Author: talk2shari

Posted in Christian Service, Life Inspiration, Purpose

Don’t mistake lions for kittens

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In this day and age when there are power struggles in every organization and worst of all, even the church, it is good to know who you are in Christ Jesus. There is a confidence that comes from knowing where God has placed you in this world and what it is that He expects from you. Am I that confident? Not always. But I do have a confidence within me that can only come from Christ, because the person I grew up to be before I knew Him as Savior had no confidence in myself at all. I had so much fear living in me that I was miserable, often times hyperventilating to the point my husband David would take me to the hospital. That is no lie. But then Jesus saved my soul and there arose within me a strength I didn’t know I had. It was if God was saving it for such a time. I still have times of weakness, thus why I’m doing this bible study today. I needed to a reminder for myself to remember who I am.

Know Your Position

1 Peter 5:1-14 KJV
The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

The Apostle Peter, speaking to the Jews, knew who he was. He knew he was an apostle, one of the chosen of Christ to be the first set aside to preach the Gospel, but he did not boast in that fact. He identified himself as an elder of the church. A servant of God just as God expects us all to be. That position isn’t taken as seriously as it should be by the church of today. Peter died for that position, today we won’t live for it. He witnessed the crucifixion of the Lord, died the same death (but upside down) all because he knew the glory we would be living in throughout eternity. He also witnessed the Lord’s resurrection and ascension. While we have not witnessed the death, burial and resurrection of the Lord in person, there’s now shortage of evidence living inside of us. It was that evidence, the Holy Spirit of God that told me I had a position in the church of God and how I knew God’s purpose.

Know Your Purpose

[2] Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; [3] Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. [4] And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

First and foremost our job as servants of the Most High God is to share the gospel of Christ. How many people do you see, who call themselves Christians, and are telling people about the Lord Jesus Christ? Not many. Hardly any. They consider it a chore. And I believe that the reason is they are not confident in who they are, studied to show themselves approved, therefore they’re not going to open up that conversation for fear of where it might go. Hey, I’m not throwing stones, I’ve been there! I can talk about a lot of stuff. But I know if I’m going to talk about Christ there may be some questions that are difficult to answer. Not necessarily biblical knowledge, but what if someone asks me about my own relationship with Christ. How often do I pray, read, attend services, what has God done in my life…. All these questions require time with God if a person expects to answer the questions with confidence.

Understanding your purpose means understanding who God sent you to minister to. Peter spoke to the Jews. But not as they had been spoken to in time past. Church leaders in his day were no different than many today in the world. There are those (mostly television evangelists) who are in it for the money. But regardless of where they are, God sees them and He’ll take care of them in due time.

Know Your Place

[5] Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. [6] Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: [7] Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

As a young person I wanted to be somebody. I wanted to garner respect from not only my peers but people in greater positions. I didn’t want that so I could boast about it, I wanted it so that I would feel better about myself. I had always been so insecure (still am). But as I aged, as I became stronger in my knowledge of the gospel of Christ and in my ability to discern spiritual matters, people began coming to me for advice. Then I realized what great accountability that position had. The very thing I wanted scares me to death! Because I know in the scope of God’s universe I am no one outside of who I am in Christ. If He does not give me the wisdom I need for any given day and circumstance I’m going to fall flat on my face. My place is in humility on my knees asking God to help me be who He wants me to be.

Know Your Power

[8] Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: [9] Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. [10] But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. [11] To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Don’t mistaken the Devil for a kitten. and don’t forget that Christ is the Lion of Judah Who will open the book in that great day mentioned in Revelation 5:5. This world does not realize who Christ is for certain, but they also don’t realize the power that Satan has over this world. Before the fall Satan was a guardian and servant in the presence of Almighty God, he had a high office. One angel in 2 Kings 19:35 killed 185,000 people. Understanding that, should give you some insight on the power of Satan. He cannot do anything God doesn’t allow him to do. But he is the prince the his world and he can do plenty.

God gives His children the strength beyond what they have in the flesh for times of great battle. If you’re a child of God you’ve likely experienced it at some point. But we also know it didn’t come from the flesh. Our power is in the Lord Jesus Christ. Our own power against the principalities of the air would get blown out of the way like a grain of sand.

Revelation 5:5 KJV
And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

That is why Peter reminds us to be humble. These people that stand up in the face of adversity with self pride scare me. I’m not going to wag my finger in Satan’s face and pretend that I’m not afraid. I’m going to stand like a little girl behind my Savior and say “Get him God.” Because I don’t have the power in myself. Satan is not the lion of Judah but he is “as a roaring lion.” He wants to be like God. He cannot. He wants to destroy God’s people. He cannot. He wants to scare God’s people… I think it’s a wise person who understands that.

Know Your Peace

[12] By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. [13] The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. [14] Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Knowing what it means to be “in” Christ Jesus is where we will find Peace. I’ve searched for peace in multitudes of places. In my family, children, job, home…. All kinds of places. But not until I placed myself in Christ did I find true peace. Understanding that, come what may, God has me covered. This world is evil, God is holy. This world will hurt me, God will heal me. This world is not my friend. Jesus will never leave me nor forsake me. Glory to God that is peace. When I lay my head down at night, knowing that He’s watching over my family allows me to sleep without worry. It’s not that I never have concern, because I do, I’m human. But the peace of God that passes understanding can only be found with the knowledge of His saving grace.

The word of God is such a mighty counselor. I needed this lesson tonight. I hope it helps someone else. If you don’t have that peace in knowing how to be saved, send me a message, I’d be glad to share it with you. If you need prayer, send me that too, I’d be happy to lift you up as so many people have me in my lifetime.

Posted in Christian Service, Eternity, Faith, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

What to do when there’s No Leadership, No Law, and No Limit to Evil

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What to do when there’s No Leadership, No Law, and No Limit to Evil

I detest being judged, and I struggle with the fear that I will place judgment on another. It’s not easy as a Christian to stay out of the flesh and represent the grace of God. There is a verse that is so abused by people who do not understand it, that it’s ridiculous. I know because I’ve abused it myself out of context.

Matthew 7:1 KJV
Judge not, that ye be not judged.

That’s a good verse right? But God does not mean that we are not to view the acts of man and determine if they’re right or wrong but rather let His holiness be the measure for which we judge, and the the judgement be His. We’re to respect the laws of the land and the authorities that we’ve been given, but all should align with the Word of God.

This is a thought heavy on my heart today because of a personal attack regarding a Ridgeview story. And so my only recourse of not getting in the flesh and giving these people of piece of my mind for which I cannot afford to lose is to turn to the word of God and ask Him to give me peace in my heart and satisfaction that I can leave it in His hands.

My search for answers lead me to the book of Judges. Irony? Doubtful. More than likely a dose of reality that I love.

NO LEADERSHIP

Judges 17:6 KJV says
In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes.

At the beginning of Chapter 18 it says again, “there was no king in Israel.” Again in 19:1 “It came to pass in those days there was no king in Israel.

Three times it mentions there was no leadership for the children of Israel. That’s a scary place to be because it said in 17:6 that every man did that which was right in his own eyes. There was no moral fortitude, their depravity just kept getting worse and worse. And as I struggled with the things going on in my community today, those verses hit home. It’s why I can’t be silent when I see injustice. It’s not that I am perfect. God forbid that I even suggest it. But there’s an accountability factor that’s currently missing in most of society because our leadership stinks!

So the story goes, in the Bible according to Shari, that the children of Israel had fallen out with each other because nobody was talking to God unless it was for their own gain. Now, if you read the story in the book of Judges, Chapters 17 through 19, it’s there. They’d fallen away from God to the point that they picked up a spare Priest from the house of Micah and with him they took Micah’s gods as well. I guess so they’d have all their bases covered. And they began to worship those gods. It says in Chapter 19 that a certain Levite had taken to him a wife, and she had played the whore, but he went to get her. And upon his return from fetching her, in the city of Gibeah, he found a home to stay in. But the Benjamites in that city came to the house and attempted to have their way with the Levite. But instead the men of the house sent out the woman. Who was then raped and murdered. The Levite was so upset that he cut her body into multiple pieces and sent the pieces to all the surrounding towns. He wanted them to know judgment was coming. The problem with that was, nobody had a relationship with the Judgement keeper. But they finally went to God and asked Him for His advice. God told them to go fight the battle for justice for the murder of the Levite’s wife. So the battle was on!

Round 1 – Israel lost 22,000 men. God said go again.

Round 2 – Israel lost 18,000 men. God said go again, but He added that they’d have the victory.

Round 3 – Israel laid out a plan and the battle was won.

From that story I gathered this advice for myself. Our county leadership stinks. If I’m going into battle, and sometimes I feel that’s exactly what I’m doing when I’m trying to use the Ridgeview News in a manner that will help our community stay informed; but if I’m going into battle, I better do it with an open dialogue with the Lord Jesus.

There may be more than one round, and I may suffer defeats. God didn’t promise me a rose garden. But it has got to be His battle, under His direction.

NO LAW

I’ve also got to remember that we are no longer under the law, such that they were in the days of the book of Judges. We’re under grace. If I want grace for this battle, I too need to extend grace. Israel did not have a king. I do.

King Jesus! And I don’t want to do what’s right in my eyes, that will for certain get me into trouble. When God took Israel’s battle over, Israel wasn’t the one calling the shots, but God used them to get justice. Will He not do the same if we seek His guidance over our own leaderless community? We cannot turn our eyes away from the fact that the current leadership has accepted sins as heinous as the loss of the Levite’s wife. They’ve mocked God, (see prior story of the Democratic Party.) People have died because of the dereliction of jobs, and while they did not die with malice, the fact that few cared cannot go unaddressed. And the fact that we as a nation have turned a blind eye to abortion, even up to the full term infant we will receive the Judgment of God. This county may not care what I think, but they’ll care when they face God almighty on the day of judgment.

This isn’t an easy conclusion for me to draw. I ruffled some feathers today that caused me to question my own motives. But I hear through the reading of God’s word that God’s people don’t win every battle, but they win the final one. And while that one woman, known only as the whore, didn’t seem like much to anyone, when God got involved, even the lowest mattered. God takes care of the underdog.

Mark 7:28 KJV
And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children’s crumbs.

Posted in Evangelism, Leadership, Life Inspiration

How to Find Hope in a Today’s Reality

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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 Life Inspiration, Life's Failures, Word of God, worship

When Life’s a Mess, break out the Mess Kit!

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There are days I draw nigh to God, and there are days when I run as far from Him as I can get for fear that His holiness will burn the hide off my unholy nature. I thank God for certain that I live in the dispensation of grace and not law, else my previous statement would be fact not a figment of my imagination. I thought today how I have people who look to me for wisdom, and I have others who I think, think that I am a fool, though they may not. But my insecurities rear their ugly heads from the darkest caves within my heart and make me feel as though I’m the worst of the worst. But then I realize I’m calling Apostle Paul a liar who wrote to Timothy:

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

1 Timothy 1:15 KJVS

To put it mildly, I’m a hot mess most days.

Tonight I search for something that I really don’t even know what I’m looking for, I just need encouraged. I need God’s word to light me up, of course figuratively. I’m sure I need beaten. But I’d rather have a word from God that will draw my mind into a place of stillness. Where I hear, feel, and find direction.

I attempted to find my scripture in some Old Testament wisdom, but I ended up in the book of Acts, standing on Mars Hill with the Apostle Paul.

AN ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

Acts 17:22-27 KJVS
[22] Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. [23] For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

Paul knew the God for who the ignorant searched. And so do I… but I don’t feel very wise. Because though Paul and I both know the same God, I’m not at the same spiritual point in my life as Paul. He could stand before the people on Mars Hill with confidence, even at the beginning of his ministry because he lived and breathed the word of God. He did so after an encounter that left him visually impaired but was years later capable of seeing in to the third heaven. Would to God I could be so close to the Lord!

2 Corinthians 12:1-5 KJVS
[1] It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. [2] I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. [3] And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) [4] How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. [5] Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.

AN EXPERIENCE WITH GOD

Paul in Acts 17 had found an altar to THE UNKNOWN GOD. A god the people were worshiping, even though they didn’t know who it was. They had experienced nothing, yet were willing to bow down to it. But Paul was about to introduce them to “an experience.”

[24] God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; [25] Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; [26] And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;

God determined when Paul would be born to the earth, where he would be born and how God Himself would use Him. Paul had this experience but it was not without God’s planning. He could preach in confidence because God had placed him in such a position as to learn the Old Testament from the greatest of scholars, but then he placed him in a position where he would experience the Lord in such a way that he would be the writer of 13 of the New Testament books. That’s a glory to God moment right there and one to take not of.

Have you experienced Him? It’s one thing to know of God, but have you experienced Him in such a way that it left your life so impacted that nothing was ever the same? Paul didn’t look at anything without judging it through Christ. Paul had experienced the Lord in such a way that the earthly wisdom for which most people accept, wasn’t ever good enough for Paul. He wanted to see it from Gods perspective. Likely why God did take Him into the third Heaven.

Israel could not comprehend that God was approachable. They’d heard about Moses’ time with God. And how God could not be looked upon for His glory. How could they possibly understand that God was not only approachable, He lived within the very heart of man? The only way they could understand it was to experience it. That is why the wise are so stupid. They’re not willing to get to a point of humility so that they too can experience God.

I’ve experienced God. Oh. My. Stars. Have I ever!!! But yet I still struggle, why is that? Why do I get to the point where I’m searching for another experience rather than just living in the moment with God as Paul did. Confident that He is going to do a great work in me.

AN EXAMINATION BY GOD

I think it is because I stop feeling. Getting close to God requires some up close and personal time. When I said in the beginning that I ran from God because He will burn the hide off of my unholy nature. That’s true. When I begin to experience God, all that is in my life that shouldn’t be heats up. God runs it through the fire and it burns me.

But that is the very thing that drives me into a closer relationship with Him. I want that relationship. I’ve had it, I know when I’m not right with Him and I know what needs to happen.

[27] That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

He is never far from me. He’s in me! But Paul said that if “haply the might feel after him, and find him.” Haply means by chance. It’s got to be a concerted effort. God is not going to bless overtop of rejection. Just as the people were searching for an UNKNOWN GOD, God had presented Himself to them, time and time again. He wasn’t going to make them accept Him. Nor once He’s saved us, is He going to make us “Experience” Him.

Tonight I needed a reminder of what it was like on my own Damascus road. When Christ came into my life and saved me from searching for peace, joy and happiness. All of which I found in Jesus Christ and experienced Heaven for the first time in my life. I have not always walked successful but Christ has never once failed to walk with me until I came out the other side of life’s circumstances. Yes, I’m a hot mess many days, but He gave me my very own mess kit for being a part of the army of God. It’s called the Bible. Praise Him! He alone is worthy.

Posted in Uncategorized

Voters, What are you measuring your standards by?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Voters, What are you measuring your standards by?

What exactly are standards? Has Webster’s changed the definition on it like they have so many other words, so that it will fit the agenda of today’s society?

Miriam Webster’s definition in the context of todays blog says:

3: something established by authority, custom, or general consent as a model or example : CRITERION quite slow by today’s standards 4: something set up and established by authority as a rule for the measure of quantity, weight, extent, value, or quality 5a: the fineness and legally fixed weight of the metal used in coins b: the basis of value in a monetary system the gold standard

Webster’s have not changed it so much that it’s not recognizable but the world standards have certainly changed and their methods of measuring are questionable to their origin to say the very least. The American standards of measurement have not changed a great deal when it comes to product measurement. A gallon is a gallon, an inch is an inch, a pound is a pound, etc. We’re not likely going to buy a 5 pound bag of flour that was weighed by guess-timation. Although we all buy toilet paper that’s supposedly a double or triple roll that sure looks the same to me as the single rolls did, but that’s an argument for another day. The point is we would not allow another form of measurement to be used that we did not agree with for items we’re purchasing. And yet… we’re okay with society changing the social norms and standards and nobody says a word. Well, a few do. But not many.

In the book of Ezekiel, chapter 28, there was a prince who had his own set of standards. He believed he was one smart cookie. Scripture says that God laid out a plan for Ezekiel to go challenge this prince on his standards:

Ezekiel 28:1-10 KJVS
[1] The word of the Lord came again unto me, saying, [2] Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord God ; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:

This fella thought he was so good, that he was an equal to God. But did he really weigh himself against God? Could he speak the world into existence. Ummm…nope. Could he breathe life into a man? Not likely. What caused this man to think he was an equal to God? The very same thing that causes an American to say they have right to kill an innocent child. The pride and exaltation of self. The ad below was on our county democrats Facebook page. This is why I left the Democratic Party. I am told that I should keep religion and politics separate, this is why I can’t.

Their idea that making someone wear a mask is as serious as killing an unborn child proves the value that they put on life. So what does God say about killing infants?

Jeremiah 1:5 KJVS
[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.

Proverbs 6:16-17 KJVS
[16] These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: [17] A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,

The first three things that Proverbs said God hated answers that question regarding abortion: A proud look (that man has the choice of life or death), a lying tongue (to say that child isn’t a child is saying God’s word is not true), and the 3rd, what did any child do to deserve being murdered?

Ezekiel delivers God’s message of Destruction to the Prince

Ezekiel 28:3-10 KJVS
[3] Behold, thou art wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee: [4] With thy wisdom and with thine understanding thou hast gotten thee riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy treasures: [5] By thy great wisdom and by thy traffick hast thou increased thy riches, and thine heart is lifted up because of thy riches: [6] Therefore thus saith the Lord God ; Because thou hast set thine heart as the heart of God;

For the record, God does not want politics controlled by religion, nor was that the intention of the Constitution. It was Americans would have the freedom to worship, the One true God, if they so chose. God does not force anyone into His army, one must volunteer. But in another form of arrogance, society today does not want anyone telling them what is right or wrong or hurting their little feelings by speaking truth. Especially the word of God. Christians should not want to control politics, Christians should have a heart that is controlled by the Holy Spirit so that they can make godly decisions. But you cannot “kill babies, change scripture, change Creation and justify pedophilia and think you’ll ever get God’s stamp of approval on it. Therefore, “religion, aka God” must go.

Many say they’re Christians. But by what measure are they measuring their standards.

The final “post” I’ll share from Calhoun’s own democrats is this one, and I’m not even sure what’s meant by it?

Jesus’ miracle wasn’t a slap in the face to anyone. Evidently they’ve not read their bible. Scripture said that “all” ate. Five thousand men, and countless women and children. To use scripture in the manner above is a slap. But to God’s face, not mans.

Matthew 14:16-21 KJVS
[16] But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat. [17] And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves, and two fishes. [18] He said, Bring them hither to me. [19] And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. [20] And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. [21] And they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women and children.

Some may read this and say “There’s Shari judging people and callin’ em out. I’ve had a couple of politicians accuse me of that. And that’s fine. I’m not calling a person out. I’m calling out the Democratic organization. Am I proud of my Republican organization for which I’m a member. Not always. As a matter of fact, I’ll throw them under the bus too when they go against scripture. I don’t vote by party. I vote by the word of God. But in this world of picking the lesser of two evils, I’ll side with the one who sides with God 7 days a week and twice on Sunday.

We tend to look at the National Democratic agenda as being “not us, but them.” But these ads were placed on the Facebook page of Calhoun’s democrats. If you don’t agree with them, why are you standing for them?

When it came right down to it, I’m sure there were a whole lot of politicians ready to run Ezekiel out of town on a rail. But that’s not happened. The prince of Tyrus met his demise.

[7] Behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness. [8] They shall bring thee down to the pit, and thou shalt die the deaths of them that are slain in the midst of the seas. [9] Wilt thou yet say before him that slayeth thee, I am God? but thou shalt be a man, and no God, in the hand of him that slayeth thee. [10] Thou shalt die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken it, saith the Lord God.

We’ve got an election coming up, and I know Christians are not supposed to be political, but if I say I am a child of God, and that in so being I am an Ambassador for Christ, which the scripture says I am. Then I am representing God Himself in this world. And that makes me a little nauseous because I fail Him miserably. Praise God for Grace! But there are those, who with all the pride of the Prince in our story, have decided that they have the authority of God.

Please don’t think for a second the democratic agenda won’t make it to Calhoun if this county is governed by them.

On the national page, embraced by the locals in our community take a look at their priorities. Do they match yours? More importantly when you measure them by the word of God, do they measure up with His?

Our votes may be a secret inside the booth. But they’re not secret from God. Vote with the wisdom of God. Not self, and certainly not this world.

Posted in Christian Service, Grace, Leadership, Life Inspiration

I Didn’t know we had Icebergs in Grantsville

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It’s been an enlightening few weeks as I try to navigate the waters of being a woman of God, a news publisher and just plain old ordinary Shari. Wife to David, Mother to Tif and Whit, and Noni to six. I didn’t know we had icebergs in Grantsville! But I’ve certainly hit a few.

I’ve had to ask myself on more than one occasion, “Are you being stubborn or staunch? Are you in the flesh or are you in the spirit? I am most assuredly human, God knows. But before I drowned in the frigid waters of the world I decided to stop the boat and just sit in the stillness for a while. By the way… I had to stop and restart the boat many times to find an area of stillness. These are busy waters.

What is the difference between stubborn and staunch?

1 Samuel 15:23 KJV
[23] For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

That’s a pretty serious charge and the result was Saul losing his position as king over Israel. Good thing I’m not royalty! Oh wait… being a child of God makes us royalty in Heaven, and God’s not any happier with me when I’m stubborn, than He was Saul. When I speak of the metaphorical icebergs, I speak of the cold natured attitude of the world that can either be an obstruction in my path or an obstruction in my heart that doesn’t allow me to see things clearly.

I’m still not 100% certain about some decisions I’ve made. But I’m 100% sure I don’t want to be ruled by the world. What I need to do is take a closer look at the word Staunch. It is not however in the Bible, but a close word by definition is that of “Stedfast.”

1 Corinthians 15:51-58 KJV
[51] Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, [52] In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. [53] For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. [54] So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. [55] O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? [56] The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. [57] But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. [58] Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

The Apostle Paul is teaching the Corinthians and us in this text, about a mystery that they’re privileged to have revealed to them. The day will come when Christ will call His children home, those who have accepted His power of their redemption when He died on the cross to cover our sin. Those who have gone before us, and those who are alive when he returns will be changed in the twinkling of an eye to have a perfect body. But until then… Before the victory is won, we are still in the battle. And Paul tells the believer, “be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” There it is, the difference between stubborn and staunch. One has me in mind, the other has the Lord’s work in mind.

I don’t want any of my labor on this earth done in vain. There will certainly be hay and stubble that will burn up at the end of my life when I stand before the Lord, but will there be gold that when it’s tried by the fire and the dross is removed (the parts of Shari that were in it) will there be some good left over for me to present to the King of kings, “This I did for You?”

Those icebergs of people who stand before me and judge me on this earth won’t be there with the Lord. They may be in line too, I’m not saying they’re not saved, but they’ll have no right to look in on mine and Christ’s conversation. Nor do they today. There is a stubborn streak in me, I’ll not deny. I detest self righteous people to the point that I often take a stand against them just because they turn my stomach. If that’s the case, I’m as wrong as they are.

God help me to print the truth of Your word, and the truth of the world in a way that brings glory to You alone. This world is ran by Satan and his demonic forces. They have power. But none so great as the power of Holy Spirit that can guide me through these troubled waters.

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Be Better than Yesterday

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At what point do I shut my mouth and my mind off? That was the question that roused me out of bed at 3 a.m. after pondering it for 30 minutes. Do you ever wonder why God made you as He did? Oh boy, I do. Why did He make me so tender hearted, self critical, compassionate toward the defending of the underdog and passionately vocal of it all. I feel the need to share, and yet I hope nobody realizes the truth of myself. That I am a very, very flawed human.

Beseeching Us to be Our Best

Philippians 4:1-13 KJV
[1] Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. [2] I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. [3] And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

Paul called a couple of his people out and called a couple of his people up. He “beseeched” Euodias and Syntyche, called them out by name for their argumentative treatment of one another. He doesn’t say what they were arguing over, just that they needed to have the same mind. The Pastor said something in church that caught my thought, how everybody thinks they’re right. People at one church wondering why the people of another church don’t understand that “they’re right.” Perhaps that was Euodias and Syntyche’s issue. It’s my issue with most people, why don’t they realize that I’m right. And when I’m not, why don’t they understand I’m human. For the record God is right, the most we can be is our best at falling into line with the Word of God. The problem is that’s usually the last place folks look for alignment.

Encouraging Us that God is Enough

[4] Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. [5] Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. [6] Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. [7] And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

I for certain do not “rejoice in the Lord alway.” Sometimes I’m not the least bit happy the way things turn out. And it is at those times that my “moderation” – you know… self restraint, is at it’s weakest. I forget that the Lord could bust the sky wide open at any moment and call us home and leave this heathen world to itself. I forget not to worry and to leave it in God’s hands, I want to tell the world about it, give them my advice; and as for the peace, well let’s just say I wouldn’t always pass that test either.

That’s how I would have written the Bible. But Paul was listening to God, not me. In his darkest hours, in a prison cell even, he rejoiced til the walls fell down. He was a man of authority and yet he restrained himself to be a man of captivity. Saying in his letter to Philemon 1:9 “Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.”

A literal prisoner often times, humbled by both his circumstances and the people God had put him in charge of; the Gentiles for whom he had fought hard to rid the world of, but now labored to see them saved! Paul didn’t say that the earthly desires ceased nor did he say that human nature ceased, but they came into captivity by praying and asking God what to ask for. Would my desires change if I ask God first what I need or what I should do? Will He get the glory from it, or will it be used in His service? Wouldn’t that bring a greater peace knowing that what I need, I have? That what ever God provides is more than I deserve?

Advising us to be Abased and Abound

[8] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. [9] Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. [10] But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. [11] Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

That was what sparked my thoughts tonight. Abasement. That’s what’s needed for me to shut my mouth and my mind off from worldly issues. When I want to hurt the people that hurt people, and then I feel bad for wanting to hurt anyone at all. Paul killed and had people killed. He was literally the terminator in his day. How could I not think that he too would have struggled with not being able to smack the face off the arrogant bunch that jailed him. But he didn’t. He thought on the things of God. That God is going to return and these people needed to be prepared. Paul had been rich, and he had been poor and he was faithful in both because of his depth of gratitude for what Christ had done.

I confess I do not have that level of gratitude. I look around at my meager dwelling and I focus on the fact I wish it were more, and cleaner. And then I realize that compared to 3/4 of the world, it’s a mansion. Paul’s life advice is always spot on, not because he was a perfect man but because he was a willing vessel. What would God do with me if I were so abased… what would I abound in? His advice to me this morning, “understanding you’re flawed will keep you flawed is good, accepting it as a way of life is not. Be better than yesterday.

Love you all. Praying you are ready for Christ’s return.

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There is no doubt in my mind that there is none Good

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The scripture tells us in Luke 18:19 “And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.”

There is no doubt in my mind that it’s the truth. I try to be good, but even on a good day, evil enters into it. I have a mighty compassion for people. Even people I don’t particularly like. I want no ill will or harm for them. And then I find myself reading James 5 and shouting Amen at inappropriate times.

James 5:1-20 KJV
[1] Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. [2] Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. [3] Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. [4] Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. [5] Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. [6] Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.

That’s when I think about those who support and encourage abortion. Those who are mean to children and the elderly. Those who corrupt children in the school system. Child trafficking. Those who are mean to my friends and people who just embrace evil. I kind of like the thought of God heaping a dose of judgement on them! But then I think about the evil inside of Shari. And as I continue to read I get down to verse 11…

[7] Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. [8] Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. [9] Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. [10] Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. [11] Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

“The Lord is very pitiful…and of tender mercy.” There He hung on that cross, nailed to it naked. Beaten to the point that His body looked like hamburger and He was unrecognizable. Watched by His mother and friends. Spit on by the enemy and mocked by the wicked and He said “Father forgive them…”

Never in our lives has anyone of us experienced His level of pain, and yet he pleads to His Father for us. I have to ask myself, “Can I plead for my enemies?” I’m glad God understands humanity. That is why He said, there is none good.

We may not be good, but He still allows us to be of purpose to the Kingdom.

[12] But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation. [13] Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. [14] Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: [15] And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. [16] Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. [17] Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. [18] And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. [19] Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; [20] Let him know, that he which converteth ab the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide ac a multitude of sins.

Share the truth, stand in the gap for those who need it, pray for people, talk to people about your own struggles so they know they’re not alone. Above all tell someone about the saving grace of the Lord Jesus!!!

Oh how I needed this word today. People are not good. But God is. All the time. Even when the world seems to have lost it’s ever lovin’ mind, God understands us. He doesn’t excuse us but He understands. Glory to God for His “tender mercy.” I need it every day.

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

Riding the Struggle Bus to Meet the Political Train

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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, Praise, Purpose, Uncategorized

How Not to Grow Weary as a People Pleaser

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I will confess that I am a people pleaser to a certain degree, in that I want everyone around me happy. So I go to great lengths to make people happy and in so doing, usually make myself nauseous. With that being said, I only go so far and then my nauseousness turns to frustration. And my frustration turns to aggravation and then I’m in the flesh and those people have gotten on my lastnerve. Then I’ll turn to the word, and I’ll attempt to make it fit my agenda like the rest of the world does, and then I grow sick of myself. So I put it down and let Satan beat me with a big stick for a few days and then go back to it again with more determination to seek out the will of God in the matter that started out with me trying to make someone happy.

DON’T LOSE SIGHT

Romans 15:1-13 KJV
[1] We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. /

There it is in black and white and bold, “Don’t make this about you Shari.” My life should not be about making myself happy, but rather as verse 2 continues on by saying [2] Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. [3] For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

So I am in the right to please others so long as that pleasing edifies (Instructs or improves) someone. That’s an interesting fact, and continued frustration when you feel that your wisdom isn’t counted worthy. Enter Shari’s lifelong insecurities of being less and Satan has just managed to shut me up again. An additional problem is I am always on display with people, or so I feel that I am. I’ve been so vocal about my faith in Christ and my belief in the purpose of my life that I feel that people are watching me continually to see how I handle life; and lately, it hasn’t been handled very well. I’ve retreated from the gospel because of a lost hope. Not in Christ, but in purpose.

DON’T LOSE HOPE

[4] For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

There is an image I attempted to find where a woman was wrapped up in Christ’s arms but it was all done by word art. it always makes my heart happy when i see it because it depicts how I feel when I read the word of God. I feel as though He has come to earth and wrapped me up in His love. It’s a real feeling and not one contrived in my mind by an artist, but rather expressed by that artist.

A sure fire way of losing hope is to get out of the word of God. I know from much experience in the matter. I also know that the way to find hope is to get back in the word of God and read until God shines the light on what you need. He did just that in Romans this morning when I read that the Old and the New were written to give me hope. That every word has purpose, just like me.

DON’T LOSE GLORY

[5] Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: [6] That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

There have been so many people in my past that have shown me how to praise and glorify God by their relationship with God. It’s another issue with my very faulty wiring in that I struggle with fitting someone else’s mold. Because I know I was never meant to fit their mold. That’s theirs. But if what I feel doesn’t align with what they feel and I make them uncomfortable, what do I do? I can tell you. Just as I retreated from the word of God, I retreat from the way God made me.

According to His word, we’re to be likeminded “toward another” according to Christ. That means I should be okay with how Christ designed them, and they should be okay with how Christ designed me so long as the two have foundation in scripture. One can be mild and one can be loud and both can be right.

DON’T LOSE FRIENDS

[7] Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. [8] Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: [9] And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. [10] And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people.

The first of God’s people were the Jews. Who overtime grew into a very formal, religious group of people who followed the law and loved rule making. And then came the Gentiles, a world of rebels who didn’t fit the religious mold. They went against their grain by not holding a formal service, not washing their hands enough, not doing all the “things” the religious did. And if I were to guess at what happened in their services that was also different was their manner of praise. They had so much to be thankful for. The God of the universe had deemed them worthy to be a part of His family through the blood of Christ. The acceptance of the blood He shed for their salvation. Because of that their worship would have likely differed drastically from what the Jews were used to. But now the Jews and the Gentiles were worshipping together. Do you suppose some took issue with the loud mouthed coverts and caused division? I do. I’m pretty sure, I’d have been a loud mouth!

DON’T LOSE YOUR LAUD

[11] And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. [12] And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. [13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

As I’ve stated… I’m loud. I have to reign myself in on a daily basis not to be center stage in any conversation or action. My personality is such that I believe God designed me to be heard, but He humbles me by putting people in my life who don’t want to hear me. It’s a truth I can’t fathom. I mean, who wouldn’t want to hear me, right? Kidding.

Romans 12:15-16 KJV
[15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. [16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

So my take away from today’s discussion with God is, “It’s okay to be me.” So long as “me” represent’s Him. He told me I needed to “LAUD” Him. That means praise Him highly. That does not sound quiet to me. Just sayin’.