Author: talk2shari

Posted in Leadership, Life Inspiration

It’s Been a Rough Week – Let’s talk about anger

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on It’s Been a Rough Week – Let’s talk about anger

So I allowed a political figure to anger me to the point that my train derailed and I spilled my cargo. Do I have regrets. Truthfully, not so much. I regret that I allowed this man to almost cause me to have another heart attack because I wasn’t turning to the Holy Spirit within me. Unless of course that was the Holy Spirit wanting to ring this guys neck like I did. 🤣 I’m kidding… I know the Holy Spirit doesn’t want to ring someone’s neck. It really did however feel like something was trying to get out of my chest. I was that angry. What brought it on? He publicly was disrespecting my husband’s work ethic from his earlier employment. Oh, he also said unkind things my work, but that just went in one ear and out the other, because I can handle it when you trash me. But when you mess with my family, I come unglued.

So, what’s the Jesus Chick to do, when you’re that angry? Let’s go to the word of the Lord and see what His advice on the matter is.

Haven’t You Learned?

Isn’t that what we all tell our children when they make a mistake that we believe they should have known better? Have you learned nothing I taught you? God is no different. He is that same loving parent that guides and teaches us every day and then when we derail He asks, “Have you not learned?” Of course that is a rhetorical question, He knows we know and that we chose to not listen.

Ephesians 4:20-32 KJV
But ye have not so learned Christ; [21] If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: [22] That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; [23] And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; [24] And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

The truth is in Jesus. Not this world that we’re living in. This man successfully provoked me to anger, which I believe was his ultimate goal. I can’t blame Jesus for me coming unglued. If I had been acting like Jesus, I would have waited until after the meeting, and I had calmed down, and then addressed the situation. But the flesh in me wanted the public to know that this jerk had just gotten on my last nerve and I needed to call his sins out. And so I did. This man had been my husband former boss. He had played on my husband’s good heart and compassion, and convinced my husband that he should do the government a favor and work seven days a week, 10-12 hours a day on salary. I reminded him that he had illegally taken advantage of my husband and another employee by causing them to work in such a manner, which is illegal. So my question is… did I cross a line I shouldn’t have as a child of God?

Be ye angry, and sin not

[25] Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. [26] Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: [27] Neither give place to the devil.

So, we’re allowed to be angry. That’s human nature, but then Christ says “and sin not.” I cannot say that the sun didn’t go down with me still being angry. My heart had stopped thumping out of my chest by the time I laid down. My smart watch was no longer screaming at me to say my heart rate was too high, but I still felt angry toward the politician. It wasn’t until today, two days later that I began to rationalize my thoughts and deal with the issue within. The devil has had a place at my table for two days. That’s not cool.

[28] Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. [29] Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. [30] And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. [31] Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: [32] And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Verse 29 reminds us that anything that comes out of our mouth should edify the hearer, and allow them to experience grace. My go to verse for righteous rage and holy hostility is when Jesus upset the tables in the temple in John 2:15-19
And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew the tables; [16] And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father’s house an house of merchandise. [17] And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up. [18] Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? [19] Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.

This of course is a totally different scenario. These men that Jesus made a whip and drove from His Father’s house were making profit on the sacrifices of God. That makes my stomach roll over. It no doubt did Jesus’ as well, because He threw them out!

Those men were taking advantage of God’s people and disrespecting God. Jesus’ Father. When during the meeting I was in this week, a government leader used his position to provoke anger and manipulate people, he was successful. He provoked me to anger. I didn’t turn over any tables or get a whip and drive him out, but I wanted to.

Government is a God ordained position. That’s not to say all those in office are in those positions by God’s design. But He allowed it. But as children of God, we are to care for our families, and the body of Christ. And when we see abuse, disrespect, and dishonor, I believe God understands the anger that wells up inside of us. I’m not saying God approved me coming unglued. But He understood that the disrespect a government official was showing toward the people was unwarranted and evil.

So what’s the answer to the question… “Was my behavior justified?” For me the answer came when I felt no regret. I usually feel regret pretty quickly for stupid behavior. But I think there comes a time when a person crosses the line and God says, “Child of God, Give them the truth.” He didn’t tell me to call the politician names. And I didn’t (at least in the open meeting). But I believe that when I got angry, God approved – – because this person, who is in a position of accountability, was arrogant, unkind and believed his position warranted him the right to hurt people without remorse.

God doesn’t tell His children to lay down and be walked on. He tells them to show Grace and kindness, but he also expects sin to be dealt with. We forgive the sinner… we don’t excuse or permit the sin.

Posted in Christian Service, Church attendance, Faith, Family, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Searching for Substance in a Silly Society

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Searching for Substance in a Silly Society

I am eternally grateful to be in a church that when I leave the building on Sundays and Wednesdays, I feel as if I have just been fed the most marvelous of meals with an exquisite desert. Those metaphors are of course standing for the Word of God and Spirit in the service. My heart continues to be burdened for a world that finds no need to be in a church with the body of Christ.

Paul warned the Church of Colosse, when they were worshipping angels rather than God:

Colossians 2:18-19 KJV
[18]Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, [19] And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

Beguiling, deception, is what happens when one is not being taught the word of God or being taught incorrectly. Verse 19 refers to the Head, with the H capitalized, meaning God, from who we receive the nourishment required for the sustainability of the body. Someone, a false teacher, had the people of Colosse worshiping those which God created for the purpose of serving and worshipping Him.

In the book of Revelation, when John fell at the feet of an angel, the humble creature told him asolutely not! Revelation 22:8-9 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. [9] Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.

The point of that being, they were listening to false teaching, and so are many others, because they’re not reading and studying the Word of God for themselves, and attending a church where a Pastor can keep you in line. Of course you can sit at home in your comfy chair, sipping coffee while you listen to your internet preacher, but as it says in Hebrews 10:25, you’re absent from the body of Christ.

Funny thing about scripture, it is so often given and received out of context. I was just about guilty in the writing of this post. Hebrews 10:25 is one my favorite verses. But I failed to realize that it’s the latter part of a sentence that started in verse 23.

Hebrews 10:23-25 KJV
Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) [24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Those three verses are packed with good stuff!

Hold Fast my Friends!

Paul told the Hebrews to hold on to the profession of their faith. To the sound doctrines for which they’d been taught. It won’t take long when being out in the world to be influenced by multiple forces. That causes wavering and confusion in the mind like that of those worshiping the angels. God did not intend church folks to be without a body of believers and a Pastor. In the days of Paul that of course wasn’t a church house but usually it was in the homes of other believers where they gathered for house church. But they gathered. They knew that there was a need to hold on to not only the profession of their faith, but to hold on to their faith filled friends for encouragement. Get in the right church and hold on!

Provoke the People

Provoked is most often used as a term of negativity. But you can provoke good as well as evil! Paul told the Hebrews to provoke unto love and to good works. I have to tell you, when someone in the church starts a project, I’m not always a willing participant. I have a dozen other things going that I feel needs my attention. But a friend in the faith will say, “Hey Shari, I need your help.” And it’s then that I am provoked to help, because I love them and I want to do a good work. It’s always a blessing! My life is far richer and I know that I have been doing the will of God. But if it wasn’t for that friend in the faith, I’d have missed the blessing. Good Christian friends provoke us to do more for the Kingdom of God.

Can you see that the words leading into Hebrews 10:25 direct our paths, and keep us going in the direction we should go?

Always Assemble!

Wednesdays and Sundays are happy, happy days in my life. My mind begins to think on the upcoming Bible studies, the fellowship with other believers, the lifting up of people in prayer. The wonderful influence of my church family encourages me the other five days of the week! Is my church perfect? Of course not, or they wouldn’t let me in the doors. But the five days I’m out of church takes its toll on me. I can read the word of God, pray and encourage myself with good gospel music, but I need the fellowship of other believers and I most especially need the leading and teaching of the man of God. It’s not that God doesn’t speak to me, He does. But He speaks to the man of God in an amazing way, that one message can hit everyone who hears it, in a different way. It will encourage one, convict another, stir another over something they’ve been struggling with. It’s filled with the substance that we need in our lives to keep us on the right path.

I watch family and friends who are being beat down by this world struggle. And I don’t mean they’re having a little anxiety. I mean their mind is filled with frustration, anger, chaos and worse. And my thought is this, if only you had filled your tank this week, you’d not have run out of gas. The world will fill you up, but it’s got all kinds of bad byproducts in it. Junk that God never intended to be in your life. I used the word silly in the headline of today’s post. But there is nothing funny about how this world tears you apart. It’s why I stay in church… it’s the glue that puts me back together.

Love you all. Praying my words encourage you today!

Posted in Christian Service, Faith, Leadership, Life Inspiration

Becoming a Good Creature of Habit

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Becoming a Good Creature of Habit

I am a creature of habit. And not always good ones either. I have a few good habits, and many, many bad habits. I try to lessen them; but deed, habits are hard! In 1997 I felt such conviction over being a smoker and working with youth. I had been saved a little over a year. It was a monumental accomplishment on May 26th, 1997 when I stopped smoking. It had far less to do with me than it did to do with the Holy Spirit and prayer warriors. Ironically I share that anniversary date with my open heart surgery which occurred on May 26th, 2018.

Does God grow weary of our bad habits? I know I do. Poor eating habits have taken a great toll on my body. Poor spending habits have taken a great toll on my finances. There are consequences for stupidity. I know! I’ve got the scars. But if there are consequences for bad habits, there surely must be reward for good habit.

I began this study at the end of Jacob’s life. Jacob who (if you know scripture) you likely have read it again and again as it was in Exodus 2:24-25 when God mentions their names together…
And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. [25] And God looked upon the children of Israel, and God had respect unto them.

God used Jacob mightily! But unfortunately, he is also remembered as being a liar. His name means deceiver. He stole his brother’s birthright. He was not a man of high moral character. But God seriously used him. That gives us all hope, does it not? I said that to show his habits were not always the greatest. Which I also find it very ironic that on his death bed, he called all of his sons together to tell them what they are habitually known for: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, and Benjamin. Twelve very memorable men. Genesis 49.

  1. Rueben – strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power: but you’re as unstable as water,
  2. Simeon and Levi are cruel, the killed a man, and they’ll be cursed.
  3. Judah, your brothers will praise you and your hand will be in the neck of your enemies. He ws a lion’s whelp. Obviously he had some great habits!
  4. Zebulun was known as a haven for ships. Someone people could depend on.
  5. Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Israel. Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward. His habits must have been that he took care of justice.
  6. Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last.
  7. Asher was my kind of man! Jacob said of him that his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties. I’m not sure if his habit was that of eating, but I do like a good piece of bread and royal dainties!
  8. Jacob said of his son Issachar that he was a strong ass couching down between two burdens and that he became a great servant.
  9. Naphtali is a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words, he must have had the habit of encouraging people.
  10. and then there was of course the 11th son, Joseph which is one of the most amazing stories of a man of habitually good character that he ends up saving his nation from famine.
  11. And the youngest Benjamin who Jacob loved and was a great hunter of prey.

Like us all, the 12 sons of Jacob, had good habits and bad. And he called them out, right there on his death bed. Not so sure that’s the way I want to leave this world, but for Jacob, it was his desire and his sons stood there and took it.

So what will your habits say about you? Are there habits that you’re striving to rid yourself of? Yeah… me too. So what can we do to encourage ourselves in this battle? A lesson from Joseph helped direct my mind today…

Jacob said of Joseph:

Joseph Bore Fruit

And lot of it! While we cannot work our way to Heaven, James 2:18 says Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

I want a to be known for good work habits. I have been struggling with that lately because my world is scattered between many responsibilities. But I am praying that through self discipline and focus, I can bring my work habits and fruit bearing back into line with that of Joseph. Well, let’s be real, I don’t know that I will or have ever aligned with Joseph. But I want to. I want to be habitually busy for the kingdom.

Genesis 49:22-26 KJV
Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall: [23] The archers have sorely grieved him, and shot at him, and hated him: [24] But his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob; (from thence is the shepherd, the stone of Israel:) [25] Even by the God of thy father, who shall help thee; and by the Almighty, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lieth under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb: [26] The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren.

Jacob knew that Joseph had done great and wonderful things far above what he had done. I want that for my children and my grandchildren. While we cannot physically hand down our habits, can we not practice a godly life every day that will cause our children and grandchildren to desire it and be better at than we are.

If a habit is a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up, should we not strive to habitually live for Jesus. habitually read His Word. Habitually be kind. Habitually be honest. Should these not be easier to become habits, than taking on habits that are so hard to rid ourselves of? But none the less, we have to habitually, intentionally do those things.

My prayer for you and I today is this:

God in Heaven, God of Abraham, Issac, Jacob and Shari. Help us Lord to make it a habit to daily read your word and allow those around us to see us, so that they too will have that desire. Father may our lives bear sweet fruit like that of Joseph that was abundantly running over the wall. God I thank You that I too have “progenitors”, meaning ancestors, who had good and faithful habits that I learned from. Let me never fail to forget those like my own Mother, who daily made a habit of caring for her home and even now as her mind is struggling, that habit continues. Let us be so faithful Lord!!!! Let us have a habit of encouraging one another as Naphtali did. Oh God, I’ve wrote myself happy again this morning, knowing that if I like James work in faith, You will reward! Thank You God for the joy in my heart and please give my friends a great dose of joy today too! In the Name of Jesus Christ my Lord. I ask it all. Amen.

Posted in Christian, Eternity, Faith, Grace, Leadership, Prayer, salvation

Prejudice, Persecution, and Profession of Christ

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Prejudice, Persecution, and Profession of Christ

As a child growing up in the hills of Braxton County, West Virginia in a little community called Duck, I did not experience bigotry. I had one uncle who used the “n” word as well as other colorful words, but he was the only one I remember. The rest of my immediate family didn’t use profanity, nor did they ever say prejudiced statements against any other race or nationality of people. In our community I don’t ever remember seeing anyone of another color. Growing up in Calhoun County, West Virginia there was one family of black people and I have no doubt they likely lived a life with prejudice. Although I didn’t see them experiencing it and was friends with a boy named Tommy in my class who was an amazing artist. My point of that lead in isn’t really to speak about black prejudice but rather to help you understand I have no concept of being prejudice because of how I was raised.

As an adult I have certainly witnessed prejudices of many kinds. All of which make me sick. But the growing antisemitism in our Nation is something that I cannot understand. From a biblical standpoint I will never comprehend the depth of wickedness in a person who condones the slaughter of a nationality of people as is happening in Israel by Hamas. How on earth have we as a nation allowed this to be our leadership. And how have Christians turned a blind eye to it happening, knowing (if they do) what scripture says about Israel. I’m in full belief that many in America have no idea what scripture says at all from their own reading.

The Apostle Paul knew about prejudice from the inside out. As a card carrying Jewish leader who knew the scripture backwards and forwards, he had been taught the persecution that Israel had been through. Abuse, slavery, the slaughter of their children. And yet, this didn’t stop them from killing Christians because they preached Jesus and converted Jews to Christianity. When Jeremiah in 17:9 said “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” He didn’t sugar coat it. But the wonderful part of that verse is the verse that follows which proclaims [10]” I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” Yes, that means there will be a judgement day. But God knew the heart of the Apostle Paul and turned him from being a Jew with an evil heart toward Christians, to being a Christian of great and amazing wisdom and compassion. That gives us hope for anyone that is lost.

Apostle Paul in Romans 11 speaks of the grafting in of the Gentiles (that’s us) into the family of God. Which makes anyone who claims Christianity but has an antisemitic viewpoint, an idiot.

The Nation of Israel has experienced antisemitism from

Romans 11:13-28 KJV
[13] For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: [14] If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

Emulation is imitation. Paul is hoping that through his preaching and his life that others will imitate his decision and become saved. They knew he was a Jew who wished them dead, but now he is their leader and wants nothing for them, but to see them saved. This argument is showing that as the Gentiles received present advantage through the rejection of the Jews, they would receive far greater at their future recovery, and which proves that their rejection is not final. Israel will have their day again. But in the current age we’re in, we’ve been given the privilege of having God within us. And if God is within us, I can guarantee you’re not saved if you hate Israel. Jesus was a Jew for cyrin’ out loud. How can they justify that? They cannot.

One of my favorite images in my spiritual mind is that of the grafting of the trees that Paul explains in this chapter.

[15] For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? [16] For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. [17] And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; [18] Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. [19] Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. [20] Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: [21] For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.

Israel (as a nation not individuals) has failed to accept Christ as the Messiah. Because of their unbelief the original family tree was broken. God grafted the gentiles who did believe into their spot on the tree and made us apart of the family of God. Glory and Hallelujah that makes my heart so happy that I am a child of God because of His great mercy!

Please pray for Israel today. Pray for the United States that Christians will stand in the gap for Israel with the understanding Jesus is going to return and when He does, it will be a new day in Dodge and day of terror for the unbelievers. Pray for our children and our families to be saved before it’s too late.

Posted in Christian, Faith, Leadership

The Success of Silence

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Success of Silence

Jesus calls us to His rest, and meekness is His method. The meek man cares not at all who is greater than he, for he has long ago decided that the esteem of the world is not worth the effort.
~A. W. Tozer

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Meekness

Numbers 12:3 KJV
(Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)

Moses was likely the second greatest leader since the beginning of time, and God said of him that he was “very meek.” The world views meekness as a weak character trait. They want someone who is loud and confident, and it’s not to say that a bold person isn’t a great leader. But the point of the matter is, God does not view leadership in the same manner as man. We often view it from the flesh. God knows the heart, inner strength and depth of wisdom that goes far deeper than knowledge and confidence. Moses had a stuttering issue that convinced him that he wouldn’t be the best leader, but God proved to him that if He listened to God’s guidance he would be successful. Isn’t that a novel concept? Moses was not only the greatest leader on earth he was the meekest man on earth. I find that fascinating. I personally do not know very many meek leaders. I know a few… my Pastor for one. Moses led millions of people for four decades. They weren’t just blindly following him. They rebelled several times. But he never lost control. Isn’t that amazing? What about this meek man made people listen to him?

Don’t Undervalue the Meek

Psalm 22:26 KJV
The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall live for ever.

Psalm 22 bears the prophetic words from Jesus on the cross. Psalm 22:1 KJV “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?”

The greatest leader of all time is of course Jesus. He who wrote the words of meekness and tells us the value of meekness. My Dad was a meek man. I never, not once, heard him raise his voice. He meekly lived his life, reading the word of God, teaching the word of God and didn’t argue; but rather knew what he believed, and allowed others to believe what they wanted to. I try to live that way, but I have a tendency to want to convince others that believe something else to change their viewpoint to mine. I don’t do it demanding, that is not my personality. But if you back me into a corner on what I believe, I can be loud. I don’t believe that Jesus, even being half man, would have succumbed to shouting if He was backed into any corner. When they threatened to throw Him over a cliff, He simply walked away. Oh to have such inner strength! I want to run my mouth, I always think that will make me feel better. It doesn’t. But it does let some pressure off the pop off valve inside me once in a while.

If meekness was also the character of God, should that not be our goal? Of course it should. And if we would ever reach that goal, two blessings would come from it…satisfaction and praise. Two valuable assets in life. To be in a state of being satisfied with where we are and so happy we’re praising the Lord! Yes, let it be so.

Don’t Mis-Understand Meekness

Psalm 25:9 KJV
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

A meek leader may not force their viewpoint upon you, they may allow you to continue in the way you were going until you fall flat on your face, but don’t view that as an error on their part. That’s what happens so often in this world of blame where anything that happens is “not our fault.” The left and the right have been playing the blame game rather than just stating what they’re for. A meek person stands for what they believe in. You will seldom, if ever hear a meek person putting the blame on another person for the struggles in life. They understand that things happen. They understand that this world is terribly broken. They understand that they’re not perfect and when they stand before Jesus, they alone will answer for their errors. Meek people don’t waste words, especially on those who won’t accept their advice.

The Holy Spirit is also meek. After all it is the third part of the Trinity. It’s not yelling at you when it says, “Don’t do that.” “Don’t say that.” “Don’t go there.” And then you do. And maybe you don’t but it’s like I almost feel the Holy Spirit roll His eyes inside of me. He doesn’t yell at that point either. He simply forgives me and together we move on. But I understand that it was me who messed up. I didn’t listen to His guidance. If I had just been meeker and went the direction I was being told, my life would have been better.

Today, as I begin Tuesday, August 20th, 2024… this very noisy person is a little quieter in my soul. I pray I continue that way… I understand that meekness doesn’t always make noise.

Posted in Christian Service, Eternity, Faith, Family, Heaven

What’s in your suitcase?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What’s in your suitcase?

Proverbs 18:24 KJV
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

I came to the Amish country of Ohio for the purpose of resetting. Over the past few months I have somehow managed to get my mind into a very weary place. I was not only physically tired, but mentally tired. I would sit down to write and my mind just wouldn’t get into gear. It would idle. As if I were sitting along side the road in a car, watching the world go by. It’s been frustrating and draining. Today is the day we’re heading home. And the first day of clarity really. We’ve been here four days; but it took the first three just to get me caught up on rest. I played the guitar, I worshipped, I read the Bible and I rested. And of course I spent a lot of time with David in the car driving the roads of Berlin, Walnutcreek, Sugarcreek, Kidron, and Charm. My absolute happiest of places. Why? Because it’s simple. It’s a land filled with hardworking families and neighbors supporting each other working toward one destination… Heaven.

Somewhere in a cornfield in Berlin, Ohio

If I were home this Sunday morning, I’d be preparing for church, literally and spiritually. The church is another of my happy places. Because it is the body of Christ. It is there that His body comes together, the hands, legs, heart, mind, all the parts and pieces. And before you say it or think it, every church has a butt or two as well. The body wouldn’t be complete without them now would it? Who are they? I wouldn’t dare say, but you may already have names and faces popping up in your mind. The point of saying that is, the reality of life is it’s not perfect. But God is.

Destination Heaven

Everybody wants to go, but I see fewer and fewer packing for the trip. What’s in your suitcase? If I were to make a check list for packing it would look something like this:

I would like to say that’s all you’d find. But there would also be many failures. Because like the “butts in the church” that is reality. Children of God are a work in progress like the farms I’ve seen in Ohio. Some of them are filled with many fruits of their labor. But there were some gardens that were struggling to produce. There were farms that we passed that I’m sure were very productive, but boy did they stink! One of the sweetest things I seen at multiple Amish homes were gardens of flowers that you could pick your own bouquet. Either I had not noticed that in years past or it’s something new, but it made me smile to think of them sharing their beautiful labors with neighbors or even strangers who passed by. Shouldn’t that be what our lives are about? Sharing the beauty that God gave us to create through our talents?

I’ve been missing that mark lately. I’ve been so tired from sitting around idling, I haven’t shared many of my flowers. How about you? What is your gifts that God gave you? Are you using them for Him?

The parable of the talents was there in scripture to remind us that God expects a return on what He’s given. He didn’t give it to you to put in the ground or in a box. He gave it to you to invest.

Matthew 25:13-30 KJV
Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. [14] For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. [15] And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. [16] Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. [17] And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. [18] But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. [19] After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. [20] And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. [21] His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. [22] He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. [23] His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. [24] Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: [25] And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. [26] His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: [27] Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. [28] Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. [29] For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. [30] And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

It’s a great day. Let’s get busy filling our suitcases for the Lord.

Posted in Christian Service, Evangelism, Life Inspiration

Do you have a Romans 16 Relationship with God & the Church?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on Do you have a Romans 16 Relationship with God & the Church?

David and I took a long awaited anniversary trip to the Ohio Amish country for a few days. It is our happy place for a number of reasons, but primarily because the simplicity of life there allows the hecticness of our lives to be reset. I’ve struggled with my mind shutting down, way too many thoughts… way too many directions of thoughts. But one direction has been forefront in my mind for 28 years… church.

The local body of Christ for which I serve with. I love them. Not only my own church, but they of course are who I serve with and have the greatest concerns over. I’ll call them my Romans 16 relationship. As I read through Romans 16, I imagined writing as Paul did, the list of salutations to the saints. I could put the names of church members into the list of Paul’s mentioning of saints and what they’d done to encourage him in the Lord.

Romans 16:1-27 KJV – 1 I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: 2 That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.

Succourer of Many

Succourer was defined in a commentary as a “patroness of many of the saints in necessity and distress.” Although it’s hard for us in America to identify with the necessity and distress of Paul’s day we have versions of our own. We live in a world filled with heartaches, diseases, abuse and the lists go on. Any given Sunday a suffering saint arrives at the churches in our towns needing compassion. Needing a Phebe. Are you such a one?

There was one from the church I grew up in who called me last night to check on my Mother. Her voice on the phone is like a warm blanket in the winter. She is such a comfort to the saints. Just a phone call, but it was made to succor her friend in knowing that they were prayed for and cared for. Is there someone you could call?

Helpers in Christ Jesus

3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: 4 Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.

Priscilla and Aquila were a husband and wife team who served with Paul. They opened up their home to hold services, which no doubt put them at great risks for persecution. One of the many convictions in my life is that I don’t do more entertaining of saints in my home and encourage pop up bible studies. As a new convert that was such a vital part of my growth. I learned as much outside the church as I did inside. Our lives are our ministries. I’ve heard it said “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” How can they, without actions in our lives to prove it. I don’t know what Achaia did to win Epaenetus to Christ, but he obviously did something to warrant a mention in Paul’s letter to Rome. When have you invited someone to your home and share what God is doing?

These questions are question for my self as much as the reader.

Labourers for Christ

6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.

There are for certain those who labor for Christ in the church; many of whom go unseen and seldom if ever acknowledged. That’s not why they do what they do, but accolades go much further than you think when someone is serving Christ and is often tired. I would imagine that Mary’s labor would have been providing meals, perhaps opening up her own home, fiscally responding to the churches needs. The work can be very physical labor. There are a few women in our church that have labored this entire summer to create beauty throughout the church. I doubt that was the case with Mary, but their efforts show that the people of our church care about the structure of the church as well as the body of Christ. Both are important!

Prisoners in Christ

7 Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

How far are we willing to go for Christ? To prison? Would you? I doubt any of us have had to face that problem, but we don’t know what the future holds. In 1 Peter 3:15-17 Peter says “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: [16] Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. [17] For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.”

Paul, Andronicus and Junia had that fervor of the Spirit, in that they all went to prison, rather than denying Christ. This too was not as in today’s standards. There were no posh prisons in Paul’s day. They were crude and demoralizing, and the men of that day were willing to suffer at the hands of the evil ones rather than cower to them. We need strong men (and women) in our churches today. Forget going to prison, they won’t even go to board meetings and defend the gospel. But rather they allow them convert and pervert doctrine to accommodate the sins of the world. Do you know where your church stands on the hot topics of the world today? Homosexuality, transgender, sex change operations, abortion? Are we protecting our children and defending the Word of God that is clear on such matters? The threat of prison is ever looming in the minds of our wicked government to make it illegal to defend the gospel. It’s a question that we all may face if the Lord tarries His return.

Chapter 16 continues with more accolades of the saints of Jesus and friends of Paul. But in verse 17 Paul changes his tone, and reminds us that not all churh folk have good intentions. 17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. 19 For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

This message was a real bell ringer for me. Paul’s closing words to the Romans are needful today as they were then. Same battle. New Day. Are you Ready?

Posted in Life Inspiration

The Land of Good Intentions

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Land of Good Intentions

It’s where I live. It’s at the corner of Moral Highground and the Divided Highway. I’ve lived there my entire adult life. Always meaning to get something done, and too busy for my own (or anyone else’s) good. I get angry with myself, but to no avail. I just keep driving to that corner and either sitting on the porch, waiting for clear direction, or getting back on the road and driving in circles. Yes, that is very metaphoric writing. But I hope you get the point. If not I’ll try to explain it to you in a way that you’ll either understand, identify with, or you’ll determine I’m scatterbrained.

Moral Highground

I spend a lot of time there. Pondering life, wishing our world had taken God’s word serious. I believe every single word, jot and tittle in the Bible. I love reading, studying and hearing the word of God preached. I try very hard not to play church. But I can be just as guilty as the next person when it comes to not putting arms and legs to the body of Christ. From Sunday to Wednesday, and Wednesday to Sunday I will fail to speak with anyone about Christ in great detail, take care of the widows (with the exception of my mother) or do ministry work because I am so divided by life’s circumstances.

Married to the Master

Romans 7:4 KJV
Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.

In a few days, August 16th to be exact, David Johnson and I will have been married 44 years. It seems like yesterday that my skinny little body walked down the aisle to wed my one and only sweetheart since my junior year in high school. If I treated David, like I treat Christ, I doubt we’d have lasted 44 years. Scripture tells us that we are the bride of Christ. We are married to the Master. And someday we will live out that dream wedding that John saw in Revelation 21:2 ~ And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

But until then, I will fall short of what I should be as the Savior’s bride and servant of the Almighty God.

Every day my priority begins with bearing fruit for the Savior. But twenty minutes (if that) into my day, I am running down the Divided Highway in a dozen directions and getting nothing accomplished for Jesus. Distraction is Satan’s best tactic of causing a Christian to become ineffective. And an added bonus for him is to make us think we’re actually accomplishing something for God. But if I park my butt at the corner of Moral Highground, I have to confess that my accomplishments are always a work in progress. I’m gong to visit so and so, I’m going to call…I’m going to study more, read more of my Bible, do more ministry work, and the ideas will flow liberally into my mind where they stall, and never come to fruition.

Fruition. Fruit. I hadn’t seen that before. Man I’m slow!

Members in Particular

1 Corinthians 12:27-31 KJV
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. [28] And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. [29] Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? [30] Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? [31] But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

If today you and I wrote the following: My Particular Ministry is_____________________. What would it be? It’s not up for debate as to whether or not you have one. You do. God said so. This discussion doesn’t end at Chapter 12 with Apostle Paul. Chapter 13 is known at the “love chapter.” That is our primary responsibility; to love people into the Kingdom of God. To treat the world in such a way, they want to follow you home. Heaven help me if they do. It literally says “Welcome to the Chaos” on my house post.

But within that chaos is a family of 12. How blessed am I. My grandchildren are in constant need of something to eat, a ride to or from the school, help with a project, dog sitting, (I drew the line at snake sitting). That chaos is some of the greatest memories and times I have. It too is a part of my ministry. Noah made sure his eight were in the boat. But he didn’t stop ministering to the people, even while building the ark. Can you imagine the insanity around Noah’s loading of the ark, preparing for those 40 days, all while ministering to a world that would literally die around him when his job of building the ark was done. Well, we don’t have to worry about the critters, but we do have to worry about the people. We need to get them into the ark of the Covenant of God that He has promised to those who believe that He is the Way, the Truth and Life. When you look into the eyes of your friends, families and neighbors, you’re looking into an eternal being that will be somewhere when the end has come. Heaven or Hell. Both are very real addresses.

Measure of Stature

Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV
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:

When we stand in Heaven, face to face with the Creator, it is then that we will have the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. We will be like Him. We’ll be given our eternal assignments! But not before we stand before the throne of God and answer for what we did with the time we were given. I preach it. I remind myself, and yet I feel like the biggest human failure on earth in the line of God’s children. Help me Lord to live today like Heaven just opened up and the ark was beginning to float.

Posted in Uncategorized

What if there was no place in your community that Satan felt comfortable?

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on What if there was no place in your community that Satan felt comfortable?

There are days where I wish I had a pulpit that I could drag into the town square and just let loose what is on my heart. I get tired of everyone, including myself playing church. I think that may have been where James was at in chapter 4 of the book of James.

The Issue Starts on the Inside

James 4:1-17 KJV – [1] From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. 4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

What kind of lusts are warring in our members? James calls them out when he tells them that their lusts are in their very members. Within themselves. Never in history have people had so much and cared so little. It’s never enough for any of us. We want one more dollar, one more car, one more item, one more something thats shiny and wonderful. And when all is said and done, it will all burn up at the end of time, except the souls of men. Where will they be?

5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

Boy did that ding my bell? Was James being snarky? I don’t know, but it sounds to me like God said, “Do you think I’m talking just to hear myself talk?”

There was a sermon that I am always reminded of that Dr. Myron Guiler preached when he was talking about deer season, and how a man had prayed that God would bless their hunt. Dr. Guiler very adamantly said, “God doesn’t care if you get a deer!” He was being kind of funny, but he meant it. Most, if not all, of those men were not hunting because they were hungry. It was a sport. God is not concerned about games. He is concerned about the souls of men. Yes He blesses us with sports and things, but that’s not His concern. We’d survive without those things. But we won’t survive without Him.

How much thought do we give in the course of our day about the souls of men? Far less than we give thought to ourselves, am I right? And in spite of it all, God covers us in grace.

6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

The one thing the Devil cannot stand is when God’s people turn their back on him to look at God. It hurts his little feelings don’t ya know. When we get our attention on what it should be on, Satan flees. He doesn’t want to see God’s people caring for one another, ignoring the world and the things in it and sharing the Word of God with one another.

Yesterday a group of believers gathered at the 1982 Foundation, Avalon Campus and prayed. We shared the gospel with one another. One brother brought great joy to our hearts when he shared the story of leading a young woman to Christ. Oh my stars it was such an amazing testimony. For the half hour or so that we were there, I did not feel the presence of evil. I believe he fled for a moment in time because he had no desire to hear us glorifying God and encouraging each other in the name of Christ. Imagine if we did that all day, and not just a portion? What if there was no place Satan felt comfortable in your community. How wonderful would that be!!!!

James continued:

8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. 11 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another? 13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: 14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. 15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. 16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil. 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

In our small community, I sometimes go weeks without publishing an obituary on the Ridgeview News. But this morning I published five, and two others earlier in the week. Some of those deaths were untimely, caused by tragedy, others were that of age. But the point is, just as James said to the people he loved, you don’t know what tomorrow holds, and neither does anyone else. President Trump was faced with that truth when God spared his life by a fraction of an inch. Some in the world were not so lucky. What was their eternal fate? Only God knows. But our greatest concern in life should not be who wins the next election or who is more blessed materialistically. Our greatest concern should be finding out if we and our loved ones are prepared to face eternity.

Posted in Christian, Church attendance, Church Unity

The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

Written by talk2shari Published Discussion Leave a Comment on The Un-Assembling of the Local Church

On my many adventures out and about County and State, I pass by little country churches (and some relatively big churches) one after another of every denomination. There are some that you can tell from the appearance, someone is taking care of the physical property, leading you to believe that those in the interior on Sunday morning are taking care of the spiritual body. That’s not always the case. But as time passes, I notice far more churches (like myself) looking a little worn. Many are in severe disrepair because there is no longer a body of believers even assembling inside. At what point did they un-assemble? And why? Any number of reasons could be speculated but the most likely reason is their love of the world, outweighed their love for God.

If you’re out of church, you probably feel judged and will want to stop reading. Please don’t. This isn’t about me standing in judgement of those who don’t attend church. I could honestly speak just as negatively of those on the inside of the church who attend but don’t listen. We’re human. Sometimes humanity get’s the best of us. But let me give you three reasons why I believe you’re ready to reassemble.

  1. There’s a missing Peace and a missing Piece

There is a God sized hole in the soul of every human. If the Lord Jesus Christ is not in your life, you know you’re missing something. I know from experience. But, perhaps you’re saying, “Shari, we’re not the same.” No, but God is. And He created you with the desire to know Him. That’s the missing piece. And if you’ve ever truly known Him, when He is not a central part of your life you’re missing peace, and you know it’s gone.

John 14:23-31 KJV
Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. [24] He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. [25] These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. [26] But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. [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. [28] Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. [29] And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. [30] Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. [31] But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

When I finally connected with Jesus in 1996 my life was a mess. I had no peace. I worried about everything, my life had very little meaningful purpose. I tried to fill it with community good, but I knew that it was just falling through the hole in my life. It added nothing of value to who I was. Both of my girls were young and I knew I was messing up their lives. They needed a foundation I could not provide.

But then I discovered who Jesus really was. Not the facts of Jesus, but the faith in Jesus. When the Holy Spirit came into my heart I knew it! It was very real and the most amazing event in my life. I had peace. I had purpose. If you’re currently not experiencing that, you’re ready to re-assemble.

2. There’s Trouble and There’s Fear

Jesus said Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. If you’re not troubled and fearful in this world, you’re not paying attention! I certainly have moments of serious concern. But understanding the Word of God and being taught by worthy leaders is an important part of every week for me. It secures my faith in the fact that the children of God are going to be okay. And the fact that we need to know we are the children of God and that our family is saved. That is where the security of the believer comes in and when Satan tries to create fear and anxiety in your life you can point him to the word of God and he will flee. His days are numbered!

But without the church, it is very difficult to stay inline with scripture. Not impossible, but far harder than it needs to be. We need to study on our own, but we need church leaders in our lives that we can trust to share what the Lord speaks to them, and how He is working in their life. Then when that trouble and fear begins to rear its ugly head, we’re not alone. Satan loves it when you don’t have anyone you can trust.

3. Satan is Very Real

Jesus said “for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.” That prince is Satan. He is the prince of this world and the fallen angels from Heaven are wreaking havoc in everyone’s life. The demonic forces have taken over the television, the computer, the music industry. You can’t escape the evil anymore. It’s every where. It takes its toll on us. The shows and movies are filled with killing, broken families and violence, and so is society. I’ve never seen a time in my life where people accept evil as the norm. But that’s how it is. What causes me nightmares, children view in a video game and become the character. That’s scary stuff! How will that affect them as adults? I think that’s what we’re seeing with so many children being abused and killed, even by their parents. It’s unfathomable to understand how such things can happen unless you see Satan for what he is. Evil and powerful.

He is not more powerful than God, but Jesus just told us that Satan is the prince of this world. Meaning he does have power. Until Jesus returns! Then his power is done. But so is the opportunity to get your life right with God.

If these thoughts are weighing on your mind. It’s time to do something about it. I pray that you will find a spirit filled church with a God lead pastor and join up! It won’t be perfect. Satan will make sure you see the flaws. But look for the good work God is doing and then become a part of that. The flaws will fade into the background and be drowned out by your peace, your purpose and your people! Everyone needs people.

Love ya! Shari, the Jesus Chick