It’s 7:33 a.m. Sunday morning and I’ve been into scripture, worship, prayer and coffee for a couple of hours, plus some. That’s not to boast of myself, that’s just to let you know my mindset has been on the things …
I’ve read the bible through on more than one occasion, so I know I’ve read the book of Ezekiel before. But deed… I don’t remember chapter 4. Perhaps I’ve blocked it out. I do have a pretty queasy stomach and …
The latter side of the book of Jeremiah is beating me to a pulp. It’s true. It’s hard to find an encouraging word to sketch and color images from a weeping prophet. There were several images from the earlier chapters, …
I’ve spent considerable time in the Word of God, especially since caring for my Mother who has dementia. The greatest blessing of staying with her is the time I get to spend in the Word, uninterrupted by what was my …
Most Christmas seasons since salvation I have read from the book of the Luke. But being in Isaiah in my daily reading this year, I just stayed put. It seemed so very appropriate, being that Isaiah is the prophecy of …
What a word from the Lord! I’ve been journaling through Isaiah and just when I think my spirit is filled to the brim, His words overflow my soul and sit in awe…. I’ve been feeling so guilty lately as I …
I’ve been in the book of Ecclesiastes this week, and there’s nothing like reading the words of King Solomon to remind myself of how very inept I am in thought by comparison. I have tried not to read scripture just …
I’m reading the words of the wisest of all men of all time this morning. I wish that I had the patience to memorize scripture in the way I have seen a few others do. I have friends who can …
Nothing beats the word of God for good comedy relief, especially when God knows you need a reminder that He’s got your back, front and both sides in this game called life. Psalm 119 is the longest book in the …
One of my many favorite thoughts in the days of adversity, is the notion of Christ placing His feet upon the enemy as His footstool. It’s an especially sweet thought from the vantage point that I have always felt like …
My reading today began in Psalm 96, and on that page I had previously journaled “Joy to the World” from Psalm 98. Written beside the art was the name of Preacher and hymn writer, Isaac Watts who wrote that song. …
I sat down at my desk this morning and, as I do, I prayed that God would open His word to speak to my soul what it needed to hear. I was ready for the chastisement, because there’s always something …
I heard a preacher say Sunday morning on a television sermon, (I didn’t know the preacher) but he spoke words that really caught my attention, and halted my steps. “Demons are neither funny nor phony,” he said. That’s a good …
One of the many reasons I started the Ridgeview News site was to give a voice to a community that had been squelched for a century. To take back the narrative from the oppressors who believe it’s their right to …
Three times in Chapter 80 of the book of Psalms the writer Asaph repeats “Turn us again, O LORD God of hosts, cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.” Vs. 3, 7, 19. Anytime something is repeated …
Psalm 77:11-13I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. [12] I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. [13] Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: …
I’ve been reading my way through the book of Psalms on my way through the Bible. But lately I have been feeling as if I am living one of David’s Psalms in my own life. I’m not worthy of being …
I could have also titled this, how to totally take the “Word of God out of Context.” But stick with me, I’ll bring it around to context at the end. It’s not a secret to anyone that knows me well …
It’s slightly ironic that I began this post a few weeks ago. I’ve been trying to regroup myself on my ministry and it’s been a battle. So I covet your prayers; but even though this thought came a few weeks …
I think a lot about church. To say that it’s on my mind quite often is probably an understatement. I don’t say that to say “Oh look at me, I’m so churchy!” That is absolutely not what this is about. …
Every morning I sit in my room at the desk and begin reading the Word of God. I never know what journey He may take me on, or the level of intensity. Some days it’s a pretty laid back conversation …
There was the most amazing wedding story traveling around social media about a man and woman, two real estate agents that first meet at a real estate conference and very quickly fell madly in love. The two lived quite a …
In the midst of the weekend I had, I thought it would be a great idea to install a new “builder” to my Ridgeview News website. In the process of that, I wrecked my website to the point that it …
There is an old saying: “If you were charged with being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” It convicts me to live louder for the cause of the Christ. It removes any self righteous thought I …
This morning I found myself in the book of Ephesians reading about the Armor of God and being reminded that everyday is a battle. Some small. Some large. But each one set into place to thwart any work that I …
It’s odd the verses of scripture that sometimes catch my attention. On this cold winter morning where I’m wrapped in a cozy blanket, longing for the warmth of summer days, it was a verse about cucumbers that had my mind …
One of the greatest regrets I have for the Christian population on earth is that we allowed PRIDE to steal the symbolic meaning of the rainbow to use for the symbol of sinful behavior, thereby causing Christians to stop using …
I heard it once said that “trust takes years to build, seconds to break and a life time to repair.” I know that’s true by experience. I’ve lost trust in others and I’ve caused others to lose trust in me. …
It’s a question I have to ask myself daily. Actually, multiple times a day, because every decision I make takes me in a direction. If I’m scrolling social media and a negative or immoral post pops up, (to which there …
I find myself more often than I should scrolling videos, one after the other, on social media. It’s no doubt one of Satan’s best tools to monopolize the time of Christians so they’ll be less and less productive for the …
The Apostle Peter was known for his quick (sometimes without thought) actions, and most importantly his willingness to follow and teach Christ, until his death found him crucified upside down on a cross. I’m sure like most church folk, there …
America is still far, far from a perfect nation. But following the election, which found many of the woke ideologies and those who support it cast aside for the more conservative views once again, my heart was grateful. Not so …
I love Bible conversations. And Sunday School class is the perfect time (if your church program is designed as such) to share thoughts on how the scriptures apply to our everyday lives. At First Baptist Church of Grantsville, one of …
Now that the election is over, perhaps my mind will settle down a little, probably very little, but for at least this morning, I’m not thinking about politics. Nope. That’s a lie. This morning I’m thinking about the politics of …
2 Corinthians 3:1 KJV[1] Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? One of the many advantages of being in the Ministry is, that …
This is a message to myself, but come along as I talk to God about my own life, and the weariness of my soul and body. My mind is already tired when I get up from the things I lie …
Philippians 2:1-7 KJVIf there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, [2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being …
In the land of social media the warriors are brave. There is no bloodshed, right? Everyone has the right to throw their opinion into the arena, whether or not it’s truth, lie, or unknown. We all know the adage we …
In these strange political times, it’s hard not to think about the end of time as Jesus tells His disciples in Matthew 24. As a new convert in 1996, the very first serious, and in-depth bible study I did was …
I seen a meme this morning that used the gifts given to Jesus to make a “funny”, saying There’s gold, there’s frankensense… but wait, there’s myrrh!” You might have to be an essential oil fanatic like myself to think that’s …
I have met my fair share of people who are wrapped up in the notion, even if they say they believe in faith in Christ alone for salvation, that somehow what they’re doing is more important than why they’re doing …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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. …
Proverbs 18:24 KJVA 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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Currently I’m studying through the book of Revelation. I think it’s appropriate for “such a time as this.” With the world being absolutely bonkers!!! I need to read the comforting words of God that tells me, “Hey Shari, I have …
Once again on Sunday morning I went to the altar. As I do most every Sunday service. I have people I need to pray for, circumstances I need to lift up, stuff that only Jesus can tackle. My community is …
I heard the phrase “haste makes waste” my entire life, but I never gave it any thought as to where it originated. It did not suprise me to realize that it was from scripture. What did surprise me was the …
I have so many question as I sit struggling at 2 a.m. to figure out what is “acceptable” behavior as a child of God in these political times. There are lines in the sand I have always tried never to …
I will tell you without hesitation that I am a gullible soul. I love people. In general most all people. But there are some people that I struggle to love. I love them in Christ; meaning I want to see …
Election Day 2024. Dates like this seem to be a decade away and then they’re here before we know it. I would have loved on Election Day to give a rah rah speech of great patriotic magnitude that caused red, …
It was on the front of the church bulletin last week; those words from Paul stating that He had learned, whatsoever state he was in, therewith to be content. I have moments of contentment, about twenty minutes on a good …
Sunday mornings are the most exciting day of my week. Going to church and studying the word of God puts fuel in the fire of my soul! Fellowship with the believers is unlike any earthly relationship. My two youngest grandsons …
In 26 years of salvation, I’ve been introduced to them all. Praise God for the latter that offers grace in abundance in these confusing times. Let me begin by doing my best to define what these words mean to me. …
Have you ever thought of God’s creation of mankind. When on the 6th day, after He had spoken the world into existence, He then decided to mix up some clay and mold man in His own image. It says Male …
I had a friend come to me in church on Wednesday night (yes, there is church on Wednesday night 😬) and my friend had great concern about the behaviors of some people in our community. Behaviors of anger and resentment, …
It’s a real life struggle to keep my heart and mind in check with my soul. I attended a music concert the other night, which was a much appreciated gift from a friend. I don’t want to make light of …
Matthew 5:16 Let your lights shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father, which is in heaven. My opening question is kind of redundant but I promise you it has a point, Why is it …
That’s the question that every American and especially every American Child of God should ask themselves. When we relinquished full control to the Government of the United States, why are we surprised when life’s not ending well? But, most will …
My daughter calls me her “moral compass.” I am given that title not because I’m so good, but because I try to live by the Word of God. Trust me when I tell you, I’m a failure most days. But …
Don’t ask me about mathematics, geography or science. None of which are my strong suits in life. Do ask me about life, I for certain will have something to say. I have ideas and opinions, I am far from an …
There’s a quote that people say when something bad happens in life, ~ “It left a bad taste in my mouth.” The polar opposite of that is found in Psalm 34, when David said in verse 8 “O taste and see …
My heart breaks for a world around me that does not understand the love of Jesus Christ. The Need for Jesus Christ and the Fact of Jesus Christ. When I say the world around me, I refer to family, friends, …
In the foyer of First Baptist Church, the children’s Sunday School Class left a small basket of wood stars with a word engraved on them. We were instructed as we left the church to pick a word that we were …
From the 2024 “New Year🦋New Joy” Womens Conference in Grantsville, West Virginia January 6, 2024 Can you remember the movie Pretty Woman? How many of you go back to 1990 when you hear that song…. I’m sorry to take your …
One thing I’ve learned about holidays is, heartache doesn’t take those days off. As a news publisher I watched as multiple obituaries came in, domestic violence ravaged homes, a house fire, and more. Good reports as well, I don’t want …
Since the beginning, when man fell in the garden, they fell because they were looking for that one thing. That one thing was to “have it all.” When Satan tempted Eve with the fruit that God had clearly said “if …
In the beginning God created the Heaven and the earth. ~ Genesis 1:1 That’s all I needed to read this morning before my heart began to stir with the realization that I was a part of something much, much bigger. …
I am a vivid dreamer; when I’m awake and when I’m asleep. But those that are dreamt when I am asleep are often so bizarre! Come to think of it… some of those that I have concocted when I’m awake …
I’ve had the privilege of knowing some pretty wonderful leaders; but in my mind, those who have been the best leaders by example are those who have allowed me to see them falter. I am so, so, so very far …
My life has been on hyperdrive lately. It’s been a great asset in keeping me distracted and my thoughts away from worries or concerns. But the greatest issue with that is, it falls right into line with my ways of …
Ephesians 6:16 KJVAbove all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. This has been the first of a new chapter in the life of my husband and I. …
What an interesting thought! It was mentioned in church on Wednesday night and I just couldn’t get the thought out of my mind. What causes some hearts to get stone cold when they hear the gospel and other hearts melt …
I remember as a young Christian, reading the Old Testament and thinking, “How could God destroy all those women and children? How do I know reconcile that reaction of God to the loving God that I experience as a Christian? …
Just Jesus. That’s too short to be a headline. But I used it anyway as an illustration for myself that, no matter how many bells and whistles, I, or someone else have, nothing matters except Jesus. 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 1And …
“I have so many things I need to get done, Lord, Where do I start?” That was my conversation with God today as I sat down with my Bible to study. My day had began very early as always, but …
One thing for certain, when you come out of a time of mourning, the feeling is not one that is generally taken lightly. Loss is an emotion that if it’s allowed to go unchecked will consume a persons life. Often …
A few days ago I stood in the home of three young women who sat by the bedside of their mother, waiting for God to call her home. Each of the girls said that they had made professions of faith. …
Not the best of advice from a Christian blogger. Perhaps I should write about how to win friends and influence enemies, but I generally write what’s on my heart, and today this is it. How to Pick Your Battles. There …
1 Corinthians 10:1-12 KJV Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; [2] And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and …
I didn’t realize the toll it would take on my life to get out of step with Christ. By out of step I mean to lose stride and rhythm with Christ. Where I lost focus on the work of the …
I remember my early years in Calhoun County, at the tender age of 9ish, of God speaking to my heart. I remember hearing the word Armageddon, and the Bible warnings of wars to come and feeling a deep fear in …
For almost 61 years I have been the type person that wanted to make people at the very least smile, and if possible laugh. I love hearing laughter! But I am so outspoken, so opinionated in what I believe that …
I want to share with you the Word of the Lord that really encouraged me in the place that I’m in. And that place is not just Grantsville, WV, although that’s my home town, the place that I’m in is …
In twenty six years of salvation I’ve been in a variety of churches. I’ve been in many denominations and nondenominational churches and I can tell you that there are as many “styles” of service as there are denominations. If not …
Well, technically there’s not any defense of offense when Jesus said to turn the other cheek, right? But then of course there was the time that He said of the religious leaders Matthew 23:33 KJVSYe serpents, ye generation of vipers, …
I was told once, and lived it out myself, that if I played guitar alone too often, I’d have my own rhythm and have difficulty playing with other musicians. And so it was one night at a bluegrass jam that …
Have you ever been spiritually frustrated? Or should I ask “When’s the last time you were spiritually frustrated?” If you’ve walked the path of faith for any length of time at all, and by that I mean greater than 15 …
Have you ever just looked to the sky and ask God “Why not now Lord? I’m ready, and I don’t want to see this world get any more wicked. This is plenty bad enough. Please, come and get your children!” …
Truth of the matter is, we can all likely say the same, but the level of ungodliness varies on any given day. I have issues that would cause many out there to say “Amen and Amen.” I’ve never tried to …
It’s true. If you have ever read a post, met me, or have in any way been a part of my life, I carry a burden for you in my heart. I will not tell you that I pray for …
I am a people watcher. Not for the purpose of judging them, but to determine where we are at in the world, and more specifically, our community. The other night I sat across from a couple of young men in …
Am I blessing the Lord? That was the question to myself this morning. Should that not be the goal in my life first and foremost? While that is my goal, I fall far short of it. I’ve stepped up on …
Matthew 24:4-15 KJVSAnd Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [5] For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. [6] And ye shall hear of wars and …
We have a new puppy at our house, Ellie May. She is basically a Heinz 57, but her breeds are Blue healer, Dachshund and Jack Russell. I guess that makes her a Gentile. My pure bread Miniature Chihuahua, Izzi, acts …
I have to remind myself on a pretty regular basis that I’m a dirt dog. (Matthew 15:26-27). Lest I become like the frozen chosen and think that I am “holy.” Make sure you put the emphasis on the “o” when …
Luke 1:46-55 KJVSAnd Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, [47] And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. [48] For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call …
My thoughts this morning went back fifty plus years. To a singlewide trailer, first at Leatherbark, WV (my earliest memory) 1966 ish and to another that sat on the bank of Duck Creek in 1969. Three bedrooms filled to the …
I always like to start a blog post like this with the definition of our discussion, in hopes there actually is a discussion. That my message won’t fall on deaf ears, but stir the heart of the reader. From the …
It was the topic of conversation at a family dinner yesterday that drew me to these verses. It was a morning of mourning that parked me here in search of answers. What am I mourning? The death of desire. Oh …
I was shocked when he said it. I cannot point you to the YouTube video, I kind of watched it in disbelieve and then moved on. But the thought kept being triggered in my mind. I’m not even sure what …
As I sat in the most frustrated state I have been in for a very long time spiritually, not knowing the direction I should go, I dried my eyes and determined to continue on. Why? Because I’ve made a ministry …
That’s a question I ask myself almost daily. Do I have enough time. Probably not. Do I have enough money? Seldom ever. Do I have enough food for everyone? That depends on how hungry they are. Do I have enough …
I was brought up, one of five children. One of dozens and dozens of cousins. There was no drama that I recall because nobody had time for that. Social media wasn’t even imagined, and the closest thing to it was …
When I say “I am of the opinion.” I most certainly have an opinion. A strong one. But God forbid that it doesn’t line up with His. This is my struggle. While I pray I’m always open to His leading …
Every day this world get’s more wicked and Christianity is a distant relic of what it once was. The further it gets away from the scriptural defining, the more confused I see people become. Is it any wonder that our …
Are you like me, in that I heap condemnation upon myself, until I am buried under the weight of it all and unable to walk in the newness of Christ because I’m carrying the old crap around? Perhaps it’s just …
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the character of mankind. I’ve struggled with my own character throughout the decades knowing that I never measure up to the standards that a Christian should, I fail God miserably. And yet, He …
What are we hoping in today? Jeremiah has this conversation with the children of Israel in Jeremiah 17. He’d just given them a piece of his mind over their continued idol worship and wicked lives in the sight of God …
I’m not sure what kind of bug caught up with me, and with six grandchildren in school and being in constant meetings and crowds its very difficult to say, but let me tell you this much, the bug that caught …
For this week, the Jesus Chick has been the Ridgeview Publisher for a greater portion, spending 3 of the 5 days of the work week, (although I technically work seven); but these days I spent in the Circuit Court of …
It began as a conversation in our Sunday School Class this week, and it’s been on my mind ever Gsince. A comment was made “God is Always good, but good is not always God.” It’s caused me great ponderance. I …
It’s a question I ask myself most every Sunday morning. As I pass by churches… in going to my own… in watching services on line, why are there so few people in “most” area churches. There are indeed big churches …
There is a consistent struggle in my life that I know I was cut from the cloth of, but it doesn’t make it any easier to live in the garment. The reason I land on this topic today is, because …
I, like I’m sure many of you, feel that I’m either coming out of a storm or going into one. There’s always turmoil somewhere in my life. But in between those times of torment there is this stillness that occurs …
Let’s put the rubber on the road and squeal the tires a little bit for the Lord Jesus. Every week I have good intentions that go by the way side because of a bad attention span. Today I’ve struggled as …
2 Chronicles 7:1-3 KJVSNow when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the Lord filled the house. [2] And the priests could …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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. …
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. …
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 …
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 KJV[1] … To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: [2] A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck …
As I read Romans 10, Paul’s words pierced my heart for my family. Those are the first people that came into my mind when I read “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might …
What benefit is the world offering you today? That’s my question to myself. Perhaps it might be yours too after you read my thoughts for the day. When I think of the world, it’s usually in the context of evil. …
A trip to the grocery store makes me nauseous. Not only for my own finances, but to think about those who are on a very limited income trying to buy food for their family, or gas for their vehicle to …
Do you ever grow weary of noise? Oh my stars! I long for silence much of the time. There are sounds I enjoy, such as the sounds of laughter and joy from my grandchildren and other family. That makes my …
I have not thought a great deal about the Russian and Ukrainian war. My mind has been so busy on my own life that the issues outside my own site line haven’t been on my heart a great deal. But …
I guess I surprised a few people at the Calhoun County Commission Meeting on Thursday evening when I spoke passionately to two of the Commissioners. Perhaps too passionately, although that will be for God to decide. But I felt that …
Boy. Does life happen! Can I get a witness from anyone who has a life that spirals out of control any given moment and then on the brink of a nervous breakdown, it settles back into the routine of “just …
Yesterday I had had about as much bad news as I could stomach. On the national scene and on the local scene it just wasn’t good. Russian war crimes and more Ukrainian victims is off the scale of my comprehensive …
That’s the words that have played out in my mind a thousand times. So much so that it had taken it’s toll on me spiritually. The words had been spoken to me about an issue of the past, but it …
As a child of God, there is a question foremost in my mind, most of the time. “Why do I feel like such a failure in service to God?” I attempt to remain faithful to the calling in my life, …
A recent personal quest of my own to learn more about oils from a biblical perspective brought me to one of the first mentions in scripture in the book of Exodus Chapter 25. It was actually the third mention of …
Titus 1:1 KJVPaul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; Acknowledging the Truth. Boy o boy, does that preach in …
There is no question that I am a person of opinion. If you don’t believe it, ask my husband, he’ll tell you quickly that I have an opinion and have no problem voicing it. So does he, its one thing …
According to pewforum.org. a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world, 77% of adults in West Virginians believe in God. And yet only 64% of those ask believed that religion was …
Although 2022 is an off season election, as my first year in the position of Publisher of the Ridgeview News, I have a little different vantage point to look upon the election antics of those running for office. But this …
No, the headline is not a typo. It’s a real truth from my perspective of last year. I came away from 2021 with wisdom that I didn’t have in 2020. I could see very clearly things that I had not …
The question arose yesterday morning during our Sunday School Class from teacher Donnie Pitts, “Why did the Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah?” It was a question I hadn’t given deep thought, but I had certainly wondered about that before. …
I’m in awe every day that God does not strike a bolt from Heaven and say “Enough is enough Shari, you’re obviously as bright as you’re ever going to be so just come on home with Me.” And if you …
Nobody knows the story of Christmas better than God, Who created Christmas. But high in the realm of knowledge of the eschaton (the final event in the end time plans) is Satan. Who though he is not all knowing, he …
2 Peter 3:1 KJV [1] This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: God and I have conversations almost daily now where I ask Him to …
Praise God! I’ve never professed to be perfect, else there would be so many disappointed people in my life. Mainly family, who know me all too well, but friends for sure, and general acquaintances would find me sad too. I …
If you were anywhere close Calhoun County, West Virginia this week, you witnessed multiple Christmas miracles all because one woman ` had a crazy idea and the passion to deliver. I have lived in Calhoun County since 1970, I’ve seen …
Since 2019 I have watched the decline of the church both locally and nationally and each Sunday I ask myself “why?” What happened to the people that called themselves friends of God who now are no shows to His house …
Perhaps it’s a known fact about me, or perhaps it’s little known, but truth none the less, I like titles. I like being acknowledged as a person of purpose. I’ve always wondered about the difference between purpose and passion. Not …
At three a.m. this morning I heard the tones drop for an ambulance at the home of a friend. My heart sunk, I prayed for him and his sweet wife and then as my mind has a tendency to do, …
Galatians 1:8-12 KJVS [8] But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. [9] As we said before, so say I now again, …
Would to God I had full understanding of all things in life. Why things happens and why certain things don’t. Why can I not be everything people need me to be? My heart breaks in two and I stitch it …
This is the third day in a row that I’ve woken up angry. Monday was as a teacher, Tuesday I was angry with David (who has been making me breakfast in bed multiple times this week, so don’t tell him; …
I watched yesterday as someone touted their own greatness because of a college degree. I’m not making light of the hard work that is applied to getting a degree, but what complicates this subject for me is when people pay …
Titus 1:10-16 KJVS [10] For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: [11] Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. [12] …
Philemon 1:1 KJVS [1] Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, I encourage you to take a few minutes of your day and read the book of Philemon if this …
Psalm 46, a Psalm I’ve heard quoted and one that I myself have quoted with little regard to the context. But with the current state of affairs in our Nation, suddenly scripture that once encouraged my gentile heart, now points …
Here it is, 9:30 Tuesday morning and I’m just getting in tune with God. It’s not that I’ve been totally useless this morning, I did a little laundry folding, took a couple of grands to school after fixing them a …
October is Pastor Appreciation month! Have you shown your Pastor the appreciation they deserve?There is so much more to be being a Pastor than most of the congregation understands, which is primarily because most people only think about the Pastor …
I am a lover of words. I love the fact that they can paint an image as clearly as paint on canvas in the mind of a listener. I desire to write in such a manner that causes the reader …
I fear the concept of being the “bride” of Christ is lost on most of the church. (Revelation 21:9) No man or woman in their right mind would tolerate a spouse who only spoke to them on Sunday. And only …
I had no sooner gotten into bed last night, when the lyrics to a song began to run through my head. It’s been another rough week, spiritually speaking. And truthfully the lyrics came from a dark place inside my mind …
My frustration mounts daily. Certainly with myself and also for my people. There are times that I truthfully don’t understand why God has not taken me home already. And then there are times when I know my purpose and God’s …
After fourteen hours of travel, as a very tired and weary traveler, I pulled onto the tree line streets of Windom, Minnesota for the very first time in my life. I had loved seeing a part of our nation I …
It’s unbelievable that twenty years have passed since that horrible day that will forever live in the memories of Americans. As I heard again the words of then President Bush say that it was an “Islamic attack”, and now to …
Why is it that the children of God never learn? Again and again we go through life faithing and failing. Yes, I know faithing is not a word, but hey, the world makes up new words every day, why not …
I am one who does shy away from unnecessary confrontation, (unnecessary is a relative term dependent on my mood of course) but I am not one to shy away from controversy and differing opinions, especially when it is something that …
1 Corinthians 15:32-43 KJVS [32] If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. [33] Be not …
Where are you? There are people on my heart daily. This morning as I made up the bed, and I placed the squeezey bear that I got on the day of my heart surgery from the hospital on my pillows …
Let me preface this by the statement, “I hate all things math.” It makes me feel less than average that my brain cannot comprehend and compute the simplest of problems. I praise God for computer programs like QuickBooks, even though …
Yesterday was the straw that broke the camels back. Another day of brain fog and frustration had created a fearfulness in my soul that had left me drained. Not a fear of something happening, but rather, something not happening. A …
David didn’t Gamble with the DayThere are some days where when I feel the favor of God so richly on my life that I am ashamed of the countless ways I fail Him. And then there are days when I …
Oh man! Do we live in a judgmental society. I had to use “oh man,” in the context for which I did, because Paul used it in Romans 2:1 a couple of times, and totally made me snicker as I …
I’m sure I’m dating myself with the image of soda pop bottles that I well remember saving up and returning for a deposit of 3 cents each, possibly 10 cents each by the time they stopped collecting them and went …
It’s on my mind most every single day. I’m not sure that it may not be a sin on my part. I’m concerned and frustrated about the empty seats in the church of God. I’m not concerned about why someone …
Tent meeting night number two, and the faucets inside my eyes refused to shut off. I truthfully didn’t try. Tears like that had been a long time coming and I knew I needed it. Pastor Alfred Hickman had started the …
Scripture always catches my eye. But when it doesn’t sound right, it especially catches my eye and makes me want to find out why. And so it was this morning as I turned on my phone and opened the Bible …
There are times I read the word with such conviction of the heart. It pierces my soul as I know the failure of Shari. Not the failure of mankind. That, I have very little control over. But myself… that’s another …
As I searched the scripture for inspiration for the day, my mind was drawn to this past weekend’s sermons and Sunday School lessons I heard. My mind was scattered over the weekend in weariness from activities that had taken a …
What better description can we find for the children of God today! While it is true that most days the frustration of this world makes me feel like I’m in prison, I am assuredly a prisoner of hope. Just as …
If I have any advice for this day, for anyone, especially myself, it’s “Don’t take your vulnerability to Satan lightly.” There was a thought in my mind this morning that I dare not say out loud, for fear of Satan …
Song of Songs 4:6 KJVS [6] Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense. There comes a time, at least for me, when I …
An Independence Day Message Let’s be frank. There’s too many stupid people to shut them all up. But there’s a biblical way that may work on a few in your neighborhood. It’s found in the book of 1 Peter where …
What the Bible Doesn’t Say Be careful what you say to me, it may just be the topic of tomorrows post. I don’t say that viciously, it’s just that when someone get’s the wheels in my mind turning, I usually …
Why is it that every news report, countless daily conversations and many of the thoughts we have are currently filled with struggles. Or is it just me? I’m thinking it’s not. Right now there are basically three types of people …
It usually takes multiple attacks, tears of frustration and self blame, nausea and a weakened spirit to the point of utter despair before I finally hear the Spirit of God say to me, “Shari, You’re under attack.” It wasn’t that …
I love to hear the stories of my families faith. Some of it I grew up with, but was unsaved and ignorant to its meaning in my life, and much of it took place before there was me, or I …
I just went back and re-read yesterday’s Jesus Chick post. Oh. My. Stars. And. Garters! The grammatical errors and typos were beyond. I really should go back and fix it, and I really need a proof reader, but neither of those …
I gotta tell ya… my ways really haven’t changed over my 25 years of salvation. But what has changed is my understanding of why I do what I do. Worship is a very personal thing. If we’re speaking of the …
What has happened to American Youth That is a question near and dear to my heart. I’ve been involved in youth leadership for r over 20 years both in the ministry and the secular world of substance abuse prevention; and …
One of my standard phrases when trying to express disbelief or surprise in something is “For the love of Pete.” I’m not really sure where that phrase originated. According to Google, you know… the indisputable truth (I’m joking of course) …
My Minnesota friend, Darlene Quiring, posted a meme this morning with a list of random foods that asked the question, “How adventurous are you? One point for every food you have tried. To which I responded zero, but I was …
This morning I sat at our kitchen table, frustrated with myself that for over an hour I had fallen into a cyber hole and had a terrible time digging my way out. Part of it was searching for the current …
The Israeli Air Force bombed Hamas’s underground tunnel network late Thursday night in the northern Gaza Strip in what military officials said was one of the most aggressive aerial assaults’ in recent years. Rockets continued to pound Israel as the …
The level of frustration I have felt lately has been extreme. Liberal viewpoints abound, Corona numbers have soared in my county in recent weeks – a inciting fear, and the political accountability from a national and local level is is …
Gas shortages, Covid spikes, cyber attacks on the pipeline, it’s just another day in America. But these are certainly trying times. However… I taught my a lesson on Sunday morning using my previous post. “Unapologetic child of God.” ` And …
So you think me a fool. That’s okay. It seems that I’m in good company. That was my thought a few days ago when someone belabored my opinion and reaction of false religion. I bit my tongue, not wanting to …
I am a woman of great compassion. I can be treated in the worst of ways and still pray for a person. Don’t nominate me for sainthood yet, I can also pray God kill them. Just saying. But for the …
There are times that I have to take a break from all forms of media. It gets so overwhelming on my soul and leads me into a time of depression and frustration. But the problem with me is I shut …
Positioned for Purpose I knew a man of moderate wealth, not a millionaire but one of good means. I fully believe; and the proof was in his life that this man was given wisdom and opportunities because he returned the …
Trying to find volunteers for church positions is often like asking someone to volunteer to drink the milk to see if it’s spoiled (or blinky as we called it as children). I’ve often times been given the same face. I’m …
Are you, or someone you know searching for answers in these troubled times for which we live? It’s not by happenstance that you’ve landed in this domain today. I’m for certain not going to tell you that I can solve …
I’m not so sure what the world believes anymore. There would have been a time that I would have said “most people are God fearing people.” They had enough reverence for Him to at least respect the authority of out …
What is your fondest memory in church. George Barna, the sociologist of religion, notes that most people form their religious identities by the time they are thirteen years old. For many people true worship is what they experienced as children. …
It’s a question that has been heavy on my heart for the past few days as I worked on a graphic handout for my ministry. It’s impossible to say all that I want to say on an 8 1/2 x …
Last night was communion at Victory Baptist Church and it’s been a long time since we gathered together for that purpose because of the Corona. My heart was tender to the Lord, a fact I’m grateful for. It had not …
It’s incomprehensible that a crime this heinous could take place anywhere, but atop that is the reaction of the onlooking security guard, who not only does not help her, but closes the door. An updated report says that the security …
I haven’t always had it. And Satan tries his very best to make me question it, but I know that I know, and that’s a great place to be in life. Apostle Paul told the Romans in Romans 8:38-39, For …
The title isn’t a Jesus Chick original thought, it came from the folks of Duck Dynasty who interviewed hamburger man Kenny Moore on their podcast, Unsashamed. Kenny, who owns the Highway 55 Restaurant chain, said at one point in that …
I love to read both the Old and the New Testaments of the word of God, but I sometimes struggle to understand the culture of the day. While grace is certainly present, judgment on those who were against God’s people …
I guess every community has them; those power hungry people who want to prove their value by wielding their authority in such a manner that all who see them know they are king or queen of their domain. It’s not …
It’s Saturday morning, and I’m off to a slow start. I was sick much of the day yesterday, (just a belly bug) nothing major, but I slept most, if not all of yesterday evening, right into this morning and then …
There are days when I pay great attention to detail, to the point that I am one step shy of being psychotic about it. It’s usually when I’m tired and everything in life has gotten on my last nerve. It …
It was a Facebook story that drew me into this scripture this morning and a version of the Bible that I don’t know. I just knew it wasn’t the King James Version and it was frustrating me as I compared …
In search of scripture this morning to encourage my heart, I ended up in the book of Judges chapter 19, and there was a story, of the strangest kind that drew me in. The story of a Levite who took …
Once upon a time, on a public school playground, there was a little boy who considered himself a man of God in a little boy body. He’d watched the preacher at church, and watched his dad witness to people, and …
I have a constant gnawing at my heart that the church should be far busier than we are. This finger points at me first, because it is myself that I am accountable for. The same is true for us all. …
As a Christian artist I’ve drawn my fair share of “images of Christ.” Clueless as to whether they bore any resemblance at all, and really not so much thinking there was even the possibility because I have not seen the …
Psalm 77 reads like the worst possible day, ending with the best possible circumstances. It was a song sent to the music composers by Asaph. Oh that brings joy to my heart to think how very much God loves music …
Self awareness is always a good trait to have in this sinful world. Else we’ll get too big for our britches. And I’ve been there both spiritually and physically. It’s amazing the many forms for which the word of God …
And such is life. Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to visit many churches, and from those visits I always leave with new friends. Then, by the means of social media I am able to stay connected to those …
Again and again I write of missing my comrades in faith that have yet to return to church because of the Covid-19. No doubt very much like Paul’s friends were missing him during his ministry work elsewhere. In the very …
So yesterday (against my will, kinda kidding) I received the Covid Vaccine. When I say against my will, I meant that I really didn’t want to take it. But the hubs and the daughter thought I should, and so I …
“I’ve been reading in the book of Revelations a lot Shari.” That has been spoken to me many times lately. I love the fact that people are so inclined to share their scripture reading with me, those who are church …
In the book of Luke, chapter 11, Jesus gives His disciples a sample prayer. Not the prayer to end all prayers, but rather a starter prayer. Then they were to build their relationship with the Lord from His example. But …
A January 7th, 2021 perspective. Woah Baby! What a ride we went on yesterday. Praise God for Wednesday Night Church and leadership that has the hard conversations the church needs to hear. There were times yesterday when I wished I …
I don’t know why anyone thought that 2021 was going to change the perspective of the world we’re living in. The world is still full of stupid people. Nothing has changed in that perspective. That’s what I told myself as …
It always amazes me when the Lord leads me where I didn’t expect to go, or He shows me something I didn’t expect to find. Such was the case today. I’m continuing on in my journey with my word of …
It’s unusual that I’m ahead of the game. But here it is, New Years Eve and I’m declaring my word of 2021. My word for 2020 was “Wisdom.” Although I’ll not say I’m much wiser at the end of the …
Have you ever given much thought to John the Baptist? The man most Baptist churches wouldn’t even want in the building. I imagine a modern day version of him with dreadlocks, a leather biker jacket and chaps. Holy jeans and …
I wasn’t sure where my thoughts were going this morning when I began to read the scripture. I’m still not, but I know where my mind has been lately; and if I’m right, God’s word will align. If I’m wrong …
Coffee of course… what were you thinking! One of my favorite drinks is definitely coffee, I can’t go to church without stopping for a cup somewhere, but if I can I prefer making my own at home with these delicious …
If you’ve been in the Bible anytime at all, you know her. If not, let me introduce you. She was a woman caught in the very act of adultery. Exactly how does one get caught in the act of doing …
Today I’m expecting a rather large shipment of presents for my kids and grandkids. I have resorted to being an Amazon junkie. The world has sucked the desire for spending hours in a Walmart or toy store line with opinionated …
I have read and written from the book of Nehemiah multitudes of times. It’s a book of encouragement from the standpoint of the defense and rebuilding of a nation. If we were truly a Biblical nation, this would be a …
I have a fluctuating heart. Spiritually speaking. It is calm… then it is not… it is angry… then it happy…it is uncertain… then it is confident. And that’s just during a news segment from BlazeTV. But it’s likely a good …
You don’t necessarily have to look at my waistline to see that I love bread, but it helps. I have found very few forms of bread that I don’t love. Possibly none. Homemade is my fav, but store bought’s just …
Midweek services were last night which is my clothesline propping up point for the week. As I drove down the country roads to the church last night I was excited to see several houses lit up in celebration of Christmas. …
LinkedIn has become a powerhouse for B2B marketing, offering companies a platform to network, build brand awareness, and connect with potential clients. With a user base of over 900 million professionals, LinkedIn provides a unique space to engage business decision-makers, …
I worry about this social media, non socializing society. It’s much easier and justifiable to stay in your own little bubble and comply to the commands. Ugh… that makes me nauseous. God knows that I’m not a very good rule …
In a two story house, on small street in Windom, Minnesota, I met Butch and Pat Dunnick. They’d opened their home for me to stay in while I spoke in their city. Two small in stature people with hearts the …
It’s not spoken aloud, but I can almost guarantee it’s spoken in the minds of the church majority. Those who read the book of Romans, comment of its worthiness in church leadership and direction of salvation and then ignore the …
The story of Judas is one of the most, if not the most tragic of stories in the Bible. A man who was given the opportunity to walk with God, as had not been done since Adam and Eve. He, …
We live in a society that has begun to accept hypocrisy as the social norm. Whether it’s in the secular world, the government or the church, hypocrisy is just a fact of life and few, if any, are held to …
So let me just preface today’s post by offering up a few statistics in America. The CDC says that if your are of the age of 0-70 you have a 99% survival rate if you contract the Covid. If you …
I wonder daily at what point God will tell Gabriel, “Gabe, That guy just got on my last nerve, go get your horn.” I think like that because I’m human, God quite obviously doesn’t think like or there is no …
As the world turns, these are the days of our lives. That’s what was running through my head this morning. I can remember sitting in the floor playing with toys in our mobile home in Duck Creek, West Virginia as …
If I ask you “is anything too hard for God?” There would no doubt be a resounding yes!!!! Provided you are a child of God. But what if I ask you “Is anything too hard for God to do through …
In seeking some comedic relief for my own sanity this morning in light of living in a nation of treasonistic (I know that’s not a word, but it should be) democratic leaders, my my wandered to wondering. I wondered about …
Last night was our Wednesday Night Bible Study at Victory Baptist Church and I dashed in the door at the last minute. I had come home from work earlier and sat down “for a minute” in the recliner before church. …
What if this were your last free Sunday to go to Church? That question puts Tuesday in perspective. And no, I’m not a conspiracy theorist or a right wing fanatic. I’m Shari Johnson the Jesus Chick, who loves to go …
Job 22:1-2 KJV Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said, Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself? I’m not a fan of Eliphaz the Temanite, after all, when our man …
I never make any professions of being a bible scholar. I, quite frankly, know only as much as the Spirit thinks I can handle on any given day. I could know more, there is no doubt about it. But it …
One week from today will be the final day of voting. At this point I just want it over. I’m tired of the lies and betrayal. I’m really especially tired of the stupidity. And the fact that they document it …
Glory to God it’s the weekend! I have a few extra minutes to spare this morning in the wee hours before my six grands get up and desire pancakes. My house has been turned upside down and we’ll address that …
I’m a little frustrated with myself that after 4 days of not having a blog post up, my mind is here. But it is, and I might as well park here for a second and get it out of my …
I woke up this morning with an attitude of disdain for the day. I told my husband David, I’m hateful as the dickens this morning. Hopefully so that he’d understand, forewarned is forearmed. In other words “Don’t mess with me …
There’s something about my country upbringing that causes me to question (in reverence) some of what I read in the Bible. Like Mark 3:31-35 for example. [31] There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto …
1 Samuel 20:18 KJVS Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. For me there is no greater story of friendship than Jonathan and David. And …
I’ve thought much about taking a stand politically. I realize it makes me opposing someone’s viewpoint and therefore may cause them to turn me off when it comes to sharing Christ. But then, if someone is already in that mindset, …
That’s Satan’s daily agenda. He can’t have our souls, so he’ll settle for our days and boy do I make it easy for him sometimes. As I began to write this morning; trying to wrap my mind around spiritual things, …
It was up on iPad bible when I opened it up. It happened to be the verse of the day on biblegateway.com. No coincidence… I needed it again. 1 Peter 2:9 KJVS [9] But ye are a chosen generation, a …
TACKLING FEAR HEAD ON. First off, me using a football reference is somewhat comical, because I know nothing about football, well…. except when they score. But it doesn’t prevent me from watching the game and cheering when the rest of …
Isaiah 40:21-23 KJV Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the …
I can always count on Preacher Roger Carter for truth through the word of God, and a chuckle. Roger was blessed with the glorious ability through the Spirit to expound the truth of God in a way that (like Paul) …
From the days my girls were born, I enjoyed every stage of their life. I didn’t always do it right… more often than not, utterly wrong. But parenthood is trial and error. Where I mostly got it wrong was the …
I could feel the panic in her request this morning on Facebook. A mother’s plea for prayer for her child as the new school year finally began. It was genuine. Not the passive plea as many do, who almost think …
The First Chair Experience The summer of my junior year was musically transformational. I had “half-heartedly” played trombone for 4 years. I really just liked being a part of the band. But that summer as I was going into band …
If you notice an absence of my presence on the web and social media, there’s a good chance I’m struggling. Struggling with what? I often times don’t know myself. For today, I think perhaps part of it is my health, …
Read Psalm 55 and it reads like King David was living in Wisconsin, DC or Washington State. He was so frustrated that he was hated without cause. Psalm 55:2-3 KJV [2] Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in …
There is much conversation in these current times about the antichrist. I guess there always has been. But for me, living in this time, and you, it is certainly more relevant. While there’s been much speculation on who the antichrist …
This morning I awoke to bits and piece of the Democratic National Convention being covered and shared by Fox and Blaze News. While I’m fully aware that their perspective will be on the conservative side and not in favor of …
John, the writer of the little Johns, was one of the original 12 Disciples, having witnessed, walked and withstood the trials of faith in ways I cannot imagine and because of that his words bear weight with me. As does …
It’s my birthday and I’ll rant if I want to. We’re in the sixth month of the COVID19 crisis, and it is a crisis, but the crisis has nothing to do with the virus. Although the virus is very real, …
Hebrews 11:1-2 KJV Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. [2] For by it the elders obtained a good report. I make no profession of having all things “faith” figured out. As …
To be honest with you, I don’t feel much like a dispenser of the gospel this week. I’ve struggled spiritually, as is usually the case coming off tent meeting. I get exhausted from full days of rising early, working all …
I for certain need rest. I never realize that anymore than I do during tent meeting week. I wish I was spiritually prepared going into the week. But that has seldom, if ever, been the case. I’m always worn out. …
In my lifetime, and likely yours too there has never been such an ever changing time. Minute to minute the news updates with the latest news, the latest the trend, the latest and the greatest of everything, and many in …
Woah. That’s quite a question. And it certainly deserves an answer. I was at a family event this week, when the topic of politics came up. Dangerous ground for any family at this time. While my immediate blood line is …
So You Wanna Be a Contender Everybody wants to go to Heaven, well, at least anyone with any sense wants to go. But a strong profession of faith will get you thrown into the theoretical and theological debates of life. …
A salvation experience is different for everyone, and yet the same. For me it was a struggle getting past “religion.” On February 18th, 1996, a date I have etched in my mind, not only because it’s my Mother’s Birthday, but …
Why is it that a Christian Nation is so divided? How can that be? Any innocent conversation can be drawn into a battle of wit and words with a phrase or ideology that goes against the person you’re conversing with. …
Yes! Of course the answer is yes! So why is He not? Truthfully, only He can answer that question, but this morning as I read the word of God I perhaps received a little insight into my own life that …
So yesterday I shared a post on Facebook from Dennis Prager, the founder of Prager University, an online source for information “to promote what is true, what is excellent, and what is noble through digital media, we make exceptional video …
When I tell people that it’s a struggle to stay focused, I’m not sure they understand the depth of the struggle. I can start out with the greatest of intentions of writing a blog, 3 minutes later I’m writing a …
Today, I want to share with you some things that are heavy, heavy on my heart. I emphasized heavy but even that doesn’t do it justice. Yesterday evening I attended church and was encouraged by the pastor’s message from 1 …
I’m sure I quite often sound like a broken record with regard to BlazeTV, although I don’t think I talk about it continuously, but it is a source of information that I use more often than not. But yesterday morning, …
Pan – the root word of our subjects today. Derived from the Greek meaning all, any, everyone. Dr. Mickey Carter brought this to our attention in his sermon on Sunday evening a Victory Baptist Church in Grantsville, West Virginia. Far …
One of the very few problems about being raised by Gene and Violet Hardway is that they’re really nice people. They were not voice raisers, they’re hard workers, and under no circumstance was there a reason to be rude. And …
There are people always looking to argue in this life. I however am not one of them. Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I stand on the foundation of the Word of God, and should someone attempt a debate, I …
Matthew 8:28-34 KJV [28] And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by …
The Spirit got a hold on me in 1996, and my life drastically changed. I don’t know if that adequately describes it, you’d have to ask my family. The same family for which some of them are still not saved. …
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I have the hardest time with this new reality that we’re living in because it is not the reality for which I grew up in or raised my children in. But as I …
I feel like I should have to preface the image above by saying, “For display only.” The odds of me running in any physical race are slim to none. But the spiritual race… oh, I’m in that one! It’s times …
“I’m here.” Those are the words I wrote this morning as I spoke to a friend who’s hit a rough patch in life. As the words settled on the screen, my next thought was. “Where is that? Where is here?” …
I’ve had somewhat of a writers block for about a week. It always aggravates me, but then I think that perhaps it is also a rebellious spirit. My mind is scattered and frustrated, my worthwhile accomplishments few. And then just …
The Bible is filled with them. And every one that I read makes my souls leap within my body because I know that I am one too! Read Acts 4 and let it stir your soul as it did mine, …
Acts 27:14-16 KJV [14] But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. [15] And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. [16] And running under …
2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV – And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may …
Podiatry Billing Services and reimbursement can be a complex and frustrating process for healthcare providers. With intricate coding requirements, frequent claim denials, and ever-evolving regulations, podiatrists often face significant hurdles in ensuring they receive timely and accurate payments for their …
It’s a rarity that the state of West Virginia receives accolades for something well done. But during this pandemic we have twice been acknowledged as the best prepared state in the nation for dealing with the Coronavirus. As the wife …
Wouldn’t it be a wonderful world if we could just block out the wickedness from our lives and have no contact or affiliation with anything that took our minds away from the Lord? If our children and grandchildren were never …
It was the heading in the book of Ezra that caught my attention this morning. “The Returning Remnant.” That’s very much how I view the church at this point. It’s as if we’ve been in captivity and we’re about to …
If you’ve lived on this earth very many years, you realize that there’s actually countless ways to lose a friend. Some leave this earth for a better place, some leave this earth and we’re not really sure of their eternal …
I love the word of God! I love the way it speaks to my soul as if I’m sitting in a house in the town of Corinth in the year 55 A.D. and I receive the letter of Paul. I …
Countless nights of restless sleep have been my lot in life lately. I wake up feeling like I need a nap. That ain’t good! My mind has been scattered like weeds across the lawn. Visit this website here to hire …
I know I may sound like a broken record, but how can we not see the writing on the wall of end time events when we see what’s happening in our world. I’m not a dooms day speaker. I believe …
These days following Easter have me in a “let down” kind of mood for some reason. It’s inexcusable, but it is still a reality. While we had truly blessed Easter services at Victory, the concern for many of my brothers …
Matthew 16:6 KJV Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. Of this text J.C. Ryle wrote: I believe that our Lord delivered this solemn warning for the perpetual …
The title of this blog was the heading above the text in my bible for my thoughts on today. Mark 13:34-37 For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave …
Somewhat less than a one hundred years ago, when I was new to the faith I heard a sermon from a preacher, who I believe was Dr. Larry Brown, and the title of the sermon was “Then Came Amalek.” It …
I’ve often said there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. In my world there’s an even finer line between confidence and lack of forethought. I am that leap and the net will appear kinda gal. So, yesterday as …
As I’ve previously stated, I’m a cockeyed optimist! But before anyone gets the notion that I’m unrealistic, I thought I’d squelch that thought with some good old fashioned realism. My friend Tracy Millers sings a song with the lyrics “I’m …
It was an instagram post. It’s why I love that platform. Because without words, (tho technically this was a word) but through images we can stir the soul; remind the world… no remind me, that I am loved. Unconditionally, unequivocally, …
There it was. Sandwiched in among those stories of multiple miracles, and it just leapt off the page, capturing my attention. Just a few words, but so much wisdom to be found, Matthew 9:23-26 KJVS [23] And when Jesus came …
For the most part, the quarantine hasn’t effected me too much. I still work, with the water system being an “essential” part of our community. So I’m out and about. I go the store for myself and my mother, and …
I see the panic. It may be an invisible emotion but it is very visible to the eye when you watch the people on the news, in press conferences and for me, a closer realm, social media. The world, even …
Today begins a new experience for my beloved Victory Baptist Church Worshipers. A day where we meet online in stead of in person and my emotions about this have run the gauntlet. I usually love new adventures, but this one …
It all started with one verse this morning that I seen on a social media post of Brian Houston. Psalm 32:7 – Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs …
It’s my nature (and I’m ever so happy about it) to think of things in the biblical perspective. Asking questions like “how do I see God in this, is this symbolic of something spiritual, or is God trying to get …
During my video blog yesterday on Facebook, I spoke about how I thought many churches stopped having services long before COVID-19. They just used that as an excuse not to have to show up. I know that sounds mean, and …
For several years after I was saved, I failed to get baptized, because I had been baptized pre-salvation. But I had a praying friend, Doyle Ballengee, who the Spirit revealed to him the necessity of that event in my life. …
NOTES FROM MONDAY’S LIVE BROADCAST: There are all kinds of jealousy, There’s the jealousy over a significant other. Which I’ve experienced it as the victim of jealousy early in mine and David’s marriage, where he used to drive me crazy …
I know I’ve been guilty. Believe me, I’ve been guilty! It’s not hard to make the word of God fit into a circumstance of your own choosing. But the question is… Is it biblical? I’ve been pondering this thought a …
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit …
Last night’s teen lesson at Victory Baptist Church was a “little lesson” about end times and the signs we see all around us. I call it little because that’s all I know about the end times. Just a fraction of …
1 John 1:1-4 KJVS [1] That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; [2] (For the life …
Love. It’s what’s missing in society. I believe that it’s just that simple. I grow so weary in my soul when I hear people spewing hatred against people they don’t even know. Now, I realize there are some who heap …
LIFE: WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT Tell me something that you’ve created with your hands. What would happen if someone came in and destroyed your creation? How would you feel? Imagine how God felt, when Satan did that …
It as been decades since I came to the knowledge of Jesus Christ; only two, but none the less decades. As a child, a decade seemed like an eternity, now a decade seems like a month. Time passes ever so …
I do not have questions of God… well, I do, but I more have questions of those who will likely not read this, but perhaps they will. “Those” are they that I used to attend church with – – those …
It ain’t easy! But it’s totally doable for a child of God. I must also say that it’s also not perfect. There will likely be some heartache and struggle. But even that too can be a blessing from the other …
1 Kings 10:6-12 KJVS [6] And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom. [7] Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, …
Deuteronomy 34:9 And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the Lord commanded Moses. Oh to …
At this present time my thoughts are going wild! Every scripture I read on wisdom sends me in so many directions seeking the truth of that word. Of course it makes sense, since wisdom is found in seeking that one …
James 3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. Who is a wise man? Good question right? I’ve known my share. Some …
I didn’t get a great start off to 2020. I have a few reasons to blame, though truthfully they won’t hold water, but it is what it is. For the time being we have little to no internet because we’re …
Paul’s letter captivates my thoughts quickly this morning, causing me to wonder about my level of commitment to the saints of God and to the service of our Lord. The depth of his heartache can be felt so intensely if …
For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For ye are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 For the most part …
There are days that I consider myself a fairly good example to the children of God and to the lost… maybe two days out of the month. That would make it multiple so that I could use the tense of …
I have a 4-5 a.m. morning routine and 3 critters that know it well. Izadora, who as I write lay curled up with her master in bed, and she would lay there as long as her little puppy bladder would allow, …
But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; after those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their …
Luke 1:17 ~ And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared …
Question: At what level is my commitment to the mission of Jesus? ____ I do not care about Jesus or His mission. I have more important goals. ____ I am a little confused at times as to what part I …
Can you believe it? Here we are smack dab in the middle of the Holiday Shopping season. Today is Black Friday, and I can’t say that I’m sad to be working. While Black Friday is fun, kind of… it’s also, …
Thanksgiving Eve. I feel as though I have been so very ungrateful for the goodness of the Lord. My days are running one into another, my nights are little more than naps in the dark. I understand the psalmist when …
I love the Word of God. In the many forms of which He has provided it, I can’t say that I love one more than the other. Spoken, read, Holy Spirit lead… words. I just love them when they are …
Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. In search of a word from the Lord, He reminded me that I …
Those are the words of Christ, that spoke to my heart this morning. He did not say it in that manner of course, His words were documented by Matthew in chapter 19, verse 26: But Jesus beheld them, and said …
It’s Saturday morning, I’ve had a crazy week and I stand in need of some serious rest. Well. Guess where I’m going? It’s not to the world. And it’s not sleep of which I speak. It’s mental rest that I’m …
I have to ask myself that question as I read Revelation 3:14-22 The lukewarm church Is the modern day way. I see it everywhere I go, and I run the risk of falling into that spiritual category with my own …
Revelation 2:12-17 [12] And to the angel l of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; [13] I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is …
Revelation 2:8-11 8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was de-ad, and is alive; 9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I …
Revelation 2 1Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; Ephesus was the capital of Asia …
When I make the statement “I have a burden for small churches,” I get a multitude of looks and responses. If the person to whom I’m speaking is not a member of a small church, or usually any church, they …
I have to wonder how much of my life I’ve taken for granted who I am. Not that I, on my own, am anyone. Because I am truthfully very well aware that I’m nothing. But in Christ, I’m everything. I …
I get a fascination with Bible characters and think about what their take on today’s society. What would they think of social media? What would they think of the modern churches? Would our services be any thing close to theirs? …
Every time I reach the point of exhaustion, brought on by too much list and not enough time, I have one of those wishful Calgon take me away moments. If you remember the commercial, it’s where the mom soaks down …
Click the link below to open a pdf. file of my October Newsletter with stories and pictures about the New Mexico Mission Trip.
There used to be a quote that said, “My momma warned me they’d be days like this.” And while that’s evokes humor, it’s true none the less! Today is a day of feeling overwhelmed. It often happens when I come …
I’ve been on foreign mission fields, and I’ve been on American mission fields, and the only difference is the cultures of the people. And that is not only a foreign country issue, but a state to state issue. I realized …
“I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea.” Romans 16:1 The final Chapter/Letter to the Romans by Apostle Paul. What joy it brought to my soul this morning to read …
That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. ~ Romans 15:32 Not happenstance that this verse was on my reading plan today, September 28, 2019. And not happenstance that …
Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. Romans 14:5b What a word from Apostle Paul. The great persuader and crusader of Jesus Christ. In this wishy-washy world it’s good to know that I know. A very wise …
Good morning New Mexico! My heart is full this morning as I prepare to head your way with a message that has me shouting the Glory of God in my office this morning. It’s a message that I’ve heard 1,000 …
From a child I’ve felt like an odd duck. I always had hopes that I would be the ugly duckling that grew into the beautiful swan, but never felt that I met that accomplishment either. Not asking for pity, just …
Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established. ~ Proverbs 16:3 The thought began last night as I once again had “second thoughts.” It’s a character trait I’m familiar with. I will second guess every decision …
Romans 10:1 Brethren, my hearts desire is that Israel might be saved. Continuing on in my journaling of Romans, I made it no further than the 1st verse of Romans 10 today. My heart broke for the Lord. It broke …
I’m trying very hard to stay focused on the ministry God has set me at task to do. And it’s not hard work when you love it, it’s just hard staying focused when you don’t always feel valued. Please don’t …
We do not cross paths in life by happenstance, of that I’m certain. While we may be there by circumstance, it’s not by happenstance (coincidence). I look back on my 57 years, with a primary focus on the past twenty-three, …
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh …
Today is Friday, August 30th, 2019. Winding down and the summer and heading into fall. Much like I feel about life right now! How did I get here, you know… 57 years after the picture of me graffitiing my Mother’s …
Romans 6:18-23 If you had to describe your state of mind, pre-salvation what one word would you use? I would use the word “tumultuous.” Meaning unbridled and unrestrained. I wasn’t connected to anything solid and so I was flailing around …
Grace is hard to understand. We want it, we attempt to give it, sometimes tongue and cheek (meaning we forgive but never forget). We, I speak collectively, though I really mean me, when I say I often think I’ve messed …
I totally get the anxiety and frustration that Abraham and Sarah may have been feeling. They’d been promised a child, but then, as it does, age crept upon them from no where and low and behold they found themselves past …
I feel like it could be the title of a new Dr. Suess book. From Genesis to Revelation it is the same faith. But it certainly varies in the way it’s displayed. Old Testament saints had faith the Messiah would …
I’ve spoken of it on many other occasions: the fact that my upbringing causes me not to say what’s on my heart and mind because it’s seemingly impolite. Never mind the fact that it’s the truth. And especially never mind …
Even creation awaits it’s turn for redemption. Can you imagine that day?! I think about it a lot. The more and more wicked this world gets, the more I think about it. Perhaps you do too, or perhaps you’ve not …
For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and …
On my radar of hopes, prayers and desires for the past five or six years has been an Albuquerque, NM trip, Not entirely for selfish reason, but I must confess there is always some selfishness in my hopes and dreams, …
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, Romans 1:1 And that’s all the further I made it before my mind started reeling. Thinking about Paul, who he was, who he …
There is nothing routine about God! We like things neat, tidy and wrapped with a bow… but God’s not on a schedule, and there’s no such thing as time in Heaven. Text: Ephesians 3:16-19 16 That he would grant you, according …
For the greater portion of my ministry, which I feel officially began in 2010 when I really felt the Lord’s calling on me to be full time ministry, I really didn’t know what that ministry looked like. Couple that with …
They used to say “There are no atheists in fox holes.” I don’t think that’s true anymore; the arrogance and pride of man is shockingly ignorant. We’re in the second night of tent meeting at Victory Baptist Church, in Grantsville, …
Okay… so I feel like I should apologize for whining yesterday. It’s not that it’s not in my character, it’s just not in my character to do it out loud. I always do it in my head so the world …
Common Temptations There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a …
I like to think myself as humble, and then I have to ask myself “Are you really? And if you were, would you think you were?” I don’t know. Sometimes I don’t think I’m fully understanding of God’s opinion of …
I declare it was an accident! I had to take two of my grandchildren for their sports physicals yesterday and as I sat down in the waiting room, I realized the television was on the news. CNN no less! And …
I would tell you not to tell the preacher on me, but I literally set just a few feet away from where he stands preaching on Sunday evening, so I’m pretty sure he knows. My attention span is only as …
Every day I become more and more conscience of the scriptures playing out right before my eyes. It’s why I can “Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling.” To the world that makes no sense. How can you …
It seems like an eternity since I woke up this morning, and yet it’s 9:00 a.m. and I’ve got very little accomplished. It’s hard for me to stay focused today. My mind is in so many different places. It’s in …
Many of the conversations I’ve had, both inside my head, and with other people, have recently been around the discussion of end times. It’s a topic not everyone desires to discuss. For me, from the standpoint of myself, I get …
For the past week, you may, or may not have notice my lack of presence on social media. In the world of rural West Virginia, for lack of another terminology, crap happens. My niece-in-love Kaitlin was traveling the highway in …
23 For it was the king’s commandment concerning them, that a certain portion should be for the singers, due for every day. 35 Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen. Nehemiah 11:23,35 I realize that those two scriptures may or may not …
While there are numerous verses in the Bible for which folks can cling to and call their own for such a time as this in their lives; I may have found a new life verse for me. Insert smile here …
I can tell by the look in their eyes when they’ve tuned me out and they’re wishing me off the planet. Even family. It’s not that they don’t love me, it’s not that they’ll not tolerate me. It’s that I …
This has been the rainiest of seasons for West Virginia. According to the national weather service it has rained 11 out of the 21 days of June. And it’s not the rain I mind as much as the mud in …
Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands …
Honey has been a staple in my breakfast this week at the complimentary Holiday Inn Breakfast. Honey and butter on wheat toast just fits the bill for my taste buds. I seldom consider it at home even though there’s a …
Beach Combers I’ve watched them with their metal detectors; searching the sand in hopes of unearthing treasure. It’s how I read the word of God. Sifting a verse, just a few words, in hopes if discovering something that will sparkle …
Proverbs 20:5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out. I love the ocean… from a distance. But being up close, feeling the sand shift beneath my feet, watching …
Proverbs 19:12 The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass. This is the third day of journaling in the Holiday Inn Hotel dining room. Just as I’ve done in …
The Land of Less It’s so easy to forget that we need to glorify God when things are going well. But let the well run dry for a while; and then be refilled, and suddenly praising God comes easy! When …
When I finished this drawing (an idea that I totally stole from a Pinterest post) I didn’t like the way the words “gentle and quiet” ended up turning out. They were bold, and jagged and totally not gentle and quiet. …
Just in case you haven’t figured out where I’m at in Bible reading, I’ve been in the book of Proverbs the last few days. And it’s good timing. I’m in need of wisdom. I’m trying very hard to stay spiritually …
You can color me guilty. I most always have an opinion. But I thank God for the Holy Spirit that indwells within me and jerks a knot in my knickers when I begin to focus on the life or lifestyle …
I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love. Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:113-114 The Struggle with Vanity By human nature we are a selfish lot, are we not? …
Gavest thou the goodly wings unto the peacocks? or wings and feathers unto the ostrich? Job 39:13 was one of the many questions the Lord had for Job when it came to helping him to understand that regardless of what …
It’s true. As I wrote the outline for this blog, I arrogantly thought, “Oooo that’s good, I didn’t deserve that.” And then I heard in my soul… “No. You didn’t.” And I knew in my heart that this was going …
A note I scribbled on a scrap piece of paper in my office said “More of an attack on my heart than the actual heart attack, has been the spiritual attack on me.” In recent months it’s been very, very …
“The BRANCH” is a Bible Lesson that I composed for the teens at Victory Baptist Church. There are questions within the lesson that, although it was written for teens, I consider them young adults and treat them as such. Feel …
He also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him. Job 13:16 It’s not that I don’t feel like a hypocrite on a relatively regular basis. But for years I have felt like this was my …
Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die. Job 2:9 What an odd scripture choice for Mother’s Day week, right? Well, this is my thinking this morning as I ponder the upcoming …
It was one of those words that caught me off guard; sent my mind pondering about what it was doing there. Job 7:6 My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and are spent without hope. I’m just focusing on …
What To Do With Foolish People Three times in Job 1 it says “While he was yet speaking,” when the four servants of Job delivered the heart wrenching news of his losses. Three times he loses livestock and servants, and …
Zechariah 11:12 And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. Believe me when I say, that I could have gotten in …
It seems so absolute petty, and so very vain. And as I told someone sarcastically this week “I’m sure it compares with the starving in Africa.” But today it is a struggle. My knee accident and treatment continues to be …
Today is a gloomy Gus kind of day outside my window. Spring rains are in the day and I noted in my mind that there is a difference between a spring rain and a winter rain. While obviously the temperature …
Daniel 12:3 ~ And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. I am a dreamer! I have goals and ambitions that …
A few days of Fibromyalgia kicking my tail and I am so appreciative of the sun shining outside my windows today. It’s humbling how the feeling of hopelessness can kick in so quickly and that defeat can consume the mind. …
In this day and age where promises are so easily broken, I can certainly understand the hesitancy of the unsaved to believe anything Christians say. Many Christians don’t have any more of a testimony of honesty and purity than the …
Most every day since the heart attack has been filled with a plethora of emotions. There are days I feel awesome! And I appreciate those days because they’ve been less than more. I ask not for pity. It’s just the …
The Power of His Word Those who are saved know there is power in the Word of God. But we sometimes forget that the power is literal, not figuratively speaking. Just by speaking it out loud, things can happen. It’s …
Let’s Get Real, the Flesh Rises Boy does it! I’ve been thinking a lot about my fleshly ways. You know… trying to justify it. One such occasion is my frequent trips to our little town of Grantsville, West Virginia for …
How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! Yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth. Psalm 119:103 This verse keeps popping up in various places. In my mind, social media posts, again and again. I don’t believe that things like …
For many years if you’d have ask me if I was saved I’d have said yes. Largely because of shame and because I couldn’t admit that I didn’t even understand that concept. Most people who knew me assumed I was …
A quick drawing and a quick thought this morning as I prepared my heart for church. I needed to remember, and perhaps you do as well, that God’s idea of mercy and mine are two entirely different notions. Mine has …
April showers bring May flowers, provided they’re properly cared for by the gardener. And while wild flowers can grow with seemingly no care whatsoever, my sometimes, confessedly neglected flower beds begin to dry up within hours of me forgetting to …
I feel foolish a lot. There are days that every dream and imagination I’ve had seems like the dumbest ideas ever. True story. Not an exaggeration. But the one solid foundational belief within me is that the cross made all …
I’ve recently watched a few Christian friends, and by watching I don’t mean “watching” in the sense of waiting for them to fall or judging their walk. I watch because they’re drawing attention to themselves and the fact that they …
Genesis 3:5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. I don’t want to scare you but I have a 22 …
I try my best to keep life in perspective. My friend Gloria has a saying about vain people that “They’re all that and a bag of chips.” I don’t know where the saying comes from, but I like it. Because …
Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth? Are not his days also like the days of an hireling? As a servant earnestly desireth the shadow, and as an hireling looketh for the reward of his work. Job …
Or… why you should never stop coloring So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. ~ Genesis 1:27 I find myself asking, at what point do …
When I think of the Bible characters that stepped into the unknown at the instruction of the known, my heart is encouraged. When I get ready to take my first step, it’s always a flutter. It’s usually followed by nausea …
Sunday is not my only day of listening to sermons. I listen to a variety of preachers and pastors throughout the week, some might surprise you and some may not. I’m no respecter of denominations. I’m a respecter of those …
We love Him, because He first loved us. ~ 1 John 4:19 There are some people in our lives that are easy to love. My bestie Gloria is one such person, so are countless others. I am blessed with people. …
It was a thought that seemed almost foreign to me this morning as I read John 3:16… For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have …
That’s the thought that came out of the teen class lesson yesterday as my co-teacher Doug taught our youth. My brain goes strange places sometimes and either like honey or mud, it’s stuck in that place until I dig around …
I truly am a hippy at heart. And by hippy I don’t mean the stereotypical one’s that those of us who were raised in the 60’s and 70’s remember. Though I must confess I would have fit that mold at …
Do you ever have those days when it feels like your entire self-worth was wasted effort? I get so excited about projects and life and then in a swift swoop, on a day when it feels that I can do …
I’m beyond excited about the direction of my ministry. Thanks to a generous act on my sister Shelia’s part and the grace of Almighty God, I will soon be a 501c3 ministry which will open the doors for me to …
He brought me forth also into a large place; He delivered me, because He delighted in me. Psalm 18:19 Room to Breathe Have you ever been trapped in a small space? Even sitting in a crowded theatre where people are …
It’s a thought that’s been so heavy on my mind and heart lately. I’m not thirsty enough. Not when it comes to water in a bottle, or the water of the Bible. I just don’t want it bad enough, knowing …
Proverbs 17:27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. One might think (and often correctly) that me and the phrase “sparing words” would never be in the same sentence. It …
With every stroke of the brush, marker or pen my mind’s eye goes into critical mode. “That line’s not straight… that looks dumb…why did I put that there?” It’s likely the nature of the beast of an artist. A word …
I am pretty sure that I am not alone when it comes to growing weary of the news media of today. There was a time in my life, when the news was on, it may not have been the gospel, …
Oh to have the boldness and fearless testimony of the three Hebrew boys… without the fire of course! Can that even happen? Can you have a testimony to that degree without the test? I don’t think so. I have so …
Sweeter as the days go by! That truly is how it is when you’re serving Christ and doing your best to stay in the center of His will. I had, what my friend Gloria and I call a “Cinderella” day …
The sun is shining and it’s a balmy 52 degrees today in Calhoun County, West Virginia. It gives me high hopes that spring is just around the corner! High hopes because I can see the glorious sunshine and feel the …
Some of the Old Testament is often difficult for me to relate to because it’s so different than how we relate to God today. We are so blessed by grace! A fact that is made all the more clearer as …
Anxiety. Not for the good Christian girl and boy, right? Umm, wrong. Multiple people have recently come to me requesting prayer for their anxious spirit. And I’m ever so glad to lift them to the Lord, believing that He will …
Monday morning I had two of the grandbabies and breakfast protocol at Noni’s house is pancakes, and with pancakes being messy I distributed napkins accordingly. And these were special “conversation starting” napkins that I purchased from our local grocery store, …
This is the table that is before the Lord. Ezekiel 41:22b It is one of my greatest heartaches and concerns of the American church today that the Sunday morning altars are empty. Pastors should not have to heap guilt upon …
So, I’m back in Ezekiel again today, and I’m enjoying the Lord’s work in me through His word. Even the words I don’t understand. Ezekiel 40, according to the commentary of John Gill, tells me that the Jews under the …
World arrogance. Oh… my… stars. It’s why I don’t watch the news and I avoid negative conversations around me. This world actually thinks that they can do whatever it is they desire, without repercussion and without accountability. Well, they thought …
Whoever coined the phrase “getting old ain’t for sissies” was so in tune with my life right now. So by way of confession, I’ll let you in on a secret, 2018 was brutal on me and 2019 isn’t so great …
Below is the teen lesson I’ll use for tomorrows Sunday School program where I teach 9-12th grades. It’s certainly a suitable study for adults as well, after all, I teach these teens as the spiritually mature adults they are. On …
A Nation of Dry Bones Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1–14) came to him after God had directed him to prophesy the rebirth of Israel in chapter 36. God was using Ezekiel to restore Israel to …
It’s pouring the snow down in Calhoun County, West Virginia today, and the odds of me making it to our morning service are growing slimmer. Praise God, I was in church with the teens for fellowship last night, else I’d …
This may be the strangest blog ever, but… if you read on you’ll be encouraged. So yesterday, as my friend Gloria and I traveled to the big city, we had our usual babe banter going by trying to catch up …
dra·ma /ˈdrämə (noun) a play for theater, radio, or television. an exciting, emotional, or unexpected series of events or set of circumstances. A self-centered social media post for the purpose of inciting concern by others without basis, reasoning, logic or …
Solomon said that To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and whether it’s physically or metaphorically we all know it to be true. Life is full of seasons. This morning …
I really don’t understand the concept of preachers who preach that a child of God will not experience trouble, or can “speak” issues away. If that’s so, then I have some serious issues. Well, let’s face it, I’ve got issues. …
It’s not an original thought. I heard a preacher close his sermon out with it this morning, and then it was stuck in my head… which basically means that the preacher did his job! If you’re a Christian you’ve likely …
Luke 1:47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. Three points for me to ponder from the word of God as spoken by Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus. This thought began early this morning but has …
Psalm 100 Below is my study of Psalm 100 that I’ll be using for the teen class tonight. Perhaps it will stir some thoughts in you to draw you into that spirit of worship our souls long for! It certainly …
What better way to start off 2019 than thinking about new things on the horizon! I loved the illustration of a new year that my friend D.L. Kerby always used of “a fresh, new piece of paper.” Nothing there but …
I don’t know who it was that posted on social media last night that they were glad Christmas was over because it was highly overrated. But I remember they were a saved person, and I remember the frustration in my …
C.S. Lewis said “He (God) loved us not because we’re lovable, but because He is Love.” Love has been a matter of my heart for a while. Mainly because I see the declining of it across our nation. Of course …
Proverbs 17:27-28 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man …
Well. Actually from an earthly standard they don’t. But from a spiritual vantage point, they not only mix, the experience is beyond amazing! A few weeks ago Dr. Mickey Carter preached at our church, on the subject of the light …
Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. One of the very familiar verses often quoted from the Bible, and quite often completely out of context. I have no …
Although I know it was a word search that lead me to Numbers 21, I don’t remember what word I was searching for. I got so caught up in verse 14 and wondering just where is that book? And why …
For certain Satan doesn’t want you to know God because he’d prefer you stay in his custody. But once a soul has given their heart to Christ, Satan has to change his game plan to interfere with the Kingdom and …
But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil. ~ Proverbs 1:33 The grey skies of November mess with my head even in the wake of the holiday season. Sometimes because of the …
Below are the notes from my “not another manic Monday” Facebook Live video feed. If you’d rather watch the video, scroll down to the bottom of the page and follow the Youtube Link. I’m not sure what has got me …
Hosea 3:2 So I bought her to me for fifteen pieces of silver, and for an homer of barley and an half homer of barley: Have you ever wondered why God puts up with you? I certainly do. Most every …
In the book of Nahum we once again find Israel having been carried captives into Assyria. A common storyline in the lives of God’s people. Sin, become captive, repent, obtain freedom, repeat. But before we cast any stones we, generally …
Its confession time for me again. I seem to be doing that a lot lately. But although confession is good for the soul… it’s hard on my emotions. Confession can sometimes be a testimony of failure, guilt or pain, and …
This video is a post from my weekly event “Not Another Manic Monday”. It may have been more manic than I thought because I start out sideways on the view. But hang on for a minute and I get myself …
I need to listen to what the Lord has to say to me and speak that truth to others in the family of God. So that when it comes to fruition, God will be glorified!
On Ridgeview News yesterday, I ask the question “Who or What is the Objective Moral Standard?” Again today I’m in the book of Amos reading the last three chapters of prophetic news from the Lord given to Amos. The book …