. I desire to grow the Kingdom of God in the same manner.

Am I always successful. Oh heavens no. I fail miserably. But I’m still doing what I can. I pray you are in a church and a position in life to understand for Whom you were created!

Colossians 3:10 KJV

[10] And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Glory to God!!! I have once again written myself happy! The mysteries, This one and 21 others are meant for you to understand. The Spirit will guide us through this crazy world to a new land, one that is filled with His goodness, and the world we know will be gone forever. I pray you know Christ and understand this message. If not… let me hear from you! ~ Shari

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Evangelism, Peace

The Benefit Package of God is out of this World

What benefit is the world offering you today? That’s my question to myself. Perhaps it might be yours too after you read my thoughts for the day. When I think of the world, it’s usually in the context of evil. And with good reason, it is evil. But while we’re here, there’s plenty of good benefits of the Lord!

John tells us in

1 John 5:19 KJV
[19] And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.

The whole world lie in wickedness. There’s no “good” thing in the world? No, I don’t believe that’s what John meant. God created the world it said in Genesis and God said “it was good.” Over and over he saw that it was good. So obviously there’s some really good stuff down here. But it’s lying in wickedness. Satan and his minions have the power of this earth to create evil, even out of the goodness of God. They can put something that was never intended to draw our attention away from God in front of us and cause our minds to delight in it so much, it becomes a little “g” god. Staying focused in this evil world is definitely not easy. The world grows more and more evil by the day. But for the child of God, there is still good.

David said in Psalm 68:19-20 KJV
[19] Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. [20] He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death.

Both John and David knew that they belonged to the Lord. We belong to God through the blood of Jesus. He literally bought us by paying that price on the cross. And once we belong to God, there is a great benefit package! I love that David said he loads us daily with benefits. But do we take advantage of God’s goodness daily? I know I don’t. God has given us spiritual blessings, an abundance of grace, as well as mercies untold for which He ought to be praised day by day. Selah (stop and listen)

He is the God of our Salvation

Can we possibly praise Him enough for that? And do we understand the magnitude of it’s benefits. A couple of the men in our church were talking about the age of their salvation, both being around the age of 9. That is the age that God began dealing with my heart as well. Both of my daughters were saved at the ages of 8 and 10. Perhaps it’s at that time that our mind is at it’s most accepting state of the truth. The world hasn’t jaded you at that age and you can understand the difference between good and evil. God dealt with me at that age, but I didn’t get saved until I was 34. There were many years in between where this world could have been my demise and I would have busted Hell wide open. But for grace… I praise God that He allowed me to be saved, He didn’t have to. David reminded me today through that verse that it is the Lord that is in charge of the issues of death but also the issues of life.

The benefit package that comes from living for the Lord is beyond anything we can imagine.

The benefit of His peace…

John 14:27 KJV
[27] Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

He left us His peace! The peace that scripture says passes all understanding. The peace that in the face of death I can live without fear. The peace in knowing that when I lay down at night my family is in his watch care. The peace in knowing that as crazy and wicked as this world is, someday I’ll live with Him! Glory to God what a benefit in the knowledge of Christ.

The benefit of His presence…

Hebrews 13:5 KJV
[5] Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

As I mentioned before, I love things! But nothing in this world has ever given me the joy that the presence of God in my life has brought. That 24 hours a day, 7 days a week I can talk to Him and He responds. That is a gift only given to the child of God. The unsaved have never experienced a conversation with God, but we that are saved can speak to Him at any time. Can I at least thank Him daily for the ability to thank Him!

The benefits of His people…

Being a part of the family of God is also an experience never felt by the unsaved. And it’s often not felt by a child fo God because they fail to take advantage of being involved with the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV
[11] And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; [12] For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: [13] Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:

Until the day we are given the final benefit of perfection, we have the body of Christ (the church of God) meant to encourage us, teach us and come along side us when times are hard. Not only our church members, but members of the body of Christ who believe He alone is the Son of God who died for the sins of the world. Jesus plus nothing equals salvation. And that comes with a host of earthly agents mean to encourage you and build you up, not tear you down, which is exactly what the world will do at every opportunity.

There are so many benefits! Too many to count and today I want to show gratitude to the Lord for He has been so good and so patient with me. What about you? Are you experiencing those benefits? I’d love to hear from you! Blessings ~ Shari

Posted in Christian, Evangelism, Family, Fear, Leadership, Word of God

Hating Sin is Not Prejudice, It’s Biblical

Being raised in a Christian home with sweet parents who chastised the hurting of feelings or sarcasm that is spoken today (in my home as well) it’s not easy being an outspoken child of God. My upbringing tells me to “shush,” while my heart says “line that heathen out!” and the Spirit of God says, “Woah Shari… speak My words, not your own.” God’s words are not spoken in hate, they’re spoken in love. And hating sin, is not hating the sinner. We are all sinners.

So what’s a gal to do when the “Pride” of America is continually in your face with an ungodly agenda that is aimed at children. Be not deceived, the LBGTQ etc, etc, etc, does not care about my or your opinion, their focus is on our children. The group of video clip images that I put together below is from a video the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus put on YouTube last year. The clips are the lyrics of a song where they unashamedly make their agenda known. There is no doubt they will tell you this video was mean to fight the discrimination of their lifestyles and choices, which is true, but it takes nothing away from the meaning of the lyrics.

If the lyrics are not plain, they read like this:
  • You think that we’ll corrupt your kids
  • If our agenda goes unchecked
  • Funny, Just this once
  • you’re correct.
  • We’ll convert your children
  • Happens bit by bit
  • Quietly and subtly
  • And you will barely notice it.

If you think that agenda is only in California you would be deceived. It flows all the way to Calhoun County, West Virginia, I have witnessed it first hand myself. It’s extremely scary and it’s why mid June, (gay pride month) I’m ready to puke at the site of a symbol that still belongs to God although they’ve hijacked it temporarily. 🌈

The church, no denomination, but the body of Christ, has got to stand up and protect our kids. If a snake was creeping through the grass to attack your children, you’d take the steps necessary to stop the threat. This is no different. The agenda of the current political leftist and organizations as mentioned before is to confuse our children, and we’re allowing it to happen in a place that’s supposed to be educating them for the good. Everything from children’s stories to high school curriculum is now inundated with language meant to cause children to question creation.

Be not Deceived, Nor Ashamed

Paul said in Romans 1

1:16-32 KJV
[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. [17] For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Just as my parents tried to teach me to be still, not speak out of turn, and to never say anything that would hurt people’s feelings, the world now tells me the same thing for a different reason. God made everyone different, red, yellow, black and white and now rainbow, furries and every alphabet letter under the sun and all are “acceptable” and should be embraced as truth according to society. My grandsons jokingly spoke of the litter boxes that would soon be placed in their school to accommodate the “furries” (children who identify as animals) and again my stomach rolls over. I know their joking, but this is happening in America where children are permitted to behave as animals and disrupt classes without discipline, because it will hurt their little feeling This has happened because people who know God, and those who don’t but have at least common sense, have failed to open their mouths and say “enough.”

Be not Dumb, Nor Accepting

[18] For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; [19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

There is a fear that is instilled in the heart of man from birth. I believe it because I’ve felt it. As an unsaved child I knew there was a God. I knew I would stand before Him some day and I feared that day because, at that time, I had not gotten right with Him by accepting the sacrifice His Son made for me. Praise God, of all the evil I allowed myself to be exposed to, none of it took over my soul’s ability to discern right from wrong even though I didn’t always listen. But there comes a time where the scripture says that God gives them over to a reprobate mind and stops convicting them of their wickedness and they completely embrace it. Which is what has happened all across our country. Am I saying that they cannot be saved? No. That’s between them and God. But i can tell you the longer they accept wrong as right, they’ll be confused about it all.

Be not Defiled, nor Accused

I have countless Christian friends, and praise God the vast majority of them are wise and unaffected by the world’s viewpoint. But there are others, who do not fall into that category. I’ve struggled myself at times, because I want to be nice. I don’t want to tell someone they’re wrong. It might hurt their feelings and my Mother would give me that look. But it’s been a while since I’ve worried about that. Listen to Paul’s words in the upcoming verses.

[23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. [24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. [26] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: [27] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. [28] And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Is there any doubt what God thinks of homosexuality and the other nonsense going on in the sexually immoral world we live in? No. It’s clear as crystal and right as rain. And yet there are good Christian people who say they don’t know what the Bible says about homosexuality and believes that God is “okay” with it.

Is He okay with it when He says that behavior is worthy of death? And do you want your children or grandchildren or nieces and nephews, or friends standing in the judgment of God because you did not take a stand against sin? I’m asking me as well. I told you that I struggle with being “nice.” But I have determined in my heart that this battle against my grandchildren is as real as the one between Russia and Ukraine.

I had a preacher’s child tell me not long ago that Jesus said nothing about homosexuality. It broke my heart. I knew they were raised to know different, but the world had gotten their claws into this child’s soul and wasn’t going to let go easily. If you have children in your life… get on some armor from the word of God. You’re going to need it.

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Eternity, Evangelism

Know the end of your story

A trip to the grocery store makes me nauseous. Not only for my own finances, but to think about those who are on a very limited income trying to buy food for their family, or gas for their vehicle to get where they need to be. It has gotten to the point that I avoid all unnecessary travel. I’m blessed with a car that gets good mileage, but even still, the cost for filling it up is astronomical compared to last year. So what is a child of God to do in these troubling times?

There’s a story in the book of Kings, no, I don’t want to say story, because that sounds like fiction, this was a news event of the day! But leading into this event was a time of trouble, the likes we have never seen. 

In 2 Kings 6:25 it tell us: “And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass’s head was sold for fourscore pieces of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove’s dung for five pieces of silver.”

I may have to give up a few snacks, but I’m not eating bird poop yet! But they were at this time in Samaria. So they event that takes place in the following chapter is one that encourages my soul, both from the physical aspect of life, and from the spiritual aspect of faith. 

2 Kings 7:1-4 KJV

[1] Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the Lord ; Thus saith the Lord, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria. [2] Then a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the Lord would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof. [3] And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die? [4] If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.

The Word of the Prophet

It was a different day for the children of God who relied on men of God such as Elisha for the a word on the future of Israel. But it was no different than now, in that there were still people who did not believe what the Lord said. So when Elisha told the King that there was some good news down the road, a lord (obviously a friend of the king, being that the king was leaning on him) didn’t believe Elisha and got a little snarky. Telling him that “the only way it would happen was if the Lord pitched that blessin’ out of the windows of Heaven.” 

The Word of the Protesters

I’ve met folks like that. After you share your faith in what you believe God will do, they throw cold water on your vision and tell you to get over it. Oh yes, I’ve experienced that first hand. So I know Elisha’s frustration in people not believing in the great ability of God to pull us out of hard times. Or God’s idea of “pulling us out” not being the way anyone envisioned it, but we know it works for His glory. 

We all know that America is in a mess, but, we also know that God can bless through a mess. And this is our opportunity to let the love of God shine through. 

The Word of the Prudent

And speaking of hard times, the next characters in the event are the two leprous friends. Banished from their own family and friends, Heaven knows how long they’ve been living away from everything they love, and relying on scraps and scavenging for survival. It was bad before the famine, but lately it had been worse than bad! Until the one leprous man says to the other, “We can die hungry or we can die full, so why are we setting here starving?”

Have you ever been at wits end? When there is no place to go but up? These fellas were there. So they decide to check out this mysteriously empty camp where their enemy had been. Was it true or was it a trap? They didn’t know, but they knew they had nothing to lose by checking it out. And sure enough, the camp was abandoned and they could eat their fill of delicacies and wear clothing fit for royalty. And they could have kept this knowledge to themselves but they decide to share it with the very people who wanted nothing to do with them. They returned home to tell the King.

There was a lesson in these bible verses for me. I’ve been struggling spiritually. Believing that my well was dry. Just like those leprous men, I can either go to meet Jesus feeling spiritually defeated, or, I can go see Jesus on a high note! Either way I’m going to see Jesus, but it will be a lot more fun if I’m having a good time on the journey. Believing God’s prophetic word as the fact that it is, and telling any naysayer to shush. And telling as many friends and family as I can so they too enjoy the journey.

But what about the kings friend who didn’t believe? Well, I’m sure he believed when the people stomped him to death to get the flour and cookies from him at the gate, just like Elisha said they would. 

2 Kings 7:18-20 KJV

[18] And it came to pass as the man of God had spoken to the king, saying, Two measures of barley for a shekel, and a measure of fine flour for a shekel, shall be to morrow about this time in the gate of Samaria: [19] And that lord answered the man of God, and said, Now, behold, if the Lord should make windows in heaven, might such a thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof. [20] And so it fell out unto him: for the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died.

His story did not end well. And neither will anyone else’s who denies the word of God. 

We are not waiting for a preacher to tell us what’s going to happen tomorrow. God’s final words were penned in the New Testament that laid the future out in black and white so we could know how the story of this earth ends. A naysayer might tell you, “there’s no way it can happen like that!” But they lie. It will happen just as God said it will. There’s going to be troubled times, but only for a while, and then God will call His people out of here. Will you be ready? Maybe you’re confused by everything that’s being said in the world. Stop the confusion by finding a solid church that preaches the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

There are mysteries in the Bible, but none that you were not to meant to know, and none that God will not show you if you ask.

He is faithful! Amen!

Have Questions? I have answers. And If I don’t, I find out who does. Find me on Facebook, email me at talk2shari@gmail.com. Let’s connect!

Posted in Evangelism, Word of God

Is it Biblical to Act a Little Salty?

What exactly does “acting a little salty mean” by the worlds standards. It is perhaps the act of being upset, angry, or bitter possibly for being made fun of or embarrassed. It’s also a characteristic of a person who feels out of place, misunderstood or not accepted. Have you ever been salty? You probably have, so let’s take a closer look at the word, through a biblical lens not that of the world.

On my mind of late has been the frustration as I keep witnessing the constant mockery of God. I can’t help but wish (in the flesh of course) that a lightening bolt would jar some quick sense into people. But God is so much more patient than I. But for how long? And how does He expect me to react toward a vile world? Good question right?

In the book of Luke, Jesus has just had dinner with the Pharisees, and it says in

Luke 14:25a KJV
[25] And there went great multitudes with him:.

So He’s now left the dinner table and likely the multitudes that followed Him were a multitude of types of people, both Jew and Gentile. And he’s speaking to them in parables and stories to help them better understand what He means. That’s the difference between Jesus and the religious. The religious want you to view them as “smart,” Jesus wants you to understand. He wants you to understand so that you can then take His Word out into a lost and dying world and draw them to His saving grace. But the world doesn’t want it. They’d rather live like that religious tribe in Jesus’ day, mocking Him and pretending that they’ve got it all together when God knows their one tragedy from falling completely apart.

Saliva, Blood, and Urine Detection Times for Drug Metabolites

It is crucial to understand the detection times for different drug metabolites in various testing methods. Saliva, blood, and urine tests are commonly used to detect the presence of drugs in an individual’s system. Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations.

Saliva Tests: Effective for Recent Drug Use

Saliva tests are often considered more effective than urine or blood tests. This is because drugs and their metabolites can be detected in oral fluid shortly after consumption. The detection window for saliva tests varies depending on the specific drug metabolite being tested my site ndtv.com/.

For example, cannabis metabolites can typically be detected in saliva within a few hours after use and up to 24-48 hours in some cases. On the other hand, cocaine metabolites may only be detectable in saliva for a shorter period of time, usually around 1-2 days. It’s important to note that these detection times can vary based on factors such as frequency of use, dosage, and individual metabolism.

Saliva tests are commonly performed using a mouth swab or oral fluid collection device. These non-invasive tests are convenient and provide quick results, making them popular for workplace drug testing or roadside screenings.

Understanding Urine Detection Times

Urine tests are one of the most common methods used for drug screening due to their wide availability and longer detection window compared to saliva tests. Different drug metabolites have varying detection times in urine.

For instance, cannabis metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 30 days or even longer in heavy users. However, occasional users may test positive for cannabis metabolites only within a few days after use. Other substances like methamphetamine (meth) can also be detected in urine for several days, while cocaine metabolites are typically detectable for 2-3 days.

It’s important to keep in mind that urine tests can yield positive results even after the drug’s effects have worn off. This is because drug metabolites remain in the body for a longer period of time, even when the psychoactive effects of the drugs have subsided.

Blood Tests: Detecting Recent Drug Use

Blood tests are considered highly accurate and can provide detailed information about recent drug use. However, they are less commonly used for routine drug screening due to their invasive nature and higher cost compared to saliva or urine tests.

The detection times for drug metabolites in blood can vary depending on factors such as the type of substance used and individual metabolism. For example, cocaine metabolites can be detected in blood within hours after use and up to 2-3 days. Methamphetamine may also be detectable in blood for a similar duration.

Blood tests are often preferred when there is a need to determine impairment or investigate recent drug use. They are commonly used in forensic settings or post-accident investigations where it is crucial to establish whether an individual was under the influence at a specific time.

My text today is from the same chapter, just a few verses down in Luke 14:28-35

[28] For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it ? [29] Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, [30] Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. [31] Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? [32] Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace. [33] So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple. [34] Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? [35] It is neither fit for the land, nor yet for the dunghill; but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

The Mockery Begins

Jesus is speaking of an unfinished work. The person in the story has begun to build a tower but can’t finish it because the money runs dry. Who can’t identify with that, especially in our current economy? An unplanned work is a failing work.

He then speaks of a King going to war, but before he goes to war he does some reconnaissance work to determine if the war should even take place. An unplanned war is a losing war.

While both of these are matters of life, they are not of the greatest concern of the Lord. That tower will eventually fall, and the war, whether it is won or lost matters not in the scope of eternity. But for those of us who say we serve the Lord are we prepared for what the Lord asks of us? And for those who aren’t, is that the cause of the mockery?

Jesus likens it to salt that’s lost its savour, no taste, nothing worthy of using. I fear that is a description of the local church.

Duration of Semenax’s Effects on Male Health

How long can you expect the effects of Semenax to last?

Many men wonder how long they can expect the effects to last. While individual experiences may vary, understanding the general duration of Semenax’s effects can help set realistic expectations. Let’s delve into this topic and explore the factors that influence how long Semenax works.

Continuous use: Is it necessary for maintaining desired results?

One common question that arises is whether continuous use of Semenax is necessary to maintain desired results. The answer depends on individual goals and preferences. Some men find that using Semenax consistently over an extended period enhances their overall sexual health and performance. Others may choose to take a break from supplementation after achieving their desired outcomes.

It’s worth noting that while discontinuing the use of Semenax won’t reverse its benefits immediately, gradually, its effects may diminish over time. To sustain the desired results, some individuals prefer incorporating regular usage as part of their routine. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and goals.

Individual variations in response time

Just as every person is unique, response times to Semenax supplementation can also vary significantly among individuals. While some men may experience noticeable improvements in a relatively short period, others might require more time before observing significant changes.

Factors such as metabolism, lifestyle choices, overall health status, and genetic makeup contribute to these variations in response time. It’s important not to compare your progress with others but rather focus on your own journey with Semenax.

Influential factors affecting duration of effects

Several factors come into play when considering how long the effects of using Semenax will last:

Dosage: The recommended dosage plays a crucial role in determining the duration of effects. Following the suggested guidelines ensures optimal results.

Consistency: Regular and consistent use of Semenax can maximize its benefits. Sticking to a routine helps maintain the desired effects over an extended period.

Overall health: A person’s overall health, including physical fitness and lifestyle choices, can impact how long Semenax’s effects last. Leading a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise can contribute to better results.

Metabolism: Individual variations in metabolism affect how quickly the body processes and utilizes the ingredients in Semenax. This, in turn, influences the duration of its effects.

By considering these factors, individuals can gain a better understanding of how long they may expect the effects of Semenax to last based on their unique circumstances.

Long-term benefits associated with consistent use

Apart from short-term effects, there is also evidence suggesting potential long-term benefits associated with consistent use of Semenax. While more research is needed to establish conclusive findings, some men report improved sexual function, increased fertility potential, and enhanced overall sexual well-being through prolonged usage.

It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle alongside regular supplementation might contribute positively to achieving sustained improvements in male sexual health.

Side Effects of Semenax and Safety Considerations

Potential Side Effects of Semenax

Before considering the use of Semenax, it is important to understand the potential side effects that may occur while using this supplement. While Semenax is generally well-tolerated by most individuals, there are a few reported side effects that you should be aware of.

Digestive Issues: Some users have reported experiencing mild digestive issues such as stomach discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea after taking Semenax. These symptoms are usually temporary and subside on their own without any intervention. However, if you experience severe or persistent digestive problems, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional i thought about this timesofisrael.com/.

Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to one or more ingredients in Semenax. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction after taking Semenax, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Interactions with Medications: It is important to consider possible interactions between Semenax and other medications you may be taking. Certain medications used for sexual health issues or other conditions may interact with the ingredients in Semenax. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to ensure it does not interfere with your current medication regimen.

Safety Considerations and Precautions

While Semenax is considered safe for most individuals when taken as directed, there are a few safety considerations and precautions to keep in mind:

Dosage Instructions: Follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider. Taking more than the recommended dose does not necessarily lead to better results and may increase the risk of side effects.

Underlying Health Conditions: If you have any underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances, it is important to discuss the use of Semenax with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate whether it is safe for you to take this supplement based on your individual health profile.

Contraindications: Semenax may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications. For example, if you are on blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder, Semenax may increase the risk of excessive bleeding. It is crucial to disclose all your medical history and current medications to your healthcare provider before starting Semenax.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Semenax during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It is advisable to avoid using this supplement if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Weighing Risks against Benefits

When considering the use of any supplement, including Semenax, it is essential to make an informed decision by weighing potential risks against expected benefits. While Semenax may offer benefits such as increased semen volume and enhanced sexual performance, it is crucial to understand that individual responses may vary.

It is recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation and provide personalized advice based on your needs and health status. They can help you determine whether the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks associated with using Semenax.

Reported Adverse Reactions and Serious Complications

To date, there have been no reports of serious complications or adverse reactions directly linked to the use of Semenax when taken as directed. However, it is important to note that individual experiences may vary.

As with any dietary supplement or medication, there is always a possibility of unforeseen reactions in certain individuals. If you experience any unexpected symptoms or concerns while taking Semenax, it is advisable to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Ingredients in Semenax and Their Impact on Male Health

Key Ingredients Found in Semenax

Semenax is a male enhancement supplement that aims to improve various aspects of male reproductive health, including semen production. The effectiveness of Semenax can be attributed to its carefully selected ingredients, each with their unique contributions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the core ingredients found in Semenax and how they impact male health.

Maca Root: A Natural Wonder

One of the key ingredients in Semenax is maca root, a plant native to the Peruvian Andes. Maca root has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac and fertility enhancer. It is believed to stimulate the production of hormones related to sexual function, such as testosterone and estrogen. By promoting hormonal balance, maca root may help increase semen volume and improve sperm quality.

Pumpkin Seed: Nutrient Powerhouse

Pumpkin seed extract is another ingredient that plays a vital role in Semenax’s formula. These tiny seeds are packed with essential nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Zinc, in particular, is crucial for healthy sperm production and overall male reproductive health. It supports the development of sperm cells and helps maintain optimal testosterone levels.

The Science Behind the Selected Ingredients

To understand how these individual ingredients contribute to the effectiveness of Semenax, it’s important to delve into their scientific mechanisms. Maca root contains bioactive compounds called macamides and macaenes that have shown potential benefits for sexual function by acting on specific receptors in the brain associated with libido and fertility.

Similarly, pumpkin seeds contain high levels of antioxidants that protect sperm cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Pumpkin seed extract has been found to enhance blood flow to the genital area, promoting healthier erections and supporting overall sexual performance.

Research Supporting Ingredient Use

The use of these ingredients in Semenax is not arbitrary; it is backed by scientific research. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of maca root on male sexual health, with promising results. For example, a study published in the journal Andrologia found that maca supplementation significantly increased semen volume and sperm count in healthy men.

Similarly, research on pumpkin seed extract has highlighted its potential benefits for prostate health and male fertility. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that pumpkin seed oil improved symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition that can affect semen quality and overall reproductive function.

Interactions and Contraindications

When considering any supplement, it’s essential to be aware of potential interactions or contraindications with specific ingredients. While Semenax contains natural ingredients, it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplement regimen. This is especially important if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications that may interact with the ingredients in Semenax.

Enhancing Male Reproductive Health with Semenax

Semenax combines the power of natural ingredients like maca root and pumpkin seed extract to support male reproductive health. These carefully selected ingredients work synergistically to promote optimal semen production, improve sperm quality, and enhance overall sexual performance.

By incorporating Semenax into your routine, you may experience an increase in semen volume, improved fertility markers, and enhanced sexual satisfaction. However, as with any dietary supplement, individual results may vary. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your daily regimen.

There is an expectation from the Lord regarding His servants. Much like the local festivals going on in our part of the world right now, it’s an honor when people are chosen to represent those organizations as Kings and Queens with all the pomp and circumstance of the affair. But here we are as the body of Almighty God, treating our position like that of a peasant. We’ve lost our flavor and we’ve left a bad taste in the mouth of the world and the worst part of all, a bad taste in the mouth our Lord. When He says he would “spew” them out in the book of Revelation it was likely because of the worthless flavor of the church. There was no spice!

What bout now? I heard someone suggest yesterday, that when we go to a church we should ask them, “When you hear the word evangelism, who is the person that comes to mind in your church.” He said he was at a church of 2,000 people and when he asked that questions they gave him the name of one person. That’s a sad indictment against that church, but is it any better in our own? I am blessed to say that we do have people that come to my mind when I hear the word evangelize, but not near enough.

So my food for thought for both you and I is “are you salty.” When you’re in the world do your words add salt to wounds of a hurting world. We have what will heal them. But are we using it? I’m not asking only for a friend, I’m asking for me. Am I using what God gave me to heal the broken world…

Shari, The Jesus chick